Kate Middleton went to plenty of official state dinners at Buckingham Palace as the Duchess of Cambridge, but today marks her first as Princess of Wales, and she certainly rose to the occasion with her stunning attire for the important occasion. 

This particular banquet was for President Cyril Ramaphosa of South Africa, and Middleton, who is said to have received much of Queen Elizabeth’s jewelry upon her passing, was a sight to behold in a white caped Jenny Packham dress (a favorite designer of hers for formal occasions), embellished with jewels at the shoulders. The eye-catching sparkle didn’t stop there by any means. Middleton paired the dress with the pearl-adorned Lover’s Knot tiara, dangling pearl earrings, a multi-strand pearl bracelet, and two badges. 

Scroll to see photos of the Princess from this evening, as well as some of her previous state dinner gowns as a duchess.

On Kate Middleton: Jenny Packham gown

On Kate Middleton: Jenny Packham gown

On Kate Middleton: Alexander McQueen gown

On Kate Middleton: Alexander McQueen gown

On Kate Middleton: Alexander McQueen gown

Next, four ways Kate Middleton’s style has changed since becoming Princess of Wales.

Opening image: Chris Jackson/Getty Images