The First Lady’s Hat, Kate’s Feather Brooch and Additional Remarkable Looks Thus Far
Headwear! Jewels! Dresses! Crowns!
Diplomatic trips focus equally on the fashion choices as they are about the discussions and events.
This represents an exercise in fashion diplomacy – with an abundance of it as the American leader and his wife Melania tour Britain.
Beginning with Melania’s headwear to the Princess of Wales's feather brooch, here are some of the most eye-catching ensembles to date.
The First Lady’s Headpiece with a UK Tribute
An impressive headpiece!
The first lady is no stranger to impressive headwear – the white and blue wide-brimmed hat was a talking point during the presidential swearing-in earlier this year.
There was an awkward moment when Trump tried to kiss her with the hat’s edge made it a difficult maneuver.
Cue the internet blowing up.
The first lady has gone for an equally bold statement during the first day of the state visit.
She arrived at Windsor Castle in a violet broad-brimmed piece partially concealing her eyes, which she paired with a timeless dark grey suit.
Her choice of headwear was deliberate, indicating a position where she wants all eyes focused on the president and his mission.
She noted coordinating with the exact colour the president’s neckwear, signaling backing for his diplomatic goals.
The French design house is a favourite for Melania, and her decision to wear it interpreted as acknowledging US alignment for Europe.
Earlier, she stepped onto UK soil in a quintessentially UK garment: the iconic beige coat.
She wore the tan, floor-length coat with the collar turned up, with glimpses of the distinctive check visible below.
The first lady, her mid-fifties, completed the look using dark shades and footwear.
Wearing UK-designed attire could be a case of practicing sartorial diplomacy, a tactic many first ladies have employed.
During their previous official trip several years back, Melania – an ex-model – similarly opted for UK labels, opting for brands such as Burberry, although she added a mix of European designers and US creators.
Monarchs Coordinate in Azure
The Queen, in her late seventies, appeared in a vibrant sapphire blue dress, a matching coat and hat.
She accessorized the ensemble using a gem-set pin.
Catherine’s Outfit Conveys Political Signal
The Princess of Wales, 43, wore a burgundy outfit and a matching hat.
From both the Queen and Catherine, it's a strong showing UK fashion talent.
Catherine accentuated her look with a feather brooch.
Observers highlighted that like the Trumps, she also chose to coordinate her outfit to her husband, who wore a burgundy tie.
Much like the first lady, this acts to show support and that she's at one with her spouse and home country's agenda.
The colors blue and red!
This appears a definite instance of coordinated diplomatic dressing, to reflect the American colors.
It demonstrates of how fashion choices can convey a strong political statement.
