Kate Middleton pays diplomatic nod to French culture during Macron's state visit

Kate Middleton and Prince William were the first royals to welcome French President Emmanuel Macron and his wife, Brigitte Macron as they start their state visit to the U.K.

The Prince and Princess of Wales, both 43, greeted the Macrons at RAF Northolt, an airbase located in Greater London. The couple arrived in the country on 11:00 a.m. local time.

In a nod to French fashion, Kate wore a Christian Dior dress for the first time. 

The Princess of Wales opted for a soft blush 30 Montaigne Bar Jacket from the iconic French fashion house’s 2024 collection. She added a matching hat by Jess Collett to complete the ensemble.

As for jewelry, the mom-of-three wore pearl earrings that previously belonged to Princess Diana and a pearl necklace from the late Queen Elizabeth's collection.

After the welcome at the airbase, the French President and his wife will travel to Windsor alongside William and Kate. There, they will be officially welcomed by King Charles and Queen Camilla.

After witnessing royal salutes in the Home Park in Windsor and the Tower of London, the couple will go to Windsor Castle with Charles and Camilla via a carriage procession through the town. Kate and William will be beside them in another carriage.

This marks Princess Kate’s second time welcoming state visit guests. She made a rare appearance in December to welcome the Qatar’s Emir and his wife for during their state visit to the U.K.