The Princess of Wales embodied regal elegance at Windsor Castle last night, making a breathtaking appearance at a state banquet held in honour of the German President. Kate, 43, chose a momentous piece of history for the occasion, wearing the rarely-seen Queen Victoria's Oriental Circlet tiara for the very first time.
A Historic Tiara Makes a Royal Return
The opulent tiara, designed in 1853 by Prince Albert for Queen Victoria, had not been seen in public for nearly two decades. Queen Elizabeth II wore it only once publicly, in 2006, making Catherine's debut a significant event for royal watchers. The piece features 2,600 diamonds from Garrard set within eleven Mughal arches and lotus flowers. Originally set with opals, it was reset with Burmese rubies in 1903 by Queen Alexandra, who considered opals unlucky.
Eagle-eyed fans quickly noted the clever styling trick that ensured the precious headpiece remained perfectly balanced. The Princess's hairdresser had twisted strands of her hair around the tiara's band, securing it firmly while allowing her tresses to cascade into a delicate, waved ponytail.
A Sartorial Nod to Germany
Complementing the majestic tiara was a sweeping, pale blue Jenny Packham gown fitted with a bespoke cape. Royal commentators suggested the colour choice was a thoughtful homage to Germany, possibly referencing Prussian blue, a historically popular hue in the country, or cornflower blue, Germany's national flower. The Princess completed her jewellery ensemble with dazzling diamond chandelier earrings from the late Queen's collection and her iconic sapphire engagement ring.
The banquet itself marked the first state visit from Germany in 27 years. King Charles III and Queen Camilla hosted President Frank-Walter Steinmeier and his wife, Elke Budenbender, at a glittering event in St George's Hall. The setting was meticulously prepared, with a table gleaming under 158 candles and a 20-foot Christmas tree. The place settings required 329 knives, 320 spoons, and 760 glasses for the 152 guests.
A Night of Glamour and Diplomacy
The guest list blended diplomacy with celebrity, including supermodel Claudia Schiffer, filmmaker Sir Matthew Vaughn, and German footballer Thomas Hitzlsperger. The menu featured a culinary showcase: hot-smoked trout, Windsor partridge, and a dramatic baked Alaska. Toasts were made with English sparkling wine, while the red wine, a Chateau La Fleur-Petrus Pomerol 1995, was chosen as it was the year the German President married.
Prince William accompanied the Princess, looking suave in white tie, while Queen Camilla wore a green lace gown and the Girls of Great Britain and Ireland tiara. On social media, fans were effusive in their praise. One wrote on X: "It has finally happened... Princess Catherine looks absolutely majestic!" Another added: "It's so lovely to see some new tiaras being taken from the vault."
The evening was a powerful display of modern monarchy, blending historical pageantry with subtle diplomatic gestures, all while showcasing the Princess of Wales's evolving and assured regal style.
