The Netherlands' Queen Máxima gives a lesson in dressed up daywear with this blush pink fit and flare dress

Since marrying into the Dutch royal family in 2002, Máxima has displayed a distinct sartorial sense, with a penchant for bold colours, chunky accessories and big hats; so, the occasions during which she opts for understated attire are newsworthy for royal watchers. On Monday, she and husband King Willem-Alexander celebrated Kingsday in Amersfoort, her choice of a blush pink fit and flare dress by Dutch designer Claes Iversen was a notable departure from her usual looks.

The long sleeve midi dress featured a gradient effect of sequins into silk with a chunk belt to add definition. There was no hat to distract, instead accessorising with a chain knot Bottega Veneta clutch, a pair of Ferragamo heels with ribbon detail and some diamond disc earrings.

The last 12 months have been particularly difficult for the 47-year-old, who previously worked in international finance, as her sister Inés took her own life last June and last month, she returned to work after taking some time off due to surgery. Last year, she was ordered to rest by her doctors over a suspected intestinal infection and missed a planned trip to Tanzania for her work as the UN Secretary-General’s Special Advocate for Inclusive Finance for Development.

Earlier this month, Máxima was back to her best, debuting a white asymmetric Stella McCartney gown for a gala dinner at the Royal Palace in Amsterdam, with the Antique Pearl Tiara, one of her favourites.