Queen Máxima’s green saree in Suriname made a jewel-studded cultural statement

King Willem-Alexander of Netherlands and his wife, Queen Máxima of Netherlands recently made a state visit to Suriname in South America; their first since the country became independent from the Netherlands in 1975. During the Dutch royalty's international visit, the queen chose the historic moment to also deliver a fashion moment that was both, elegant and symbolic. Queen Máxima stepped out in a striking green saree; a fashion statement that went beyond mere style headlines.

Her outfit paid tribute to one of Suriname’s most influential communities; the Indian-Surinamese population, whose ancestors arrived from British India in the late 19th century. Nearly a quarter of Suriname’s citizens identify as Hindu today, and their traditions and aesthetics remain a large part of the nation’s multicultural identity. Queen Máxima’s choice was a gesture of respect that acknowledged the cultural harmony of the nation.

For a concert held at Paramaribo’s Thalia Theatre where Sabrina Starke performed for President Jennifer Geerlings-Simons and the international delegates, she elevated the green patterned saree that was draped over her shoulder with a combination of personal and heirloom jewels. She wore pear-shaped emerald and diamond cluster earrings that complemented her emerald and diamond necklace. It belonged to the Dutch royal vault’s celebrated emerald set, originally gifted to Queen Wilhelmina by Queen Emma in 1899. Máxima completed her look with bracelets on both wrists, a diamond-and-emerald bangle, a large emerald-cabochon ring and her orange-diamond engagement ring.

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The emeralds echoed the vibrant green of her saree, turning her ensemble into a harmonious statement; blending South American, Dutch royal and Indian visual languages. Her jewellery choices transformed the look from a diplomatic nod to a regal tribute.

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