Kate Middleton Wears Sheer, Hand-Embroidered Lace Gown by an Unexpected Designer for Trump State Banquet

Royal fans expected to see the princess in an American designer.

Credit: Getty Images

Kate Middleton arrived at the state banquet at Windsor Castle in a sheer gold dress.
She accessorized the hand-embroidered dress with the Queen Mary Lovers’ Knot tiara.
She and her husband Prince William attended the banquet alongside King Charles, Queen Camilla, President Trump, and First Lady Melania Trump.

Kate Middleton’s fashion choices are always intentional, and on Wednesday, the Princess of Wales wore a stunning dress from an unexpected designer for the state banquet at Windsor Castle. Middleton arrived at the event, where the royal family is hosting President of the United States, Donald Trump and First Lady Melania Trump, alongside her husband Prince William.

Kate Middleton looked regal in a sheer gold embroidered gown.Getty Images

For the engagement, Middleton opted for a hand-embroidered sheer gold dress coat with puffy shoulders and a collar layered over an ivory silk gown. The couture look was a creation from British designer, Phillipa Lepley, a surprising choice for the princess who wore all French designers for the French state visit over the summer.

Middleton accessorized with her favorite tiara, the Queen Mary Lovers’ Knot, the $135 million piece created in 1914 for Queen Mary. The opulent piece was also a favorite of Middleton’s late mother-in-law, Princess Diana. Princess Catherine finished off the look with diamond drop earrings that previously belonged to the late Queen Elizabeth II.

Prince William and Kate Middleton arrive at the State Banquet at Windsor Castle on September 17, 2025.Getty Images

The banquet comes after a busy day filled with significant fashion moments. Earlier in the day, Middleton wore an autumn-ready maroon coat dress decorated with 162-year-old brooch that paid tribute to her husband William and Princess Diana.

Kate Middleton and Prince William during State visit with President of the United States of America.Getty Images

After her initial meeting with the Trumps, Middleton traded in her matching fascinator for an unexpected hair accessory: a bow, which she fastened to her curly half-up look.