Donatella Versace Attends King Charles' Black-Tie Dinner in Sexy Gown Covered in 1,500 Crystals (Exclusive)

Donatella Versace's look for a formal black-tie dinner hosted by King Charles and Queen Camilla was signature Versace.

The iconic Italian fashion designer, 69, glammed up for an evening with British royalty at Highgrove House on Friday, Feb. 7, to mark the couple's upcoming state visit to Italy later this year.

Charles and Camilla are set to travel to Italy in April, where they will meet with Pope Francis, engage with Italian leaders, and carry out official duties in Rome and Ravenna. Buckingham Palace confirmed that the trip will coincide with the couple’s 20th wedding anniversary on April 9.

Versace, who was invited for her immense contributions to Italy and Italian culture, spanning the arts, fashion and philanthropy, wore a breathtaking Atelier Versace column gown for the event. She has helmed the famed fashion house since 1997.

Per exclusive details shared with PEOPLE, her blush pink design was made with the house's signature bustier silhouette, which features "a series of boning" that achieves a figure-hugging fit "like second skin."

It was also crafted from hand-pleated silk chiffon, seen on the keyhole bustier, and over 40 meters of silk woven in Italy's Como region, which holds a history of couture silk-making. Around 1,500 Swarovski crystals in tones of clear and rosalin or rose were applied to pleating arranged in a degradé effect.

With a curve-hugging silhouette on top, the dress was made fluid and effortless through a series of material drapes. All in all, Versace's gown required the work of five Atelier artisans and 500 hours of hand-crafting and embroidering.

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Versace’s contributions to the fashion world go far beyond her work with the brand. Her innovative designs have solidified her as a key figure in the global fashion industry, while her influence extends into entertainment and culture. Celebrities, including Madonna, Jennifer Lopez and Lady Gaga, have worn her creations, further cementing her status as a dominant fashion force.

Behind the scenes, photos exclusively obtained by PEOPLE capture Versace preparing for the evening, showcasing her signature glam style. In one image, she can be seen applying the finishing touches to her look, carefully applying lipstick before heading out to the royal event. 

The event at Highgrove will also be attended by American actor Stanley Tucci, who is of Italian descent, and the Italian ambassador to the UK, Inigo Lambertini, and is expected to offer a meaningful glimpse into the strong connection between the British monarchy and Italy. 

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The event promises to highlight Italian culture, with a menu prepared by renowned chef Francesco Mazzei, focusing on traditional “slow food” dishes made with locally sourced ingredients. Alessandro Palazzi, an expert mixologist, will serve drinks infused with Italian flavors and herbs grown at Highgrove.