Prince William's garden party: a royal affair without Duchess Kate

Prince William inaugurated the garden party season. Close relatives of the future king were in attendance at Buckingham Palace. The notable absentee, however, was Duchess Kate. Middleton has not yet returned to public appearances after announcing her battle with cancer.

According to the current system, the British royal family primarily serves a representative role. King Charles meets with the Prime Minister, and Duchess Kate recently had the opportunity to contribute her opinions on how politicians should support pro-family policies.

However, the royals' activities revolve around charity and diplomacy — both macro and micro. Besides long-distance travel, whether for lunches or weddings of other monarchs, the princesses and princes also meet within their circle. And these do not always have to be official ceremonies, such as coronations or funerals.

One tradition at Buckingham Palace is organizing so-called garden parties. This year's season's inauguration must have been particularly challenging for Prince William, who attended the event without his wife and children.

The situation must have been even more difficult for him because the guests included representatives from all over the United Kingdom, including charity organizations patronized by Kate and William. Photos show that he occasionally parted with his royal smile. Or maybe it was the fault of the erratic weather?

William could rely on the support of his cousins, Princesses Beatrice and Eugenie. Beatrice wore a pink dress by Beulah London and a white headband, while Eugenie opted for a white dress by Ulla Johnson and a pink headpiece.

Zara Tindall, Queen Elizabeth II's granddaughter, also attended the party. The athlete dazzled in a white dress with pink buttons by Laura Green London and a pink AB.LINO hat.

Photographers present nearby captured the royals enjoying their meeting on the lawn. Did they look lovely?