In a spectacle of timeless elegance and diplomatic splendor that has set hearts racing and social media ablaze, the Princess of Wales, Catherine, turned heads and melted crowns at the lavish state banquet honoring U.S. President Donald Trump and First Lady Melania Trump at Windsor Castle on September 17. Radiating regal poise in an exquisite hand-embroidered gold Chantilly lace gown paired with the iconic Lover's Knot Tiara and sparkling diamond jewels, Catherine embodied the epitome of modern monarchy—graceful, resilient, and utterly captivating. Seated beside President Trump himself, she not only charmed the global leader with her warmth but also symbolized the unbreakable UK-US alliance, all while showcasing her triumphant return to high-profile duties post-cancer recovery. This wasn't just a banquet; it was Catherine's crowning moment, a dazzling display of British brilliance that outshone the opulent St. George's Hall and reminded the world why she's the future Queen we all adore. From her ethereal gown to her infectious smile, every detail screamed perfection—prepare to be enchanted by the royal radiance that's hyping up headlines everywhere!
The evening unfolded like a fairy tale in the grand St. George's Hall of Windsor Castle, transformed into a vision of autumnal splendor with seasonal flower arrangements hand-picked from the castle grounds just hours before, filling the air with a fresh, garden-like aroma. Over 160 distinguished guests, including tech titans like Apple CEO Tim Cook, media mogul Rupert Murdoch, and U.S. Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin, gathered for this white-tie extravaganza marking President Trump's second historic state visit to the UK. King Charles III and Queen Camilla hosted the affair with impeccable hospitality, exchanging gifts like the flag that flew over Buckingham Palace on Trump's inauguration day, while the President hailed the "special relationship" as "one of the highest honors of my life." But amid the toasts and pageantry—complete with a 155-foot banquet table adorned in gold utensils and crystal—the undeniable star was Catherine, whose arrival alongside Prince William sent ripples of admiration through the hall and beyond.
Catherine's ensemble was nothing short of breathtaking, a masterful blend of tradition and contemporary flair that highlighted her unerring fashion sense and support for British craftsmanship. Crafted by acclaimed designer Phillipa Lepley, the couture gown featured a full-length silk crepe base overlaid with a hand-embroidered gold Chantilly lace evening coat, its sheer floral lace shimmering like liquid gold under the chandeliers. The high-neck design added a touch of modesty and sophistication, while the intricate lacework paid homage to royal heritage, evoking the intricate details of historic state attire. Completing the look was the legendary Lover's Knot Tiara, a diamond-and-pearl masterpiece commissioned for Queen Mary in 1913 by the House of Garrard—Catherine's most cherished headpiece and a favorite of her late mother-in-law, Princess Diana. Adorned with 19 hanging drop-shaped pearls set in silver and gold, the tiara framed her loose, wavy 'bronde' locks beautifully, a subtle nod to her post-recovery glow-up. She accessorized with diamond drop earrings inherited from Queen Elizabeth II, adding layers of sparkle that caught every light and every eye. Kensington Palace shared a pre-banquet photo of the Waleses on Instagram, captioned "Ready for The State Banquet 🇺🇸🇬🇧," which racked up millions of likes, with fans gushing, "Catherine looks like a golden goddess—pure magic!"
Seated to President Trump's right—between King Charles and the powerhouse table of dignitaries—Catherine's interactions were the evening's highlight, blending diplomacy with her signature warmth. Trump himself couldn't resist lavishing praise, turning to her during his speech and declaring, "Melania and I are delighted to visit again with Prince William and to see Her Royal Highness, Princess Catherine, so radiant and so healthy and so beautiful. It’s true, beautiful." The moment, captured in photos showing Catherine's gracious smile as she raised her glass in toast, went viral on X, with one post from @IIzThatIIz capturing "Princess Catherine and President Trump having a moment during the State Banquet at Windsor Castle," earning hundreds of views and comments like "Kate's charm is unbeatable—Trump's hooked!" Earlier in the day, upon the Trumps' arrival, William and Catherine greeted them on the castle grounds with a troop inspection and wreath-laying at Queen Elizabeth II's tomb—a poignant tribute that underscored the deep historical ties. Catherine's earlier outfit, a maroon coat dress with a 162-year-old brooch honoring William and Diana, set the tone for her thoughtful style, but the banquet gown elevated her to iconic status.
This appearance marks yet another milestone in Catherine's inspiring journey of resilience and return. Just months after completing chemotherapy and declaring herself cancer-free, the 43-year-old Princess has resumed her duties with poise and purpose, from cheering England's Red Roses at the Women's Rugby World Cup on September 6 to her heartfelt BSL interactions with deaf children in Southport. Her presence at the banquet, especially alongside Melania Trump—who stunned in a sunflower-hued Carolina Herrera crepe column gown—highlighted the empowering bond between the two women, with plans for a joint engagement the next day. Queen Camilla complemented the scene in a royal blue silk marocain embroidered dress by Fiona Clare, paired with a sapphire and diamond tiara, while King Charles delivered a moving speech emphasizing shared values: "Our people have fought and died together for the values we hold dear." The menu, featuring French-labeled dishes in a nod to bilingual elegance, and special bottles of wine added to the night's opulence, but Catherine's golden aura outshone them all.
SCROLL DOWN TO CONTINUE
Catherine's role in this state visit underscores her vital place in the monarchy's future, bridging generations with her blend of Diana's empathy and her own modern touch. As the banquet wrapped with heartfelt toasts—Trump calling Charles a "very, very special man"—Catherine's elegance symbolized hope and harmony between nations. With the visit continuing into September 18, including more engagements with Melania, Catherine's golden moment at Windsor isn't just a highlight—it's a beacon of royal perfection. Long live the Princess of Wales, whose lace and diamonds are weaving a legacy of light and leadership!
In an exquisite lace gown and diamond jewels, Catherine attended the state banquet in honour of President Trump and the First Lady at Windsor Castle.
The Princess wore the @phillipalepley Darling Evening Coat in a custom gold hue, featuring a hand-embroidered gold Chantilly lace evening coat over a silk crepe gown with a high neckline.
She carried the @anyahindmarch Maud pearl clutch.
Catherine wore her Family Orders of Charles III, the mint green badge, and Elizabeth II, the yellow badge, pinned to her dress. This Order is given as a personal gift to female members of the Royal Family in recognition of their service to the Crown. The portrait of the monarch is set in diamonds and attached to a ribbon which changes colour for each different reign.
The Princess had on her Royal Victorian Order sash, star and badge insignia. The Order of knighthood was instituted by Queen Victoria and recognises service to the monarch.
We saw the return of Queen Mary’s Lovers Knot Tiara, commissioned by Queen Mary (Elizabeth II’s grandmother).
She also wore the late Queen’s statement Greville diamond chandelier earrings.
Lastly, Catherine wore her @aquazzura Fenix Gold Pumps featuring circular cutouts.
Swipe along to see what the other Royals wore.
I know I’ll get questions why Camilla did not wear Elizabeth II’s Royal Family Order again - I’m really not sure why. This is the second time she has opted to just wear Charles’.
NEW OMG!!! THE DRESS! ✨OUR FUTURE KING AND QUEEN! 👑 My jaw literally dropped to the floor…The Prince & Princess of Wales are attending the State Banquet for President Trump at Windsor Castle tonight 👑🇬🇧🇺🇸 The Princess is wearing her beloved Lover’s Knot Tiara 🤩 She’s also wearing the late Queen’s & the King’s Royal Family Order 👑 The blue sash & star are worn as she is a Dame Grand Cross of the Royal Victorian Order. The Princess of Wales is wearing a couture gown by British designer Phillipa Lepley with a full-length, hand-embroidered gold Chantilly lace evening coat over a silk crepe gown for tonight’s state banquet. The Prince of Wales is the Windsor Uniform (YESSS), the blue sash & star of the Order of the Garter, a second star as he is also a Knight of the Order of the Thistle and a third star & neck badge as he’s Great Master of the Order of the Bath. He is also wearing his four medals from Queen Elizabeth’s golden, diamond & platinum jubilee and the King’s coronation medal 🎖️ The King and the President will both deliver speeches at the beginning of the banquet. The King & Queen other senior members of the Royal Family are attending the Banquet for the US President and First Lady. —— President Trump, accompanied by the First Lady, are in the UK for a State Visit from 17-18 September. The US President and First Lady will stay at Windsor Castle. The UK governmemt always decides which country to invite for a State Visit, and the King, as Head of State, is required to host them.
On September 17, 2025 Their Royal Highnesses The Prince and Princess of Wales attended the American State Banquet at The Medieval St George's Hall in Windsor Castle.
The President sat between the King and The Princess of Wales while The First Lady sat between The Prince of Wales and The Queen Consort.
His Majesty and The President both made speeches at the start of the banquet.
.
Also in attendance were The Princess Royal and Sir Timothy Lawrence, The Duke and Duchess of Gloucester, The Duke and Duchess of Edinburgh.
——
what Catherine wore :
👗 : Phillipa Lepley full-length, hand-embroidered gold Chantilly lace evening coat over a silk crepe couture gown.
👑 : Queen Mary’s Lover’s Knot Tiara.
Earrings : tbd.
Orders : The Royal Victoria Order Sash and Star, Queen Elizabeth II (yellow) and King Charles III (blue) Royal Family Order badge.
.
The Royal Women Tiaras :
- Princess Anne, The Princess Royal : The Aquamarine Tiara.
- Birgitte, The Duchess of Gloucester : The Honeysuckle Tiara.
- The Queen Consort : The Belgian Sapphire Tiara.
