The Princess of Wales’s choice of hat “was subtle tribute to King Charles”, says body language expert Judi James.

Princess Kate made her long-awaited return to royal duties at this year’s Trooping the Colour yesterday.

While her appearance was highly anticipated by many royal fans and experts, the 42-year-old was reportedly keen to deflect attention away from her and for the focus to be on King Charles.

As reported by The Sun, Ms James said: “She made it clear in her written message that this is a step towards a return, not the start of it but even from the glimpses of her in the carriage her upright back and her signature smile showed a desire to show resilience and poise.”

Ms James also stated that Kate’s hat was a way of drawing the attention away from herself and seemingly a tribute to her father-in-law.

The expert said: “There was a hint of discretion or maybe a desire to not upstage in the way Kate’s hat brim was tilted to partially hide her face in the carriage but there were some turning to smile and some smiling conversations with her three children.

“Her wave to the crown involved closed rather than spread fingers and it was a quick, subtle movement of acknowledgement, again suggesting a desire to avoid stealing the attention on the celebration of the King’s birthday.”

It was Princess Kate’s first public appearance since Christmas Day, where she appeared alongside the family at Sandringham. She spent 13 days in hospital after undergoing planned abdominal surgery back in January. Although it was previously thought to be non-cancerous, post-operative tests found that cancer was present. Princess Kate’s publicly revealed her diagnosis on March 22.

Although her appearance was hoped for, it was unclear whether she would be at the King’s birthday celebrations yesterday – but her attendance was confirmed via a statement on Friday.

Her statement, which all provided an update on her health, read: “I have been blown away by all the kind messages of support and encouragement over the last couple of months.

“It really has made the world of difference to William and me and has helped us both through some of the harder times.

“I am making good progress, but as anyone going through chemotherapy will know, there are good days and bad days…”

The statement from Kate, which was released via the Palace, continued: “I’m looking forward to attending The King’s Birthday Parade this weekend with my family and hope to join a few public engagements over the summer, but equally knowing I am not out of the woods yet.

“I am learning how to be patient, especially with uncertainty. Taking each day as it comes, listening to my body, and allowing myself to take this much-needed time to heal.

“Thank you so much for your continued understanding, and to all of you who have so bravely shared your stories with me.”

Although the royal made an appearance yesterday, it is unclear when she will attend a royal engagement again.