Melania’s Headpiece, Catherine’s Plumed Pin and Other Remarkable Looks So Far
Hats! Jewels! Dresses! Tiaras!
Diplomatic trips are as much about the fashion choices as they concern what they’re saying and doing.
This represents a demonstration in style statecraft – with plenty of it as US President Donald Trump and his wife Melania tour Britain.
Beginning with the First Lady's hat and extending to Catherine’s ornamental pin, here are some of the most eye-catching ensembles to date.
The First Lady’s Headpiece with a UK Tribute
What a HAT!
The first lady is no stranger to striking hats – the white and blue wide-brimmed hat was a talking point during the presidential swearing-in earlier this year.
There was an awkward moment when Trump tried to kiss her with the hat’s edge made it a tricky task.
Cue the internet blowing up.
The first lady opted for an equally bold statement on day one of the official trip.
Making an appearance at Windsor Castle in a violet broad-brimmed piece partially concealing her gaze, which she paired with a classic dark grey suit.
Melania's hat was deliberate, pointing to a position where she wants attention focused on the president and his agenda.
It was observed coordinating with the exact colour of her husband's tie, in a nod to backing for his diplomatic goals.
Dior is frequently chosen for Melania, with the selection to wear it interpreted as acknowledging America's support for Europe.
Earlier, she arrived on UK soil in a quintessentially UK garment: a Burberry trench coat.
She wore the honey-coloured, full-length coat with the collar turned up, with glimpses of the distinctive check visible below.
Melania, her mid-fifties, finished the look with black sunglasses and boots.
Wearing a British-made coat could be an example of practicing sartorial diplomacy, which is something many first ladies have done.
For the Trumps' last state visit several years back, she – an ex-model – also dressed for UK labels, opting for brands such as Burberry, while incorporating a blend from the continent fashion houses and American designers.
King and Queen Coordinate in Azure
The Queen, in her late seventies, appeared wearing a bright deep blue gown, a coordinated overcoat with headpiece.
She accessorized the ensemble with a sapphire and diamond pin.
Princess of Wales's Attire Conveys Diplomatic Message
Kate, in her forties, wore a maroon dress paired with a millinery piece.
By the Queen and the Princess, it's a strong showing for British designers.
She accentuated her look with a feather brooch.
It was noted how similar to the visiting couple, the princess also chose to coordinate her outfit to her husband, who wore a matching necktie.
As with Melania, this is as a gesture of unity aligning with her partner and home country's agenda.
The colors blue and red!
This seems a clear example of coordinated diplomatic dressing, echoing the American colors.
It demonstrates of how fashion choices can send a powerful diplomatic message.
