The Queen made sure she
paid tribute to her late husband, Prince Philip, during the remarkable
four-day celebration of her Platinum Jubilee.
During her final
appearance on the Buckingham Palace balcony on Sunday, the monarch wore a
black mourning pin which she placed at the front and centre of her hat.
The 96-year-old was dressed in
an elegant emerald, a green coat for the occasion, which she teamed with a
matching hat. The Queen also wore pearl earrings, a matching necklace and white
gloves.
Her Majesty rounded off the
look with a diamond bow brooch, which is also meaningful. It carries a
long family history and is one of a trio in different sizes with the same
design that the Queen has worn on poignant royal occasions.
However, it was her mourning
pin that took centre stage. During most of her 70-year reign, the Queen was
supported by Prince Philip, who died aged 99 on 9 April 2021. Mourning
pins tend to be worn by members of the royal family following a death.
The day before, Prince
Charles remembered Prince Philip in an emotional speech given at the Party
at the Palace after show-stopping performances from music legends like Sir
Elton John, Rod Stewart and Alicia Keys.
In a touching moment, Charles
spoke of his “much missed” late father, calling him, “My
Papa” and saying the Queen’s late husband Philip was there “in
spirit”.
He said: “Your ‘strength
and stay’ is much missed this evening but I am sure he is here in spirit…
“My Papa would have enjoyed the show and joined us wholeheartedly in
celebrating all you continue to do for your country and your people.”
