Tonight marks one of the Royal Family’s most glamorous events of the year, the annual reception for members of the Diplomatic Corps. Held at Buckingham Palace, the event is a highlight of the royal calendar, featuring elegant attire, sparkling tiaras, and a host of distinguished guests. This year, Queen Camilla made a notable appearance, wearing the late Queen Elizabeth II’s stunning aquamarine and diamond tiara for the first time.
The reception, set in the grandeur of Buckingham Palace’s state rooms, is a royal affair steeped in tradition. Each year, members of the royal family form a greeting line, where they welcome their guests before moving on to a drinks reception, followed by a buffet dinner and dancing in the palace ballroom. It’s a night where the royals shine in formal attire, with tiaras, evening gowns, and grand jewels making a statement of royal tradition.
Over the years, Princess Catherine has become known for her show-stopping fashion at the event. Last year, she dazzled in a sparkling pink Jenny Packham gown paired with the Lovers Knot Tiara. She accessorized with a small diamond brooch and the Queen’s chandelier earrings, a sentimental set from the late Queen Elizabeth II’s collection. Catherine first wore the Lovers Knot Tiara at the diplomatic reception in 2015, teaming it with an ice-blue lace gown and Queen Elizabeth II’s diamond chandelier earrings. The tiara, which is closely associated with Princess Diana, has become one of Catherine’s signature looks.
In 2016, the Duchess of Cambridge wowed guests again, this time in a red Jenny Packham gown, paired once more with the Lovers Knot Tiara. Other years saw Catherine in equally stunning ensembles, including a bridal white dress with the tiara and Princess Diana’s iconic Callingwood earrings in 2017, and a navy velvet Alexander McQueen gown with dazzling jewels in 2018.
This year, Queen Camilla’s appearance in the aquamarine and diamond tiara was a standout moment. Known as the Aquamarine Ribbon Tiara, it features five large aquamarine stones set in intricate ribbons of diamonds. This rare tiara, which had never before been seen on Camilla, made a significant impression on the 900 guests in attendance. Camilla’s decision to wear this piece for the first time was a clear tribute to the late Queen Elizabeth II.
King Charles made a striking appearance, wearing white tie attire with traditional knee britches and buckled shoes. He was seen engaging warmly with his guests. Prince William also looked dapper in his white tie ensemble, complete with the Order of the Garter blue sash and several royal orders on display, including the Order of the Thistle and the Order of Bath. The royal men’s attire was a picture of formal elegance, representing their roles with distinction.
The event is not just a display of royal glamour; it’s also a time for the royal family to connect with diplomats and guests in a more relaxed setting. The greeting line allows for personal interaction, and the drinks reception gives everyone a chance to unwind before the evening’s more formal celebrations begin. While the royal family typically leaves before the dancing starts, this event remains a highlight of their social calendar.
Queen Camilla, who had recently recovered from a chest infection, was mourning the loss of her beloved Jack Russell Terrier, Beth, who had passed away over the weekend. Though she might not have been feeling her best, her commitment to the event was clear. Camilla’s attendance also followed a united front with the rest of the royal family, with her wearing the Girls of Great Britain and Ireland Tiara, as well as the Queen Mother’s diamond brooch and a bracelet from the late Queen Elizabeth’s collection.
For Princess Catherine, this year has been a particularly challenging one, following her cancer diagnosis. After completing chemotherapy in September, the Princess of Wales is gradually returning to public duties, with a focus on getting back to full health. Her upcoming Christmas Carol service at Westminster Abbey, on December 6th, will reflect on the importance of community and support during difficult times.
While the royal family continues to shine in public events, their personal lives and struggles are just as significant. As Princess Catherine focuses on her health and family, her upcoming service promises to be a meaningful moment in the royal calendar.
For now, Catherine is taking things one step at a time, focusing on her health and recovery while continuing to make her mark as a beloved member of the royal family.
