The Princess of Wales brought old-school Hollywood glamour to the British Ambassador’s residence last night, floating into the annual diplomatic gala in a breathtaking ice-blue Jenny Packham gown that instantly became the most talked-about royal look of the season.
The custom creation was pure winter magic: a column of pale sapphire silk tulle completely covered in hand-applied sequins, crystals and delicate three-dimensional floral embroidery that cascaded across the sheer bodice and long sleeves. The subtle sparkle caught every chandelier light in the room as Catherine greeted guests including French screen icon Audrey Tautou and members of the Parisian diplomatic corps.
She finished the look with:
The late Queen’s diamond chandelier earrings (last worn publicly at the 2022 Diplomatic Reception)
Queen Mary’s diamond bracelet choker worn as a bracelet
Oscar de la Renta Cabrina platinum glitter pumps
A silver metallic Pacham Casa clutch
Soft side-swept waves and her signature glowing make-up
It was the latest chapter in what has become one of the most iconic designer-muse relationships in modern royal fashion: Catherine and Jenny Packham’s love story told entirely in shades of blue.
A Decade-Plus of Blue-Packham Magic
From state banquets to charity galas, the Princess has turned to Jenny Packham’s sapphire, teal and ice-blue creations more than any other designer for major evening events. Here are the greatest hits:
May 2023 – Eurovision Song Contest (Windsor Castle) A one-shoulder sapphire-blue “Marlo” gown with cascading crystal embellishment while playing piano in solidarity with Ukraine.
March 2020 – Place2Be 25th anniversary, Buckingham Palace Rewore a vivid royal-blue beaded column with sheer sleeves (originally 2017), ditching the matching shawl for a fresher silhouette.
November 2018 – Tusk Conservation Awards Brought back the teal lace “Aspen” gown first debuted in 2012, proving royal rewearing can be just as impactful the second (or third) time.
October 2018 – Imperial War Museum A tailored knee-length cornflower-blue day dress for a deeply personal visit tracing her great-grandmother’s brothers lost in WWI.
November 2017 – Royal Variety Performance (pregnant with Prince Louis) An ethereal ice-blue crystal-embroidered tulle gown inspired by bridal couture, complete with fairy-tale sparkle and Oscar de la Renta heels.
Why Blue + Packham = Catherine’s Ultimate Power Combo
Fashion commentators have long noted that when the Princess wants to project calm authority while still radiating warmth, she reaches for Jenny Packham blue. The shade flatters her complexion, nods to the royal family’s love of sapphire (think Diana’s engagement ring, now Catherine’s), and photographs beautifully under any lighting, a practical consideration for a working royal who is always on camera.
More than that, the repeated wear of these statement gowns has quietly cemented Catherine’s reputation as the sustainable style leader of the modern monarchy.
As one royal watcher tweeted last night: “Another blue Packham, another masterclass. Catherine doesn’t just wear clothes she curates a legacy in sequins.”
With the holiday diplomatic season just beginning, expect to see this ice-blue stunner make at least one more appearance before the year is out. Because when it comes to Princess Catherine and Jenny Packham, if it’s blue and it sparkles, it’s coming back, and we’ll be here for every single twirl.
