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The best looks from the coronation weekend

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It’s been a weekend of celebrations and history in the making for the coronation of King Charles. Last week some of the most fashionable celebrities, heads of state and members of royal families across the globe attended the official coronation at Westminster Abbey, which saw over 2000 guests witness the historical ceremony.

Although guests came dressed to the nines, they were actually asked to dress down for the occasion, breaking royal tradition as part of the King’s attempt to add an element of modernisation to the coronation. So, tiaras were swapped for fascinators and, with the exception of the King, Queen and Prince and Princess of Wales in royal regalia – robes and grand ceremonial garments were eschewed for more relaxed look. The result? Some stunning fashion moments from everyone from Katy Perry to Princess Beatrice.

Then on Sunday 7 May, the new King and Queen were thrown a star-studded concert with thousands of cheering members of the public – some 20,000 of them – in the audience in the grounds of Windsor Castle. The evening was hosted by Downtown Abbey actor Hugh Bonneville and saw the likes of Katy Perry, Nicole Scherzinger and Tiwa Savage take to the stage. Meanwhile, Kate Middleton, Princess of Wales, gave us a lesson in summer suit dressing (in her go-to Alexander McQueen, of course).

The evening also saw Prince William pay a touching tribute to his father and late grandmother, saying: “Pa, we all so proud of you,” before continuing: “I know she’s up there, fondly keeping an eye on us.”

Kate Middleton

In keeping with the Alexander McQueen theme of the weekend, the Princess of Wales wore a red McQueen suit and her hair in soft waves to attend the coronation concert celebrations.

Katy Perry

Katy Perry stunned on stage in a metallic gold ball gown with matching opera-length gloves, and her hair slicked back into a sleek updo.

Sonam Kapoor

Making a spoken word performance at the coronation concert, actor Sonam Kapoor wore a floral gown co-designed by Anamika Khanna and Emilia Wickstead.

Kate Middleton

The Princess of Wales wore formal regal robes and a deep blue Royal Victorian Order mantle edged in

scarlet over an embroidered silk dress by Alexander McQueen for the coronation on Saturday 6 May. She didn’t opt for a tiara or flower crown, but a crystal and silver bullion leaf headpiece by Jess Collett for Alexander McQueen.

Rania Al Abdullah, Queen Consort of Jorda

Queen Rania wore a lemon yellow silk pencil dress by Tamara Ralph Couture.

Queen Letizia of Spain

Queen Letizia of Spain wore a fuchsia two-piece with a blush netted hat.

Pippa Middleton

We love the soft yellow shade of Pippa Middleton’s gown.

Emma Thompson

Emma Thompson arrived at Westminster Abbey in a red rose print coat from Emilia Wickstead over a black dress with black satin bejewelled pumps by Roger Vivier.

Princess Beatrice

Princess Beatrice wore a pink belted dress with a pearl clutch bag, statement headband and jewels by Garrard.

Jill and Finnegan Biden

Jill Biden wore a blue skirt with matching jacket, while granddaughter Finnegan Biden wore a custom Markarian sommer seamed corset dress with a matching cape in yellow silk crepe. The colours together appear to be a tribute to Ukraine, and the pair were seated next to Ukrainian First Lady Olena Zelenska.

Zara Tindall

Zara Tindall wore a cornflower blue belted dress with a brooch belonging to her mother, Princess Anne.

Queen Jetsun Pema of Bhutan

Queen Jetsun Pema of Bhutan wore a traditional kira in a beautiful purple shade as she arrived at Westminster Abbey with King Jigme Khesar.

Kate Middleton has arrived at Westminster Abbey ahead of the Coronation of King Charles and Queen Camilla, a hugely historic event, so it’s no wonder the Princess of Wales chose to pay touching tribute to the late Queen Elizabeth II and Princess Diana with her choice of jewellery.

To pay tribute to the two royal women who came before her, the Princess of Wales wore the late Queen’s George VI Festoon necklace, three tiers of stunning diamonds which was originally created in 1950 as a gift from King George VI to his daughter, then Princess Elizabeth before being crowned Queen Elizabeth II in 1953.

Meanwhile Kate also honoured Princess Diana by wearing her pearl and diamond earrings, which she’s worn many times before.

To pay tribute to the two royal women who came before her, the Princess of Wales wore the late Queen’s George VI Festoon necklace, three tiers of stunning diamonds which was originally created in 1950 as a gift from King George VI to his daughter, then Princess Elizabeth before being crowned Queen Elizabeth II in 1953.

Kate also honoured Princess Diana by wearing her pearl and diamond earrings, which she’s worn many times before.

The Princess of Wales wore formal regal robes and a deep blue Royal Victorian Order mantle edged in scarlet – at the request of the King and Queen – over an embroidered silk dress by Alexander McQueen. She didn’t opt for a tiara or flower crown, but a crystal and silver bullion leaf headpiece by Jess Collett x Alexander McQueen. The embroidery work of rose, thistle, daffodil and shamrock symbolised the four nations of the UK. Princess Charlotte dressed the same in an adorable mini-me moment, matching her mother in an ivory Alexander McQueen dress with the same floral embroidery and Jess Collett x Alexander McQueen headpiece.

Between the Royal Family, A-listers and the international elite, the Coronation of King Charles III was always going to be a fashion spectacle for the ages.

The pomp and pageantry of the ceremony lived up to expectation, and while spouts of protest accounted for moments of ruckus outside, guests making their way to the 2000-strong congregation did so in spectacular style.

Inevitably, it was the Firm’s chief of glamour, the Princess of Wales, who won hearts with the most fashionable look from the family – this time, with the added presence of her mini-me. Catherine enlisted the help of Alexander McQueen’s creative director Sarah Burton, her longtime trusted designer who was behind her 2011 lace wedding dress, to craft the ivory crepe gown, embroidered with roses, thistles, daffodils, and shamrocks she wore under her blue state robe.

Importantly, McQueen worked with London based milliner Jess Collett to make Greek-like, silver floral headbands in the place of a tiara squashing months of speculation over whether she would be borrowing from the Royal collection, and fears of a flower crown more suited to Glastonbury. Making headlines, however, was her daughter Princess Charlotte, who at 8 years old won hearts in her matching McQueen white cape, sparkling headpiece, and white ballet pumps, alongside her brother Prince Louis who, though restless in ceremony, looked smart in navy.

Ranking high in grandeur was Princess Anne, who wore her her Blues and Royals uniform and the green velvet Thisle cloak complete with a red feathered, bicorne hat. Her daughter, Zara Phillips, was less stoic but still elegant in a baby blue dress coat, matching Strathberry bag and diamond brooch last worn by Princess Anne in 2017.

Sisters Princess Eugenie and Beatrice took opposing routes, the former in subdued navy Fendi and the later a hot pink Beluah dress, a label whose tagline is “fighting slavery through fashion”. Sophie, Duchess of Edinburgh was respectful in her Suzannah London white gown which, designer Suzannah Crabb told The Standard, “features a beautiful hand embroidered train inspired by gowns and regalia from the Queen’s Coronation in 1953.” While not heaving with Hollywood superstars like a Royal Wedding, a number of famous faces did pull focus. Dame Emma Thomspon was an early arriver, doing so in a flamboyant red and black rose woven opera coat by Emilia Wickstead. She was joined by Lionel Richie, who was dapper in a top hat and Garrad diamond brooch, Ant and Dec, in three-piece morning suits and Nick Cave who was ever the vamp in a black suit with dark hair slicked back.

Also outside the Abbey was Dame Joanna Lumley, who is infamously fond of the royal family, and looked thrilled to be in attendance wearing her 60s style navy dress with a contrast white collar and white bowler hat. Stealing focus, though, was a sugar-pink Katy Perry who wore a bespoke suit from Vivienne Westwood, UK fashion’s late Queen of Punk, as she arrived with British Vogue’s editor in chief Edward Enninful. Left and right came together as streams of UK politicians made their way into the Abbey for the ceremony. It was Penny Mordaunt, the Tory MP who is the Leader of the House of Commons and Lord President of the Privy Council, who stole the spotlight as she demonstrated impeccable upper body strength holding up the mighty 17th-century Sword of State for the duration of the service.

Her outfit, a teal caped dress with golden fern embroidery from Hand and Lock, was more controversial, giving way to a string of less favourable memes. UK Prime Minster Rishi Sunak arrived with wife Akshata Murty, who opted for a soft blue, jacquard dress by London based designer Claire Mischevani. “It was an absolute pleasure to dress Mrs Murty, for such a momentous, British occasion,” the designer told The Standard. “As an independent British brand, it means so much to see our pieces worn to such occasions.”

Former Prime Ministers included David Cameron and his wife Samantha, who wore a floral red frock with scarlet hat, Boris Johnson and his wife Carrie, who opted for a blue dress and navy tweed jacket, as well as Liz Truss and Thersea May who both braved shots of orange in their looks.

And with no fear of controversy, it was Suella Braverman who won prize for most outlandish head piece as she demanded attention wearing an huge, cream organza fascinator and grey suit.

The Coronation would not have been complete without a helping of international razz-matazz – and there was no shortage of that. Led by the woman dubbed Spain’s answer to Kate Middleton, Queen Letizia did not disappoint in a hot pink peplum skirt suit by Carolina Herrera, complemented by a wide brimmed hat as she made her way into the Abbey with husband, King Felipe. Marie-Chantal, Crown Princess of Greece was another adopter of the popular powder blue in her custom look by Mary Katrantzou, which she finished with an unconventional clutch – a model of Marcel Proust’s novel In Search of Lost Time. Rounding off the best dressed European royals was Princess Charlene of Monaco, who was ever-striking but understated in a pale beige, button-up skirt and blazer complete with sash-style drape.

Jill Biden, First Lady of the United States, opted for a periwinkle power suit, with matching gloves and ribbonned headpiece nestled in blonde hair. It comes after her shocking hot pink statement as she met with Akshata Murty at No.10 Downing Street yesterday. First Lady of Ukraine Olena Zelenska, wife of President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, also made an inspiring appearance alongside Ukrainian Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal in a monochromatic, pale-teal look.

Her smart overcoat featured side pleats, worn over a coordinating slip dress and finished with drop pearl earrings and white heels. French president Emmanuel Macron wore an all black suit and tie as he was joined by his wife Brigitte, who channelled quiet luxury in an uber-chic pastel pink dress and matching coat designed by Nicolas Ghesquière for Louis Vuitton. Elsewhere, looking resplendent in their respective national dress, were King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck and Queen Jetsun Pema of Bhutan, Queen Nanasipauʻu Tukuʻaho of Tonga, and  Crown Princess Kiko of Japan.

 



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Camaraderie,reflection and achievements

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Institute of Hospitality Sri Lanka

The 32nd Annual General Meeting (AGM) of the UK-based Institute of Hospitality’s Sri Lanka Chapter was held recently at the Ramada Hotel Colombo,.The event provided an evening of camaraderie , reflection of the past and present achievements,setting new benchmarks for the future

The AGM had the presence of two distinguished guests, the Chief Guest Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa, and the Guest of Honour British High Commissioner to Sri Lanka, Andrew Patrick. Their inspiring speeches were lauded by all hoteliers who were present at the occasion

A special thanks was extended to Robert Richardson, CEO of the Institute of Hospitality UK, along with his team, sponsors, committee members, and all attendees for making the event memorable.

Dr. Harsha Jayasingh, Past President of the Institute of Hospitality (UK) Sri Lanka Chapter, emphasised the Institute’s longstanding history and the strength of its Sri Lankan branch. “The Institute of Hospitality (IH) UK has a history of 86 years, and we are proud to be the Sri Lanka Branch. IH Sri Lanka is much stronger now with many members from all areas of the hospitality industry,” he stated.

Dr. Jayasingh highlighted the significant role of tourism in Sri Lanka’s economy,. He said tourism it is the third-largest source of revenue for the country. “Tourism accounts for about 13.3% of total foreign exchange earnings and employs 450,000 people directly and indirectly. The hospitality industry in this island of pearl holds tremendous potential for economic growth, job creations, and cultural exchange,” he added.

He also pointed out more women should be attracted to the industry and advocated for the use of technology in hospitality sector to attract the younger generation.

The newly appointed Chairman Ramesh Dassanayake spoke about the challenges faced by the industry, including the reluctance of youth to join the sector. . Dassanayake expressed concerns over the migration of staff between hotels and the overall ‘brain drain’ in the sector. ” We must maintain high standards in the hotel We must try to attract tourists to Sri Lanka, we must have with many facilities Hence, hotel schools and other professional institutions involved in skills development mustincrease their intakes,” he pointed out.

Chief Guest Sajith Premadasa emphasised the importance of eco tourism and said “We need to have an environmental policy related to tourism in place,” . .

The 32nd AGM of the Institute of Hospitality UK, Sri Lanka Chapter, was a testament to the strength and potential of Sri Lanka’s hospitality industry. The insights and commitments shared during the event set a new benchmark for the future.(ZC)

Pix by Thushara Attapathu

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He recognizes human identity beyond boundaries of gender, race, nationality and religion.

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Sri Gurudev was in Sri Lanka on the invitation of the Prime Minister Dinesh Gunewardene

Visit of Sri Gurudev to Sri Lanka

Humanitarian, spiritual leader and Global Ambassador of Peace Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar (Sri Gurudev) was in Sri Lanka on a three day tour on the invitation of the Prime Minister of Sri Lanka Dinesh Gunewardene. Gurudev who inspired a wave of volunteerism and service to moot one of the largest volunteer-based organisations in the world – The Art of Living – visited the various projects under the aegis of the foundation and launched twelve vocational and technical centers around the island. He was accompanied by thousands of followers from Sri Lanka and around the world.

Gurudev who visited Sri Lanka for the sixth time also had a first day cover launched in honour of his visit. He is a strong proponent of spreading happiness, using the unique Sudarshan Kriya, yoga, meditation and practical wisdom to unite people, empower individuals and transform communities. His programmes provide techniques and tools to live a deeper, more joyous life, while his non-profit organisations recognize the human identity beyond the boundaries of gender, race, nationality and religion.

The Art of Living which has more than 30,000 teachers and over one million volunteers across 180 countries has touched in excess of five hundred million people around the world. CNN called it “Life Changing” and The Washington Post headlined it, “Fresh air to millions”.

In Trincomalee, Gurudev met with war victims and had a heartwarming engagement with the children from the children’s homes run by the Foundation. He also visited the Koneswara Temple in Trincomalee and graced the Kumbhabhishekam at Seetha ecogPnize the human identity beyond the boundaries of gender, race, nationality and religion. Amman temple at Nuwara Eliya. He held discussions with the trustees on the progress of the foundation’s social service projects, while also holding a special event – Ekamuthuwa – attended by a large number of dignitaries and his devotees from around the world.

His time with the Prime Minister was spent discussing the prospects of unity in diversity and uniting Sri Lanka by adding happiness into the formula of living. In addition he had discussions with the Speaker of the Parliament of Sri Lanka Mahinda Yapa Abeywardena, prominent business stewards and civil society leaders.

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Bridal shows with opulence and luxury at The Epitome hotel in Kurunegala

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by Zanita Careem

Envison your dream wedding day come to life at the Epitome Hotel, a prestigious city hotel in Kurunegala offering an unrivalled luxury rendors experience for weddings.

The venue is designed to embody opulence and luxury from all quarters for a spectacular wedding in kurunegala,Thier ballroom is the largest banquet facility in Sri Lanka It can be divided into six luxurious pillarless wedding halls on the ground floor and 25pax smaller banquet halls.

It can be easily named as a five star heaven in the heart of the city contributing to a myriad of immense experiences tailored to inspire and delight wedding experiences.

From opulent décor set up to exquisite table decor, lavish food, every detail is meticulously curated to spark your imagination and ignite creativity for a perfect wedding. The previous prestigious wedding shows season one and season two attracted large crowds

were unique events which gave the wedding vendors and potential clients had an opportunity to connect and interact with each other. Beyond being a showcase it was a chance for the wedding vendors to unite and contribute to the vibrancy of the wedding industry. The wedding show covered all area of the bridal industry providing a comprehensive variety of bridal supplies from Sri lanka and became the most popular bridal exhibitions in Kurunegala.This bridal exhibitions allowed brides and grooms to experience first hand the products and services available from suppliers in Sri Lanka

These wedding shows held at The Epitome created a benchmark and gave an opportunity for vendors to create connections to the utmost satisfaction said Harshan Lakshita Executive Director. of the magnificent Hotel

Our wedding shows featured experts and professionals in every field‘ It covered all areas of the bridal industry provided a comprehensive variety of bridal supplies from Sri lanka and became most popular bridal exhibition in this region.We are always open to everyone to join us at our wedding shows in the future. It is an opportunity to discover the incredible talent within our local wedding and bridal vendors to make meaningful relationships and plan thier special day at our breathtaking hotel The Epitome said General Manager Kavinda Caldera

The Epitome Hotel’s bridal show which will be held end of June will buzz with great ideas,advice and inspiration for all those who plan thier dream wedding

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The Hotel Epitome’s Wedding Season 3 will marked excellence, celebration and inspiration for those in the wedding industry. The exhibition halls will resonate with ideas on exquisite bridal wear to decor, florists , photography etc and showshowcase the rich tapestry of talent within the local wedding industry. .

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