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Irish Daily Mirror
09-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Irish Daily Mirror
William and Kate leave royal fans puzzled over 'strange' staging
Royal fans have been left feeling perplexed over the 'strange' staging of the royal's official welcome to French president Emmanuel Macron. Macron and his wife Brigitte arrived in the UK for their three-day state visit, and were greeted by Prince William and Kate when they disembarked their plane at the RAF Northolt. The Prince and Princess of Wales then accompanied the French leader and his wife to Windsor, where they were joined by King Charles and Queen Camilla for an official welcome ceremony at Windsor Castle. Charles and Macron then carried out an inspection of the military Guard of Honour, Mirror UK reports. As the royals stood to watch the guards perform their official welcome duties on horseback, many royal spectators were confused over the staging of the scene, as King Charles, Queen Camilla, Macron and Brigitte stood on a raised platform and under a covering, while Kate and William stood off to the side. One person pointed out the staging on X, writing: "Am I the only one who objects to this staging? Who thought it was a good idea to place OUR Prince and Princess of Wales off stage like this? The optics are terrible." Others were quick to agree, with one person writing: 'It doesn't look right,' while another added: 'I agree. Very awkward. They could have been on the stage behind, even would have looked better." Another royal fan drew comparisons to another state visit, saying: "It's strange?! On previous state visits (like the South Korean visit) they were all on the stage were they not?" But despite the confusion, one royal fan speculated the strict royal protocol that had come into play for the scene, clarifying that while the staging may seem unusual, it was actually perfectly normal given the circumstances. They wrote on X: 'In royal protocol, the primary hosts and highest-ranking individuals usually take centre stage during official events. In this instance, King Charles III and Queen Camilla, along with President Macron and his wife, are seated under the awning because they are the principal figures in the state visit—the monarch and head of state hosting their guest. 'Prince William and Catherine, as the Prince and Princess of Wales, hold significant but slightly junior roles compared to the King and Queen. Standing slightly to the side reflects their supportive role in the ceremony, respecting the precedence of the monarch and the visiting head of state. 'William and Catherine played primary roles in welcoming President Macron and his wife at the airport, working together in support of the main hosts. This arrangement follows strict royal protocol, emphasising hierarchy and the importance of roles during formal occasions. It's perfectly normal.' The first day of the French state visit culminated in a star-studded royal banquet last night, which was Princess Kate's first state banquet in two years. Kate wore the Lover's Knot tiara and red gown with caped back detailing by Sarah Burton for Givenchy as she joined the King, Queen, her husband Prince William and some 160 guests at Windsor Castle for the white tie dinner, which is the glitzy highlight of the French state visit. Before the event, William and Kate gave a sneak peek of their outfits by posting a photo of themselves on social media with the caption: "Ready for what promises to be a wonderful State Banquet this evening in Windsor."
Edinburgh Live
09-07-2025
- Politics
- Edinburgh Live
Kate Middleton and Prince William have royal fans bemused with 'strange' staging
Our community members are treated to special offers, promotions and adverts from us and our partners. You can check out at any time. More info Royal enthusiasts were left scratching their heads over the 'odd' arrangement during the official reception for French President Emmanuel Macron. Upon his arrival in the UK for a three-day state visit, Macron and his spouse Brigitte were welcomed by Prince William and Kate at RAF Northolt. The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge then escorted the French dignitaries to Windsor, where they met with King Charles and Queen Consort Camilla for a formal greeting ceremony at Windsor Castle. Following this, Charles and Macron reviewed the Guard of Honour's military display. As the royals observed the guards on horseback carrying out their ceremonial duties, the setup puzzled many onlookers, as King Charles, Queen Camilla, Macron, and Brigitte stood elevated and sheltered, while Kate and William were positioned to the side. A spectator highlighted the issue on X, commenting: "Am I the only one who objects to this staging? Who thought it was a good idea to place OUR Prince and Princess of Wales off stage like this? The optics are terrible." Concurring voices quickly emerged, with one individual remarking: "It doesn't look right," and another concurring: "I agree. Very awkward. They could have been on the stage behind, even would have looked better," reports the Mirror. One Royal enthusiast drew parallels to a previous state visit, remarking: "It's strange? ! On previous state visits (like the South Korean visit) they were all on the stage were they not?". Despite the puzzlement, another Royal follower suggested that strict Royal protocol was at play in this scenario, explaining that while the arrangement might seem odd, it was actually quite standard given the circumstances. They posted on X: "In royal protocol, the primary hosts and highest-ranking individuals usually take centre stage during official events. In this instance, King Charles III and Queen Camilla, along with President Macron and his wife, are seated under the awning because they are the principal figures in the state visit-the monarch and head of state hosting their guest. "Prince William and Catherine, as the Prince and Princess of Wales, hold significant but slightly junior roles compared to the King and Queen. Standing slightly to the side reflects their supportive role in the ceremony, respecting the precedence of the monarch and the visiting head of state. "William and Catherine played primary roles in welcoming President Macron and his wife at the airport, working together in support of the main hosts. This arrangement follows strict royal protocol, emphasising hierarchy and the importance of roles during formal occasions. It's perfectly normal." Last night's French state visit culminated in a star-studded Royal banquet at Windsor Castle, marking Princess Kate's return to these grand affairs after two years. Donning the legendary Lover's Knot tiara and a captivating red gown with caped back detailing by Sarah Burton for Givenchy, she joined the King, Queen Consort, Prince William, and around 160 guests for the white-tie dinner – the dazzling focal point of the French delegation's UK trip. Eager to share a glimpse of the evening, William and Kate posted an enchanting snapshot on their social media platforms ahead of the event, teasing fans with the caption: "Ready for what promises to be a wonderful State Banquet this evening in Windsor."
NBC News
09-07-2025
- Entertainment
- NBC News
Kate Middleton seen in tiara for the first time in nearly 2 years
The sparkle is back at Windsor Castle. During an official appearance in Windsor, England, Catherine, Princess of Wales, wore a tiara for the first time since 2023. The 43-year-old was photographed on July 8 arriving at a state banquet at Windsor Castle with her husband, Prince William, by her side. For her appearance, the royal wore the classic Queen Mary's Lover's Knot Tiara, one of her more frequently worn tiaras, along with a dark red Givenchy by Sarah Burton gown (Burton was also the designer behind the princess' iconic wedding dress). The renowned piece of jewelry is identifiable by its multiple drop-shaped pearls. The banquet was held in honor of French President Emmanuel Macron and Brigitte Macron, first lady of France, who marked France's first state visit to the U.K. since Brexit. During his visit, President Macron is also expected to address parliament and visit Imperial College London. The banquet, hosted by King Charles III and Queen Camilla, is Kate's first tiara moment since sharing her cancer diagnosis in March 2024. Before her latest appearance, Kate wore a tiara at Buckingham Palace in December 2023, according to For the occasion, she wore the Lover's Knot. That same month marked her last public appearance before being diagnosed with cancer. Significance of the Lover's Knot Tiara Though closely associated with Kate, who has made the Lover's Knot Tiara one of the most recognizable pieces of jewelry to be worn by the British royal family, the tiara goes further back in history. According to previous reporting, the diadem was commissioned by Queen Mary around 1914 and was frequently worn by Princess Diana. The tiara was gifted to Diana for her 1981 wedding to Prince Charles by the late Queen Elizabeth II. Diana is said to have often complained about the weight of the tiara, attributing headaches to the weight of the piece.
South Wales Guardian
09-07-2025
- Entertainment
- South Wales Guardian
Kate dazzles in dark red silk at state banquet return
Kate embraced diplomatic royal fashion by opting, in a nod to the King's guests French President Emmanuel Macron and first lady Brigitte, for a floor-length evening dress created for the French fashion house by her wedding dress designer Sarah Burton. The future queen joined the King, Queen Camilla and the Prince of Wales and some 160 guests including Sir Mick Jagger and Sir Elton John in Windsor Castle's impressive St George's Hall. Ready for what promises to be a wonderful State Banquet this evening in Windsor 🇫🇷🇬🇧 — The Prince and Princess of Wales (@KensingtonRoyal) July 8, 2025 Kate, who was diagnosed with cancer in 2024 and confirmed she was free from the disease at the start of this year, last made an appearance at a grand royal dinner 20 months ago in November 2023 in honour of the South Korean president. Her gathered evening gown featured caped back detailing. The princess, with her hair down, was also wearing her favourite Lover's Knot tiara – a piece much loved by Diana, Princess of Wales. Kate and her husband William were pictured smiling and gazing at each other as they arrived together, walking side by side before the banquet at the castle. She carried a lily of the valley embroidered evening clutch and wore the Rosette of Grand Officier l'ordre nationale du merite, the Royal Family Orders of Charles III and Elizabeth II, the Grand Cross of the Royal Victorian Order and GCVO sash and star. Kate was earlier shown smiling in the gardens of Windsor with William before the event, with Kensington Palace's social media declaring: 'Ready for what promises to be a wonderful State Banquet this evening in Windsor.' The prince was dressed in white tie, with the Most Noble Order of the Garter Sash with the Lesser George, miniature medals and a series of chest orders. Last week, the princess opened up about her 'rollercoaster' cancer recovery, its life-changing impact and putting on a 'brave face' during a visit to Colchester Hospital. She was seated next to President Macron and the pair chatted ahead of the start of the King's toast, while on her other side was art historian Christophe Leribault, chairman of the Musee D'Orsay. ✨ Final preparations are taking place ahead of this evening's State Banquet in St George's Hall, Windsor Castle. — The Royal Family (@RoyalFamily) July 8, 2025 Kate studied history of art at university. Camilla, meanwhile, was dressed in an ivory silk and crepe embroidered evening gown by Fiona Clare, and a sapphire and diamond tiara, necklace, earrings and bracelet, all part of Queen Elizabeth II's sapphire suite. The Queen was also wearing the Legion d'Honneur French sash, Garter Star and the King's family order. Mrs Macron wore a vivid blue caped evening gown with gold epaulettes-style detail on the shoulder. It was both William and Kate's first time at a Windsor Castle banquet, with the last one being staged there 11 years ago for the Irish President Michael D Higgins in 2014. Earlier, Kate carried out royal duties as the first French state visit to the UK for 17 years began, accompanying the Macrons to Windsor with William, taking part in the carriage ride, the ceremonial welcome, the royal luncheon and Royal Collection exhibition. The princess had already embraced French fashion, choosing Christian Dior for her daytime engagements. Her blush pink Dior jacket was the 30 Montaigne Rose Des Vents Bar Jacket and a piece from the 2024 collection, and Kate paired it with a tulle skirt. L'Entente Cordiale in the Kitchens!🇬🇧🇫🇷 Chef @Raymond_Blanc OBE, an ambassador for the @KingsFdn, was invited to join the chefs at Windsor Castle to create the First Course and Dessert for this evening's State Banquet menu. — The Royal Family (@RoyalFamily) July 8, 2025 It was reimagined by Maria Grazia Chiuri, who was inspired by the original first created in 1947 by Dior himself. Kate's sleek hat was by Jess Collett. The princess was charmed with a kiss to the hand by Mr Macron as she and William met the French leader as he disembarked from his plane at RAF Northolt. Mr Macron took the princess's hand and leaned forward to deliver an air kiss towards it.
Glasgow Times
09-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Glasgow Times
Kate dazzles in dark red silk at state banquet return
Kate embraced diplomatic royal fashion by opting, in a nod to the King's guests French President Emmanuel Macron and first lady Brigitte, for a floor-length evening dress created for the French fashion house by her wedding dress designer Sarah Burton. The future queen joined the King, Queen Camilla and the Prince of Wales and some 160 guests including Sir Mick Jagger and Sir Elton John in Windsor Castle's impressive St George's Hall. Ready for what promises to be a wonderful State Banquet this evening in Windsor 🇫🇷🇬🇧 — The Prince and Princess of Wales (@KensingtonRoyal) July 8, 2025 Kate, who was diagnosed with cancer in 2024 and confirmed she was free from the disease at the start of this year, last made an appearance at a grand royal dinner 20 months ago in November 2023 in honour of the South Korean president. Her gathered evening gown featured caped back detailing. The princess, with her hair down, was also wearing her favourite Lover's Knot tiara – a piece much loved by Diana, Princess of Wales. Kate and her husband William were pictured smiling and gazing at each other as they arrived together, walking side by side before the banquet at the castle. She carried a lily of the valley embroidered evening clutch and wore the Rosette of Grand Officier l'ordre nationale du merite, the Royal Family Orders of Charles III and Elizabeth II, the Grand Cross of the Royal Victorian Order and GCVO sash and star. Queen Camilla and the King with France's President Emmanuel Macron and wife Brigitte at the state banquet (Chris Jackson/PA) Kate was earlier shown smiling in the gardens of Windsor with William before the event, with Kensington Palace's social media declaring: 'Ready for what promises to be a wonderful State Banquet this evening in Windsor.' The prince was dressed in white tie, with the Most Noble Order of the Garter Sash with the Lesser George, miniature medals and a series of chest orders. Last week, the princess opened up about her 'rollercoaster' cancer recovery, its life-changing impact and putting on a 'brave face' during a visit to Colchester Hospital. She was seated next to President Macron and the pair chatted ahead of the start of the King's toast, while on her other side was art historian Christophe Leribault, chairman of the Musee D'Orsay. ✨ Final preparations are taking place ahead of this evening's State Banquet in St George's Hall, Windsor Castle. — The Royal Family (@RoyalFamily) July 8, 2025 Kate studied history of art at university. Camilla, meanwhile, was dressed in an ivory silk and crepe embroidered evening gown by Fiona Clare, and a sapphire and diamond tiara, necklace, earrings and bracelet, all part of Queen Elizabeth II's sapphire suite. The Queen was also wearing the Legion d'Honneur French sash, Garter Star and the King's family order. Mrs Macron wore a vivid blue caped evening gown with gold epaulettes-style detail on the shoulder. The glittering event took place at Windsor Castle (Yui Mok/PA) It was both William and Kate's first time at a Windsor Castle banquet, with the last one being staged there 11 years ago for the Irish President Michael D Higgins in 2014. Earlier, Kate carried out royal duties as the first French state visit to the UK for 17 years began, accompanying the Macrons to Windsor with William, taking part in the carriage ride, the ceremonial welcome, the royal luncheon and Royal Collection exhibition. The princess had already embraced French fashion, choosing Christian Dior for her daytime engagements. Her blush pink Dior jacket was the 30 Montaigne Rose Des Vents Bar Jacket and a piece from the 2024 collection, and Kate paired it with a tulle skirt. L'Entente Cordiale in the Kitchens!🇬🇧🇫🇷 Chef @Raymond_Blanc OBE, an ambassador for the @KingsFdn, was invited to join the chefs at Windsor Castle to create the First Course and Dessert for this evening's State Banquet menu. — The Royal Family (@RoyalFamily) July 8, 2025 It was reimagined by Maria Grazia Chiuri, who was inspired by the original first created in 1947 by Dior himself. Kate's sleek hat was by Jess Collett. The princess was charmed with a kiss to the hand by Mr Macron as she and William met the French leader as he disembarked from his plane at RAF Northolt. Mr Macron took the princess's hand and leaned forward to deliver an air kiss towards it.
