Queen Maxima of the Netherlands has consistently demonstrated a flair for bending royal fashion norms, but her latest appearance takes that to a whole new level. Unlike the traditional image of regal attire that often prioritizes reserved elegance over personal expression, Maxima has chosen to embrace a more contemporary and daring style. Recently, she lit up social media with a video of her joyfully singing alongside Dutch artist Trijntje Oosterhuis. What captured observers’ attention was not just her infectious enthusiasm or vocal prowess, but her fashion choices that strayed delightfully from royal protocol.
The Elie Saab midi skirt she wore is a beacon of modernity, crafted from a luxurious blend of tweed and silk and embellished with dazzling sequin appliques. Priced at around €1.2k, or £1k, the A-line silhouette exudes both contemporary flair and sophistication. Paired with sumptuous Valentino Garavani patent leather pumps that featured striking gold detailing, she displayed an eye for unique combinations. Maxima went even further by opting for a satin cami top, a daring choice that allowed her shoulders to be exposed—a look that would send shockwaves through the royal style handbook, typically known for its more conservative approach.
A Sisterhood of Royals
While Queen Maxima’s fashion choices are certainly bold, they resonate with a broader trend among modern royals who are increasingly opting for personal expression over rigid adherence to protocol. The Princess of Wales, for example, has been noted for her audacious choices, like her memorable one-shoulder gown worn at the 2019 BAFTAs. Similarly, Meghan Markle has rewritten royal fashion standards with pieces such as her Stella McCartney halter-neck second wedding dress. These royal women are not just fashion icons; they are symbols of a new era of empowerment, whereby compliance to constraints is slowly evolving into a celebration of individuality.
Trijntje Oosterhuis captured this sentiment perfectly when she proclaimed the power of connection through music and the shared love for one another among queens. Her words brought a wave of enthusiasm from fans, many labeling Maxima as “the coolest queen of all time.” It serves as a reminder that these royal figures, often seen on pedestals, are also individuals who seek to resonate with the people—each with their own stories, passions, and styles.
The Dichotomy of Royal Existence
In juxtaposing her daring fashion choices with her more demure outfits, it is clear that Queen Maxima navigates her role with a deft understanding of balance. Just days after her spirited display, she re-emerged for the King’s Day Concert 2025 in a stunning nude dress adorned with metallic checks, showcasing her versatility. The Natan ‘Cigale’ dress embodied the classic elegance expected of a queen, yet retained an aura of contemporary sophistication with sheer long sleeves and a nipped-in waist completed with a matching belt.
This nuanced approach to attire reflects not only Maxima’s personal journey but also hints at the complexities of royal life. The 23-year-long love story with her husband, King Willem-Alexander, is fraught with both romance and controversy. Their wedding, held in Amsterdam’s historical Nieuwe Kerk, was overshadowed by the absence of Maxima’s father, Jorge Zorreguieta. His controversial past as a minister during Argentina’s infamous Dirty War raised difficult questions during a period that should have been celebratory. Interestingly, the upcoming drama series on Videoland promises to peel back layers of their story, revealing the intricate balances that modern royals must maintain in public life.
Fashion as Empowerment
Ultimately, Queen Maxima’s ascent as a fashion icon is indicative of a deeper societal shift towards empowerment and authenticity within royal realms. Her spontaneous act of singing with a friend in a bold outfit serves as a powerful metaphor—a reminder that royalty can, and should, embrace their individuality. Each public appearance is not merely a display of wealth or adherence to tradition but rather a canvas for self-expression that inspires others.
As royal figures break free from the confines imposed upon them, they invite the public into their narratives—stories marked by both courage and vulnerability. And in doing so, they make room for a more inclusive definition of royalty, one that celebrates diverse backgrounds, personal histories, and authentic choices. Whether draped in elegant gowns or wearing playful outfits, these modern queens are teaching us that true empowerment comes from owning your narrative, however unorthodox it may be.