Imperial New Year Gala: HIH The Princess Akishino and HIH The Princess Hitachi
It's a little tough to see here, because they're out of focus, but I believe we've got Princess Kiko in the ivory gown (second from the right) wearing her wedding tiara, and Princess Hanako on the right of the photo in the blue gown, wearing the Pearl and Diamond Fringe Tiara. Same tiaras from last year as well -- looks like the Japanese follow strict tiara traditions on set occasions?
Also -- no sightings of Crown Princess Masako inside this year; last year, we saw her in a car arriving at the event, but not inside. I was really crossing my fingers that we'd get a Masako tiara sighting this new year!
PHOTO CREDITS: yuko2ch.net
Tags: tiara
Ah, tradition...what else can you say about the Imperial family other than the ladies, as always, appear to be the epitome of elegance, grace and dignity in their pastel gowns. Those priceless baubles they're wearing add the only sparkle to their outfits. Maybe it's royal dress code that soft colors can only be worn. I wonder if Masako made an appearance.
What's interesting is the link to Princess Kiko's tiara, where it shows a great shot of the Prince Akishino in all his undyed head of hair gray glory. There was some discussion when he appeared in the photo at the Emperor's birthday a few weeks ago sporting dark locks, so I guess this dispels any doubt that he hit the bottle (the dye bottle, of course!).
They look fabulous. Gotta have a bit of bling for New Year.
One reason I have a hard time following Japenese royalty, as such strict adherence to protocol stifles any sense of personal creativity.