King Willem-Alexander of the Netherlands and his wife Queen Maxima have released their first official photo as leaders of the House of Orange. The couple, who have been married for 11 years, were both resplendent in their regal finery and looked confident ahead of their new roles.
Argentine-born Maxima wore a full-length, flowing magenta gown. She had previously worn the bold number while in The Hague in September 2012 for Prince's Day. The 41-year-old's lavish ruby Mellerio tiara dazzled atop her neat updo. The 1889 statement diadem was by famed French designer Mellerio and was gifted to Queen Emma by her husband King Willem III. Willem-Alexander, 45, the first Dutch king since 1890, was dapper in a suit and orange sash.
Following a ceremony on Tuesday morning which saw the new monarch's mother Beatrix step down as queen after 33 years on the throne, the new sovereign becomes Europe's youngest monarch. Celebrations were in full swing in the Dutch capital, Amsterdam. Tens of thousands gathered to welcome the new King of the Netherlands into his new role.
Following the official investiture another official photograph was released. The image shows King Wilem-Alexander and Queen Maxima, in all their regal finery standing among their royal guests.