Camilla also gave Kate guidance early on, reportedly advising her to “fit your timetable – well, basically your whole life – around [William’s],” according to Robert Lacey’s book Battle of Brothers. She even gave Kate a sentimental wedding gift: a bracelet engraved with two Cs, thought to represent “Camilla” and “Catherine.”
Public Incidents and Misunderstandings
Their relationship has still had awkward moments. At Queen Elizabeth II’s funeral, Camilla was seen gesturing to Kate after Prince George pinched Princess Charlotte, with lip-readers suggesting she told Kate to “take her.”
More recently, during the Trumps’ second state visit in 2025, footage appeared to show Camilla “shooing” Kate away. While some saw it as a power play, others insisted it was about safety, as carriages were approaching.
Growing Trust and Respect
Over time, the bond between the two women has strengthened. In 2022, Camilla asked Kate—an avid photographer—to take her official Country Life magazine portrait, which was widely praised. Former BBC correspondent Jennie Bond observed, “Camilla is the only mother-in-law Kate will ever have. But it can never be quite the same when it’s a second marriage. Still, they do appear to have a strong relationship.”
Looking Ahead
As Queen Camilla embraces her role, reports suggest she isn’t eager to step aside. “She loves her responsibilities,” a source told Us Weekly, adding that she is “hesitant” about handing duties to Kate.
Nonetheless, William and Kate are preparing for greater responsibility. As Jennie Bond explained, “There is literally no one else for Catherine to turn to who has direct experience of the role that will one day be hers.”
Despite their rocky beginnings, Queen Camilla and Princess Kate have built a relationship based on mutual respect. As Kate moves closer to her future role as queen consort, she can look to Camilla’s path—proof that even complicated beginnings can lead to solid ground.
