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A stunning picture of the Prince and Princess of Wales has been released this evening, ahead of tonight's glittering state banquet at Windsor Castle. Posting the photo to social media before the royal procession, Kensington Palace gave fans a sneak peek of their outfits.

Princess Catherine dazzled in a breathtaking floor-length Jenny Packham design, crafted in shimmering purple sequins. The dress featured a sculpted silhouette paired with a fluid cape overlay, giving the ensemble a regal, almost ethereal sweep as she entered the ballroom. To finish the look, the Princess wore Queen Victoria's Oriental Circlet Tiara.

The King and Queen are hosting the state banquet inside the impressive St George's Hall. Some 160 guests, including politicians, celebrities, and dignitaries, will attend tonight's feast. Guests will dine on an exquisite menu, written in French, prepared by royal chefs and served on historic, priceless dinner sets.

For tonight's banquet, Princess Catherine's look was steeped in elegance and symbolism. Pinned to her gown were her Royal Family Order and the GCVO Sash and Star.

The King and Queen were equally eye-catching, Camilla sporting a green lace evening gown by Fiona Clare with the Girls of Great Britain and Northern Ireland Tiara, and the Order of Germany Sash.

Inside St George's Hall at Windsor Castle the 45 metre dining table gleamed under the light of 158 candles and a stunning 20 foot Christmas tree glittering with 15,000 fairy lights.

This is the third state banquet Catherine has attended this year, with the Princess first joining the royal family in July for the French state banquet honouring French president, Macron. She wore the Lover's Knot tiara and red gown with caped back detailing by Sarah Burton for Givenchy, accessorising with a lily of the valley embroidered evening clutch.

The Prince and Princess of Wales officially kicked off the major royal event by welcoming the German president and his wife to the UK for a historic state visit.

The pair welcomed Frank-Walter Steinmeier and his wife Elke Budenbender to the UK at Heathrow Airport on behalf of the King this morning, where they carried out their customary greeting role.

William, in a smart suit, greeted the King's guests alongside Catherine, who was wearing a Burberry dress with a blue coat by Sarah Burton for Alexander McQueen.

William and Kate then travelled back to Windsor, where they enjoyed a carriage ride through the streets to the castle. Mr Steinmeier then received a ceremonial welcome in the castle quadrangle, also attended by King Charles, Queen Camilla.