Queen Letizia debuts Lola Li for a night at the opera

18/9/2019

The King and Queen of Spain attended the opening season at the Teatro Real (Royal Theatre) in Madrid this evening with the premiere of the grand opera "Don Carlo" by Giuseppe Verdi.

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Her Majesty looked glamorous in a white tuxedo inspired wrap-style satin dress by Lola Li.

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This is the first occasion we have seen Queen Letizia step out in a piece by the Madrid based designer.

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The style is the 'Carli' dress (€280) from the Spring/Summer 2019 collection. It is made from 100% polyester and features tuxedo style lapels with a relaxed wrapover waist and gold metal buttons at the cuffs. The design is offered in a range of seasonal colours.

She offset the white dress with black accessories. Letizia carried a new art-deco inspired clutch bag.

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The black velvet chevron clutch is by Giorgio Armani. It has a flap front with Armani's signature plexiglass closure. The piece is from the designer's 2018 collection and retailed for US$2,395.

Giorgio Armani chevron bag with plexiglass closure

The striped clutch coordinated well with her Manolo Blahnik 'Gotrianc' Slingbacks 105 pumps.

The Spanish queen topped off the outfit with her De Grisogono black and white diamond teardrop earrings, and "joyas de pasar" diamond bracelets stacked on one arm for maximum bling.

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A closer look at Letizia's smokey eye makeup and "messy" bun.

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SHOP LETIZIA'S LOOK FOR LESS ...

Missguided US$70

Nordstrom US$36

DSW US$59.99

40 Comments

Milly

19/9/2019 04:36:40 pm

This is a miss for me. I really don't like the relaxed wrap style of this dress. It just doesn't work on Letizia's petite frame. I do however love the accessories.

Simone

19/9/2019 06:16:56 pm

For a curvier frame it would have been less elegant, it is "relaxed," in some places but not around the collar or the bottom line.

Milly

20/9/2019 02:40:33 pm

I do see your point Simone. The dress works best for a slender figure but the mid section is too relaxed and does nothing to enhance the body. With that said, Letizia still looks amazing.

Simone

20/9/2019 07:06:40 pm

This dress is not for the body, it is a creation. Sometimes most elegant outfits do not show your "body", if not you only can wear "tight" things....which can be done by a seamstress , a design is ilusion and imagination....

Zoe link

21/9/2019 11:29:11 pm

Simone. Loving your description. Fashion is an art and some designs are strictly about the illusion they convey. The designer was interviewed by the media and she said that it is a difficult to put together, the front is deliberately draped that way, but the back fit the Queen's shape perfectly. The visceral reactions about bed sheets and lab coats are pretty one dimensional. I imagine Jennifer ( I loved your story) not satisfied to give an opinion until she has seen the front, the back, the garment in motion and all the visible details of its construction :). The designer also said that the queen has the only white one to be made. Everyone else will have to be satisfied with another color.

Ava Pittman

19/9/2019 05:31:05 pm

The shoes and handbag are a win, but the Carli dress is a rare miss for me. It seems to engulf her tiny frame. The bracelets finally, I love, gorgeous , earrings Yes!

Wendy

19/9/2019 06:05:56 pm

I am going to buy this one for me, for a first communion I have next year...280 euros and I think it is so elegant but edgy and sexy at the same time...it is something vintage. I think that works for petite frames if not you would look like a ballon...

Sandy

19/9/2019 10:12:44 pm

That's great, Wendy! Good choice. I hope the dress looks as good on you as Letizia. I wonder if it comes in different colours??

Wendy

19/9/2019 10:50:23 pm

I'm afraid I am a bit positive about myself...lol....well, as we say in Spain one can live of illusions too..
Maybe in black for me better.....at least your knees are not seen....

Wendy

19/9/2019 06:11:38 pm

https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-1OXn-mIgHeU/XYKvpQV0xcI/AAAAAAACQY0/hoXkmquYFgwjot_YKB2ZmsyJWbhmYB8WwCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/Queen-Letizia-6.jpg

I love it..

Wendy

19/9/2019 06:13:19 pm

https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-lzFC7V-Gmis/XYKvnWMFd-I/AAAAAAACQYg/r8qTH80rmhsy9dvtY_7hWzjfP0O1cLx8wCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/Queen-Letizia-1.jpg

Simone

19/9/2019 07:51:31 pm

And there you have the president of the parlament in a red jumpsuit, the president of the Autonomous Comunity of Madrid in fucsia, the Minister of Economy, in pants????, .....

Karen

19/9/2019 07:05:46 pm

Hate the messy bun. Trying to like the dress but I can't.

Laura

20/9/2019 02:05:21 am

Karen, my feelings exactly. Messy buns just look...well messy. I wouldn't wear my hair like that to go grocery shopping, never mind the opera. I think the dress also looks messy, or at least baggy. Shoes that include plastic inserts appear cheap to me, not matter what the cost is. The purse is fine and of course, the bracelets are mega WOW! Letizia is usually so polished with her clothes complimenting her petite frame. But this look is a real miss.

Karen

20/9/2019 05:24:07 pm

30 comments so far on this outfit. People either really hate it. (me. ) or really love it. ( not me. )
Yes, messy hair with a messy dress. Not a good look.

Jennifer F

19/9/2019 07:18:43 pm

Wow! Queen Letizia looks simply stunning, a mix of masculinity and femininity combined. With the tuxedo style dress and harsh black accents which is balanced by the dropped waist, wrap style and glittering diamonds. The soft drape of the fabric glides over her figure in all the right places, showing a modest but alluring amount of skin. She looks sensational! Excellent accessories were chosen, the Manolo Blahnik slingbacks elongate the leg and the architectural design is the perfect contrast to the relaxed silhouette. Jewels are breathtaking, although sizable they are broken by the stark white in between, it looks almost minimal. I love the stylish loose updo, it's in keeping with the mood of the dress. Obviously a fair amount of consideration has gone into this ensemble but Letizia carries an air of effortlessness, a modern and timeless look. If the dress had been lined silk I would have been blown away, but the polyester satin finish holds up well and appears far more expensive than it was. I will be adding this to my list of favourties for 2019.

Wendy

19/9/2019 10:44:35 pm

Jenny, as you are so clever about fashion I'll buy it....I always read your comments because they are really educated...also you are able to use the words perfectly..
Do you know about sewing? That's important..

Elizabeth (Admin)

19/9/2019 11:12:48 pm

Wendy, I agree! I always look forward to reading what Jennifer thinks of the outfit. I was on the fence about this dress, but after reading her comment, I'm now won over! And Wendy, I think this will be a beautiful choice for a first communion especially in the 'Water Green' colourway.

Wendy

19/9/2019 11:19:10 pm

Elizabeth, their web does not work because of the amount of people, so I can't see anything...

Elizabeth (Admin)

19/9/2019 11:24:41 pm

The #LetiziaEffect! Wendy, did you see the dress is also available here: https://www.the2ndroom.es/invitada-perfecta/858-1343-vestido-seda-purpura-lcda.html#/47-talla

Wendy

19/9/2019 11:36:44 pm

Wow!! Many thanks, Elizabeth, I live in Madrid but I would prefer to try it at home, it is easier...so I will buy it on internet.

Wendy

19/9/2019 11:53:57 pm

I have called to the firm, and they say that they have seamstress to fix the dress...so I am going to visit the shop..

Jennifer F

20/9/2019 05:48:46 am

Hi Wendy, Elizabeth and Sandy, I'm blushing all shades. The standard of comments on this blog is so high, I truly mean that. I just try and keep up with everyone else.Thank you for your kind words though! This dress is very much within my wheelhouse, modern and clean. It reminds me of Bianca Jagger's iconic white suits. Wendy, I think it's a great piece, buy it! :o) If you are unsure though ask a kind and honest friend or family member to go with you to the studio for their opinion. Like Elizabeth said, the water green colourway will be serene for a first communion. I always cringe when talking about myself, but I studied fashion at university, specializing in textiles in my final year. I have dabbled in the fashion industry but sadly it wasn't as creative as I'd dreamed. So much is based on cost and I am an artist at heart. I'm now an interiors/fashion print designer. My sewing would make you cry or laugh! it is that terrible!! From the age of about seven my mum sensing that I had an interest in fashion would buy me two runway magazines a year filled with all the big designers collections, there was no text just images. I would literally sleep with one under my pillow for the six months until the next one came out, my love has not waned.

Bertie

20/9/2019 11:53:49 am

Jennifer, thank you so much for sharing your fashion and textiles background. It certainly sheds light on how authoritative you are. I love the story of how you slept with the fashion shows under your pillow. QLSB is lucky to have you here, and I also look forward greatly to reading your posts.

Elizabeth (Admin)

20/9/2019 02:37:18 pm

Bertie, I'm so thrilled to have Jennifer on board to assist me with the blog! It makes my heart swell to know so many people care about this blog. Every visitor, commenter and contributor to the blog means a great deal to me and I really feel more than ever that this community is unique, and worth nurturing and sustaining.

Sandy

20/9/2019 10:31:26 pm

It's wonderful to hear Jennifer will be helping out Elizabeth on this blog! Best wishes for your new partnership. I think we are blessed to have you two ladies working together.
And thanks Jen for the background info. I wish I knew more women like you. As I have said many times before most women I see could care less about what they wear. They dress for comfort and have no interest in style or fashion. I feel like a fish out of water because of my love for clothes. I'm happy we can at least come together on this blog.

Bertie

21/9/2019 02:55:36 am

Elizabeth, Sandy. Wonderful to hear about the new partnership,happy days!! And so glad blog is making its creator happy, it's really going places now. Have really appreciated work put into to putting these last posts up so quick, Letizia is really packing in the outings. Appreciate might be clearing decks pre-tour and glad if help makes all that easier :)

Karana

21/9/2019 06:56:08 am

👏👏👏👏 very happy with your new collaborator!
But I hope Jennifer continues writing her opinions in this section. They are great and I love to read her

Jennifer F

21/9/2019 09:30:28 am

Bertie, I look forward to reading your posts too! Your comments are always beautifully written and insightful. You constantly inspire me to try and meet a similar standard.

Zoe, I completely agree that this is an event to look forward to fashion wise, (similar to 'ARCO International Contemporary Art Fair'). The Pedro Del Hierro jumpsuit worn in 2018 was fabulous too! I love that for the last two years Letizia has worn Spanish brands at mid point price levels and looked incredible.

Many thanks Sandy! I only help in a tiny way, I'm super happy if it can make things a little less time consuming for Elizabeth. I can tell that you put a lot of time and effort into your choice of clothing, I'm sure you must be a very elegant and well dressed lady! I can relate to the joy of finding an outlet for sharing your love for fashion.

Sandy

19/9/2019 11:39:24 pm

Hi Jennifer, I hope you don't mind me asking but can you tell us a bit about yourself in terms of fashion? Are you in the fashion industry or have a background from your line of work. Or is it just something you are interested in like a hobby. I'm curious because you are so knowledgeable. Thanks.

Zoe link

20/9/2019 01:47:15 am

Jennifer, as always, an eloquent description of this garment. that only a fashion writer with training can give. On the website, similar garments are offered in several colors and prints. It is meant for body types such as the Queen's. It actually looks like heavy silk, but as you indicated a lining would have taken it to another level. The variation of looks/silhouettes that she has offered at this event are always something to look forward to. The shoes, hair and makeup are excellent.

Bertie

20/9/2019 05:22:34 am

Scanning through the comments I'm most relieved to find another fan of this outfit. I like your point about how the excess of bracelet bling is neatly judged to appear consistent with a minimal vibe. Letizia at the top of her game here.

Sandy

22/9/2019 12:29:37 am

Thanks for the kind words Jennifer. I try to be well dressed for the occasion. It shows respect for myself as well as others. It is a creative outlet for me choosing artistic and unique styles with comfortable and affordable fabrics. And putting them together in an eye catching way. It so much fun!

Geneviève

19/9/2019 08:55:38 pm

All those diamonds and the dress looks like a bathrobe. I think it would look good if it were much shorter but that would no longer be appropriate for the occasion.

Christina

19/9/2019 11:48:58 pm

I agree. It's an interesting design, but it does nothing for her figure. It even looks a little too big.

Sandy

19/9/2019 09:42:19 pm

When I first saw this dress I thought it looked too big for Letizia and didn't like it. But after taking a second look I have changed my mind and it has really grown on me. It's such an unusual style and yes I think it works on her slim physique. I love the way it wraps around the waist loosely and the sleeves and collar are so elegant. Congratulations to Carli for coming up with such a creative and unique design. The black accessories make a dramatic statement and provide some contrast.

Bertie

20/9/2019 05:18:27 am

I am in love. This is a terrific pick from Lola Li by Letizia, with class, style, elegance, while being surprisingly accessible. I love the1930s vibe of the low-slung waist and the position of the securing waist tab is nicely judged, but maybe there's a touch of awkwardness in how it's stitched straight onto flimsy fabric, though I'm blessed if I know how else it could have been managed..

I am also in awe of the tux style top which brings the piece right into a 21st century gender-neutral vibe.The plain black clutch is a also masterly touch, there's enough fabric and draping in the dress to prevent the clutch looking remotely heavy which could happen against all that white. It helps that the clutch detailing adds texture to ease heaviness. Not quite so sure about the Blahnik slingbacks as the strappy effect makes them fade away under the long skirt, but it's hard to know what else might work as a full black court would be too much.

Jewellery is epic, the bunched bracelets are droolworthy and add all the interest one could wish against a monochrome outfit. Earrings likewise. I'm getting used to Letizia's take on the messy bun and find this one very pretty, the smokey eyes are to die for. Sooo perfect for a night at the opera, and I love the Verdi Don Carlo. Might have to go and put it on to celebrate how much in awe I am of this outfit! Who cares about more monochrome when it's this skilfully executed.

Marsha link

20/9/2019 04:07:13 pm

At first I, too, had my doubts about this dress, but then I reflected that Letizia's latest looks have all been almost effortlessly beautiful, yet fairly conventional. If Letizia is to maintain her reputation as a fashion icon (and so many people expect this of her), she needs to venture out now and then in unexpected, yet fun and interesting, ways. A night at the opera is the perfect time to debut a dress that fits this description. Even the messy bun is a bit of a dare. Well done. I predict that she will wear this dress again.

Annie

22/9/2019 09:09:52 pm

Truly beautiful, this is so elegant and understated like a piece of art. Top of my list for the year so far. I would buy this in a heart beat.

Asya

22/9/2019 11:07:57 pm

She does look perfectly "on trend" for Fall 2019, so I can appreciate the style in that respect. Normally I love menswear and tailored tuxedo evening wear. However, I am one of those fellow petite ladies who can't wait for the trend of oversized and strange silhouettes to be over! These past few years have been difficult for me in finding things to wear. That said, Letitzia would look great in a plastic bag so of course she looks gorgeous here!

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Queen Letizia debuts Lola Li for a night at the opera

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