Queen Camilla marked her 77th birthday in a truly regal fashion as she attended the State Opening of Parliament in London alongside King Charles.
Despite being a workday, the occasion called for a spectacular royal appearance, and Camilla certainly delivered.
Queen Camilla wears George IV’s State Diadem
On July 17, the Queen graced the event in a stunning white gown, complemented by the historic George IV State Diadem and an array of dazzling diamonds.
As she arrived at the Palace of Westminster, her elegant white dress featured long sleeves and exquisite embroidery that accentuated the cuffs, skirt, and hem.
A highlight of her attire was the George IV State Diadem, also known as the Diamond Diadem, which she had worn once before.
Queen Camilla first donned this iconic headpiece at the inaugural State Opening of Parliament of King Charles’s reign in November 2023.
Adorned with 1,333 diamonds, the diadem boasts a storied history, crafted for King George IV’s coronation in 1820. The headpiece has been worn by every British queen since then, be it reigning or consort.
The diadem holds a special association with Queen Elizabeth, who wore it for her coronation ceremony in 1953 and for most State Openings of Parliament throughout her reign. It has even been featured on British and Commonwealth currency and stamps.
The unique design features four crosses alternating with sprays representing England’s roses, Ireland’s shamrocks, and Scotland’s thistles.
To complete her regal birthday ensemble, Queen Camilla added a pair of dangling diamond earrings and Queen Elizabeth’s Coronation necklace, along with a silver clutch and matching shoes.
King Charles, also dressed for the occasion, arrived in his Admiral of the Fleet Royal Naval Number 1 Dress uniform, complete with cap and sword.
He later changed into the Parliament Robe of State and wore the Imperial State Crown. This marked his third time wearing this crown, which he first donned at his coronation in May 2023.
While King Charles was crowned with the nearly 5-pound St. Edward’s Crown at Westminster Abbey, he switched to the lighter Imperial State Crown toward the end of the service. He also wore it on the Buckingham Palace balcony and in official portraits from the historic day.
This event capped off a busy week for the royal couple, who had spent July 15 and 16 in the Channel Islands of Jersey and Guernsey.