Angelina Jolie

Angelina Jolie

Angelina Jolie was made an honourary dame by Britain's Queen Elizabeth today (10.10.14).

The Oscar-winning actress, who was bestowed the prestigious title in recognition of her campaigning against sexual violence in the royal's annual list of Birthday Honours in June, was presented with the Insignia of an Honorary Dame Grand Cross of the Most Distinguished Order of St Michael and St George during a special ceremony at Buckingham Palace in London.

The 39-year-old star attended the reception with husband Brad Pitt and their six children, Maddox, 13, Pax, 10, Zahara, nine, Shiloh, eight, and six-year-old twins Knox and Vivienne.

A Buckingham Palace spokesman said: "The audience itself between Miss Jolie and the Queen was private. Her Majesty presented her with the insignia in its box. Mr Pitt and the rest of the family were introduced to the Queen afterwards, however."

An insider also told UsMagazine.com: "The kids were very excited to be at Buckingham Palace. Everyone dressed up really smart."

The brunette beauty, who wore a tailored grey pencil skirt and wool crepe peplum jacket by Ralph & Russo couture, flew to London via private jet yesterday (09.10.14) from Malta, where she and Brad are filming 'By the Sea.'

The source added: "It was difficult to take time off from the film, but Angie wouldn't have missed this for the world. What a day!"

As she is not a member of the Commonwealth, the 'Maleficent' star is unable to receive a formal Dame title, which is the highest honor bestowed upon a citizen of the British Empire, and was named an Honourary Dame Grand Commander instead.

The actress previously said: "To receive an honour related to foreign policy means a great deal to me, as it is what I wish to dedicate my working life to."