Kate Middleton's Oman State Banquet dress is the latest 'secret message' to Meghan and Harry and it's definitely a powerful one
She's never worn yellow to a State Banquet before and looked the epitome of royalty as Harry shared goal to make it 'work' with family
The Princess of Wales had already dazzled in one colour from Oman's national flag ahead of the State Banquet on 20th October, so I was fully prepared to see her step out in a gorgeous white or red gown to continue the theme. Instead, Kate took her style in a totally different direction and attended the event in a lemon yellow Elie Saab frock.
The flowing cape sleeves, fitted bodice and graceful high neckline are all classic Kate details, but this was the first time she's ever worn yellow to a State Banquet before. It was so striking and she accessorised with a glimmering gold Anya Hindmarch clutch and her favourite Queen Mary's Lover's Knot Tiara.
The Princess's bright gown seemed to glow in the opulent surroundings of Windsor Castle and had a similar effect as when she wore her purple dress to the Digger film premiere. Both times, she sent a subtle message to the Sussexes on where things stand.
The State Banquet for Sultan Haitham bin Tariq Al Said of Oman was held the same evening that Prince Harry's latest interview discussing the royals was released. In it, the Princess's brother-in-law told GQ that "with everything else that's going on in the world, the most important thing is to reconcile".
Although Kate probably wouldn't have known about the interview in advance, her choice of outfit was nonetheless very powerful. Yellow is associated with happiness, optimism and confidence and she seemed totally at ease at the banquet, exemplifying the image of a future Queen.
In a recent issue of Woman magazine, Royal Editor Emily Andrews remarked on how the Princess's purple evening gown at the premiere was equally regal - and significant.
"While at first sight it may have seemed like a standard royal engagement - William and Kate attending the Royal Film Performance, a charity fundraiser - this, alongside a significant uptick in public appearances, sends a secret message to Meghan and Harry," she claimed.
A source also alleged that the Prince and Princess of Wales are "of course" sending a message - "This is how you do real royalty, so back off with your pale imitation."
Even though Prince Harry's interview with GQ has received some attention, it's William and Kate at the Oman State Banquet that has arguably stolen the show. Her outfit is already much-talked about and stepping out in a dress that radiates happiness, a tiara that was once loved by Princess Diana and Queen Elizabeth's Greville Diamond Chandelier Earrings is peak regal.
Attending State Banquets is part of the job when you're a working royal and she undertook her duties with poise. Prince Harry and Meghan have never been to one together and as they're no longer working royals they're unlikely to be invited, so this was a clear reminder once again of how much things have changed and where things stand in terms of their royal positions.
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