Books, Birkins and Beauty: The Coronation of King Willem-Alexander of the Netherlands

Of course, I cannot let myself pass by this excellent opportunity for a spot of royals-watching.
After all, it's not everyday that we get to witness a coronation!

But let's proceed in good order. First, we must remember that the coronation which took place on 30 April came about after the abdication of Queen Beatrix (now HRH Princess Beatrice of the Netherlands, Princess of Orange-Nassau, Princess of Lippe-Biesterfeld), which was announced on 28 January 2013, a move not unusual among the Dutch royal family.

This of course means that her firstborn son, the then Prince Willem-Alexander, became king, in a spectacular ceremony complete with river pageant, which saw a vast reunion of crowned heads, among them even the reclusive Princess Masako of Japan.

But let's not beat about the bush and have a look at the stunning dresses and jewels on display for such a rare royal occasion!

The new king and queen.

Queen Maxima is wearing a royal blue gown and cape by Dutch designer Jan Taminiau.

The queen wearing the Mellerio sapphire tiara, an impressive piece part of the Dutch royal collection, featuring 655 South African diamonds and 33 stunning Kashmir sapphires, the real beauties here, and perfectly matched to the gown she was wearing.

Then a few of my favourite looks from the coronation: the Duchess of Cornwall in Bruce Oldfield with Philip Treacy hat; the Prince of Wales with the sash of the Order of the Crown, the Duchess the one of the Royal Victorian Order.

Princess Mathilde of the Belgians with a Natan dress and Fabienne Delvigne hat (gorgeous!), sash of the Order of the Netherlands Lion.

Crown Princess Victoria of Sweden with Prince Daniel, both in the Order of the Seraphim.
The princess was wearing an Escada gown, with Philip Treacy hat and Jimmy Choo clutch.