First Lady of Bling: Michelle shines at star-studded U.S. party in honour of the Queen (but her sleek up-do's overshadowed by a rather poorly placed plant)
By Daily Mail Reporter
Last updated at 6:52 AM on 26th May 2011
Michelle Obama dazzled in a glittering array of jewels last night as she co-hosted a dinner in honour of the Queen.
The First Lady scored a final fashion bulls-eye in a stunning black off-the-shoulder dress by all-American designer Ralph Lauren at the black-tie dinner.
The president’s wife showed off a selection of jewels including what appeared to be a diamond necklace and bracelet. Her spokesman claimed not to know where the jewellery was from, or whether it was her own or borrowed. But Mrs Obama is known to own an impressive collection of diamond jewellery.
Shining example: First lady Michelle Obama wore stunning jewellery for last night's bash at the U.S Ambassador's residence in London's Regent's Park
Practically perfect: But Mrs Obama's sleek updo was overshadowed by a rather badly-placed plant as she watched the Queen sign the guestbook
Mr Obama had invited the the monarch and Duke of Edinburgh at Winfield House in Regent’s Park, the official home of the U.S Ambassador as a thank you for last night’s Buckingham Palace state banquet.
Guests, who numbered more than 50, included Prime Minister David Cameron and wife Sam, England footballer David Beckham, Hollywood actor Tom Hanks, Oscar winner Colin Firth, and Harry Potter author JK Rowling.
Notable absences included Victoria Beckham, who is believed to have remained at home in LA.
Driven personalities: Queen Elizabeth and Prince Philip arrive in style at Winfield House
Grand entrance: President Barack Obama and Michelle pose with the Queen before the posh knees-up begins
The Queen and the Duke were welcomed when they arrived by the Obamas, who had waited patiently on the mansion’s doorstep for a few minutes for the monarch and her consort to arrive in their chauffeur-driven state limousine.
The two couples greeted each other warmly, shaking hands and exchanging smiles and a few words before posing for the waiting U.S and UK media.
The Queen wore an Angela Kelly white evening dress with gold and silver sequins and an emerald necklace and matching earrings.
Grinning ways: The world-famous entourage break into laughter - perhaps at one of Prince Philip's jokes
Grand: Winfield House is a fittingly lavish venue for a party with such distinguished guests
The two heads of state led the way through the residence’s entrance which was flanked by two U.S marines.
The ambassador’s neo-Georgian style residence has a symbolic and political role and is a place where leading figures from all walks of life are entertained by America’s official representative in the UK.
Its walls are hung with modern works of art by American artists like Rothko and Lichtenstein and it has been sumptuously furnished to reflect its importance.
Star-studded affair: Oscar winners Colin Firth with wife Livia, and Tom Hanks with wife Rita, are pictured leaving the party last night
Winfield House was built by the famous American socialite Barbara Hutton, dubbed the ‘poor little rich girl’ because of her troubled life, who lived there for a period with her husband Cary Grant.
The 35-room mansion replaced a John Nash building and was named after Hutton’s grandfather Frank Winfield Woolworth, founder of the retail stores.
The guests enjoyed a three-course meal that included lobster ravioli, griddled filet of aged Highland beef, crushed jersey royals with rosemary, asparagus and minted broad beans, topped off with classic pecan pie and brandy ice cream for dessert.
After the last plates had been cleared, American Tony Award-winning singer and actress Kristin Chenoweth performed for the diners.
The entertainer, who is also well known for her television roles in The West Wing and Pushing Daisies, was also a guest at the state banquet.
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