Queen Mathilde steps out in elegant head-to-toe pink for special palace meeting

Queen Mathilde brought an elegant dose of color to the Royal Palace as she welcomed a special group of young guests in Brussels.

The Belgian royal, 53, stepped out in a sophisticated head-to-toe pink look for a meeting with five children involved in Ketnet’s STIP IT campaign against bullying.

Mathilde opted for a soft dusty-rose ensemble that created an effortlessly polished monochromatic moment. Her look featured a high gathered neckline and long sleeves, with the fabric falling into a fluid, floor-skimming silhouette.

Rather than relying on bold prints or contrasting colors, the Queen allowed the delicate pink shade and elegant draping to take center stage. She completed the refined look with her hair styled away from her face, highlighting her understated makeup and delicate earrings.

© Belga News Agency

The elegant appearance came as Mathilde welcomed five children featured in the upcoming program STIP IT: Kintsugi, alongside Ketnet presenter Lee Arrendell. The children have each experienced bullying and share their stories in the new series, which explores both its impact and the process of rebuilding confidence.

During their visit to the Royal Palace, the young guests spoke openly with Mathilde about their experiences. 

© Emile Windal/Belga/Shutterstock

One of the children also placed four dots on the Queen’s hand, the recognizable symbol of the STIP IT campaign and its four commitments against bullying. Reports from Belgium quoted Mathilde praising the children for their courage and expressing her belief that sharing their experiences could help other young people.

The group even brought a little movement into the palace, performing the STIP IT dance before presenting Mathilde with a meaningful gift: a broken plate they had repaired using kintsugi.

© Andia

The traditional Japanese technique repairs broken pottery while emphasizing its cracks rather than disguising them. For the new Ketnet program, that idea becomes a metaphor for healing. Difficult experiences can leave marks, but those marks do not have to be hidden.

Mathilde’s participation also continues her public support for efforts addressing bullying and children’s well-being. The 2026 STIP IT campaign runs through October 9, while STIP IT: Kintsugi will air on Ketnet and VRT MAX from October 5 through October 9.