Kate Middleton paid tribute to Chinese premier Xi Jiping on Tuesday at her first ever state banquet held at the ballroom of Buckingham palace. As per royal protocol, the Duchess of Cambridge donned a diamond tiara for the black-tie event. She attended the state dinner along with her husband Prince William.

Middleton was dressed up to the nines in a custom Jenny Packham gown, Hello reported. The bespoke dress is by one of her favorite British designers, whom she relies on for official occasions. The mother of two showed off her sartorial style in the bright ensemble that featured cap sleeves, a high neck, a sweeping train and sparkling embellishment details.

The gown’s red color gave a nod to the guest of honor’s home country China. Red is not only the colour of China’s flag but an important colour in their culture, symbolising good fortune and joy. During Chinese New Year and other holidays and family gatherings, the colour red is seen everywhere.

The 33-year-old royal opted to accessorise her look for the night with a dazzling tiara. Middleton once again chose to wear the Lotus Flower tiara (loaned by Queen Elizabeth II), which she had donned at the annual diplomatic reception in 2013, Vanity Fair reported. She looked every inch the princess in the royal accessory and resplendent complete with diamonds: chandelier earrings and two chunky bracelets, E Online reported.

This is the third time that the Duchess of Cambridge has attended a public event in a tiara. The previous two occasions being her wedding in 2011 and a Buckingham Palace reception for diplomats in 2013.

Middleton’s make-up was striking, with dark brown eyeshadow and lightly bronzed cheeks. Her long brunette tresses were swept back in an elegant up ‘do’ with her fringe up and styled in a side parting.

Royal watchers were keeping a close eye to see whether Middleton would wear the Royal Family Order of Elizabeth II. But, unfortunately there was no sign of the decoration. It is a miniature portrait of the Queen set in diamonds, and suspended from a yellow ribbon, is pinned to the left shoulder.

As the second most senior royal lady in attendance, Middleton was given the pride of place behind the queen and was seated next to Jiping. The monarch looked regal in a white tulle banquet dress embroidered with white and silver beads and diamanté sequins by Angela Kelly.

Also present were other members of the royal family including Prince Philip, Prince Andrew, Prince Edward and Princess Anne. Prince Charles and the Duchess of Cornwall, who had afternoon tea at Clarence House with the president and his wife earlier in the day, did not attend.

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