Spain

The stunning pearl tiara that's become a favourite of Queen Letizia

The Spanish Royal Family has an historic collection of jewels, including the famous joyas de pasar (a collection worn only by the Queen of Spain). However, there are several other pieces outside of the royal collection that are so impressive they tend to be worn only by queens. Among them is Queen Maria Cristina’s Diamond and Pearl Loop Tiara.  Casa de S.M. el Rey Archduchess Maria…
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Royal News

Pope Leo calls for peace and unity at inauguration mass attended by royalty in St. Peter's Square

The Inauguration Mass for Pope Leo XIV has been held in St. Peter’s Square with tens of thousands gathered to see the first American Pope. Several royal families were represented at the service in which the Pope was presented with the Fisherman’s Ring, a symbol of his Pontificate. Pope Leo gave a short sermon in which he called for unity and peace and promised he would not…
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European Royals

The queens and princesses who chose the jewels of mourning for the funeral of Pope Francis

It was a modern funeral for a modern Pope but some traditions remained untouched. A formal dress code was in place and that meant black dresses or suits for the royal women in attendance as well as veils or hats. Mourning jewellery was also permitted and that meant white or clear gems – mostly pearls, a jewel that represents mourning. Queen Letizia of Spain wore a historic brooch from…
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Features

The strange royal connections of a fashionista called 'The King'

Along with Christian Dior, January 2025 also marks the anniversary of the birth of Cristóbal Balenciaga. Known as “The Master of Us All”, and ‘The King’, the Spanish designer was born on 21 January 1895 and became an iconic designer with some rather unusual royal links. The Spanish designer quickly became known for his eye for fabrics and for silhouettes. Throughout his career…
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