The Princess of Wales has consistently radiated style while attending the Royal Variety Performance on the red carpet. It’s difficult to choose our favorite because the royal has always added a timeless elegance to the annual event, whether it’s through black lace gowns or clothing adorned with elaborate sequins.
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However, we cannot overlook Catherine’s own Cinderella moment in 2017. The Princess wore a stunning powder blue floor-length gown by Jenny Packham, her favorite British fashion designer. Sheer mesh was layered over the long-sleeved gown, which had a sweetheart neckline. The stunning blue dress was covered in elaborate flowers and sequins. Queen Elizabeth II’s diamond earrings, Oscar de la Renta high heels, and Jenny Packham’s Casa Crystal Clutch completed Catherine’s glittery ensemble. The opulent appearance served as a reminder that princesses from fairy tales are real.
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Typically donning her signature favourite labels, including Alexander McQueen, Jenny Packham, and Safiyaa, Catherine’s glamour was undoubtedly missed this year’s Royal Variety.
The royal was absent from this year’s Royal Variety, with King Charles stepping in to attend the event for the first time since his last appearance back in 2016. The Princess of Wales has graced the Royal Variety Performance five times and was present at last year’s show.
Given that we were not treated to a stunning new look this year, let’s take a look back at the stunning gowns she has dazzled in in the past.
Diane von Furstenberg, 2014
In 2014, Catherine made her Royal Variety Performance debut dressed in a chic black lace gown by American designer, Diane von Furstenberg. The floor-length ‘Zarita’ gown featured a demure boat neckline, sheer fitted sleeves and a nipped in waste. Her brunette locks were styled back in an elegant updo to show off a pair of Kiki McDonough blue topaz ‘Lola’ earrings. The timeless look was completed with a vintage Magid clutch and a pair of Jimmy Choo ‘Cosmic’ platform heels.
Alexander McQueen, 2019
Keeping with her love for a black lace number, Catherine opted for a modern floor-skimming gown by Alexander McQueen. The dress was embroidered with black floral lace that was layered over a lighter nude-toned fabric. This year, the Princess opted for a showstopping sweetheart neckline and fashioned her hair into effortless waves that slightly concealed her Erdem hoop earrings. The gown was teamed with a Jimmy Choo ‘Celeste’ clutch and a pair of Jimmy Choose ‘Romy 100’ velvet heels.
Jenny Packham, 2021
In 2021, Catherine returned to her beloved Jenny Packham with a dazzling emerald green number. The floor-length ‘Tenille’ gown featured a round neckline and was embellished with intricate sequins that offered a glimmering flair to the red carpet. The look was detailed with a custom Jenny Packham clutch, a pair of Emmy London ‘Rebecca’ heels and Missoma ‘Zenyu’ dramatic earrings. Catherine’s locks were swept to the side in tight curls, while she kept her makeup naturally radiant as usual.
Safiyaa, 2023
Returning to her love for blue, Catherine stunned in London-based fashion label Safiyaa’s ‘Destiny’ gown for the Royal Variety Performance in 2023. The round neckline was detailed with frosted jewels, while the gown featured structured, sophisticated shoulders with modern cape-like sleeves. The teal dress was paired with a Jenny Packham ‘Casta’ lamé clutch and her favourite Emmy London ‘Rebecca’ suede heels. The Princess styled her brunette locks in loose, bouncy waves that subtly concealed a pair of J.Crew crystal and pearl earrings worn beneath.