Kate Middleton pulled out all the stops on Dec. 3 for a lavish state banquet at Windsor Castle, held in honor of German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier’s state visit to the U.K.
For the grand occasion, the Princess of Wales debuted Queen Victoria’s Oriental Circlet Tiara, originally designed by Prince Albert in 1853. As noted by the Court Jeweller, Queen Victoria specified in her will that the piece could only be worn by future Queens or Queens Consort. After the Queen Mother’s passing in 2002, Queen Elizabeth II inherited most of her jewels, but she wore the Oriental Circlet only once—at the Malta state banquet in 2005.
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Kate Middleton Stuns In Oriental Circlet Tiara
Kate dazzled in a dramatic midnight-blue sequin cape gown by Jenny Packham, featuring an asymmetrical neckline, sheer cape sleeves, a cinched pleated waist, and shimmering beadwork throughout. She completed the look with soft waves in her brunette hair and taupe eye makeup, creating a regal, ethereal ensemble befitting the historic tiara.
Fans were stunned to see her look and shared their reactions on social media.
“Princess Catherine has done it again! What a BEAUTIFUL dress and natural diamond tiara. And she looks BREATHTAKING,” said one fan. A second wrote, “The circlet was designed by Prince Albert for Queen Victoria, so it’s perfect for the German state banquet! I never thought of her in it! Stunning as always.” A third commented, “She is perfection and looks so happy.” A fourth quipped, “That blue Packham cape was already a moment, but pulling a Queen Victoria tiara out of the vault took it to another level. The diamonds doing all the quiet royal talking tonight. This is how you wear history and still make it feel current.”
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The German state banquet, hosted by King Charles and Queen Camilla for German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier, was a lavish Windsor Castle event marking the first German state visit in 27 years, focusing on strengthening UK-German ties amidst global challenges like Russian aggression, featuring ceremonial pageantry, speeches on democracy
For the previous state banquet honoring U.S. President Donald Trump on September 17, 2025, at Windsor Castle, the 43-year-old made a dazzling entrance in a sheer gold gown by British designer Phillipa Lepley. The look featured a full-length, hand-embroidered rose-gold Chantilly lace evening coat layered over a sleek silk crepe dress.
She completed the ensemble with one of her most iconic accessories—the Queen Mary Lover's Knot tiara, a beloved piece once frequently worn by the late Princess Diana.
