Princess Kate Dons Her First Tiara In 3 Years For State Banquet
Prince William, Princess Kate and other members of the British royal family are dressed to the nines as King Charles III is hosting his first state banquet since becoming monarch, welcoming South Africa’s president to Buckingham Palace.
Kate was photographed in a gem-embellished white gown by Jenny Packham as she joined Prince William for the lavish occasion.
Princess Kate is wearing her first tiara in nearly three years for Tuesday’s state banquet at Buckingham Palace. She relied on her favourite tiara, the Cambridge Lover’s Knot, which was a wedding gift to Princess Diana.
The Lover’s Knot Tiara was commissioned for Queen Mary in 1913 from Britain’s House of Garrard. It is instantly recognizable for its dangling pearls and subtle diamond sparkle. Later it was handed down to the late Queen Elizabeth. Eventually, she gave it to her daughter-in-law, Princess Diana.
For the occasion, Kate completed the look with the Royal Family order and the Dame Grand Cross of the Royal Victorian Order star and sash.
Also in attendance were Prince Edward, Sophie, Countess of Wessex, the Duke and Duchess of Gloucester, the Duke of Kent, Lady Susan Hussey and Queen Elizabeth’s former lady-in-waiting, Annabel Whitehead.
For the visit of the South African president, the menu is grilled brill for a starter, a ballotine of pheasant for the main course and vanilla parfait with caramelised apples for a pudding.
Before guests arrived, every element of the State Banquet was inspected, checked and approved by King Charles and Queen Camilla, as seen in a video shared to the royal family’s Twitter page.
Earlier today, Prince William and Princess Kate greeted President Cyril Ramaphosa of South Africa on behalf of His Majesty King Charles, at his London hotel.
Following the official welcome, the royals and their guest departed in carriages down The Mall to Buckingham Palace for a private lunch.