On the evening of September 17, 2025, Windsor Castle’s St George’s Hall hosted a grand state banquet in honor of U.S. President Donald Trump and First Lady Melania Trump. The event, filled with diplomatic grandeur and royal tradition, quickly became the backdrop for whispers of tension within the royal family. Reports are emerging that Queen Camilla was left “furious” after Princess Catherine, the Princess of Wales, stole the spotlight by wearing the iconic Lover’s Knot Tiara—valued at over £4 million—and a pair of diamond earrings from the late Queen Elizabeth II’s collection.
A Vision of Elegance
Princess Catherine turned heads with a breathtaking custom gold gown by British designer Phillipa Lepley, layered with a Chantilly lace coat featuring hand-embroidered roses in gold cording and French knots. Her ensemble was completed with the iconic Lover’s Knot Tiara, an heirloom famously worn by Princess Diana, and diamond earrings once belonging to Queen Elizabeth II. Adorned with the Royal Family Order of King Charles III, Queen Elizabeth II, and the Grand Cross of the Royal Victorian Order, Catherine’s appearance was a perfect blend of modern couture and royal heritage.
Seated next to President Trump, Catherine engaged in warm conversation during the exquisite three-course dinner, which included specially selected wines and a bespoke U.S.-UK cocktail. With 160 guests in attendance, the event adhered to a strict dress code of tiaras, white tie, or national dress, with Melania Trump shining in a vibrant yellow gown.
A Tiara Steeped in History
The Lover’s Knot Tiara, a favorite of Catherine’s since her first appearance in it at a Buckingham Palace diplomatic reception in December 2015, carries immense emotional significance. Crafted for Queen Mary in 1914 and later worn by Princess Diana, its diamond arches and suspended pearl drops make it one of the most iconic pieces in the royal vault. Valued at £4 million, its symbolic connection to Diana is priceless. Catherine’s repeated choices to wear the tiara, including at high-profile events like the 2023 royal wedding of Crown Prince Hussein and Princess Rajwa of Jordan, are seen as a tribute to her late mother-in-law.
However, sources close to the palace suggest that Queen Camilla was less than thrilled with Catherine’s jewelry choice, particularly the combination of Diana’s tiara and Queen Elizabeth II’s diamond earrings. Reports claim Camilla viewed the selection as a deliberate attempt to overshadow her presence at the banquet, reigniting old tensions over royal jewelry and Diana’s lasting legacy.
Camilla’s Alleged Fury
According to unverified reports circulating online, Queen Camilla was “furious” behind the scenes, perceiving Catherine’s choice of the Lover’s Knot Tiara and the late Queen’s earrings as a bold statement. Some sources suggest that Camilla felt the tiara, which she reportedly coveted, was a reminder of Diana’s prominence in the royal family—a sensitive topic given her own complex history with the late princess. The addition of Queen Elizabeth II’s diamond earrings, a significant royal piece, reportedly heightened Camilla’s frustration, underscoring Catherine’s growing influence within the monarchy.
These claims, however, remain speculative and lack confirmation from official palace sources. The royal family has a history of navigating public scrutiny over personal dynamics, and such reports may have exaggerated the tension for dramatic effect. Nonetheless, the narrative of a rift between Camilla and Catherine has gained momentum, fueled by the emotional weight of Diana’s legacy and the subtle rivalries within the monarchy.
A Night of Diplomacy and Tradition
The state banquet itself was a meticulously organized affair, with King Charles III welcoming President Trump and his wife to St George’s Hall. The evening featured speeches from both the King and the President, toasts to the enduring U.S.-UK alliance, and the playing of both nations’ national anthems. The event concluded with the traditional procession of 12 pipers, a custom dating back to Queen Victoria, adding a ceremonial touch to the night.
King Charles III’s speech was a highlight, not only for its diplomatic tone but also for his heartfelt tribute to Catherine, which reportedly moved her to tears. Praising her grace and dedication, the King’s words emphasized her central role within the monarchy, further highlighting her position at the event—a point that may have contributed to the rumored tensions with Camilla.
A Palace Divided?
While Catherine’s appearance was widely praised by the public and fashion commentators, the reported tension with Queen Camilla has sparked renewed speculation about the dynamics within the royal household. The choice of Diana’s tiara, paired with Queen Elizabeth II’s earrings, was a powerful tribute to the royal women who came before her. However, it also served as a reminder of the delicate balance between tradition, legacy, and personal rivalries within the House of Windsor.
As the dust settles from this glamorous and contentious evening, one thing is clear: Princess Catherine’s poised elegance and strategic choices continue to captivate the world, while the whispers of “chaos in the palace” ensure that the royal spotlight remains firmly on her.
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