Princess Leonor made headlines once again for her choice of attire, but this time the spotlight fell on a piece with family history. During the 2026 Princess of Asturias Awards gala, the heir to the Spanish throne wore earrings belonging to Queen Sofia's jewelry collection, a gesture that did not go unnoticed by royal followers.
The detail is significant because it connects Princess Leonor to the tradition of the Spanish Royal House, by rescuing a piece of jewelry with historical weight for an event of great institutional and cultural importance.
A gala with over four decades of history
The Princess of Asturias Awards were held on October 23 at the Campoamor Theater in Oviedo, Spain. This award, established in 1980, annually recognizes outstanding work in the scientific, technical, cultural, social, and humanitarian fields by individuals and institutions from around the world.
This year marked the 46th edition of the awards, which brought together prominent figures from music, sports, film, and science on the Asturian stage. The entire Spanish royal family attended the event, a commitment that turns Oviedo into the center of media attention year after year.
Leonor’s dress by Hannibal Laguna
For this edition, Princess Leonor opted for a burgundy boat-neck dress, designed by the Spanish fashion house Hannibal Laguna. The choice reflects a line of sober elegance that the heir has maintained in her most recent public appearances.
The outfit was completed with slingback heels with sparkling details, which added a touch of brightness to the ensemble without overshadowing the centerpiece of the night: the jewelry.
A jewel with family history
What really caught everyone's attention was the jewelry chosen by Princess Leonor, consisting of iconic pieces from Queen Sofia's collection. These historic earrings added a symbolic value to the look that goes beyond the aesthetic, linking the future queen to her grandmother's legacy.
Gestures of this kind, common in European royal houses, are usually interpreted as a form of generational continuity, in which new generations incorporate pieces of great sentimental and historical value into their own style.
A look that combines tradition and modernity
The combination of a contemporary design by Hannibal Laguna and a piece of jewelry with decades of history allowed Princess Leonor to present an image that balances innovation in attire with respect for family tradition.
The result was an ensemble that, as reflected in the event's coverage, was framed within the glamour and elegance characteristic of the major events of the Spanish Royal House.
Frequently asked questions
What are the Princess of Asturias Awards?
They are awards established in 1980 that recognize scientific, technical, cultural, social, and humanitarian work by individuals or institutions at an international level.
Where were the 2026 Princess of Asturias Awards held?
The ceremony took place on October 23, 2026, at the Campoamor Theater in Oviedo, Spain.
Who designed the dress worn by Princess Leonor?
The burgundy boat-neck dress was designed by the Spanish fashion house Hannibal Laguna.
Where do the earrings worn by Princess Leonor come from?
They are historic pieces belonging to the jewelry collection of Queen Sofia, mother of King Felipe VI and grandmother of Princess Leonor.
Which edition of the awards was held in 2026?
It was the 46th edition of the Princess of Asturias Awards.

