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The one detail we all missed in the royal family's Christmas photos.

On Christmas Day, the British royal family once again took part in their festive tradition: the annual church service.

However, the recurring appearance felt especially poignant this year, given the challenges their family has faced in the last 12 months.

For 2024, all the family members were present despite their health issues (minus royal expatriates Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, of course).

We saw them come together for the holiday, including King Charles III, Queen Camilla, the Prince and Princess of Wales, and their three children, Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis.

Kate and Charlotte at their Christmas church service.Kate and Charlotte at their Christmas church service. Image: Getty.

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With both Kate and Charles undergoing treatment for cancer, as well as Queen Camilla's pneumonia in 2024, it was a beautiful sight to see them all together.

The family's public appearance of unity further highlighted their commitment to supporting one another through it all.

It's safe to say that this year, the royal gathering was not just a celebration of the festive season, but also a symbolic step forward after a year filled with difficult moments.

Watch King Charles' 2024 Christmas message. Article continues after video.


Video via: The British Royal Family.

One of the most telling details was the royal family's fashion choices for the day.

Kate, ever the style icon, was dressed in a gorgeous ensemble designed by Sarah Burton for Alexander McQueen.

Known for her classic, tailored outfits, Kate's Christmas look this year was no exception.

She wore a forest green coat dress, which she had previously worn during a visit to Leeds in 2023, which was both sophisticated and elegant.

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She paired the coat with a coordinating hat and scarf, along with black gloves and Gianvito Rossi boots to stay warm.

Kate's look was mirrored by Queen Camilla, who also wore a deep moss green ensemble. Sporting a wrap coat and a green hat as well as a Chanel top-handle bag, Queen Camilla's look was equally eye-catching.

The very-deliberate styling not only reflected their personal style but also carried a deeper, symbolic meaning.

Both the Princess of Wales, Kate, and Queen Camilla wore shades of dark green — a striking choice that sent a strong message. One of growth and harmony.

Queen Camilla and Catherine, Princess of Wales wear matching green outfits while they attend the Christmas Morning Service at Sandringham Church.Matching green outfits. Image: Getty.

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For those unawares, dark green is symbolic of new shoots, a fresh leaf. The choice of colour is a poignant reminder of the family's hope for the new year, that 2025 will bring them a new outlook on life and hopefully, a few less obstacles.

The children, Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis, joined their parents in coordinated outfits, their colours carefully chosen to complement the overall family aesthetic.

Catherine, Princess of Wales, Queen Camilla, Princess Charlotte of Wales, King Charles III, Prince William, Prince of Wales and Prince George of Wales attend the Christmas Morning Service at Sandringham Church.Christmas marks one of the first events recently where all the senior members of the Royal family have appeared together. Image: Getty.

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The dark green wasn't the only notable element in this year's royal traditions.

King Charles III also gave his third annual Christmas message, but not in the way we usually receive it.

In a departure from tradition, King Charles III gave his Christmas address from the Fitzrovia Chapel in central London, which was the former hospital chapel of Middlesex Hospital.

It's the first time in more than a decade that the Christmas speech has been given outside the royal palace or residences, and it's believed to be a nod from the king to those working in healthcare.

The location was especially significant, as the late Queen Elizabeth had also chosen to give the speech at different venues to commemorate 'big years'.

Per news.com.au, a palace source said, "The King wanted to do things a bit differently this year and reach out into the community rather than just in the royal estates, which is a key theme of his work."

It appears that this decision to step outside the usual royal venues was a subtle yet powerful acknowledgement of the difficult year the royal family has faced and a sign that they are embracing change, looking towards the future with a renewed sense of purpose.

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Catherine, Princess of Wales attends the Christmas Morning Service at Sandringham Church Kate Middleton wore a green ensemble. Image: Getty.

The royal family's choice of outfits and King Charles's choice of venue for his address were not mere coincidences. Together, they told a story of growth, renewal, and hope.

And as the year turns, so too does this chapter for the monarchy — ready to embrace 2025 with a fresh perspective.

Feature image: Getty.

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