Six years have passed since the world watched with bated breath one of the most lavish and symbolic events of modern monarchy. On October 22, 2019, Tokyo hosted the enthronement ceremony of Japan’s 126th Emperor, Naruhito, who succeeded his father Akihito on the Chrysanthemum Throne. This event not only marked a significant milestone in the history of the Land of the Rising Sun, but also served as a unique stage where first ladies and members of European royal families showcased impeccable taste and adherence to diplomatic dress codes.
At the very center of attention, undoubtedly, was Queen Letizia of Spain. For the daytime celebration, she chose an elegant floor-length dress with a delicate floral print by Spanish designer Matilde Cano. The look was complemented by a refined pastel pink clutch from Carolina Herrera and a unique handmade raffia and velvet tiara crafted by Nana Golmar artisans. An important detail was the sash of the Japanese Order of the Precious Crown. In the evening, the queen appeared in a completely different, dazzling look. She debuted a luxurious fuchsia gown with intricate floral embroidery, also by Carolina Herrera, and crowned her head with a family heirloom—the Tiara de Lis. This piece, a gift from Alfonso XIII to Queen Victoria Eugenie, is one of the most significant treasures of the Spanish crown. The ensemble was completed with magnificent diamond and emerald jewelry.
Queen Máxima of the Netherlands also made a striking entrance. At the daytime ceremony, she dazzled in a grey-blue Natan dress with sheer accents and embroidered flowers. Her XL-sized headpiece by Fabienne Delvigne, adorned with a flower and veil, became a hot topic of discussion. For the gala dinner, Máxima chose a dramatic red zigzag-patterned gown by Jan Taminiau, while her head was adorned with a historic ruby tiara from the Mellerio jewelry house, highlighting her fiery temperament.
Other European royals also showcased their impeccable style. Crown Princess Mary of Denmark opted for minimalism, appearing in a lilac cape dress by Valentino complemented by a hat with a large flower. Queen Mathilde of Belgium chose a delicate pink ensemble of dress and cape by Giorgio Armani Privé and an iconic pillbox hat. Crown Princess Victoria of Sweden impressed with a vibrant blue dress by Escada during the day and a reimagined lace outfit by Elie Saab in the evening, paired with the “Laurel Wreath” tiara by Boucheron. The new Empress of Japan, Masako, followed centuries-old traditions: for the enthronement, she wore a formal twelve-layered kimono embroidered with flowers and cranes, and for the banquet, she chose an ivory gown and the famous Meiji tiara.
