It is obvious why Valentino is often chosen to design the dresses worn by high-profile brides on their big day. And for Maxima Zorreguieta, her wedding to Crown Prince Willem-Alexander of the Netherlands, was surely the most important day of her life, meriting a creation fit for a future queen from the Italian couturier.

Maxima and her mother-in-law, Queen Beatrix, travelled to the designer’s studio in Rome to discuss their requirements for a gown that would take people’s breath away the world over. And Valentino lived up to his reputation, creating an long-sleeved cowl necked confection, made of ivory Mikado silk, which flared out slightly from the waist, emphasising the princess’s neat figure.