Princess Kate is gearing up for yet another unforgettable tiara showcase, and believe it or not, this will be her third dazzling display in just one year!
Imagine the sparkle and elegance – it's moments like these that remind us why the royals captivate the world. Buckingham Palace has just revealed plans for a third state visit this year, where King Charles and Queen Camilla will welcome Germany's President Frank-Walter Steinmeier to Windsor Castle from December 3 to 5. For those new to royal traditions, a state visit is a big deal in diplomacy: it's an official trip by one country's leader to another, filled with ceremonies, meetings, and grand events that strengthen international ties. This upcoming event comes hot on the heels of Charles hosting U.S. President Donald Trump for a prestigious stay at the same historic Berkshire spot back in September – a visit that turned heads worldwide. And let's not forget, the 76-year-old monarch also rolled out the red carpet for French President Emmanuel Macron all the way back in July.
On those previous occasions, Prince William and Princess Kate have truly shone in the spotlight, taking on key roles that highlight their importance in modern royalty. For instance, the couple personally greeted the Macrons right as they arrived by plane at RAF Northolt, setting a warm and welcoming tone from the start. Similarly, they were the very first members of the royal family to greet the Trumps upon their helicopter landing at Windsor Castle, making the whole affair feel personal and engaging.
Although the palace hasn't spilled all the beans on the full schedule yet, it's safe to bet that the German visit will feature a lavish state banquet – think opulent dinners with world leaders, where fashion meets formality. And that means we could be in for another breathtaking tiara moment from Kate, who absolutely stunned during the U.S. event in a shimmering gold gown by British designer Phillipa Lepley, paired with the iconic Lover's Knot tiara. This stunning piece, made of diamonds and pearls, was first created for Queen Mary in the 1910s and later became legendary thanks to Princess Diana's frequent wearings. It's one of those jewels that instantly screams royal heritage, evoking a sense of timeless glamour that few accessories can match.
Over her 14 years in the royal fold, Kate has graced numerous state banquets for visiting dignitaries, and while the Lover's Knot is her go-to favorite – no surprise, given its elegant versatility – she's also dipped into the collection's other treasures. We've spotted her in at least two additional sparkling headpieces that add variety to her looks. Curious about her standout outfits from these high-society evenings? Let's dive into a gallery of her most memorable state visit ensembles...
Kate's Elegant State Visit Ensembles
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Kate styled her brunette hair in soft, flowing waves beneath the tiara for a romantic vibe.
U.S. State Visit 2025
Kate embodied the essence of a storybook princess in a golden lace gown crafted by Phillipa Lepley, as the royals entertained President Donald Trump at Windsor Castle. This marked her debut in a piece from the celebrated British bridal designer, and she elevated it with the Lover's Knot tiara – a headpiece long associated with the grace of the late Princess Diana. It's these choices that blend tradition with Kate's personal flair, making every appearance feel fresh yet rooted in history.
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Sarah Burton, who designed Kate's iconic wedding dress, created this custom piece under the Alexander McQueen label.
French State Visit 2025
For this occasion, the Princess unveiled a bespoke gown by Sarah Burton for Givenchy – a bold red design with a dramatic cape that commanded attention. She pulled her hair into a sophisticated half-updo, completing the look with, you guessed it, the Lover's Knot tiara. And this is the part most people miss: how Kate's selections often nod to the host country's colors or themes, showing thoughtful diplomacy through fashion.
MORE ROYAL JEWELS
Jaw-dropping tiaras spotted at the Luxembourg gala dinner, featuring Queen Maxima and more (https://www.hellomagazine.com/fashion/royal-style/859887/most-breathtaking-tiaras-luxembourg-gala-dinner-queen-maxima-more/)
Is the Duchess of Gloucester's tiara the most adaptable in the collection? (https://www.hellomagazine.com/royalty/843419/duchess-of-gloucester-versatile-tiara/)
Which royals have skipped tiaras so far – and when might Lady Louise Windsor step into the spotlight? (https://www.hellomagazine.com/royalty/829639/royals-who-have-never-worn-tiaras/)
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Kate made history by debuting the Strathmore Rose tiara.
South Korea State Visit 2023
Opting for an ethereal evening silhouette, Kate chose a pristine white Jenny Packham gown with structured cap sleeves and intricate gold embroidery – perfect for a night of cultural exchange. She accessorized with elegant white opera gloves and dusted off the Strathmore Rose tiara, a rare gem that hadn't graced a royal head since the 1920s. Reviving such pieces keeps the collection alive and connects past monarchs to today's events.
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Kate turned heads in a gown reminiscent of bridal elegance, complete with a flowing cape.
South Africa State Visit 2022
Stepping into her role as Princess of Wales for her inaugural state banquet, Kate mesmerized in a white, embellished Jenny Packham creation, topped with the Lover's Knot tiara and paired with Princess Diana's stunning South Sea pearl earrings. It's a poignant reminder of how jewelry can bridge generations, honoring legacies while creating new ones.
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© POOL/AFP via Getty Images
The Trumps received a warm welcome at Buckingham Palace back in 2019.
U.S. State Visit 2019
During President Trump's inaugural trip to the UK, Kate lit up the room in a ruffled Alexander McQueen gown, once more crowned by the Lover's Knot tiara. Her poise in these settings underscores her role as a modern royal ambassador.
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The royals played perfect hosts to King Willem-Alexander and Queen Maxima.
Dutch State Banquet
For this gathering, the Princess selected a sapphire-blue satin Alexander McQueen gown with subtle ruching at the bust and a flattering dropped waist. She swept her hair into a sleek low chignon, allowing the Lover's Knot tiara to shine as the focal point.
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Kate radiated softness in a delicate pink lace number.
Spanish State Banquet 2017
As the late Queen Elizabeth hosted King Felipe and Queen Letizia of Spain, Kate charmed in a rosy Marchesa gown, layered with the Lover's Knot tiara and the exquisite Greville Ruby and Diamond Bandeau necklace. The rubies added a vibrant pop, symbolizing the warmth of Anglo-Spanish relations.
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The Princess shared a toast with Chinese President Xi Jinping.
Chinese State Banquet 2015
For her very first state banquet, Kate subtly referenced the Chinese flag with a vibrant red Jenny Packham gown, complemented by the Lotus Flower tiara – originally crafted as a necklace for the late Queen Mother. This choice highlighted cultural respect, a subtle yet powerful diplomatic gesture.
But here's where it gets controversial: while Kate's affinity for the Lover's Knot tiara is undeniably elegant, some royal watchers argue she should rotate her pieces more to spotlight lesser-seen jewels from the collection. Does sticking to favorites limit the exposure of royal history, or is it a smart way to honor icons like Diana? What do you think – should Kate mix it up more, or is tradition best served with repetition? Drop your thoughts in the comments below; I'd love to hear if you agree or have a different take!
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