The recent state banquet held at Windsor Castle in honor of German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier saw the Princess of Wales make a stunning fashion statement with her choice of tiara. Known for her elegant and sophisticated style, the Princess surprised everyone by wearing the Oriental Circlet tiara, a piece made by Garrard in 1853 for Queen Victoria. Adorned with diamonds and rubies in a lotus flower and Mughal arch motif, this tiara is the largest diadem seen on Kate to date. Paired with a dazzling blue caped gown by Jenny Packham, her Royal Family Order of King Charles III brooch, and sash representing her position as a Dame Grand Cross of the Royal Victorian Order, the Princess exuded regal elegance and grace.
This year has been filled with tiara moments for Kate, starting with French President Emmanuel Macron’s state visit in July and US President Donald Trump’s visit in September. Her choice of a burgundy caped gown by Sarah Burton for Givenchy and a white Phillipa Lepley gown with a gold high-neck lace overcoat marked a departure from her previous state banquet looks, signaling a shift towards more elaborate and covered-up gowns that reflect her growing seniority within the royal family.
Kate’s fashion choices during state visits have also showcased her diplomatic dressing skills. From wearing a blush-pink Dior Bar jacket and tulle skirt to greet Macron to opting for a more fashion-forward approach with her attire, such as the aquamarine coat dress by Catherine Walker at Trooping the Colour, the Princess has demonstrated a willingness to embrace high fashion for select high-profile engagements.
Despite a report in The Sunday Times suggesting that Kensington Palace would no longer release details of Kate’s outfits, the Palace clarified that there has been no change in their approach to sharing information about her clothing. Kate’s preference for a royal uniform consisting of Catherine Walker coat dresses, Alexander McQueen tailoring, and Self-Portrait two-in-one skirt suits reflects her desire to shift the focus onto the causes she supports rather than her personal style. This commitment to using fashion as a tool to spotlight important issues sets Kate apart as a modern and conscious royal figure.
