There are moments when philanthropy, fashion, and a touch of unexpected star power align perfectly—and Queen Letizia of Spain’s latest engagement was just that. On a summer day in Madrid, Her Majesty presided over the XVII edition of Banco Santander’s “Euros From Your Payroll” initiative, a program that channels corporate generosity into life-changing social projects across Spain. But this year’s edition had an extra dash of glamour—Hollywood legend Richard Gere joined the royal spotlight, making his first public appearance at the same event as Spain’s ever-stylish Queen.
Richard Gere, known for his iconic role in Pretty Woman, may seem worlds apart from European royalty, but the actor has long been a champion of humanitarian causes. A frequent summer visitor to Spain, Gere’s presence at the gala highlighted the initiative’s growing international recognition. Richard Gere and his wife, Alejandra Silvia, are the patron of a foundation, Hogar Sí, that is one of the charities receiving funding through today’s event.
Together, Queen Letizia and Richard Gere celebrated the power of collective giving. The 2025 edition of “Euros From Your Payroll” raised an impressive €655,012, entirely funded through Banco Santander employee donations—with the bank matching every euro contributed.
Seventeen winning projects were honored this year, each designed to bring measurable change to communities in need. Since its inception, the initiative has distributed €6.7 million to 170 NGO projects, directly impacting the lives of nearly 658,000 beneficiaries. Special attention was also paid to the 45 NGOs that have worked closely with Santander in Valencia over the past year, particularly those providing relief to populations affected by DANA (severe isolated depressions at high altitudes)—a recurring climatic challenge in the region. Additionally, three projects from the Santander Convocation Ayuda were recognized, focusing on childhood poverty and access to education, further cementing Queen Letizia’s long-standing advocacy for vulnerable youth.
What Queen Letizia Wore: Understated Glamour with a Monochrome Edge
Always the embodiment of grace and modern royal style, Queen Letizia chose a timeless monochrome look for the 2025 ‘Euros from Your Payroll Call’—blending simplicity with structure.
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Dress: Letizia wore a Textured Mock Turtleneck Dress from Massimo Dutti, a sleeveless silhouette that felt both summer-appropriate and boardroom-ready.
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Belt: She cinched the waist with a sharp black Burberry Ruffle Leather belt, adding definition and subtle power to the ensemble.
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Shoes: Her trusted black slingback pumps, also from Massimo Dutti, anchored the look.
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Bag: She carried the elegant Nina Ricci Marché handbag in black.
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Jewelry: A fresh debut—PDPaola Pave Twist earrings, paired with her signature Corterno ring, added a whisper of sparkle to the outfit.
Letizia’s style choice for the day was the epitome of her fashion ethos: minimal, refined, and quietly regal.
This was Queen Letizia’s only engagement of the week. As both of her daughters- Princess Leonor and Infanta Sofia are back home together after almost 5 months, Letizia is spending quality time with her daughters before Leonor heads for the last leg of her Navy training and Sofia decides on what Future holds for her.