summer's exhibition

Queen Máxima's most unexpected outfit is now on display at the palace

The timing is especially meaningful.

JULY 24, 2026 12:01 PM EDTJUL 24, 2026, 12:01 PM EDT

Queen Máxima may be known around the world for her vibrant couture gowns, statement hats and impeccable royal style, but one of the most talked-about pieces now associated with the Dutch queen couldn't be more different.

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Visitors to Noordeinde Palace and the adjacent Royal Stables in The Hague can now see Queen Máxima's camouflage military uniform as part of this summer's exhibition, which explores the centuries-long relationship between the House of Orange and the Dutch Armed Forces.

The Dutch royal family's connection to the Armed Forces is highlighted through Queen Máxima's military uniform and other historic artifacts.

The display runs from July 22 through August 9 and places a special focus on the Military Household, one of the oldest branches of the royal household.

Princess Amalia gets emotional as Queen Máxima completes major military milestone

The uniform represents a significant chapter in Máxima's royal journey. Earlier this year, the queen officially joined the Royal Netherlands Army as a reservist and later completed the first phase of her military training, receiving her beret during a ceremony attended by King Willem-Alexander and their daughters.

Queen Máxima's camouflage military uniform is on display at Noordeinde Palace as part of a special royal exhibition.

The exhibition brings together historic and contemporary military artifacts linked to the Dutch monarchy, including uniforms worn by members of the royal family over the centuries.

Queen Máxima receives her military beret after successfully completing the first phase of basic military training.

Among the items on display are one of King William III's uniforms dating to around 1840, Princess Amalia's military cap, and now Queen Máxima's own camouflage jacket, underscoring the family's continued connection to military service and public duty.

Queen Máxima shares a heartfelt hug with King Willem-Alexander as the royal family celebrates her military milestone.

A meaningful moment for the Dutch royal family:

The timing is especially meaningful. Princess Amalia recently completed her own basic military training before beginning as a part-time cadet in the Royal Netherlands Air Force, making military service a defining theme for the next generation of the Dutch royal family.

Princess Amalia’s rise: Understanding the 'Amalia Effect' — Princess Amalia salutes as she completes her general military training and is promoted to corporal at General Spoor Barracks.

Seeing Máxima's uniform displayed alongside historical royal military pieces highlights how that tradition continues to evolve.

Princess Amalia becomes emotional as she embraces Queen Máxima following the monarch's military beret presentation ceremony in Breda.

For royal watchers, the camouflage jacket offers an unexpected contrast to the elegant wardrobe that has made Queen Máxima one of Europe's most celebrated style icons.

Photos showed Amalia participating in all sorts of military drills — rincess Amalia recently completed her own basic military training before beginning as a part-time cadet in the Royal Netherlands Air Force

While she's often photographed in colorful Natan gowns, dramatic capes and eye-catching accessories, this practical military uniform reflects another side of her public role: one rooted in service, commitment and duty.