Kate's Sentimental Symbolism: A Tribute to Diana and the Queen at Windsor
ROYAL ROMANCE REIGNS SUPREME: Kate Middleton Steals the Show with Stunning State Banquet Gown and Sentimental Accessories!
The Palace of Windsor was abuzz yesterday as French President Emmanuel Macron and his wife Brigitte arrived for a state visit, but it was Princess Kate who truly stole the show. The 43-year-old royal put on a dazzling display in a dramatic, dark red silk crepe gown designed by Sarah Burton for Givenchy.
But what really made Kate's outfit pop was the sentimental value behind her accessories. She donned the Lover's Knot Tiara, a favorite of Princess Diana's and a family heirloom passed down through generations. The tiara, made from pearls and diamonds, has been worn by Queen Mary, Queen Elizabeth II, and even Princess Diana herself.
Kate also wore a 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 during the Macrons' state visit. And in a nod to her late grandmother-in-law Queen Elizabeth II, Kate sported lavish drop earrings gifted to her by the monarch.
But that wasn't all - Kate's clutch bag was subtly embroidered with a lily of the valley, Queen Elizabeth II's favorite flower. Talk about making a statement!
The evening's festivities kicked off with a "white tie and tiaras" dinner at Windsor Castle, where guests were treated to a sumptuous menu featuring dishes like Supreme of Rhug Estate Chicken with Norfolk Asparagus and Tarragon Cream. And to wash it all down? Iced Blackcurrant Parfait on a Blackcurrant-soaked Sponge with Elderflower Jelly and Café et Petit Fours.
After dinner, the Macrons were treated to Taylor's 1977 Vintage Port and a 1948 Grande Champagne Cognac by Frapin & Co. And in a clever move, the Royal Household collaborated with Chef Raymond Blanc OBE to create a special First Course and Dessert for the menu.
But the real pièce de résistance was the musical performance that followed dinner. The BBC National Orchestra of Wales took center stage in the Music Room, performing three pieces: Fackeltanz No.4 by Meyerbeer; Chanson de Matin by Elgar; and Scylla et Glaucus, Act IV, Scene V: Airs de Demons by Leclair.
As for the President's arrival, he was greeted with a royal procession through Windsor, complete with King Charles, Queen Camilla, Prince William, and Princess Kate. The Macrons waved from their carriage to crowds gathered on the streets, followed by Camilla and Mrs Macron in the Semi-State Landau.
But what really caught our attention was the King's small burst blood vessel in his right eye, which made it look red. It's understood this happened by accident overnight, and is not related to his cancer treatment.
And did we mention the Queen's stunning emerald green chiffon dress by Anna Valentine and hat by Philip Treacy? Or Camilla's beautiful emerald and diamond brooch that belonged to the late Queen?
As for the Macron's themselves, they exchanged kisses and affectionate pats on the arm as they greeted one another on the royal dais in Windsor. The King kissed Mrs Macron on the hand, while President Macron kissed Queen Camilla's hand.
But what really stole the show was Kate's curtsey to the King twice for good measure, seemingly unsure that he had seen it the first time, and her performance of the same ritual for the Queen before kissing her on the cheek. And did we mention William's attempt to point towards the turret of Windsor Castle in the distance, where they later joined their guests for lunch?
All in all, yesterday's state banquet was a true masterpiece of royal pageantry, with Kate Middleton stealing the show with her stunning State Banquet gown and sentimental accessories. And if you're still thirsty for more, be sure to check out our exclusive coverage on TheScholarlyNote.com!
