State Visit Fashion: Melania's Hat, Yellow Dress, and Kate's Golden Gown Steal the Show
The recent state visit to the UK by US President Donald Trump and his wife Melania was a spectacle of not just diplomacy, but also high fashion. From Melania's eye-catching hat and vibrant yellow dress to the Princess of Wales's stunning golden gown, the visit provided a masterclass in fashion diplomacy.
Melania's Bold Yellow Statement
At Wednesday night's state banquet, Melania Trump made a bold statement in a striking yellow, strapless, floor-length gown with a baby pink belt, designed by Carolina Herrera. Marian Kwei, a celebrity stylist, interpreted this daring choice as a sign that the Trumps are forging their own path and continuing to do things their own way. This look stood in contrast to her earlier appearance that day.
The Enigmatic Hat
Earlier on Wednesday, Melania arrived at Windsor Castle wearing a wide-brimmed purple hat paired with a timeless, dark grey suit by Dior. The hat, which seemed to obscure her eyes, became an immediate talking point. Kwei suggested the hat was a deliberate choice to draw attention to her husband and his agenda. The choice of Dior was also seen as a nod to America's support for Europe.
Catherine's Golden Glamour
For the state banquet, the Princess of Wales shone in a couture gown by British designer Phillipa Lepley, featuring a hand-embroidered, gold Chantilly lace evening coat over a silk crepe gown. She completed her look with the Lover's Knot Tiara, a favorite of Princess Diana. Royal expert Victoria Murphy noted that the gold color was a particularly striking choice for Catherine, marking a red-carpet moment.
Royal Attire and Diplomatic Dressing
The Queen attended the banquet in a royal blue, silk, marocain embroidered dress by Fiona Clare, along with a sapphire and diamond tiara. King Charles's regalia was in keeping with the high pomp and pageantry expected of a state banquet. Earlier in the day, the Queen wore a vibrant sapphire blue dress, coat by Fiona Clare and hat by Philip Treacy. The Princess of Wales wore a burgundy Emilia Wickstead dress and hat by Jane Taylor. According to royal expert Victoria Murphy, these color choices reflected the colors of the US flag, sending a powerful diplomatic message.
Melania's British Welcome
Upon arriving in the UK, Melania stepped off the plane wearing a honey-colored Burberry trench coat, a choice interpreted as sartorial diplomacy by some. Vanessa Friedman, chief fashion critic at The New York Times, suggested that wearing a British-made coat could be an example of engaging in sartorial diplomacy. It will be interesting to see how the choice of a British brand on this trip will be perceived back at home. The coat was matched with Christian Dior Empreinte leather riding boots.
The Mystery of the Hat
Many observers wondered if anyone would be able to see Melania’s eyes beneath her aubergine hat. The hat was so low-brimmed that her eyes were completely shrouded. Claudia Croft, editor of 10 Magazine, suggested that Melania’s hats function in a way that leaves you with more questions than answers. She adds that Melania has taken a very different approach than the Royals.
Matching in Blue and Burgundy
The King and Queen were seen in matching blue attire, while the Prince and Princess of Wales coordinated in burgundy. Kwei noted that, like Melania, the Princess also chose to match her outfit to her husband, to show support and that she's at one with her spouse and home country's agenda.
