As Madrid counts down to the highly anticipated visit of Pope Leo XIV, King Felipe and Queen Letizia kicked off the week by hosting another high-profile diplomatic event in the Spanish capital. The royal couple spent the day with Prince Albert and Princess Charlene of Monaco.
© CORDON PRESSEarlier today, King Felipe hosted a luncheon for Prince Albert—the son of Grace Kelly—at the Zarzuela Palace. Later in the afternoon, the two couples reunited to tour commemorative exhibitions at Madrid’s Royal Botanical Garden marking the 150th anniversary of the opening of the first diplomatic mission between Spain and Monaco.
Queen Letizia’s Look for Welcoming the Monaco Royals in Madrid
To beat Madrid’s soaring temperatures, Queen Letizia opted for a breezy yet sophisticated dress. The design made its debut last August when she wore it to the closing ceremony of the 15th Atlàntida Mallorca Film Fest at La Misericòrdia Cultural Center in Mallorca.
© Getty ImagesThe midi dress, crafted from Japanese linen, features a strategically designed silhouette that enhances the figure. A cotton corset-style waist and carefully placed seams create a particularly slimming effect. The piece comes from Italian label Mantù.
© Europa Press via Getty ImagesLast year, the brand described the design as follows: “The sheer texture of the fabric, combined with its tailored construction, brings movement and lightness, while the subtle keyhole neckline adds a touch of refined sensuality. A timeless piece for the contemporary woman seeking an essential yet distinctive style, where tradition and innovation blend effortlessly.”
One of the greatest strengths of a white dress is its versatility. Depending on the accessories, it can take on an entirely different personality. Today, the Queen elevated the look with bold gold accessories that added a sophisticated edge.
Her jewelry choices were especially noteworthy. Letizia is typically quite restrained when it comes to jewelry and rarely wears bracelets, but today she made an exception by bringing back the striking cuff bracelet she debuted the first time she wore this dress, along with the matching earrings.
© WireImageThe set features an innovative botanical-inspired design in 24-karat gold-plated brass from the Índico collection by Suma Cruz, the brand founded by Susana Cruz in 2017. She paired the jewelry with a matching gold envelope clutch and coordinating footwear.
© Getty ImagesFor several years now, Queen Letizia has avoided very high heels due to Morton’s neuroma, a painful foot condition. According to experts from the Official College of Podiatrists of the Valencian Community, it is one of the lesser-known ailments associated with prolonged use of narrow-toed, high-heeled shoes.
As a result, her wardrobe now favors more comfortable footwear—without sacrificing elegance. Today, she once again proved that comfort and sophistication can go hand in hand by choosing a pair of kitten-heel sandals.
Charlene’s Choice: A Romantic Lace Dress
This marks Princess Charlene’s first official visit to Spain, and anticipation surrounding her appearance was high. She did not disappoint.
© Europa Press via Getty ImagesYears ago, Charlene was known for bold hairstyles and fashion choices that broke away from traditional princess style. Today, however, her aesthetic has evolved toward a more classic and timeless elegance.
For this occasion, she delivered a master class in summer dressing with a refined, enduring look that Queen Letizia herself could easily have worn.
© WireImageLike the Queen, Charlene opted for a midi dress, one of the most flattering, comfortable, and stylish choices for formal events in warm weather. She selected a soft sky-blue shade that complements her complexion and beautifully highlights her signature blue eyes.
The sleeveless Oscar de la Renta design—one of her go-to labels for major occasions—featured a rounded neckline, fitted bodice, and A-line skirt. A matching belt made from the same delicate guipure lace further accentuated her silhouette.
© WireImageFor footwear, she chose classic slingback pumps in a matching shade. The leather style featured a low, flared heel. She skipped a handbag altogether and opted for timeless jewelry, including pearl earrings and a diamond ring.
Charlene completed the romantic look with an elegant low chignon, a side part, and softly waved bangs.
