After a somber morning at the 9/11 Memorial in New York, Britain’s King Charles and Queen Camilla went their separate ways. As a lover of literature, Queen Camilla made her way to the New York Public Library—her companion? Only Sarah Jessica Parker: a worthy representative of NYC and a fellow books obsessive. SJP probably took the time to wonder: what does one wear to read with the Queen of England?

The actor stuck to the usual Sarah Jessica Parker codes of style, with a hint of Carrie Bradshaw: a white, polka-dot midi dress with a scalloped and frilled collar and buttoned front, paired with a pale pink and softly animal print coat. Her choice of footwear veered less royal visit, more brunch with the SATC girls: a pair of statement, super-light pink pumps with a black caged front and contoured vamp. A high-drama heel actually felt quite right for the occasion: it was on these famous steps, of course, that Carrie had her heart broken by Big, giving SJP the opportunity to imbue the location with some royal-induced joy.

Parker accessorized with a ladylike pearl necklace with jewel adornments, and kept makeup sheer and dewy. Her long hair was styled in a side-part, long and lightly curled.

The Queen, meanwhile, opted for a bespoke navy Fiona Clare crepe silk dress and matching knee-length coat. She accessorized with the Queen Mother’s Britannia brooch and Eliot Zed Gladys leather pumps.

“Every time you shine a spotlight on reading and the relationship between a reader and a book and how it changes lives and enriches lives and cultivates empathy and curiosity, I’m so grateful. And for Her Majesty, it means a great deal,” Parker told press at the event.

Parker guided the Queen through the library, where she met literary luminaries and publishers including Anna Wintour and chief librarian Brian Bannon. It was the first royal visit since the library’s founding.

The duo have met before, during a reception for authors, patrons, and supporters of the Children's Booker Prize back in London. The royal tour culminated in a glitzy gala last night for The King’s Trust; in attendance was the likes of Grace Coddington, Karen Elson, Donatella Versace, and White Lotus couple Meghann Fahy and Leo Woodall.

Dressing up for book club? Like Sarah Jessica Parker, consider the conversation-making shoe for when you haven’t read the next chapter.