Princess Catherine absolutely owned the night at Windsor Castle’s glittering state banquet on December 3, 2025, honoring German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier and his wife Elke Büdenbender – and it wasn’t her usual Lover’s Knot tiara that had everyone talking!
In a breathtaking diplomatic masterstroke, the Princess of Wales debuted the rarely seen Queen Victoria’s Oriental Circlet Tiara – a ruby and diamond masterpiece designed by German-born Prince Albert himself in 1853. This marks the fifth tiara Catherine has worn since joining the royal family (and her largest yet!), last seen publicly 20 years ago. The choice was a touching nod to Anglo-German ties, perfectly timed for the first German state visit in 27 years.
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Paired with a custom sparkling pale blue sequin Jenny Packham gown featuring dramatic cape sleeves (another subtle tribute – cornflower blue is Germany’s national flower!), Catherine looked like a true future queen. Her hair in soft waves, delicate diamond chandelier earrings, and the royal family orders completed the ethereal look.
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The banquet hall was extra festive with a massive Christmas tree centerpiece – a first in modern royal history! King Charles, Queen Camilla, Prince William, and other royals joined the 152 guests for toasts celebrating UK-Germany bonds amid global challenges.
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This was Catherine’s third tiara moment of 2025 – but swapping her signature Lover’s Knot for this historic piece? Iconic and unexpected! Fans are calling it her most regal look ever.
What do you think of Catherine’s surprise tiara debut? Genius diplomacy or pure glamour?