Kate Middleton pays subtle tribute to Princess Diana with her favourite tiara at the Oman state banquet

Kate Middleton brought a touch of sunshine and royal history to Windsor Castle, pairing a striking yellow gown with one of the British royal family’s most recognisable heirlooms. The Princess of Wales joined Prince William, King Charles III and Queen Camilla for a state banquet honouring Oman’s Sultan Haitham bin Tarik on October 20, drawing attention with a look that blended contemporary fashion with a sentimental connection to Princess Diana. The evening’s standout accessory was Queen Mary’s Lover’s Knot Tiara, a diamond-and-pearl headpiece that Diana famously wore and that has since become one of Kate’s signature choices for formal royal occasions.

Kate Middleton’s Yellow Elie Saab Gown Steals The Spotlight

For the banquet at Windsor Castle’s St George’s Hall, Kate wore a flowing yellow gown by Lebanese designer Elie Saab. The ensemble featured a braided neckline, pleated detailing and a sheer cape that fell behind the dress, creating a dramatic silhouette. According to Vogue, the gown offered a fresh contrast to the historic jewellery she selected for the occasion. Kate completed the look with diamond earrings, a bracelet from Queen Elizabeth II’s collection, a clutch and the insignia associated with her royal duties. Her accessories included the Royal Family Order and the sash and star of the Royal Victorian Order, worn for formal state occasions.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by British Royal Jewels (@britishroyaljewels)

The Special Connection Between Kate’s Tiara And Princess Diana

The Lover’s Knot Tiara has a royal history stretching back more than a century. Commissioned for Queen Mary in 1913 and made by the royal jeweller Garrard, it features diamond arches and suspended pearl drops.


Princess Diana received the tiara as a wedding gift from Queen Elizabeth II in 1981 and wore it on numerous occasions during her time as Princess of Wales. Its weight and the movement of the pearl drops became familiar features of her formal appearances. Kate first wore the headpiece in 2015, and it has since become her most-worn tiara. ABC News noted that the piece was created for Queen Mary and later became closely associated with Diana. The choice gives Kate’s appearance an added historical dimension, connecting three generations of royal women through a single piece of jewellery.

Why The Oman State Banquet Was Significant

The banquet formed part of Sultan Haitham’s state visit to the United Kingdom, the first Omani state visit to Britain in 44 years, according to Vogue. King Charles and Queen Camilla hosted the event at Windsor Castle, with senior members of the royal family joining the evening. Beyond its ceremonial splendour, the visit highlighted the longstanding relationship between Britain and Oman. The royal banquet combined diplomatic hospitality with traditions from both countries, including special teas inspired by Omani kahwa, a spiced coffee. Kate’s appearance was therefore more than a fashion moment. Her yellow gown provided a modern statement, while the Lover’s Knot Tiara brought royal heritage and personal history into one of the monarchy’s most formal settings.