FACET: Vintage Jewelry and Other Sentimental Nods to the Past at the Christening of Princess Charlotte

September 24, 2015

When the christening for baby Princess Charlotte was held in early July, it was the proud mama, as usual, who was turning heads. The attire Kate Middleton chose for the occasion was a flawless blend of modern and traditional. Pushing the new infant around in a 1950s Millsons pram (baby carriage) - a family heirloom and the same one used by Queen Elizabeth at the christening of Charlotte's grandfather, Prince Charles, in 1948 - Kate managed to pull off some serious nodding to the past as well.

Among the highlights of her monochromatic off-white ensemble was a matching white gold and diamond earrings and pendant set in the vintage style. What is interesting about the jewelry Kate chose to wear for the occasion is that its designers drew inspiration from "some pieces that the brand originally created in the 1920s for the Empress of Siam," "People" magazine reported. Re-imagined for the 21st century, the vintage style earring and necklace set bears a price tag of $8,100.

The design featured on the vintage style earrings' teardrops and the necklace's pendant is described by the magazine as an "exotic motif." Circular in shape with star-shaped cutouts about the center, the vintage style jewelery accents added just a touch of peekaboo seduction to the Duchess's sophisticated coat dress and 1950s-inspired feathered hat.

Also giving a nod to the past was little Prince George. His red shorts and embroidered white shirt with peter pan collar was "practically identical to the one his father William wore 30 years ago when he visited his brother Harry at the hospital after he was born," the Mirror reported.

The ceremony also paid homage to Charlotte's late grandmother, Princess Diana. The Church of St. Mary Magdalene in Sandringham, where the christening took place, was handpicked by the royal couple, William as Kate. It was there that Diana was christened in 1961.

Photo Credit: Mario Testino/Art Partner

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