On the evening of September 17, 2025, Windsor Castle’s St George’s Hall played host to a grand state banquet honoring U.S. President Donald Trump and First Lady Melania Trump. While the event was a glittering display of diplomacy and tradition, whispers of royal tension have emerged, with reports claiming Queen Camilla was left “furious” after Princess Catherine, the Princess of Wales, stole the spotlight by wearing the iconic Lover’s Knot Tiara—valued at over £4 million—and a pair of diamond earrings from the late Queen Elizabeth II’s collection.

A Vision of Elegance

Princess Catherine turned heads in a breathtaking custom gold gown by British designer Phillipa Lepley, layered with a Chantilly lace coat featuring hand-embroidered roses in gold cording and French knots. Her ensemble was completed with the Lover’s Knot Tiara, a cherished heirloom famously worn by Princess Diana, and diamond earrings once belonging to Queen Elizabeth II. Adorned with the Royal Family Order of King Charles III, Queen Elizabeth II, and the Grand Cross of the Royal Victorian Order, Catherine’s appearance was a masterclass in blending modern couture with royal heritage.

Seated next to President Trump, Catherine was seen engaging in warm conversation during the exquisite three-course dinner, which included specially selected wines and a bespoke U.S.-UK cocktail. The event, attended by 160 guests, adhered to a strict dress code of tiaras, white tie, or national dress, with Melania Trump radiant in a vibrant yellow gown.

A Tiara Steeped in History

The Lover’s Knot Tiara, a favorite of Catherine’s since her first appearance in it at a Buckingham Palace diplomatic reception in December 2015, carries profound emotional weight. Originally crafted for Queen Mary in 1914 and later worn by Princess Diana, its diamond arches and suspended pearl drops have made it one of the most iconic pieces in the royal vault. Its estimated value of £4 million pales in comparison to its symbolic connection to Diana, Princess of Wales, whose legacy continues to resonate deeply. Catherine’s repeated choice to wear the tiara, including at high-profile events like the 2023 royal wedding of Crown Prince Hussein and Princess Rajwa of Jordan, is seen as a touching tribute to her late mother-in-law.

However, sources close to the palace suggest that Queen Camilla was less than pleased with Catherine’s choice of jewelry, particularly the combination of Diana’s iconic tiara and Queen Elizabeth II’s diamond earrings. Reports claim Camilla viewed the selection as a deliberate move to overshadow her presence at the banquet, reigniting long-standing tensions over the royal family’s jewelry collection and Diana’s enduring legacy.

Family games

Camilla’s Alleged Fury

According to unverified reports circulating online, Queen Camilla was “furious” behind the scenes, perceiving Catherine’s choice of the Lover’s Knot Tiara and the late Queen’s earrings as a bold statement. Some sources suggest Camilla felt the tiara, which she reportedly coveted, was a reminder of Diana’s prominence within the royal family—a sensitive topic given Camilla’s complex history with the late princess. The addition of Queen Elizabeth II’s diamond earrings, a significant piece from the royal collection, reportedly intensified Camilla’s frustration, as it underscored Catherine’s growing influence and favor within the monarchy.

These claims, however, remain speculative and lack confirmation from official palace sources. The royal family has a history of navigating public scrutiny over personal dynamics, and such reports may exaggerate tensions for dramatic effect. Nonetheless, the narrative of a rift between Camilla and Catherine has gained traction, fueled by the emotional weight of Diana’s legacy and the competitive undercurrents of royal appearances.

A Night of Diplomacy and Tradition

The state banquet itself was a meticulously orchestrated affair, with King Charles III welcoming President Trump and his wife to St George’s Hall. The evening featured speeches from both the King and the President, toasts to the enduring U.S.-UK alliance, and the playing of both nations’ national anthems. The event concluded with the traditional procession of 12 pipers, a custom dating back to Queen Victoria, adding a ceremonial flourish to the night.

King Charles III’s speech was a highlight, not only for its diplomatic tone but also for his heartfelt tribute to Catherine, which reportedly moved her to tears. Praising her grace and dedication, the King’s words underscored her pivotal role within the monarchy, further amplifying her prominence at the event—an aspect that may have contributed to the rumored tensions with Camilla.

A Palace Divided?

While Catherine’s appearance was widely praised by the public and fashion commentators, the reported friction with Queen Camilla has sparked renewed speculation about palace dynamics. The choice of Diana’s tiara, paired with Queen Elizabeth II’s earrings, was a powerful nod to the royal women who came before her, but it also served as a reminder of the complex interplay of tradition, legacy, and personal rivalries within the House of Windsor.

As the dust settles on this glamorous yet contentious evening, one thing is clear: Princess Catherine’s poised elegance and strategic choices continue to captivate the world, while the whispers of “chaos in the palace” ensure that the royal spotlight remains firmly fixed on her.