Queen Letizia makes a designer debut in Dries Van Noten at the Francisco Cerecedo awards

29/11/2019

The King and Queen of Spain attended the XXXVI edition of the Premio de Periodismo Francisco Cerecedo ('Francisco Cerecedo' Journalism Prize) at the Hotel Palace in Madrid.

King Felipe and Queen Letizia attend 'Francisco Cerecedo' Journalism Prize 2019

The annual prize is awarded by the Asociación de Periodistas Europeos 'APE' (Association of European Journalists). The APE was founded in 1962, with the aim of bringing together journalists who are committed to promoting European integration, and determined to defend the freedom of information of the press in Europe. This year's recipient was writer Javier Cercas.

King Felipe and Queen Letizia deliver 'Francisco Cerecedo' Journalism Prize 2019

Queen Letizia arrived at the reception wearing her black Carolina Herrera A-Line Belted Coat.

Queen Letizia arrived at Hotel Palace in Madrid for 'Francisco Cerecedo' Journalism Prize 2019

Carolina Herrera Black A-Line Belted Coat

Once inside the hotel, Her Majesty revealed an exquisite cocktail dress by Dries Van Noten. This is the first time we have seen Letizia wear a piece by the Belgian fashion designer. The eponymous label is part of the Spanish company PUIG which also owns some of Letizia's other favourite brands including Carolina Herrera, Nina Ricci and Adolfo Dominguez.

King Felipe and Queen Letizia arrive at Hotel Palace in Madrid for 'Francisco Cerecedo' Journalism Prize 2019

The black and gold floral jacquard midi dress is from Dries Van Noten's A/W 2019-2020 collection. The wool-blend sheath features a rose silhouette in a shimmering metallic foil finish. The dress exudes a sense of ornate luxury and elegance, while the round padded shoulders give it an architectural appeal. The dress retails for US$2,065 / £1395 and is currently available at Saks Fifth Avenue and 24S.com.

A closer look at the sequin trim, and faux bob hairstyle.

Embed from Getty Images

The floral pattern took inspiration from Van Noten's personal rose garden at the end of the flowering season, and it can been seen on other pieces his collection.

Dries Van Noten black and gold floral jacquard jacket

Dries Van Noten black and gold floral jacquard trousers

Dries Van Noten black and gold floral jacquard coat

Letizia coordinated the dress with new black and gold accessories by Magrit. The custom sandals are based on the brand's 'Marina' and she carried the coordinating 'Alice' clutch bag (€250) featuring a mix of black reptile skin and shiny gold leather.

Queen Letizia finished the look with her gold Helena Nicolau 'Almond' Flower' earrings.

Embed from Getty Images

Helena Nicolau 'Almond' Flower' gold earrings

FASHION FLASHBACK

Letizia has typically favoured a dark palette for this annual event since she started attending in 2004. In 2017 she surprised us with a white Teresa Helbig flapper-style dress. Below is a look back at her most recent ensembles since becoming queen consort in 2014.

2014 - Felipe Varela

2015 - Felipe Varela

2016 - Uterque

2017 - Teresa Helbig

2018 - Carolina Herrera

2019 - Dries van Noten

SHOP LETIZIA'S LOOK FOR LESS ...

Macy's US$69

Amazon US$10.99

Betsy Johnson US$49.98

30 Comments

Karen

29/11/2019 07:25:20 pm

QL looks great. Dress gorgeous. I really love her hair. Wish it wasn't faux and that she would get a bob. Looks so healthy and shiny.

Dress perfectly coordinated with purse, earrings. Only thing I"m not sure of are the shoes. the cross detail throwing me off.

My fav part of the dress are the rhinestones detail on the sleeves in the 5th pic. I did not notice at first but when I did notice. Oooooh! How exquisite.

Elizabeth: you did awesome with the get the looks for less options! Especially the earrings!: )

Elizabeth (Admin)

29/11/2019 07:32:22 pm

Thanks Karen 🤗

Karen

30/11/2019 08:43:59 pm

You're very welcome Elizabeth. :)

Wendy

29/11/2019 10:09:09 pm

Pobably she keeps her hair longer because she needs to wear tiaras every now and again and a bun could not be made. Queen Sofia wore her hair shorter, but much more shorter however she did not use to don an updo.

Wendy

29/11/2019 07:27:52 pm

Jennifer, I am thinking about you!! You were speaking about Dries Van Noten

Gorgeous!!

Jennifer F

29/11/2019 10:57:08 pm

:o) Thanks for remembering Wendy, so happy that you think it is gorgeous too!

Wendy

29/11/2019 11:48:32 pm

I promise I read you (two or three times to understand...🤗) I am improving my vocabulary, and fashion knowledge as well. It is a pleasure you are here, always so educated and wise.

Jennifer F

2/12/2019 04:39:49 am

Hi Wendy, you are too kind, I enjoy the comments here so much that I read them several times over, I'm constantly learning new things. Your English is so good that I often forget it's not your first language - I wish that I was as good as you at picking up another language and could talk to you in Spanish!

Milly

29/11/2019 07:53:45 pm

I think we have a serious contender for favourite look of the year!

Sandy

1/12/2019 10:52:59 pm

I think you are right about favorite look of the year. I've read all the comments and this is one of the rare times where everyone on the QLSB unanimously agrees that the outfit is exceptional & perfect!

Elena Mihaela Ciocan

29/11/2019 09:22:14 pm

Excellent coverage, as usual. And what a look! I can never get bored with this blog, Queen Letizia is a delight.

Jennifer F

29/11/2019 10:55:52 pm

I literally screamed 'YES' with excitement when I saw the Queen was wearing Dries Van Noten, my partner jumped! Their pairing is a fashion wish come true, Letizia looks incredible! This ensemble is perfect in every aspect, regal and strikingly modern, the dress is a simple but opulent creation. The metallic gold florals aren't overly distorted by folds, darts, and seam lines and fluidly traverse across the architectural line of the dress. Padded shoulders balance the sturdy wool blend and double folds at the waist, whilst adding further structure to the mid-length column which fits her splendidly. An embellishment of gold and silver sequins protrude from the underside of the shoulders, a stunning detail that provides a glittering textured contrast to the smooth design. I don't usually like platformed sandals, but the Magrit pair harmonise the proportions and she appears statuesque. The crossover gold straps and black cutouts break the heavy style. I've been hoping that we would see her re-wear the Nicolau earrings, they beautifully echo the clean motif. My favourite hairstyle of the Queen's was the blunt bob she sported in 2015, considering the flattering effect of the 'faux bob' last night, I wonder if she will contemplate cutting it again... it looks gorgeous in the dark chocolate hue. Needless to say, this will be in my top five looks of the year, hoping for more Dries Van Noten and Pertegaz in 2020!

Simone

29/11/2019 11:45:31 pm

Netiher sandals nor shoes, I think all is so harmonious.

https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-52dl1PbvdxE/XeBSslfK-rI/AAAAAAACXO8/ayzB2UH5SgUQvkY7lf_CVPiIgcSD5UiygCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/style-of-letizia-2.jpg

Bertie

30/11/2019 04:24:59 am

I'm almost as excited to hear you were as excited as me to see Van Noten take to Letizia's stage as I am by this divine outfit!! A fashion pairing wish come true, indeed!! Your summary of the execution via folds, darts and seam lines to achieve opulent simplicity is as inspired and fluent as ever, we are so lucky to have your insight on this blog. I have sometimes been paid the odd compliment here myself, but am so relieved to have someone here now who can show what real fashion writing is, and who deserves such things where I am simply winging it!!

I haven't been this excited since the mint Nina Ricci, and both looks are my favourite of all time -- within a couple of weeks of each other! -- I cannot choose between them for all-time star quality. Bravo Letizia. bravo Jennifer!!

Sandy

1/12/2019 10:59:07 pm

The Nina Ricci mint dress was beautiful but I still lean towards the DVN as being more captivating and exciting. It really is eye catching the minute you see it.

Zoe link

1/12/2019 03:03:49 am

PS. Imagine her wearing the jacket version if the outfit with a pair of gold pants, and those shoes...Pass the smelling salts!!

Jennifer F

2/12/2019 04:42:51 am

Hi Simone, I agree, perfect choice of footwear. I would love to know how these custom styles are made for her. I wonder if Letizia takes the garment/or a sketch of the outfit to the studio and if the Magrit team sit down and discuss options with her over coffee or does Eva Fernández have a very clear idea of how she envisages the ensemble and requests an updated model of an existing style. It would be fascinating to get a glimpse of behind the scenes.

Hi Bertie, I am surprised that your background isn't in an area of fashion, you have a wonderful understanding of clothes and fit, and your use of language is superb! I am convinced you are writer :o) You constantly encourage and inspire, you are a credit to this blog! We are all so lucky to be part of this community, it's a very special space that Elizabeth provides. Nina Ricci and Dries Van Noten will certainly be competing for that top spot of my list this year and will both be cataloged into iconic looks of the Queens. I'm amazed that we got two new sensational looks between South Korea and the festive season. I admit that I didn't hold much hope of being stunned again after National Day, the Princess of Asturias Awards, Japan and South Korea back to back.

Hi Zoe, wonderful outfit idea! gold straight-leg trousers with sharp knife creases would look stunning!! I would definitely need some smelling salts. If Dries Van Noten made her a bespoke tailored blazer with a pronounced curve highlighting the waist, that would be dreamy too.

Marsha link

3/12/2019 11:47:16 am

I agree with Jennifer who points out that Letizia's shorter blunt bob in 2015 really was her best look. I, too, wish she return to that style, at least for a while. However, I think many of us don't realize how time and labor intensive a shorter polished bob is to maintain. You can bet she doesn't style her own bob; it's too difficult to do. Letizia has so many engagements and appearances, and the bob has to be absolutely perfect every time. It's probably so much easier to just go with her longer hair. In addition, as has been mentioned, there are probably formal occasions when a chignon or other updo is more appropriate. These are probably considerations that make her stick with long hair, which often looks messy and can detract from the total effect. But in any case her hair is beautiful—healthy and shiny. Most of the time it looks great.

Tere

29/11/2019 11:26:18 pm

Her best look of the year so far.

Sandy

29/11/2019 11:53:47 pm

This dress is absolutely gorgeous and the whole outfit is perfection. I agree it may be the best of 2019. The black background is the perfect backdrop for the beautiful gold floral pattern that is not overwhelming but bold at the same time. The rose detail wraps around the entire dress so it looks superb not only from the front but also from the back. This dress would have looked great worn on the recent Japanese tour. It has an oriental feel and look that would have worked well. At first I thought Letizia cut her hair in the same cropped style she wore back in 2015. Her hairdresser is a genius to mimic that style by cleverly tucking it in at the back. For some reason I think it makes her look younger, The Queen looks stunning and has come a long way from that baby doll dress she wore in 2017. This is one of the best Letizia outfits of all time. Top ten for sure!

Simone

30/11/2019 12:00:01 am

More photos:

https://www.hola.com/belleza/actualidad/galeria/20191129155236/reina-letizia-peinado-falso-bob/2/?viewas=amp

Laura

30/11/2019 02:28:38 am

My word, what an exquisite dress! The style is relatively simple, but the gold motifs and the embellishments at the shoulder/sleeve are pure art. The shoes and clutch are a good match in their repeat of the gold and black, although I find the shoes a tad clunky, with the platform soles. Wearing the CH coat it was a sophisticated choice.

I love Letizia's hair and at first thought she'd had it cut. I wish she would keep it at this length.

Bertie

30/11/2019 04:03:37 am

Oh wow, thank you so much PUIG for providing so many fab labels Letizia can access. This is stunning, dress, shoes, hair, earrings -- and this time I'm fair near as impressed by your bargain substitutes as by the originals. If I had a party to go to I think I'd pop out and buy the lot!!

Dries Van Noten is simply 'le dernier cri' in my eyes, for class, cut, and style, and this sheath is a topper. I love that Letizia is able to indulge in a favourite style with fashionable fullness included in such brilliantly managed soft pleats, a couple of which I notice are lined up with the bodice darts, which, as Jennifer has been at pains to point out, is consistent with quality fit and tailoring. By being slightly to the side, the pleating still leaves the front of the dress flat and not bulky, which is just plain common sense in my eyes.

I saw with puzzlement that the pattern was just slightly mismatched between bodice and skirt, the stem of the rose being slightly broken, which I've now decided is a very slick way of referencing an off-beat mis-match while preserving elegance.

As ever, I am in raptures at a beautifully cut crew neck, so perfectly set off with the faux-bob, a style I love on Letizia. I'm also over-the -moon with the genius sequin shoulder trim giving an inspired cap sleeve.

The gold and black print is simply stunning, right up Letizia's monochrome street, though, while wonderful in an evening dress, I would draw the line at trousers - too much like pyjamas. I can only marvel at Magrit being able to supply such a perfect set of strappy gold-and-black sandals, the two-tone effect from the reflecting skinny crossover ankle strap is a wonder, also the broad front strap. The clutch is neat and snappy and complements rather than distracts from the bold dress print.

The gold Helena Nicolau earrings are as wonderful as everything else, a delightful extension of the floral theme, and for once I am proud to be familiar with the almond blossom reference for Spain as I myself have lately brought a dear little almond blossom brooch made down in Malaga (Etsy again) where the flower is the town symbol. I bought it in memory of my father who loved that part of the world and waxed lyrical about the sea of blossom he saw when wintering there. It's an all-out win for me and a blissful QLSB treat to help me forget a rotten week!!

Wendy

1/12/2019 08:25:05 pm

Bertie, I think that the flower of Málaga is called biznaga, the almonds grow in Extremadura but not in Andalucía.

https://es.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Biznaga_malague%C3%B1a

https://www.viajamalaga.com/biznaga-la-flor-de-malaga/

Ava Pittman

30/11/2019 06:53:07 am

Spectacular. The Queen looks amazing. Gold motif print is beautifully crafted and placed, not distorted by folds or structure within the gown. Fit, perfect, especially the tuck and flow of material from the waist down. Length adds elegance. Sequin trim detail takes dress to a whole new level, unusual, adds interest. Detail like this I love. Crossover strap scandals by Magrit, divine, complimenting black and gold bag, perfect finishing touch. Oozes class.

Louise M

30/11/2019 06:54:06 am

Beautiful, elegant, stylish dress that suits QL so well. Her hair looks great.

Zoe link

1/12/2019 02:58:14 am

Fabulous!!. Easily one of her best looks this year. The fabric holds its shape, while the continuous pattern and the subtle sequinned trim testifies to the detail of the creations done by better designers. The false bob adds to the glam look. It's a treat for this outing. The accessories are just right. Those shoes deserve a Japanese style bow ...from the waist. The thin little straps are all that holds them to her feet.
Wendy an Olé! for you. It is possible to visualize the dress without actually seeing it.

Asya

1/12/2019 07:21:57 am

I have written before about my dislike of maxi dresses, however, this is the rare one that works. The sculptural details and the high waist and slim-line skirt are very pleasing to the eye. I love her faux-bob as well! This is also one of my favorite of her winter coats:) Altogether a great combination!

Laura

2/12/2019 02:16:48 am

Asya, it is my understanding that a maxi dress comes to the ankles. So this gorgeous black and gold dress is most certainly not maxi.

Stephanie

4/12/2019 07:32:48 pm

Queen Letizia has worm some fabulous clothes this year but this combination of dress, hair style, jewellery, clutch and shoes is inspiring. The fabric is stunning.

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Queen Letizia makes a designer debut in Dries Van Noten at the Francisco Cerecedo awards

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