Renowned for her daring sense of style and unwavering love for vibrant hues, Queen Maxima of the Netherlands has become a symbol of sartorial audacity.
She effortlessly wears the spectrum of the rainbow and every shade in between, often accentuated by perfectly coordinated accessories.
Sandy Lancaster, stylist at House of Colour, told MailOnline: ‘It’s a statement of confidence and strength, echoing the symbolism of each hue and often paying homage or deference to the towns she visits or the people she is meeting.’
Maxima’s bold fashion choices have earned her admirers worldwide, solidifying her status as a revered style icon.
As she celebrates her 53rd birthday, let’s take a closer look at the Argentinian-born Queen.
Regal in red
‘Queen Maxima grasps the power of colour, carefully choosing the best hues to wear at events to enhance her gravitas, presence and authority,’ Sandy said.
This was the case when the monarch opened the restaurant, A Beautiful Mess, in Amsterdam in April.
Maxima commanded attention in a bright scarlet outfit by Natan, comprising a sheath dress, cape and fedora.
With the royal being accustomed to capes, this version perfectly met her criteria due to its vibrant hue, flattering length and luxurious wool composition.
She elevated the look with Gianvito Rossi pumps and a Sophie Habsburg clutch.
Gracious in green
Queen Maxima has long been a supporter of fashion brand Natan, founded by Belgian designer Édouard Vermeulen in 1983.
In 2021, the royal opted to re-wear an emerald green pencil dress and PVC suede court shoes from the esteemed fashion house.
While few could carry off head-to-toe block colour as effortlessly as Maxima, she appeared even more radiant.
Terrific in teal
This billowing teal shirt dress, also by Natan, made a lasting impression when Maxima wore it in 2023.
Crafted from taffeta, the A-line silhouette incorporated a wrap front, rolled-up sleeves and a prominent oversized belt – a recurring detail in Queen Maxima’s attire.
Enhancing her vibrant style, she added matching blue gem teardrop earrings, nude Gianvito Rossi court shoes and a Sophie Habsburg clutch.
Fantastic in fuchsia
Maxima frequently attends royal engagements wearing vibrant colours and bold prints.
Nibud’s 40th anniversary conference in 2019 was no exception as the royal sported an eye-catching fuchsia dress.
Hailing from Oscar de la Renta, this memorable frock featured a fit-and-flare silhouette, adorned with sequinned leaf embroidery.
Youthful in yellow
Demonstrating her fearlessness in embracing colour, the Maxima made a sartorial statement during an official dinner at Noordeinde Palace in 2018.
The vivid yellow ruffled masterpiece, created by Dutch designer Claes Iverse, beautifully complemented Maxima’s blonde locks and sun-kissed complexion.
‘When she wishes to assert her personal presence, Maxima boldly dons lively colours, ensuring she stands out amongst her royal peers,’ Sandy Lancaster explained.
Exhibiting her impeccable style, Maxima added metallic gold accessories and sparkling diamond jewellery.
Opulent in orange
Queen Maxima opted for a striking Natan dress for a working visit to Appingedam in the Netherlands last year.
It marked the fifth occasion that the monarch has worn the sophisticated design.
Demonstrating her understanding of what suits her best, she effortlessly carried off the tangerine hue.
The cinched waist and draped detailing added another dimension of elegance to her outfit.
True to her style, Maxima accessorised with a pair of sky-high heels from Gianvito Rossi.
Powerful in purple
Maxima exuded a powerful presence in this purple dress by Victoria Beckham.
The flared silhouette not only flattered the monarch’s figure, but also lifted her appearance to new heights.
Purple, often associated with royalty and opulence, has been a choice for Maxima on several occasions, emphasisng her affinity for its symbolic significance.
Sandy Lancaster explained: ‘Through her dynamic use of colour, Queen Maxima not only showcases her personal style, but also communicates confidence and her powerful presence on the global stage.’