Kate Middleton's Spectacular Scarlet Return: A Royal Evening in Windsor
ROYAL ROMANCE: Kate and William's Fairytale Night at Windsor Castle!
The Scholly Note, Exclusive Report:
Last night, Windsor Castle was ablaze with glamour as the Princess of Wales, Kate, dazzled in a dramatic dark red silk creponne gown, designed by Sarah Burton for Givenchy. The 43-year-old royal matriarch made her long-awaited return to high-profile duties at the State Banquet, marking her first appearance since being absent from the scene for over 18 months.
As she stepped out alongside Prince William, Kate looked every inch the poised princess in her stunning gown, featuring gathered detailing and a flowing caped back that added a sense of movement as they made their way into the glittering reception. Her look was completed with a nod to tradition and state symbolism, wearing the Lover's Knot Tiara - a favorite once worn by Princess Diana - along with drop earrings from Her Majesty The Late Queen and the Royal Family Orders of both Queen Elizabeth II and King Charles.
But that wasn't all! Kate also wore a subtle yet striking lily-of-the-valley embroidered clutch that added a delicate, floral touch to her ensemble. And, as if that weren't enough, she donned the sash and star of the Royal Victorian Order and the rosette of the Grand Officier of the L'ordre Nationale du Mérite, a French honor bestowed upon her during the Macrons' state visit.
The Prince and Princess were pictured beaming as they elegantly tread the red carpet at Windsor's grand entrance, honoring the spirit of diplomacy on a highly symbolic occasion. It was a night that would go down in history as one of the most romantic and regal nights at Windsor Castle.
As guests dined on a sumptuous menu featuring pre-dinner canapés, Assiette de Légumes d'Été, Vinaigrette de Tomates Crues, Huile d'Olive Vierge, and a selection of tender summer vegetables from the gardens of Le Manoir with sage, raw tomato, and Extra Virgin Olive Oil dressing, they were treated to a special performance by the BBC National Orchestra of Wales.
The orchestra, conducted by Ryan Bancroft, Principal Conductor, BBC National Orchestra of Wales, performed three pieces: Fackeltanz No. 4 by Meyerbeer; Chanson de Matin by Elgar; and Scylla et Glaucus, Act IV, Scene V: Airs de Démonts by Leclair.
Earlier that day, William and Kate had greeted the Macrons at about 11:30 am and traveled with them to Windsor to meet King Charles and Queen Camilla for a carriage procession. The Princess was wearing a Christian Dior jacket, a hat by Jess Collett, Princess Diana's old earrings, and a pearl necklace from Queen Elizabeth II's collection.
But what really stole the show was Kate's stunning 30 Montaigne Rose Des Vents Bar Jacket from the 2024 collection, reimagined by Italian designer Maria Grazia Chiuri. The piece was inspired by the original, which was first created in 1947 by Dior himself!
As the night went on, and the festivities reached their climax, there were whispers of a "white-tie-and-tiaras" dinner, with guests enjoying the finest cuisine and wine. And, as if that weren't enough, Taylor's 1977 Vintage Port and a 1948 Grande Champagne Cognac by Frapin & Co were served to toast the special occasion.
But what really got our hearts racing was the royal salute given by the soldiers on parade and the French national anthem being played. It was a truly regal and romantic night at Windsor Castle, fit for royalty!
And as if all that weren't enough, there was even more drama! The King's Colour Squadron formed a carpet welcome party at the airfield for the Macrons, and they were initially welcomed by Hélène Duchêne, the King's Ambassador to France.
But what really caught our attention was the small burst blood vessel in the King's right eye that made it look red. It is understood that this happened by accident overnight, and is not related to his cancer treatment.
In a nutshell, last night was a fairytale come true at Windsor Castle, with Kate and William looking like royalty as they welcomed the Macrons for a state visit that will go down in history!
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