Queen Camilla made a sartorial statement rich in personal history and diplomatic significance at a high-profile London dinner last week. For the Biennial RIFLES Awards Dinner at the City of London Guildhall on November 27, Her Majesty chose to accessorise her regal red velvet gown with a very special piece borrowed from her husband's collection: a traditional Saudi robe he has kept for 27 years.
A Royal Garment with a Rich History
The midnight blue robe, known as a daqlah, is no ordinary piece of outerwear. King Charles, then the Prince of Wales, was presented with the garment in 1998 during an official visit to Saudi Arabia. It features intricate contrasting silver embroidery throughout and was created by renowned Saudi fashion designer Yahya Al Bishri. Notably, Al Bishri also designed a dress for the late Diana, Princess of Wales, adding another layer of historical connection to the piece.
Camilla opted to wear the daqlah draped elegantly over her shoulders as she arrived at the Guildhall event, where she was joined by Sophie, the Duchess of Edinburgh. This was not, however, the first time the Queen has chosen to incorporate this meaningful item into her wardrobe for a public occasion.
Previous Appearances of the Sentimental Robe
Camilla has turned to this particular robe several times, showcasing its versatility and the clear personal value it holds. Her most recent outing in the garment was just months earlier, in May 2025, when she wore it to a concert at the Horse Guards Parade marking the 80th Anniversary of VE Day. For that event, she accessorised the robe with a Britannia brooch.
The Queen's history with the daqlah stretches back further. She first borrowed it publicly in June 2022 for the late Queen Elizabeth's Platinum Jubilee concert, wearing it buttoned up on stage alongside Charles. Months later, in 2022, she was pictured wearing it in the car upon arrival at the annual Reception for Members of the Diplomatic Corps at Buckingham Palace, pairing it with extravagant diamond and sapphire jewellery.
Archival photos suggest an even longer association, with Camilla believed to have first worn the jacket as far back as 2008 for the Sunset Ceremony at RAF Cranwell, and again in 2010 for an event at Windsor Castle.
Designer Delight and Diplomatic Symbolism
The robe's designer, Yahya Al Bishri, expressed his pride and surprise at seeing his creation worn on the world stage. Speaking to Arab News after seeing Camilla wear it for the Platinum Jubilee, he said he was "shocked" and that it was a "great feeling to see the whole world is talking about my outfit." He emphasised his pride as a Saudi designer that international media focused on and appreciated his work.
Camilla's choice to wear the daqlah is viewed as more than a simple fashion decision. It is seen as a subtle nod to diplomatic ties and a demonstration of cross-cultural appreciation. By integrating a gift given to her husband over a quarter of a century ago into her modern royal wardrobe, Camilla weaves a narrative of continuity, personal history, and respect for international traditions.
The repeated use of this specific garment highlights a thoughtful approach to royal dressing, where items are cherished, reused, and imbued with layered meaning far beyond their aesthetic appeal.
