The Royal Palace in Madrid has once again come alive with the splendor of official receptions. After a two-year hiatus caused by various circumstances, the royal couple hosted a grand gala dinner. The occasion was the visit of Sultan Haitham bin Tariq of Oman to Spain. This event marked the first of its kind since May 2023, when the palace welcomed the President of Colombia. The evening was marked by grandeur and strict protocol, with all eyes focused on the hostess.
For such a significant occasion, Her Majesty opted for a time-tested and much-loved look. She appeared in a striking, floor-length cobalt blue gown by the Spanish brand The 2nd Skin. The dress wasn’t new—she first wore it during a visit to Amsterdam in April 2024, and it instantly became one of her most iconic outfits. Choosing a familiar dress signaled her confidence and unwillingness to take risks within the rigid rules of palace etiquette.
The ensemble would not have been complete without the family jewels. The queen’s head was adorned with the so-called “Russian” tiara—a magnificent work of jewelry crafted from platinum, diamonds, and pearls. Historically, this heirloom was created for María Cristina of Austria, mother of King Alfonso XII. In addition to the tiara, her outfit was enhanced with royal chandeleir earrings from the crown treasury and Oman’s highest state award, presented to her as a mark of respect. Each element was carefully selected, creating a truly regal appearance.
Yet behind the effortless grace and elegance, there were some challenges. The voluminous, lavish skirt required skill to move gracefully, and the heavy tiara was a true test of poise. The weight of the ornament explained her choice of hairstyle: Her Majesty chose firm curls that offered a reliable base for securing the hefty diadem. The queen displayed impeccable composure while managing her elaborate attire throughout the evening.
The queen felt a warm welcome and approval not only from officials. During the traditional greeting of guests, known as the “besamanos,” she exchanged smiles and quiet compliments with four women from her close circle. Among them were the head of the queen’s secretariat, Marta Caraso, and the Royal House’s press chief, Rosa Lercundi. Expressions of admiration also came from lawyer Cruz Sánchez de Lara and Susana de Funes, the wife of the head of the Royal House.
There was also a lighthearted moment that brought a touch of spontaneity to the evening. The President of the Congress of Deputies, Francina Armengol, also chose a blue dress for the dinner. While her outfit was much simpler and more modest, the matching color provoked a friendly smile from the queen. This small episode proved that even at the most official events, there’s room for genuine emotion. Overall, the evening was flawless, and Queen Letizia once again affirmed her reputation as one of Europe’s most elegant royals.
