In March 2017, The Prince and Princess of Wales (The then Duke and Duchess of Cambridge) embarked on a significant visit to France, marking an important diplomatic and cultural engagement between the United Kingdom and France. The visit, characterized by its blend of formal events, cultural interactions, and personal moments, aimed to strengthen the bonds between the two countries. It was the Royal couple’s first official visit to the capital city of the neighbour country.
Upon arrival, They were formally received by the then French President François Hollande at the Élysée Palace. The couple travelled to France for two days directly after attending the St. Patrick’s Day Parade earlier in the day in the UK. The visit was undertaken at the request of the Foreign and Commonwealth Office and was dubbed as the ‘Royal Charm Offensive’ after the UK voted for Brexit in 2016.
It was Prince William’s first official visit to the city where he lost his mother in a brutal car accident 2 decades ago.
The itinerary of the visit included a reception for young French leaders from a variety of fields, a formal dinner at the residence of Her Majesty’s Ambassador and attendance at the Wales v France Six Nations test at the Stade de France. Later in the evening, The Royal couple was the guests of honour at a dinner hosted by the British Ambassador at the British embassy.
What The Princess of Wales for Paris arrival in March 2015
- Catherine Walker Coat – (New – debuted earlier in the day at the St. Patrick’s day parade)
- Monica Vinader Siren Earrings – (old debuted in 2016 during Canada tour)
- Etui bags – (New – thanks to What Kate Wore for the id)
- Emmy London Green Suede Rebecca Pumps – (new – debuted earlier in the day at the St. Patrick’s day parade)
For the day, The Princess of Wales was wearing a green Catherine Walker coat. The double breasted coat featured gold Button Detailing at the front and Velvet collars, cuffs and pockets. The Princess paired the outfit with her Monica Vinader Siren Earrings, Etui clutch bag and Emmy London Rebecca pumps.
In the evening, The royal couple headed to the British Embassy where the British Ambassador Lord Llewellyn hosted a reception for the royal couple. The reception was hosted to celebrate the official launch of a program called “Les Voisins,” translated loosely to ‘the neighbors.
Speaking at the event, Prince William said, “Before I came here, Her Majesty The Queen reminded me of how much she has enjoyed her many visits to France.”
What Kate Middleton wore the British Reception in Paris
- Alexander McQueen Black Frayed Dress
- Balenciaga Eugenia Pearl Clip Earrings
- UFO Pearl Necklace and Ring
- Gianvito Rossi Ankle Strap Suede D’orsay Pumps
Kate’s stunning sleeveless dress was a custom piece from the label crafted with a textured fabric and featured a frayed detailing and vee-neckline.
The Royal couple spent time meeting the Britishers living in Paris.
The day ended with a dazzling evening at the British Ambassador’s official residence, Hôtel Charost, where a dinner was hosted.
It was a star-studded evening where guest list included Kristin Scott Thomas and Audrey Tautou.
A heart-warming performances a by a children choir.
What Kate wore to the Paris Dinner
- Jenny Packham Sequined Gown
- Jenny Packham Casa Clutch
- Queen’s Diamond Chandelier Earrings
- Oscar de la Renta Lame Cabrina Pumps
The Day 2 of Paris itinerary included Les Invalides, a visit to monuments and museums related to the history of the French military.
Prince William and Kate visited Les Invalides – a complex of buildings in the 7th arrondissement of Paris containing museums and monuments, all relating to the military history of France. William and Kate met French Invictus Games competitor Sgt Philippe who has been supported by the prosthetics team at the hospital and discussed his experiences.
Then the Royal couple headed to Musée de d’Orsay – the former Gare d’Orsay, a Beaux-Arts railway station built between 1898 and 1900. The Museum is the home to French art dating from 1848 to 1914, including paintings, sculptures, furniture, and photography.
Prince William and Princess Kate met with the Veterans.
The day also included a touch of sports – Rugby. Prince William and Kate met with school children and tried their hands at a game of Rugby.
And we got the iconic shot of The Prince and Princess of Wales with the world famous Eiffel Tower as the backdrop.
What Kate Middleton wore for a visit to Eiffel Tower
- Chanel Tweed Coat Dress
- Chanel Black Belt
- Cartier’s Trinity Earrings
- Cartier Trinity Tri-Ring Necklace
- Cartier Ballon Bleu watch
- Chanel Calfskin Bag
- Tod’s Fringed leather pumps
The Prince and Princess of Wales concluded their two-day visit to Paris with an appearance at the Six Nations Rugby match between Wales and France.