Madrid is the center of attention today as Pope Leo XIV begins his highly anticipated visit to Spain, a major event expected to draw the faithful from around the world. The Pontiff arrived at Adolfo Suárez Madrid–Barajas Airport, where he was received by King Felipe VI and Queen Letizia in the State Pavilion of Terminal 4, creating one of the day's most memorable images.
© Getty ImagesThere, Queen Letizia, known for her elegance and sophistication, once again demonstrated her impeccable sense of style. Following this initial meeting, attention shifted to the Royal Palace, where a special welcoming ceremony took place and was joined by Princess Leonor and Infanta Sofía.
Queen Letizia’s Privilege of the White
Once again, Queen Letizia exercised the ancient Privilege of the White, which allows her to wear white in the presence of the Pope. This Vatican tradition is reserved for Catholic royal houses and symbolizes purity, innocence, and peace.
© Europa Press via Getty ImagesToday, in addition to the Queen of Spain, those entitled to this distinction include Queen Sofía of Spain; Queens Mathilde and Paola of Belgium; Grand Duchess María Teresa and Hereditary Grand Duchess Stéphanie of Luxembourg; and Princess Charlene of Monaco.
Queen Letizia’s White Dress: The Designer and When She First Wore It
Taking advantage of this privilege, Queen Letizia brought back a white guipure lace midi dress by The 2nd Skin Co. The sophisticated design features a round neckline, long sleeves, and a matching belt.
© Getty ImagesShe first wore the dress in Cairo during the Spanish state visit to Egypt on September 17, 2025. Among that day's events, it was her choice for the official welcome hosted by Egypt's President and First Lady at Al-Ittihadiya Palace, as well as for the luncheon that followed.
Interestingly, this Spanish-made design would also make an ideal bridal look, particularly for a civil wedding. In fact, on secondhand fashion platforms, it was marketed as a "party dress or wedding dress."
The Accessories Queen Letizia Chose: From Handbag to Earrings
Emphasizing the all-white look, Queen Letizia paired the dress with a matching clutch and white slingback shoes.
© Getty ImagesAs for jewelry, in addition to her signature Coreterno ring, she brought back the Luzia earrings by Gold & Roses, crafted in rose gold, white gold, and diamonds. She first wore these earrings on June 19, 2023.
Queen Letizia’s Most Recent Meeting with Pope Leo XIV
Before this Saturday, June 6, the last time Queen Letizia met His Holiness Pope Leo XIV was on March 20, 2026.
© SOPA Images/LightRocket via GettThat day, accompanied by King Felipe VI, she met with the Pope during a private audience at the Vatican. It marked their third meeting, following their encounter in Rome during World Food Day events on October 16, 2025, and their meeting at the Mass celebrating the beginning of his pontificate on May 18, 2025.
For that third meeting, demonstrating her characteristic sense of respectful elegance, Queen Letizia debuted a refined tweed midi dress with a classic silhouette, long sleeves, a jewel neckline, and a crescent-shaped empire waist.
© NurPhoto via Getty ImagesThe designer was not disclosed, though the dress was similar to others already in her wardrobe in different colors. She paired it with Magrit's Buckle pumps, featuring a decorative buckle on the toe and finished in an elegant nude shade, along with the matching Buckle handbag from the same brand.
Her jewelry included her Coreterno ring, and she once again wore her long diamond and Australian pearl earrings—a favorite choice, especially for papal engagements.
