King Charles III and Queen Camilla made a surprise appearance at the King's Trust 50th anniversary gala at Christie's New York on Wednesday night. The event raised over $3 million to combat youth unemployment. Celebrities including Karlie Kloss, Martha Stewart, and Donatella Versace joined the royal couple amid British-inspired festivities.
The King's Trust, founded by Charles in 1976 as Prince of Wales, marked its 50th anniversary with a glamorous gala at Christie's auction house. The charity, now operating in 20 countries, has supported over 1.5 million young people with skills and confidence for professional success. This year's event proved its most successful, raising more than $3 million, co-chaired by Lionel Richie, Edward Enninful OBE, and Charlotte Tilbury. Guests enjoyed smoked salmon canapés and Cygnet Gin martinis under artworks by Matisse and Giacometti sculptures, with attendees blending fashion icons in tartan and pearls alongside luxury gowns like Karlie Kloss's floor-length red dress and Martha Stewart's blue sequins. Donatella Versace, Stella McCartney, Meghann Fahy, and Leo Woodall also mingled. King Charles and Queen Camilla arrived around 6:30 p.m. during their four-day U.S. visit, shaking hands and listening to UK Ambassador Tristan Gilchrist's introduction referencing a historic 'Royal hot dog picnic' with President Roosevelt, which drew laughter from the King. Charles addressed the crowd, stating, “We are truly greater together—and that’s the point,” on the UK-US relationship. He complimented Lionel Richie, adding, “He must gargle with port.” The royals departed quietly after guests moved upstairs for dinner, leaving a memorable royal touch to the evening. The gala capped their trip, following Queen Camilla's earlier library visit with Sarah Jessica Parker.
