The state visit of Donald and Melania Trump has garnered significant attention this week, as the couple experienced royal ceremonies and hospitality.
This marks the second official visit of the First Couple to the UK, aiming to strengthen the ties between the two nations historically.
The fashion choices showcased during the grand event have been a focal point, with Princess Kate, renowned for her style, showcasing British designers. Melania’s outfits have also sparked discussions, especially one ensemble that went viral due to an intriguing ‘optical illusion’.
From fashion etiquette insights to the symbolism behind Kate’s elegant accessories, the Mirror presents the most memorable fashion highlights of the ongoing trip.
The standout moment was the stunning appearance of the Duchess of Cambridge at the recent lavish state banquet. She opted for a Phillipa Lepley lace evening coat layered over a classic silk crepe gown.
The intricate champagne gold lace coat featured hand-embroidered rose designs, softly puffed sleeves, and a flowing silhouette that revealed the understated gown beneath.
Kate adorned her loose hair with the iconic £1 million Lover’s Knot tiara for the state dinner, a cherished piece once worn by Princess Diana, her late mother-in-law.
While the Lover’s Knot tiara is a staple for Kate at such high-profile events, her decision to keep her hair down showcased a new dimension of her style.
Despite Princess Diana’s affection for the tiara, she noted its weight caused discomfort and headaches.
On the initial day of the State Visit, Kate opted for a familiar and favored style: a coatdress by designer Emilia Wickstead.
Completing her look with a Jane Taylor hat, a Chanel handbag, and sleek Gianvito Rossi 105 pumps, Kate exuded elegance.
Meanwhile, Melania arrived in Windsor clad in a classic Dior ensemble crafted from charcoal grey fabric, complemented by matching pumps. However, it was her striking purple hat that stole the spotlight, a signature choice from her preferred high-end designer.
For the state dinner, the First Lady dazzled in a vibrant yellow gown by Caroline Herrera. Royal insiders suggest that outfit coordination discussions likely occurred between Melania, Kate, and Camilla’s teams to avoid color clashes.
While a neutral palette is typically safe, the royal women strategically avoid wearing similar bright hues at such events, as shared by Grant Harrold, a former royal butler to King Charles.
Resembling her iconic inauguration day hat, Melania’s violet headpiece drew attention, causing her to appear almost hidden when looking downward.
Kate accessorized her lace coatdress at the state dinner with gold Aquazurra Fenix pumps, featuring stylish cut-outs and pointed toes. Her Maud Pearls Clutch handbag by Anya Hindmarch cleverly nodded to sartorial diplomacy as a gift exchanged during the visit.
During the visit’s initial day, Kate adorned ruby and diamond earrings, styled her hair in a half-up-half-down fashion, and adorned the Queen Alexandra Three Feather Brooch, previously owned by Princess Diana, paying homage to the late Princess of Wales.
On a lighter note, Melania’s belt choice at the grand dinner sparked online confusion, reminiscent of the infamous blue or gold dress debate. The belt appeared pink in some photos and light purple in others, creating an optical illusion that puzzled viewers until her team clarified it as “Easter purple.”
Transitioning from ball gowns to a casual setting, both the Duchess of Cambridge and Melania hosted a group of Scouts, treating them to sandwiches made with honey from Kate’s beehive during nature activities at Windsor Castle.