First Lady Melania Trump, hand-in-hand with President Donald Trump, arrived in the UK on the evening of 16/9 in a very British ensemble: a trench coat by Burberry. The honey-colored, floor-length coat, with its signature check lining peeking out with each step, made a distinct statement.

The US President and First Lady arrive at Stansted Airport near London on the evening of 16/9. Photo: *AP*

Vanessa Friedman, fashion critic for the *New York Times*, noted that wearing a British brand is a classic example of fashion diplomacy, a practice employed by many US First Ladies.

During Trump's 2019 state visit to the UK, Melania Trump, a former model, also wore outfits by brands like Burberry, combined with pieces from several European and American designers.

On 17/9, the First Lady made a striking appearance at Windsor Castle, sporting a wide-brimmed purple hat that largely obscured her face, paired with a classic gray Dior suit.

"It wasn't by chance that she wore that hat," observed Marian Kwei, an image consultant and contributor to *Vogue*. "The wide brim, shielding her face, suggests she wanted all eyes on her husband and his agenda during the UK visit."

The hat's color matched Trump's tie, "showing Melania's support for her husband's agenda," Kwei added. Dior is one of Melania's favorite brands, and for Kwei, this choice signaled American support for Europe.

Prince and Princess of Wales with the US President and First Lady at Windsor Castle on 17/9. Photo: *AP*

At the Windsor Castle reception, King Charles III and Queen Camilla coordinated in shades of blue. Camilla paired her Fiona Clare dress with a matching coat and Philip Treacy hat, accented by a sapphire and diamond brooch. Charles III wore a white shirt, a dark blue-purple suit, and a blue tie.

Kate Middleton chose a fuchsia Emilia Wickstead dress and a matching Jane Taylor hat. Interestingly, the dress color matched Prince William's tie. "Like Melania, this clearly shows the Princess's support for her husband and the country's agenda," Kwei commented.

"Blue and red!" exclaimed royal expert Victoria Murphy. "To me, this is a classic example of coordinated outfits when hosting foreign guests, reflecting the colors of the American flag. It demonstrates how clothing can convey a strong diplomatic message."

King Charles III and Queen Camilla host the Trumps at a state banquet at Windsor Castle on 17/9. Photo: *AFP*

For the state banquet that evening, the First Lady wore a yellow off-the-shoulder gown with a wide pink belt. The long-sleeved, shoulder-baring dress showcased her face, collarbone, and neck. She wore her hair down, complemented by long, sparkling earrings.

"No one expected her to wear these colors to a state dinner. The dress adheres to protocol yet retains a boldness," remarked Kwei. This wasn't Melania's first time in an off-the-shoulder gown; she wore a similar design at Trump's inauguration ball in January.

Queen Camilla attended the banquet in a royal blue silk Fiona Clare gown with Moroccan embroidery, a sapphire and diamond tiara, and the Royal Family Order. Kate Middleton wore a gold lace evening gown embroidered with roses and a tiara.

"State banquets are rare occasions for British royals to wear tiaras," Kwei explained. "Kate wore the tiara that belonged to her mother-in-law, Princess Diana, and originally to Queen Mary."

"I appreciate the dress. It's striking and befitting a state visit," Murphy commented.

Prince and Princess of Wales enter the state banquet hall. Photo: *AFP*

The US President, King Charles III, and Prince William all wore white bow ties. Kwei felt Charles III's attire met public expectations for a lavish state occasion. "The outfit exudes regal bearing," she said.

Regarding Prince William's attire, who wore his military medals and tails, Murphy noted he appeared in his "most formal state." "This formality demonstrates respect for the guests," she said.

Hong Hanh (*BBC*)