Sophie, known as the Duchess of Edinburgh, made a striking appearance at a prestigious royal gathering, seemingly paying homage to Catherine, the Princess of Wales.
She graced the State Banquet at Buckingham Palace on the evening of June 25, held in honor of the Emperor and Empress of Japan.
Adorned in a stunning green short-sleeved dress by Susanna, Sophie accessorized with exquisite jewels, including the lotus flower tiara and a diamond necklace borrowed from Queen Camilla.
Royal enthusiasts with keen eyesight observed a significant detail in Sophie’s ensemble that drew a connection to Princess Catherine, namely her choice of tiara.
Princess Catherine had previously worn the lotus flower tiara in December 2022 during a reception at Buckingham Palace alongside Prince William.
Her attire for the occasion featured a long-sleeved red gown embellished with sequins, designed by her favored fashion creator, Jenny Packham.
The lotus flower tiara holds a special place in royal history, as it was beloved by Princess Margaret, the cherished sister of the late Queen Elizabeth II.
Originally a diamond and pearl necklace gifted to the late Queen Mother, she had it transformed into a tiara in the early 1920s.
Princess Catherine’s absence from the state banquet was noted, as she continues to undergo cancer treatment.
Although she made a public appearance earlier this month at the Trooping the Colour parade, it was a one-time outing as she focuses on her recovery in private.
The State Banquet, hosted by King Charles, who is also battling cancer, saw the presence of Queen Camilla, the Prince of Wales, and Prince Edward, Duke of Edinburgh, alongside other members of the royal family.
The esteemed guests of the evening were Emperor Naruhito and Empress Masako, commencing their three-day official visit to the UK with a grand ceremonial welcome featuring military pageantry.
