As Catherine, the Princess of Wales, focuses on her recovery from cancer treatment, her public engagements have understandably been reduced.
This means that she was not present at the recent state banquet at Buckingham Palace, where the Emir of Qatar and his wife were honored.
While many fans expressed their disappointment at not seeing her in one of her stunning outfits paired with a sparkling crown, it’s a great opportunity to reflect on her most memorable moments at state banquets, which have undoubtedly solidified her status as a royal fashion icon.
Catherine made her grand entrance into the world of state banquets back in October 2015.
The event was held in honor of Chinese President Xi Jinping, and she chose a striking red gown by Jenny Packham.
This vibrant color was not just a fashion statement; it was a respectful nod to China’s national hue, often associated with good fortune.
The gown, with its elegant cap sleeves and flowing silhouette, perfectly showcased Packham’s signature style.
To top off her look, Catherine adorned herself with the exquisite lotus flower tiara, allowing her intricate updo to highlight its beauty.
Shimmering diamond earrings featuring teardrop chandeliers and a pair of significant diamond bracelets added an extra layer of glamour to her ensemble.
Among those bracelets was a particularly sentimental piece—a wedding gift from Prince Philip to Queen Elizabeth II.
This rare loan from the Queen to Catherine carried deep emotional significance.
The second bracelet, an upcycled choker previously owned by Queen Mary, further emphasized the royal family’s rich heritage and history.
Each element of her outfit told a story, weaving together personal sentiment and royal legacy.
Fast forward to 2017, and Catherine was once again turning heads at another state banquet, this time honoring King Felipe VI and Queen Letizia of Spain.
She chose a romantic pale pink lace gown by Marchesa, which radiated grace and femininity.
The soft tones of the dress beautifully complemented the grandeur of the occasion.
To enhance her look, Catherine donned the iconic lover’s knot tiara, a piece closely associated with her late mother-in-law, Diana, Princess of Wales.
The tiara’s intricate design, complete with dangling pearls, added a touch of timeless elegance.
Her jewelry choices during this banquet were equally captivating.
The standout piece was a ruby and diamond floral bandeau necklace, a rare sight that hadn’t graced public events for decades.
She paired this statement piece with the Collingwood pearl earrings, which once belonged to Diana, ensuring that her look was both regal and deeply personal.
With her hair styled in a sleek low chignon, Catherine allowed her jewels and tiara to take center stage, creating an unforgettable image.
In October 2018, Catherine once again dazzled at the state banquet honoring the King and Queen of the Netherlands.
She opted for a dreamy periwinkle blue gown by Alexander McQueen, a choice that cleverly mirrored the colors of both the British and Dutch flags.
The gown was paired with the beloved lover’s knot tiara and Diana’s Collingwood pearl earrings, reinforcing her affinity for historic and meaningful pieces.
The crowning glory of this outfit was undoubtedly Queen Alexandra’s wedding necklace, a lavish diamond piece that made a bold statement.
This particular banquet also marked a milestone for Catherine, as she wore the royal family order for the first time.
This pin, featuring a portrait of Queen Elizabeth II, symbolizes the late queen’s esteem and represents a significant moment in Catherine’s royal journey.
Each of Catherine’s state banquet outfits has been thoughtfully curated, reflecting the importance of the occasion and the distinguished guests.
From her color choices to her carefully selected jewelry, every detail highlights her meticulous approach to royal fashion.