Kate Middleton, the Princess of Wales, made a stunning appearance at the State Banquet at Buckingham Palace on Tuesday night, wearing the Lover's Knot tiara, a favourite of Princess Diana. The 40-year-old royal swept her hair into an intricate up-do to showcase the diamond and pearl-encrusted headpiece, which was made by royal jeweller Garrard in 1914.
She paired the tiara with a caped white Jenny Packham floor-length evening dress, sparkling details on the shoulders, a matching white Alexander McQueen clutch, and Gianvito Rossi heels. Kate also wore the family order, the GCVO Star and Sash, a four-strand pearl bracelet belonging to the late Queen, and Diana's diamond and pearl drop earrings.
The Lover's Knot tiara was given to Diana by the Queen as a wedding gift in 1981 and was often worn by her. Following Diana's death, the tiara was passed down to Kate, who has since made it one of her most cherished pieces of royal jewellery.
The banquet, hosted by King Charles III, honoured South African President Cyril Ramaphosa. Kate arrived with Prince William, and the couple joined more than 160 guests for the glittering white-tie event. The last State Banquet was held in 2019, when Queen Elizabeth hosted then-President Donald Trump.
Queen Consort Camilla wore the sapphire collection, known as the King George VI Victorian Sapphire Suite, a gift from her father for her wedding in 1947. She also wore a royal blue lace evening dress by Bruce Oldfield, the Garter sash, Queen Victoria's garter order, and the late Queen's family order.
King Charles wore the Garter Star and Thistle Star, along with three miniature medals for Queen Elizabeth's Jubilees. The menu included stuffed Windsor pheasant and grilled brill with wild mushrooms.
