The cream of British society has enjoyed a long-running love affair with Italy, and this was never more in evidence than in London's Grosvenor Square on Wednesday night. Hugh Grant and his glamorous girlfriend Jemima Khan were both in attendance, along with the Queen and Prince Charles, when the Italian ambassador hosted a lavish bash at his residence in Mayfair.
Jemima was her usual elegant self in a floor-length black gown with diamond earrings, while Hugh was every inch the English gentleman in his tuxedo. The previous day Italian President Carlo Ciampi, who hosted the event, had been treated to a state banquet in Buckingham Palace the previous day.
Simply Red singer Mick Hucknall, who owns a home and a vineyard in the Mediterranean country, was also in attendance. But conspicuous by her absence was the Prince of Wales' bride-to-be Camilla Parker Bowles.
Italian journalists had been briefed to expect the future Duchess of Cornwall, who will tie the knot with Charles on April 8. A spokesman said the 57-year-old was too busy with wedding arrangements, but her absence has provoked further speculation that her presence at such high-profile official events is not yet considered appropriate. Prince Charles also arrived alone for the Buckingham Palace reception the night before. |
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