“Sack the stylist” was the gist of the commentary dominating social media yesterday after President Marie-Louise Coleiro Preca appeared at Thursday’s official welcoming ceremony wearing an unflattering, pea green ensemble.
As the royal family and heads of government gathered in Malta for the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting, all eyes were turned to the fashion choices of the dignitaries.
And the choice of clothing set off a storm of social media buzz.
While Queen Elizabeth was dressed in a light blue tweed outfit with a matching hat, Ms Coleiro Preca donned an ensemble which “looked as if it were picked out of a jumble sale”, according to fashion stylist Marisa Grima.
The colour, the style, the fit, the design, the lace and the material were very badly made and did not suit her, she said.
I really think it’s an awful suit
“I dislike criticising but the outfit did not do her any justice,” Ms Grima told this newspaper.
“I can’t understand why the opinion of stylists is not sought out for such high profile events. She should have looked impeccable but she wasn’t.”
On the other hand, the Queen was elegantly turned out. “The Queen has a signature look – she knows what suits her and she sticks to it.”
Meanwhile, the Prime Minister’s wife Michelle Muscat wore what has been described as a 1950s-style short cape made of moire-effect broadtail lamb, worn over a cocktail dress, with a hat made of the same fur.
Ms Grima praised the outfit, adding that Ms Muscat had a taste for vintage-inspired clothing.
Fashion stylist Luke Engerer thought that Ms Muscat looked good but felt that her outfit was more suited to an evening function.
“Unfortunately our President missed the mark. It’s a poor choice of fabric and colour and the shape is all wrong for her. It’s very dated. Black accessories did not help. I really think it’s an awful suit.”
The Queen, he continued, was very well dressed for a 90-year-old woman, in a well-tailored outfit in an attractive colour and texture.
Queen Elizabeth’s attire over the last 63 years has reflected the sovereign as a British symbol of refined, regal elegance. The looks she has worn have steadily evolved into her trademark – monochromatic colour with matching coat and hat.
Not one to wear sombre, muted hues like black or beige, the Queen has always had a preference for vivid blues, intense greens and dazzling purples in a variety of dramatic shades.