Kate Middleton Unveils Stunning New Tiara Alongside Prince William

The Princess of Wales made a striking appearance at a state banquet at Windsor Castle on December 3, wearing the most extravagant tiara of her royal wardrobe. The dazzling headpiece, unseen in public for two decades, was none other than Queen Victoria's Oriental Circlet Tiara, a Garrard & Co. creation originally commissioned by Prince Albert in 1853, featuring 2,600 diamonds set in gold.

Kate, 43, paired the ornate tiara with a shimmering blue Jenny Packham gown. Her accessories included diamond earrings that belonged to Queen Elizabeth the Queen Mother, along with the Royal Family Order sash and the Royal Victorian Order star.

The tiara itself carries a rich history. Initially designed to hold over a dozen opals, it was altered in 1901 by Queen Alexandra, Victoria's daughter-in-law, who replaced the opals with rubies due to superstitions surrounding the milky gemstones. Records suggest Alexandra wore it only once on a state visit to Germany before it was passed down to the Queen Mother and then Queen Elizabeth II, who last wore it during a 2005 visit to Malta.

Kates choice of headpiece at the state dinner subtly honored this legacy as she and the royal family, including King Charles III and Queen Camilla, hosted German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier.

This event marked another highlight in Kates tiara repertoire. After a two-year pause from wearing tiaras, she returned in July with Queen Mary's Lover's Knot at a state banquet for French President Emmanuel Macron and Brigitte Macron. She later wore the same piece during a visit by former U.S. President Donald Trump and First Lady Melania Trump. In total, Kate has worn five tiaras, including the Cartier Halo at her wedding, the Lotus Flower, and the Strathmore Rose.

Over the years, Kate has paired her tiaras with a range of elegant ensembles. She has combined sparkling gowns with regal accessories such as Royal Family Order badges, stars of the Royal Victorian Order, diamond earrings, and Art Deco brooches. Her style has ranged from whimsical dresses by Erdem to sophisticated coat dresses by Alexander McQueen, showcasing her flair for both formal and approachable royal fashion.

Whether attending charity events, state visits, or ceremonies like Remembrance Day, Kate consistently blends tradition with contemporary style. Her wardrobe choicesfrom magenta opera house outfits to green polka-dot dresses for hospital visitsdemonstrate a keen eye for color, elegance, and occasion-appropriate fashion.

Author: Gavin Porter