Duchess Sophie opts for special tiara as Kate Middleton skips State Banquet

The Duchess of Edinburgh chose to sparkle in a bespoke piece for a key royal event at the Buckingham Palace on Tuesday as Kate Middleton bows out.

Duchess Sophie, who has stepped up with her royal role as Kate Middleton takes a break to rest following her cancer recovery, picked out a special diadem as the royal family welcomed Qatari royals for the much-anticipated State Banquet.

Prince Edward’s wife stunned in dark Suzannah dress with the Wessex Aquamarine Necklace Tiara, which is part of the Royal Collection.

The chic headpiece features a brilliant aquamarine diamond and the Duchess often reaches for this particular tiara for major events. It’s believed Sophie herself helped with the design of the tiara.

Along with a blue sash, she accessorised her ensemble with a diamond necklace and earrings.

“As one of the Duchess’ go-to tiaras, it is reported that the piece was designed bespoke for Sophie, by jewellers Collins and Sons,” Expert jeweller Jeremy Hinds previously told HELLO!. “As this is part of a personal collection and not from the royal vault, you won't see this piece on any other royal.”

King Charles and Queen Camilla welcomed the esteemed guests as Prince William and Princess Anne were in attendance. Meanwhile, the Princess of Wales, who was absent from the event, would have worn a tiara per tradition, had she attended.

The State Visit was a significant one for the royal family as there will be no more state visits for the next three years at the Buckingham Palace. The palace is undergoing a huge refurbishment programme which is expected to complete in 2027.