Kate Middleton is channelling 'Princess Diana' and is William's 'total prime focus', body language expert reveals
- Kate, 42, undertook her most high-profile royal engagement earlier today
- READ MORE: Queen Camilla reveals why she has had to scale down involvement in Qatar state visit as she gives an update on her health
A body language expert has revealed how Kate is now William's 'total prime focus' after footage showed the Prince of Wales supporting his wife as she returns to public life.
On Tuesday, Kate, 42, looked radiant in a burgundy coat dress as she joined William, 42, in greeting the Emir of Qatar, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, and the first of his three wives, Sheikha Jawaher, during a ceremony of pomp and pageantry in Horse Guards Parade in London.
Photos and vides from the high-profile event showed William lovingly supported Kate - including placing a reassurring hand on her back - during the Princess of Wales's dazzling return to form after completing her chemotherapy treatment.
Body language expert Judi James told MailOnline the future King's affectionate gestures during the ceremony seemed to be his way of announcing to the world that Kate is now his 'total prime focus'.
She said: 'William's body language state looks altered in a way that seems to announce to the world that his wife is now his total prime focus.
'His head is bowed beside her and when she speaks, he cocks his head to show total attention and active listening skills.
'Kate and William have frequently used the hand on the back ritual recently to show mutual concern, caring and steering. But this hand on the shoulder sends out a slightly different signal.
James also noted a 'hint of ongoing romance' between the couple since the Wales' video announcing Kate had finished a course of preventative chemotherapy in September this year.
Photos and videos from today's ceremonial welcome of the Qatari royals in London showed William lovingly supported Kate as the Princess of Wales made a glamorous return to public life
Kate looked radiant in a berry ensemble, comprising a chic coat dress by Sarah Burton for Alexander McQueen and a matching hat from Sahar Millinery
Body language expert Judi James said the future King's affectionate gestures during the ceremony seemed to be his way of announcing to the world that Kate is now his 'total prime focus'
She explained: 'Since the romantic video update on Kate's health, where the couple showed their capacity for tactile and loving body language, William seems to have shown a trait of being unable to keep his hands off his wife in public.
'The video seemed to be an 'announcement' gesture that has allowed him to be more authentic in terms of showing his love for Kate.
'But this shoulder touch gesture is more about recognition. He seems to be keen to let Kate know that she is his ongoing priority, no matter how many dignitaries there are for them to meet and host.
'It's a hint of ongoing romance between the couple and maybe even a new priority for the previously more protocol-focused prince.'
Meanwhile, James continued, Kate's body language hinted at a 're-boosted confidence' as the mother-of-three channelled Princess Diana for the ceremonial welcome of the Qatari royals.
The royal chose significant jewels to mark the occasion - as Kate's involvement in the Qatar state visit has been hailed as a 'positive sign' of her recovery.
She donned the late Queen's £30,000 Bahrain pearl drop earrings and her Japanese Pearl choker necklace, both of which were also previously worn by Princess Diana.
After fans noticed earlier in the autumn that the Princess's engagement ring, which also once belonged to Princess Diana, had been replaced by an eternity ring, Kate wore the sapphire stone today.
The Princess of Wales stunned in a berry ensemble as she headed for Horse Guards Parade this morning accompanied by Prince William
Kate stunned in the coat dress in berry, the colour of the season, as she joined the Prince of Wales and was flanked by the Emir of Qatar and his wife
Kate was flanked by Prince William as the pair ascended the stairs at Buckingham Palace on the way to a private lunch in honour of the visiting Qatari royals
Speaking about Kate's glamorous return to the spotlight, James said: 'Her slightly reflective eye expression appears to have gone, and her poise, with her arms hanging relaxed at her sides, suggests re-booted confidence.
'She appears totally engaged and even on top of her game again here, enjoying the outing rather than testing the waters.'
Kate looked radiant in a berry ensemble, comprising a chic coat dress by Sarah Burton for Alexander McQueen and a matching hat from Sahar Millinery.
In a break from her usual suede pumps in a matching shade, the Princess instead opted to wear a pair of leather berry boots.
While Kate brought her signature elegance and glamour to the event, a notable absence was felt in Queen Camilla, who will miss some of the event scheduled for the two-day visit due to ill-health.
Camilla, 77, pulled out of today’s welcome at Horse Guards Parade on doctor’s advice because she is still suffering from the ‘lingering’ side-effects of a ‘nasty viral chest infection’.
She is expected to attend most elements of tonight's State Banquet at Buckingham Palace, as doctors have repeatedly stressed the 'tweaks' to her programme are simply a precaution.
Today’s events mark the start of a busier week for Kate, who will be hosting her annual Christmas carol service at Westminster Abbey on Friday.
The Princess is expected to be joined at that event by her husband Prince William and children Prince George, Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis.
