The deeper meaning behind Kate Middleton’s fern earrings for surprise appearance

Welcome back, princess.

On Thursday, Kate Middleton made her first public appearance since finishing her chemotherapy treatment.

The Princess of Wales and her husband, Prince William, visited Southport, England, where three young girls were killed during a knife attack at a Taylor Swift-themed dance class over the summer.

The royal couple met with rescue workers as well as the parents of the three young victims.

Kate Middleton wore Catherine Zoraida’s gold fern earrings, which have a hidden message. Getty Images She paired the earrings with a polka-dot midi dress and brown coat. ZUMAPRESS.com

For the surprise outing, the 42-year-old royal wore her Catherine Zoraida Gold Fern Drop Earrings ($220).

According to the brand, the fern is “a symbol of endurance, resilience and new beginnings,” making them a particularly fitting choice for the occasion.

Made from recycled 18-karat gold-plated silver, the drop earrings have been a mainstay in the princess’ wardrobe for years.

Most recently, Middleton wore them at the Chelsea Flower Show in London on May 22.

The earrings retail for $220. Catherine Zoraida

As for the rest of her outfit, Middleton tapped into fall’s burgundy color trend via her polka-dotted Whistles shirtdress.

She layered the piece beneath a brown double-breasted coat from one of her favorite labels, Alexander McQueen.

And Middleton doubled down on suede accents, styling the look with one of her beloved Emmy London Natasha Clutches ($495) — a style she owns in no fewer than 13 different colors! — and heels from Gianvito Rossi.

Prince William, too, showed his support on Thursday. Getty Images He wore a gray suit over a maroon sweater. Danny Lawson/WPA Pool/Shutterstock

Meanwhile, Prince William coordinated with his wife, opting for a gray suit atop a maroon sweater.

“We continue to stand with everyone in Southport,” Middleton wrote on Instagram.

“Meeting the community today has been a powerful reminder of the importance of supporting one another in the wake of unimaginable tragedy. You will remain in our thoughts and prayers.”