In October 2016, she once again grabbed the public's attention at a reception at Buckingham Palace to celebrate the achievements of Team GB and the British Paralympic Games from the Rio Olympics. She wore a stunning ivory silk gown designed by Alexander McQueen, which accentuated her charm and regal demeanor as she mingled with athletes and their families. The floor-length gown, designed by Sarah Burton for Alexander McQueen, featured a deep V-neckline, combining sophistication with a touch of glamour. The luxurious silk fabric flowed gracefully to the floor, flattering Catherine's shapely figure and adding movement as she walked.
Subtle pleats at the waist created an hourglass silhouette, emphasizing her casual elegance. To complete the look, Catherine chose a red clutch, also by McQueen, along with sparkling pearl earrings that added the perfect sparkle to her outfit. Her hair was styled in soft waves that framed her face, completing the polished yet approachable look. The reception at Buckingham Palace celebrated the remarkable achievements of British athletes at the Rio 2016 Olympic and Paralympic Games. Catherine, along with Prince William and Prince Harry, hosted the evening, personally congratulating the medal winners and celebrating their dedication and hard work.
Throughout the event, the princess showed her characteristic warmth and genuine interest in the athletes’ stories, listening attentively as they recounted their experiences and challenges. Catherine’s choice of dress reflects not only her status as a senior royal, but also her awareness of the importance of the occasion. She dresses in a way that honors the prestige of the event without overshadowing the real stars of the show – the athletes. Catherine’s history with Alexander McQueen is well-known; since her iconic wedding dress in 2011, she has been seen in public wearing the British fashion house on a regular basis.
Renowned for their exquisite craftsmanship and ability to blend traditional and contemporary styles, McQueen’s designs perfectly match Catherine’s sophisticated aesthetic. One of her standout McQueen moments came at the 2019 BAFTA Awards, when she wore a white off-the-shoulder floral dress that exuded old Hollywood glamour. Another memorable outfit was the vibrant red off-the-shoulder dress she wore during her royal tour of Poland and Germany in 2017, which perfectly illustrated her ability to balance royal formality with her fashion choices. Catherine’s fashion choices often have a deeper meaning, reflecting the event or location she is attending.
At the 2016 reception, she chose Alexander McQueen a British brand that celebrates British talent and innovation, reflecting the achievements of the athletes she has been honoured with. Over the years, she has deftly used fashion as a means of diplomacy and connection, whether it is introducing local designers on her overseas trips or re-wearing favourites from her own wardrobe. Her fashion choices have always been well received by audiences, earning her praise for both style and substance. The ivory silk gown worn at the 2016 reception was a testament to Catherine's fashion legacy. Each outfit told a story, combining the royal family's heritage with her modern sensibilities.
