For the Queen of Spain, the Princess of Asturias Award is more than just another official event. It is a homecoming to Oviedo and a wonderful opportunity to reaffirm her status as one of Europe’s most elegant women. Year after year, her appearances on the blue carpet spark discussions, with her outfits setting new trends. Whether in the role of princess or now as queen, Letizia always approaches choosing her look for this ceremony with special care, turning each appearance into a true fashion event.
Take 2022, for example, when the world was just beginning to recover from the pandemic. Her appearance in a Carolina Herrera dress caused a sensation. It was not just an outfit, but a genuine work of art: the top adorned with voluminous flowers, beads, and sequins created a striking effect. The understated, straight-cut black skirt ensured that all the attention remained on the main highlight. The look was completed with delicate flower-shaped earrings, made prominent by her low bun hairstyle, and dramatic eye makeup. Altogether, it made for a harmonious and memorable image.
A year earlier, in 2021, the queen opted for black, possibly to avoid outshining her daughter, Princess Leonor, who is playing an increasingly prominent role at the ceremony each year. Even in understated black, she managed to make an impression. She chose the Spanish brand The 2nd Skin CO and a dress whose silhouette echoed Dior’s legendary New Look. The fitted sleeveless bodice and full midi skirt, accentuated by a slim belt, created an incredibly feminine outline. The look was given extra polish by family jewels—a diamond bracelet and the famous chandelier earrings, which sparkled even brighter than the camera flashes.
The period when designer Felipe Varela was the queen’s favorite also deserves mention. In 2018, she appeared in one of his finest creations—a dress made from exquisite brocade fabric. The silhouette was rather simple: short sleeves, a round neckline, midi length. But it was the texture of the fabric and flawless tailoring that made this look a benchmark of elegance. That evening, everything was perfect: her smoothly styled hair parted to the side, and bold makeup highlighting her cheekbones. This appearance firmly established her status as a trendsetter.
However, even style icons can have missteps. In 2019, the queen chose a dress in her favorite red color for a ceremony—a shade that undoubtedly suits her. The dress by Felipe Varela, featuring a V-neckline and a flowing skirt, fit her perfectly. Yet it was a small detail that kept the look from being flawless: the shoes. Red ankle-strap heels, when paired with a midi length, visually shortened her legs and made the silhouette less elegant. It seems this lesson was learned: since then, the queen has avoided such styles, opting instead for shoes that leave the ankle exposed, creating the effect of longer, slimmer legs.
