Kate Middleton shimmered from head to toe in a Jenny Packham gown and historic tiara from the British royal family‘s vault for the state banquet honoring German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier and his wife Elke Budenbender on Wednesday night at Windsor Castle in Windsor, England.
For the special occasion, the Princess of Wales wore a glittering Berlin blue floor-length dress with a dramatic cape element. The gown featured a subtle ombré color motif, transitioning the Berlin blue shade from lighter to darker tones.
Prince William, left, and Kate Middleton
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Encrusted all over the gown were shimmering sequins in the same shade, providing the dress with an added touch of sparkle. An asymmetric neckline and sharp shoulders gave way to the cape-like element that served as the sleeves to Middleton’s gown.
Adorning the Princess of Wales’ dress was the Royal Victorian Order sash with a star and badge along with the Royal Family Order of King Charles III, which was added to the angular neckline of Middleton’s Jenny Packham-designed gown.
Sebastian Roloff, right, and Kate Middleton
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When it came to accessories, none stood out more than Queen Victoria’s Oriental Circlet tiara. This is the first time the Princess of Wales has worn the tiara, according to reports, which features a delicate design of rubies and diamonds.
The tiara was created by Garrard in the early 1850s, based on the 290-year-old British jewelry manufacturer’s official website. The ornate jewelry piece was commissioned under the direction of Queen Victoria’s husband, German-born Prince Albert — given the history behind the tiara and its connection to Germany, the selection of the piece may have served as a sartorial nod of reverence for the German president and first lady.
Prince William, left, and Kate Middleton
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Originally designed with opals, per Garrard, the gems were later replaced with rubies by Queen Alexandra. The tiara was passed down to the Queen Mother and later to Queen Elizabeth II, who rarely wore the delicate statement jewelry piece.
The German president and first lady’s visit to the U.K. marks the country’s first state visit to in 27 years. Events and engagements for the visit, which concludes on Friday, include the welcome ceremony, state banquet and public outings.