Royals

Duchess Kate makes debut at first state banquet

She made quite the glittering entrance.
Duchess Kate arrives at first state banquet

The Duchess of Cambridge had a truly princess-like moment when she attended her first ever state banquet, complete with a glittering tiara.

The Buckingham Palace event was held in honour of the Chinese President Mr Xi Jinping. But of course, the highlight of the evening was the tiara which Kate wore.

She opted for the Papyrus/Lotus Flower tiara which she also wore to the annual diplomatic reception in 2013.

And the gorgeous red gown she wore, which was a tribute to her guest’s home country, was a Jenny Packham design, who Kate has favoured in the past.

The banquet was hosted by the Queen and Prince Philip for the Chinese President and his wife Peng Liyuan, who are currently on a four-day state visit to the UK.

Kate’s husband, Prince William, Prime Minister David Cameron and other senior members of the royal family including Prince Andrew, Prince Edward and Princess Anne were among the 170 guests.

“Your visit to the UK marks a milestone in this unprecedented year of co-operation and friendship between the UK and China. We have much reason to celebrate the dynamic, growing economic relationship between our countries,” the Queen said at the beginning of the dinner.

The Duchess of Cambridge arrives at Buckingham Palace.

The Duchess of Cambridge arrive at Buckingham Palace.

The Duchess of Cambridge and Chinese President Mr Xi Jinping.

The Duchess of Cambridge, Chinese President Mr Xi Jinping and Queen Elizabeth II.

Chinese President Mr Xi Jinping and Queen Elizabeth II.

The banquet inside Buckingham Palace.

The impressive menu.

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