King Charles and Queen Camilla Bring Back Coronation Looks At Latest Event [Photos]

King Charles III displayed the coronation regalia while addressing the opening session of Parliament today with the King’s speech. He made a rare statement with the Imperial State Crown, which he wore at his coronation in May 2023. Although he was officially given St. Edward's Crown, he later switched to the Imperial State Crown. This gold crown, dating to King George VI's 1937 coronation, features 2,868 diamonds, 17 sapphires, 11 emeralds, 269 pearls, and four rubies. The Imperial Crown was notably displayed on Queen Elizabeth's casket during her September 2022 funeral.

Queen Camilla wore the Diamond Diadem, also known as the George IV State Diadem. She previously had it on during King Charles III's first State Opening of Parliament in November 2023. This headpiece, crafted for King George IV's 1820 coronation, has been a ceremonial piece for every British queen, both reigning and consort, including Queen Adelaide, Queen Victoria, Queen Alexandra, Queen Mary, and Queen Elizabeth, the Queen Mother. Additionally, Queen Camilla chose to accessorize her white, patterned gown with a rarely worn diamond serpent necklace.

King Charles III and Queen Camilla arrived with a regal procession from Buckingham Palace to Westminster in an ornate horse-drawn carriage, escorted by the Household Cavalry. A separate coach carried the royal regalia, including the imperial state crown, cap of maintenance, and sword of state. Upon arrival at the Sovereign’s Entrance at the Palace of Westminster, King Charles proceeded to the robing room. After wearing the imperial state crown and official robes, he then led the royal procession to the House of Lords.

Originating in medieval parliament, the custom of a king's speech developed in the 17th century as parliament reaffirmed its authority over the monarch. The opening of the reconstructed Palace of Westminster in 1852 marked the beginning of the current ceremonial event, which is largely credited to Victorian influences.

The King’s speech, a key ceremonial event marking the start of the parliamentary year, is delivered during the state opening of parliament and involves the monarch, the House of Lords, and the House of Commons. Although read out by the monarch, the speech is articulated by the government to highlight its policies and proposed legislation, with the monarch maintaining a neutral stance towards politics.