Queen Mary Opts Out of Wearing Tiara at Glamorous Banquet in France Due to Protocol
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Queen Mary of Denmark opted for a sophisticated state visit to France, but notably chose not to adorn herself with a tiara for the occasion. Upon arriving in Paris on March 31, Queen Mary and King Frederik embarked on a three-day state visit at the invitation of French President Emmanuel Macron. The royal couple was warmly welcomed by the president and his wife, Birgitte Macron, with an official ceremony at Les Invalides, followed by a grand state dinner.
Despite her regal status, Queen Mary, aged 53, decided to forego a tiara during the diplomatic dinner, possibly in adherence to established protocol. The Danish Queen, who became monarch alongside her husband in January 2024, holds the title of a queen consort rather than a reigning sovereign. Reports suggest that no queen consort has sported a tiara during official visits to France since the early 2000s, when formal dress codes for state visits were relaxed.
The absence of a tiara for Queen Mary echoes a similar choice made by Queen Camilla during her state visit to France in 2023. Instead of a tiara, Queen Camilla opted for jewels from the King George VI Sapphire Suite, paying homage to the late Queen Elizabeth. At the state dinner in Élysée Palace, Queen Mary and the First Lady of France, Brigitte Macron, mirrored each other’s elegant style with coordinated outfits and understated yet chic updos, exuding a sense of unity and friendship.
The relaxed sartorial tone extended to the men as well, with King Frederik and President Macron eschewing traditional tailcoats in favour of dark suits, reflecting a more contemporary approach to formal attire. The Danish Royal House highlighted the visit as an opportunity to strengthen historical and bilateral ties between Denmark and France, emphasising the long-standing alliance between the two nations. Notably, Princess Marie, married to Prince Joachim, has roots in Paris, further deepening the familial connection.
During the state dinner, King Frederik expressed warm sentiments towards the French Republic, affirming the enduring friendship between Denmark and France. The couple’s itinerary included a visit to a school supported by The Mary Foundation, an initiative launched by Queen Mary in 2008 to combat social issues such as bullying, domestic violence, and loneliness. The visit underscores the royal couple’s commitment to promoting social causes and fostering international relations.
Queen Mary’s decision to forgo a tiara in France sparked interest and speculation, adding a modern twist to royal protocol and showcasing a diplomatic blend of tradition and contemporary style. The visit not only strengthened diplomatic ties between Denmark and France but also highlighted the Danish royals’ engagement in meaningful social initiatives. As Queen Mary continues to navigate her role as a queen consort with grace and purpose, her choices serve as a symbol of elegance and diplomacy on the world stage.