The Duchess Dazzles in Jenny Packham Showstopper at No Time to Die Premiere

It was a glittering red carpet appearance at the Royal Albert Hall this evening for the premiere of James Bond's latest outing No Time to Die. Now, I know we're all dying to talk about that gown, but first a little about the evening :)

The event marked a rare joint engagement for the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, the Prince of Wales, and the Duchess of Cornwall. Below, a lovely shot of Kate and Charles.

The royal party was welcomed by Lord Lieutenant of Greater London, Sir Kenneth Olisa before being introduced to Bond producers Michael G. Wilson and Barbara Broccoli. They were also warmly greeted by the President of the Royal Albert Hall, Ian McCulloch.

A royal 007 arrival: Prince William and Kate, the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, attend the "No Time to Die" premiere. pic.twitter.com/qEvaBnwA0J

— AP Entertainment (@APEntertainment) September 28, 2021

An arrival video from the Telegraph.

In recognition of the movie's history, the world premiere will benefit charities supporting serving and former members of the three intelligence agencies (the Secret Intelligence Service, the Security Service and GCHQ). As we continue to appreciate our gradual return to normality, it's so important to show gratitude to those who sacrificed so much for us over the past eighteen months -- and that's why a number of health care workers and members of the armed forces were invited to be among the first in the country to see the film.

A look at the red carpet before arrivals.

Like so many events, this eagerly anticipated night had been postponed several times due to Covid-19. There was an air of great excitement as the premiere was finally held.

We saw Charles, Camilla, William and Kate pose for photos on the red carpet. 

Inside, the royals met the stars of the night, including actors Daniel Craig, Rami Malek, Léa Seydoux and Lashana Lynch; screenwriters Neal Purvis, Robert Wade and Phoebe Waller-Bridge; and 'No Time to Die' song performers Billie Eilish and Finneas O’Connell.

Indeed, 007 couldn't help but notice Kate's look tonight. "You look jolly lovely", Daniel Craig said. 

Kate meeting Lashana Lynch. Judging by the photo, I think Lashana was also a fan of the look :)

Bond premieres are always a highlight on the movie calendar, and something of a staple for the royal one. This film has particular significance, with hopes firmly pinned on Daniel Craig's final mission as 007 marking a turning point for cinemas in the UK. The arts sector across the board has been damaged over the course of the pandemic. It's easy to forget eighteen months ago it was thriving -- and worth billions in fact. Through tentative reopening and strong adherence to restrictions, leading cinema chains have been eying this film for over a year. Advance ticket sales are incredibly promising because the franchise appeals to people of all ages and its history spans nearly six decades, which sets it apart from other offerings over the summer.

Asked about the potential impact for cinemas, Daniel Craig recently said he "believes in cinema", adding he hopes the film can give the industry "a boost". "Cinema is here to stay as far as I’m concerned, and if we can help in some way, I’ll be very happy," added Mr Craig. Clare Binns, joint managing director of UK chain Picturehouse Cinemas, told iNews, "Everyone is excited – not just audiences, but all the cinemas are getting really fired up. You can sense the buzz. It feels like an exciting moment for film."

The 25th installment in the franchise follows James Bond after his decision to leave active service and retreat to a tranquil life in Jamaica.

His newfound peace doesn't last long however, when he's pulled back into action by an old friend who turns up asking for help. A mission to rescue a kidnapped scientist sends Bond on a journey to find a mysterious villain with a dangerous plan.

Filmed across a number of locations in England, Scotland, Italy, Jamaica and Norway it promises an action-filled movie filled with classic moments Bond fans have come to expect and love.

A very familiar sight for royal fans. Lea Seydoux, who reprises her role from SPECTRE as Dr Madeleine Swann, walks across the Mall with a troop of Life Guards from the Household Cavalry in the background.

No Time to Die was helmed by director Cary Joji Fukunaga, who stepped in to replace Danny Boyle after the latter exited due to creative differences.

You might remember Mr Boyle was responsible for this unforgettable outing with the Queen and 007.

The trailer.

London is paying tribute to 007 in several ways. Take a look at luxury retail destination Burlington Arcade in Mayfair.

A Triumph Scrambler 1200XE driven by Bond outside the cinema at Selfridges.

And in a fitting tribute to mark Craig's swansong, 'Commander Bond' has been made an honorary Commander in the Royal Navy. Commander Craig said: “I am truly privileged and honoured to be appointed the rank of Honorary Commander in the senior service."

William, Kate, Charles and Camilla take their seats in the Royal Box.

Royals seated! #NoTimeToDie pic.twitter.com/xfCIhOeffG

— Manori (@manori_r) September 28, 2021

It was a night for outstanding fashion (and I'm not just referring to the Duchess). Here's the man of the hour looking rather dapper in velvet magenta.

Like Kate, Lea Seydoux chose a gorgeous cape gown for the night. This silver and white sequined, ethereal piece is by Louis Vuitton.

Lashana Lynch, who plays MI6 Agent Nomi, selected a beautiful gown believed to be by Vivienne Westwood. The vibrant golden-yellow and ball-gown skirt make for a sweeping combination.

Naomie Harris (Eve Moneypenny) chose a sequin-studded Michael Kors creation, styled with Ana Khouri jewellery, Jimmy Choos, and an Omega watch. Speaking to Vogue ahead of the premiere Naomie said, "The classic silhouettes and sophisticated elegance that Michael Kors is known for worldwide are a perfect marriage with the ultra high-end glamour of the Bond world."

And I believe Ana de Armas wore a slinky gown with a deep V neck by Louis Vuitton. Ana plays Paloma in the movie.

Phoebe Waller-Bridge, best known to many of us for Fleabag and Killing Eve, participated in adding final touches to the script. She looked terrific in a black sequined jumpsuit.

The one and only M (as far as I'm concerned...), the living legend Judi Dench, was radiant in black.

The Duchess of Cornwall looked lovely in a shimmering pale blue, chiffon Bruce Oldfield gown. One of her go-to designers, Oldfield has crafted a number of timeless creations for Camilla over the years. I do think Kate and Camilla coordinated for this -- the sequins on their gowns complemented each other beautifully, adding a further 'wow' effect to photos. Camilla accessorised with Princess Marie Louise's Diamond Sunburst Brooch. The piece was last worn by the late Queen Mother. Tonight marks the first occasion the Duchess has worn it.

Now to the Duchess of Cambridge... 

I think we're in collective agreement that this is one of her best -- if not the best -- evening looks to date. It's been eighteen months since Kate donned an evening gown for an engagement, and to say she delivered would be an understatement.

Kate looked absolutely stunning in a shimmering cape effect Jenny Packham gown. The designer has long been known as the 'Queen of Eveningwear' -- further cementing that status tonight. The cape flows delicately, while beautiful silver embellishments adorn the gold throughout. Styling it with gold shoes and statement earrings added another element to the flawless look. I know this is one we're going to hope Kate repeats. It's fabulous in photos, but even better in motion.

The sparkling embellishment..

More from the Telegraph:

'The Duchess of Cambridge chose a glittering gold caped dress by British designer Jenny Packham for the night, going all out with matching gold disc earrings. The draping of the design mimics the famous Bond swirl vector, used in the film franchise’s opening credits and graphics for decades.'

When the palace confirmed the Duchess would be attending, I suggested Jenny Packham's glittering Elizabeth Cape Gown with several others as a (hopeful) possibility. I thought it would be simply perfect -- befitting the glamour of the night. It was a wonderful surprise when Kate arrived in a similar design.

Kate's gown is a bespoke design combining elements of the Elizabeth gown above with the Simona lattice gown from the Autumn/Winter 2021 collection (great spot by Laura @japanese ginger).

The Duchess accessorised with her O'nitaa London earrings, first worn in Pakistan. The Chelsea-based boutique has been a leading player in the South Asian luxury couture industry for a decade.

A closer look at Kate's updo.

Kate wore her citrine cocktail ring.

And gold pumps.

Gabi identified them as the Aquazzura Fenix pumps. 

A very memorable night!