Kate Middleton attends first state banquet since treatment wearing red Givenchy and royal honors

The Princess of Wales made a regal return to formal royal duties at the French state banquet held at Windsor Castle on July 8.

She wore a deep red silk creponne gown by Givenchy, designed by Sarah Burton, marking a notable moment in both fashion and diplomacy.

The gown featured a dramatic cape-back silhouette, soft pleats, and an elegant structure. Her accessories included Queen Mary’s Lover’s Knot Tiara, an heirloom closely associated with both Queen Elizabeth and Princess Diana, and the Royal Family Orders of King Charles III and Queen Elizabeth II.

A crimson clutch embroidered with lily of the valley added subtle symbolism, aligning with French floral motifs.

The choice of Givenchy carried added significance. Designer Sarah Burton, long admired for her work at Alexander McQueen, was recently appointed creative director of the French fashion house.

The Princess’s outfit was interpreted by royal watchers as a thoughtful nod to Franco-British ties, especially during the visit of French President Emmanuel Macron and First Lady Brigitte Macron.

This appearance marked the Princess’s first state banquet since her public reemergence following a period of medical treatment.

The event was held in Windsor’s Waterloo Chamber and was the first state banquet at the castle since 2014, due to ongoing renovations at Buckingham Palace.