Princesses Mary of Denmark and Mette-Marit of Norway made sure to step up the style stakes at the Dutch state dinner on Monday night, attending the glittering event in gorgeous, neutral-hued ensembles. Flanked by her husband Prince Frederik, Mary stunned in a flesh-coloured creation adorned with thousands of crystals. Her dark beige clutch and sparkling tiara offered a polished finish.
Mette-Marit had opted for a similar hue, turning up with her husband Prince Haakon in an ethereal ivory column gown featuring hundreds of tiny delicate flowers. With its gathered neckline and floaty hem, the creation perfectly flattered the princess' frame. Also attending the state dinner was Victoria of Sweden, who looked every inch the princess in a violet empire line gown with a floral shoulder detailing. Turning up to the event with her husband Prince Daniel, the pair happily posed for photos with Japan's Crown Prince Naruhito. Camilla, the Duchess of Cornwall, did Britain proud. Accompanied by her husband Prince Charles, the royal dazzled in a dress that featured a top panel adorned with crystals. The bottom panel was all-black, in a nod to the current monochrome trend. A shimmering tiara perched atop her curly bob.
This engagement has great significance for Prince Charles, who is Britain's longest-waiting heir to the throne. While he shares Willem-Alexander's destiny as monarch, the Queen – who marked her Diamond Jubilee last year – has no intention of abdicating like her Dutch counterpart has. Last year, Charles seemingly acknowledged his status as Britain's longest-waiting heir to the throne, quipping, "Impatient? Me? What a thing to suggest! Yes, of course I am". During the promotional video for Clarence House he added, "I'll run out of time soon. I shall have snuffed it if I'm not careful." For the moment, the Prince of Wales is content to look on as Willem-Alexander ascends the throne. The Dutch royal will become king and his wife Maxima queen consort when current monarch Beatrix, who has reigned for 33 years, officially abdicates on Tuesday. Her decision was announced in January and marks the beginning of a new era for the Dutch royal family.