Khaki Kate: Princess Swaps Glamour for Scouting Spirit with Melania Trump
KATE'S AUTUMNAL CHIC: PRINCESS OF WALES WINS OVER MELANIA WITH HER ELEGANT ENSEMBLE AT HOME PARK, WINDSOR CASTLE
In a masterclass in autumnal style, Kate Middleton, the Princess of Wales, has proven once again that she's the ultimate fashion icon. Joining forces with Melania Trump at Home Park, Windsor Castle, for a Scouts' event, Kate showed off her effortless ability to switch between glamorous state banquets and more laid-back everyday ensembles.
Today's itinerary saw the Princess and the First Lady meet a group of young Scouts Squirrels, aged four to five, who were working towards their 'Go Wild' badge. The event took place in Frogmore Gardens, a picturesque setting that showcased Kate's diplomatic flair as she blended both US and UK brands in her outfit.
Kate's elegant ensemble consisted of a skirt from American designer Ralph Lauren, paired with a khaki suede jacket from British brand Me+Em and a brown cashmere knitted vest from the same label. The finishing touch was a scarf from Sudbury Mill, where Kate had visited just last week to watch the production of silk products.
Meanwhile, Melania Trump looked equally chic in her suede brown jacket and cream trousers, but it's clear that Kate has stolen the fashion show with her autumnal chic look. And let's not forget the royal treatment – each child received a special packed lunch courtesy of Kate, complete with sandwiches made from honey produced by the Wales family's hives at Anmer Hall.
But what's even more fascinating is the attention to detail that went into planning this event. Buckingham Palace revealed that preparations for the state visit started six months ago, and it takes the household staff around three days to lay the table. The result was a truly regal setting, complete with exquisite menus written in French, prepared by royal chefs, and served on historic dinner sets.
YESTERDAY'S STATE BANQUET: A NIGHT TO REMEMBER
Last night's state banquet at Windsor Castle was the epitome of elegance, with Kate looking absolutely stunning in a Phillipa Lepley silk crepe gown underneath a hand-embroidered gold Chantilly lace evening coat. The Princess wore her hair loose, cascading down her back in soft waves, and accessorized with drop earrings.
But it wasn't just Kate who turned heads – Prince William was also dashing in his Windsor Uniform, complete with the blue sash and star of the Order of the Garter. He even wore four medals, one each from the late Queen Elizabeth II's Golden, Diamond, and Platinum Jubilees, and the King's coronation medal.
The banquet itself was a masterclass in protocol, with every detail meticulously planned and approved by King Charles. The tables were set with priceless dinner sets, and the guests – who had been invited on the basis of their cultural, diplomatic, or economic links to the US – dined on an exquisite menu written in French.
A BEVY OF HONEY AND WHISKEY SOURS
But it's not just about the food and fashion – there was also a special cocktail created for the occasion. The Transatlantic Whisky Sour is a UK/US twist on the classic Whisky Sour, blending Johnnie Walker Black with the bright citrus of marmalade, topped with pecan foam, and garnished with a toasted marshmallow set on a star-shaped biscuit.
However, it's worth noting that President Trump is a teetotaller, so it's unlikely he indulged in sampling the vintage wines or cocktails. Still, for those who did enjoy the beverage, it was a fitting tribute to the transatlantic friendship between the US and UK.
The wellbeing of young children is something that both Kate and Melania are passionate about, and it's clear that this event was more than just a diplomatic nicety – it was an opportunity for the Princess and the First Lady to bond over their shared values and commitment to empowering young people.
As we look back on this whirlwind state visit, one thing is clear: Kate Middleton has once again proven herself to be the ultimate royal fashionista, effortlessly blending style and substance in equal measure.
