Last night, Buckingham Palace played host to the annual Diplomatic Corps reception, one of the most glamorous events on the royal calendar.
The grand affair, held in the State Rooms, welcomed over 500 distinguished guests, showcasing the importance of British diplomacy.
The event also gave attendees a chance to witness the Royal Family’s finest jewels in action, with Queen Camilla leading the way in regal elegance.
Queen Camilla’s Stunning Attire
Queen Camilla turned heads in a blue velvet evening gown by Fiona Clare, paired with a breathtaking aquamarine and diamond tiara that once belonged to the late Queen Elizabeth.
Completing her ensemble, she wore an aquamarine and diamond necklace and earrings from her personal collection.
Additionally, she proudly displayed the King’s newly designed ‘family order,’ a symbolic portrait of the monarch given to female family members.
Unlike traditional ivory, King Charles’ version is painted on poly- instead of ivory.
Prince William’s Distinguished Medals
Prince William, always a picture of refinement, wore full court dress, including knee breeches.
His attire was adorned with various miniature medals, including the Order of the Bath, the Golden Jubilee, the Diamond Jubilee, the Platinum Jubilee, and the Coronation.
He also donned the Most Noble Order of the Garter Sash, with the ‘Lesser George’ at his side.
On his chest, he wore the Most Noble Order of the Garter (Garter Star), alongside the Most Ancient and Most Noble Order of the Thistle (Thistle Star).
Around his neck hung the Great Master of the Most Honourable Order of the Bath.
Princess of Wales’ Absence
While the King, Queen, and Prince William were in attendance, the Princess of Wales, Catherine, did not participate in the royal greeting line.
Catherine, who has been recovering from cancer treatment, announced earlier this year that she would take a gradual return to her royal duties.
Her focus is now on organizing her annual carol concert at Westminster Abbey next month.
The Princess underwent major abdominal surgery in January and was later diagnosed with cancer, undergoing a course of preventative chemotherapy.
A Celebration of Diplomacy
The reception, which celebrates the presence of one of the largest Diplomatic Corps in the world, serves as a reminder of the crucial role the monarch plays in British diplomacy.
Normally held in December, this year’s event was brought forward to avoid a clash with the State Visit of the Amir of Qatar.
The guest list included ambassadors, High Commissioners, former Prime Ministers, and senior public figures, with over 1,500 guests expected from around 130 countries.
The Tradition of Elegance
The event adhered to a strict dress code, with men attending in national dress, white tie, or court dress, while women were expected to wear either national dress or long evening gowns, complete with tiaras.
The evening followed a traditional structure, with the Royal Family greeting their guests in a line before the drinks reception, buffet dinner, and dancing in the Ballroom.
The guests, organized by diplomatic precedence, mingled with the Royals, who circulated among them before leaving the event ahead of the dancing.
The Diplomatic Corps reception remains a highlight of the year, offering a glimpse into the opulence and tradition of the British monarchy, while celebrating international relations.
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