All eyes were on Princess Maxima as she stepped out for the Dutch state dinner on Monday evening in a floor-sweeping red tiered dress by Valentino. It was no surprise that the beautiful blonde had called upon the Italian fashion house for this important occasion - Valentino designed her wedding gown and has remained one of her favourite designers ever since - but more astute fashion fans and royal watchers were surprised to recognise the dress. Maxima had already worn the creation once in 2008 at a Gala Party hosted by Queen Elizabeth II to celebrate the 60th birthday of her son Prince Charles.
© Photo: Getty ImagesThe gown was a fitting choice - the bright red hue meant the Argentine-born royal was able to inject some of her vivacious personality into the proceedings, all while giving a nod to the Dutch flag. She paired the number with a beautiful rose-cut diamond Bandeau Tiara. The headpiece sparkled with 27 old mine diamonds set a single graduating row on a light platinum frame. Cascading blonde curls, a shimmering necklace and matching accessories completed the look. Maxima, who will become queen consort on Tuesday, was accompanied by her husband, the future king Willem-Alexander, and Queen Beatrix. The 75-year-old looked lovely in a lilac ensemble, topped off by the ornate pearl tiara that she wore on her wedding day and a glittering state visit to the United Kingdom in 1982.
