First Prinsjesdag with New Monarch

The official opening of parliament was celebrated on Tuesday in the Netherlands, the first Prinsjesdag for the new monarch, Willem-Alexander.

King Willem-Alexander was joined by his wife, Queen Máxima, and brother and sister-in-law, Prince Constantijn and Princess Laurentien, for his inaugural speech from the throne. The royal party made their way to the Ridderzaal in horse-drawn carriages through the streets of The Hague.

The King’s speech, in which he discussed the current economic climate, economic stimulation plans and the European Union, was praised by the Dutch media. He began his speech on a personal note, paying tribute to his mother’s thirty-three years service as monarch, and thanking the public for their support and condolences following the death of Prince Friso last month.

Queen Máxima wore a custom-made golden Jan Taniniau evening gown, featuring a rope belt and a beaded diamond design which grew in size in descent to the hem. It was paired with a gold hat with an upswept brim. Princess Laurentien wore a repeat gown, the navy lace gown she wore during the King’s inauguration festivities in April, matched with sapphire and diamond jewels and a navy hat with a white feather.

The royal family then appeared on the balcony of Palace Noordeinde to greet the thousands who gathered outside.

Filed under The Netherlands
Tagged Fashion, King Willem-Alexander of The Netherlands, Parliament, Prince Constantijn of the Netherlands, Princess Laurentien of the Netherlands, Prinsjesdag, Queen Máxima of the Netherlands.

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