The State visit of Donald Trump and Melania Trump to the United Kingdom once again placed the British royal family in the international spotlight. Amid banquets, receptions, and meetings, all eyes were also on the Prince and Princess of Wales, whose presence was among the most talked about. However, it was Kate Middleton who captured attention with a gesture full of symbolism.
The gala dinner held at Windsor Castle brought together the political elite and the most prominent members of the monarchy. It was an evening marked by protocol and solemnity, where every detail was carefully planned. Amid the brilliance of tiaras and jewels, the Princess of Wales's decision did not go unnoticed.
A historic evening in Windsor
The banquet on September 17 was one of the main events of the Trump state visit. Windsor Castle was adorned to welcome more than 170 guests. The staging recalled the grand gala dinners of past decades.
Kate Middleton chose for the occasion a silk crepe dress with a gold lace coat by designer Phillipa Lepley. This piece stood out for its elegance and meticulous craftsmanship. The outfit was completed with accessories that reinforced her image as a modern and understated princess.
Along with this look, the princess wore the Lover’s Knot tiara, one of her favorites and also an icon of the late Diana. She also brought back gold pumps by Aquazzura and a white satin clutch. The entire ensemble conveyed a blend of respect for tradition and a personal touch.
The most obvious tribute to Elizabeth II
Media attention quickly focused on the jewels chosen by Kate. In her ears sparkled earrings that once belonged to Queen Elizabeth II. Their oval cluster diamond design was immediately recognized by royal jewelry experts.
The gesture was interpreted as an explicit tribute to her husband’s grandmother, Prince William. Kate wanted to remember the monarch at an event of great institutional significance. This way, she symbolically connected the continuity of the Crown with the memory of Elizabeth II.
This was not the first time the Princess of Wales had chosen pieces from the Queen. On other occasions, she had already worn inherited brooches, necklaces, and bracelets. However, at this dinner, the gesture took on greater significance as it coincided with the visit of an American head of state.
The detail that almost went unnoticed
Beyond the jewels, the dress chosen by Kate held a powerful connection to Elizabeth II. Lepley’s design, with gold lace and an overcoat, clearly evoked the outfit the monarch wore in 2003. At that time, the Queen welcomed George Bush and Laura Bush at a banquet in Buckingham.
The similarity between both styles was highlighted by royal fashion experts. Kate thus revived an iconic image of her late mother-in-law. The parallel reinforced the idea of continuity between generations.
With this choice, Kate Middleton paid a second tribute to Elizabeth II that went unnoticed by many. The Princess of Wales used fashion as a silent language to connect past and present. According to sources close to the family, this gesture may have even surprised members within the royal family itself.