Buckingham Palace was ablaze with opulence on the night of November 21 as the Royal Family played host to a grand state banquet in honor of South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol and First Lady Kim Keon Hee’s visit to the UK.
The epitome of extravagance was set by Catherine, Princess of Wales, who donned the resplendent “forgotten” Strathmore Rose Tiara, a pre-marital gift to the Queen Mother by Lord Strathmore a century ago. Resurrecting its vintage charm, the Princess adorned it above her forehead, accentuating her ensemble—a cascading ivory Jenny Packham ‘Anemone’ gown (£2,940), an Anya Hindmarch ‘Maud’ Pearl-Embellished Satin Clutch Bag (£475), and the late Queen Elizabeth II’s diamond frame earrings.
Adding an unexpected twist of glamour, the renowned South Korean girl band Blackpink graced the occasion. Recognized as TIME’s Entertainer of the Year in December 2022, the group showcased their global influence in an array of designer outfits. Jisoo stunned in a black, puffed Dior gown from the Resort 2024 collection, Lisa shone in an embellished turquoise caped dress by Lebanese couturier Georges Hobeika, Rosé opted for a black strapless gown by Korean brand Pinkong, and Jennie radiated elegance in the ‘Allegro’ off-shoulder white gown by Australian designer Toni Matičevski (£2,530).
Earlier in the day, the Princess of Wales had embraced a tomato red color palette, notably in a Catherine Walker coat and cape. However, it was Queen Camilla who carried the vibrant shade into the evening, gracing the event in a red velvet gown designed by Fiona Clare Couture and adorned with Garrard’s ruby Burmese Tiara.
Sophie, Duchess of Edinburgh, opted for a sentimental choice by re-wearing the white Suzannah London gown crafted for King Charles’ coronation in May 2023. Designed as a tribute to Queen Elizabeth II, the gown features a beautifully hand-embroidered train inspired by regalia from the Queen’s Coronation in 1953.
The fashion-forward attendees from the political arena made notable style statements. Akshata Murty, the wife of Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, donned the claret-red ‘Adele’ silk-satin dress from London-founded label Saloni (£450). Victoria Starmer, wife of Keir Starmer, Leader of the Opposition, chose a ruched front and sleeve velvet floor-length gown.
Samantha Cameron, wife of former Prime Minister David Cameron, proudly showcased her fashion brand Cefinn at the banquet. She wore the green-metallic printed ‘Aurelie’ midi dress (£390).
In conclusion, the state banquet for South Korea’s President was a spectacular display of regal elegance, vintage charm, and global glamour. Each attendee, from members of the Royal Family to influential political figures, contributed to the evening’s allure with their distinctive and carefully curated ensembles.
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