Friday, August 31, 2012

Red Roses For Kate On Valentine's Day: The Brink and Alder Hey Visits

Liverpudlians got a Valentine's Day surprise with a visit from Duchess Kate today. Kate began  by paying a visit to alcohol free bar The Brink this morning. A project by one of Kate's patronages Action On Addiction. St James' Palace said Kate had prepared extensively for the visit.


The Brink, located in Liverpool's city centre is a successful new bar proving alcohol does not have to  play a part in socialising and enjoying yourself. It is also a recovery enterprise, which means all profits go directly back into the community to fund support for those who have suffered through alcoholism and addiction.


The Brink describes itself as
"A revolutionary new venue that's so much more than your usual café bar. We've taken alcohol out of the mix to provide a truly welcoming, creative and intelligent space where people can dine, hang out and relax".



Duchess Kate was presented with a Valentine's Day cupcake by eight year old Jaqson Johnston-Lynch. It will certainly be a special memory for Jaqson in time to come when he looks back on spending Valentine's with Kate.


Kate made a smoothie at the dry bar and enjoyed a sip. Staff created the healthy 'Duchess Smoothie' made with almonds, honey, cream, milk and bananas in Kate's honour which has naturally been hugely successful. Kate also enjoyed a performance by the bars choir.


Reporters at the scene overheard Kate say William had sent her a card and flowers. A member of staff at The Brink asked Kate 'Did you get anything nice for Valentine's Day? to which Kate replied 'Yes I did, thank you'.





Kate was also presented with a posey of roses by a little Prince Charming.




Before leaving Kate surprised fans with a walkabout, Kate was given cards and quite a few boxes of Roses chocolates :)





Kate's visit to The Brink was received extremely well with one reporter noting 'The thing that struck me most was the warmth of her goodbyes'. You can watch the video hereKate then made her way to Alder Hey Hospital where she spent over half an hour meeting with members of the public during a long walkabout. Kate has previously joked she gets told off for too long.  


This is the first time we've seen Kate interacting with the public alone and she's doing fantastically. Members of the crowd described Kate as 'utterly charming'.


Reuters
Kate met seven year old Aimee Haswell who was diagnosed with a rare type of congenital heart disease, Hypoplastic Left Heart Syndrome when she was just nine days old. The left side of Aimee's heard had not developed properly, which means the right side is under huge pressure to pump blood and oxygen. When Aimee met Kate she did a curtsy and Kate did a little one back.


EP
Carson and his brother Ethan made Kate a card which she said was 'lovely'. Kate revealed the name of her cocker spaniel to Ethan but told him to keep it a secret :)


Reuters


Alder Hey is one of the Europe's busies children's hospitals providing care for over 200,000 children annually. Offering over twenty specialist services including being the designated national centre for head and face surgery. The facilities provided here are lifesaving and awareness is essential.




Inside the hospital Kate met patients and staff. She was also given a tour of the hospital's facilities, including the 3 - T Intra-Operative MRI scanner which was funded by a £3 million donation from the Barclay Foundation and officially opened by Prince William in 2010.                




Kate also visited the Ronald McDonald House at Alder Hey. Since opening in 1993 the house has provided accommodation for over 16,000 families with sick children. The house is funded by an independent charity which is currently fundraising for the development of a new apartment block which will allow families to be with their loves ones and provide much needed privacy. If you wish to donate please Click Here





Kate unveiled a plaque with the Harris family to officially open new apartments at the Ronald McDonald house. 


Kate wrapped up in her Hobbs Celeste Unlimited Coat. Kate was seen purchasing the coat in Sloane square last September for £369. It was on sale today for just £182. As with all Kate items it sold out within a couple of hours. It is described as


"Wrap up warm in this stunning double crepe wool coat. In a sumptuous seasonal chestnut brown, this coat subtly flares from the hips. It's given an on trend toughened edge thanks to the leather stud fastening, cuff straps and waisted belt".


Kate wore a fitted black polo neck, wool dress by high street brand Oasis. The dress is from a collection three years ago. Perhaps Oasis will reissue the dress. Kate accessorised with a stylish belt.  Update: Kate was photographed wearing the dress in December 2006. (With many thanks to Keriane)


Kate also wore a black skirt, her black suede pumps, opaque tights, black suede clutch and the stunning pair of Kiki McDonough 19ct gold and diamond  earrings she first wore for Christmas at Sandringham. It was thought they were a gift from William. They are currently sold out but retailed for just over €2,200. The earrings shown below are citrine. Kate's are green amethyst. 




Kate looks incredibly tanned and her make up is beautiful today. I love the choice of eye make up and sparkly lipstick.


Watching Kate meet with the public today at Alder Hey was quite fascinating. The public reaction to her is simply amazing, people warm to her so easily. Today was reminiscent of Diana's days as a royal, I genuinely believe the British public hold the same affection for Kate. Today was the first time we really saw her as an independent royal and she did superbly. The Palace said Kate was touched by the welcome she received. I think the photo below says it all....


Daily Mail


Wishing you all a very Happy Valentine's Day :)




Source (Daylife, Twitter, Daily Mail,)

Wednesday, August 29, 2012

Kate sparkles at the Sun Military Awards in strapless McQueen gown

The Cambridges and Prince Harry added a touch of royal glamour on the red carpet tonight for the Sun Military Awards at the Imperial War Museum. The young royals were photographed earlier today arriving for a pre Christmas lunch with The Queen. Despite huge numbers of photographers surrounding the event, Kate never looked more beautiful and appeared to be completely at ease, It's safe to say she is a natural. The event is a celebration of the nations heroes and Kate's presence is no doubt an added bonus for the nominees. 


PA


The Sun Military Awards (also known as the Millies) is an annual awards ceremony which honours members of the British Armed Forces. The awards were created by Prince Charles. Categories include 'Best Recruit', 'Life Saver Award' and 'Overcoming Adversity'. Prestigious guests at the event include Prime Minister David Cameron, Kate spent a while chatting with his wife Samantha Cameron.



William, Kate and Harry  presented awards during the event, The Prince's reportedly chose who to present too. To see more photos of Kate presenting the award for 'Most outstanding soldier' click here. A very special moment for the winner.



Prince Harry recently returned from Afghanistan and made a touching speech.

"I am a young army officer, a serving soldier, like my brother, I share many of the same hopes, same aspirations, to go on operations, the same fears, as all who serve our Queen and country"




PA

Judging by Kate's hair and make up earlier today, Her eyebrows look sensational, I knew that we were in for a treat tonight in terms of fashion and as always Kate didn't disappoint. Looking beautiful in a black Alexander McQueen strapless velvet gown, this is one of Kate's defining fashion moments. I'm going to say (after the wedding) this is Kate's best look this year. Originally half of the skirt is sheer however it  was altered for Kate. Despite being 5'10 Kate had to hold the dress up during her walk in. It was available here for €4,270. It is described as


"Velvet is a huge trend for FW11, and Alexander McQueen's black strapless gown is a spectacular way to work it into your evening portfolio. Sweetheart neckline, boned bodice with underwired cups, half scalloped trip at skirt, concealed zip fastening at back".




Looking at Kate's dress from the back, we can see the same concealed zip.





The lovely ladies over at What Kate Wore commented on the similarities between Kate's dress and the black gown Diana wore for her first public engagement in 1981. 




I'm sure you all noticed Kate's beautiful, very high, black suede pumps.





We think Kate wore the stylish Jimmy Choos cosmic shoes. (With many thanks to Ashley who swiftly ID'd them) 
'The striking closed toe with 120mm heels is available in the softest suede'. The shoes are available for €525 here




Kate's bag is the Pretty Ballerina Velvet Clutch Bag (With thanks to Vera from WKW facebook) The bag has an oversized bow. It is currently out of stock but was on sale for €111.




Aside form the earrings, Kate wore jewellery she received as a wedding gift. The statement diamond and ruby necklace is dazzling. With a bracelet it's the first time we've seen Kate draped in jewels and I think we all agree Kate dazzled tonight.





The trio left the ceremony in high spirits. Tonight is the night Kate came into her own, After the wedding it was her best look this year. I look forward to seeing more looks like this...





source (Daily Mail, The Sun, What Kate Wore facebook)

Sunday, August 26, 2012

UPDATED: The Royals Watch Usain Bolt, Kate in Blue Team GB Shirt for Handball

Duchess Kate spent the evening at the women's preliminary handball match Great Britain vs Croatia at the Copper Box Hall.

AP


Kate is seated next to Rebecca Deacon who was recently promoted to private secretary of the Duchess.

AP


The Copper Box is an extremely flexible venue, with retractable seating that can change the floor size within the venue, facilitating different events both during and after the games. The Copper Box will be become a multi-use sports centre for community use and athlete training and events after the games.

London 2012

Kate cheering on Team GB.


Reuters


Kate giving a thumbs up.


George Murphy Twitter


Kate walking through Olympic Park with Rebecca Deacon and her protection officer (With thanks to What Kate Wore)


Will Munn Twitter


A look at Kate's outfit.


Anya Mayer


Kate is wearing a blue Adidas Team GB  polo shirt. The polo shirts are available in white, purple and navy for £28 here.


London 2012

Kate accessorized with her Tiffany Diamonds By The Yard bracelet.


Tiffany/AP

Kate wore the Team GB Adidas Supernova Glide 4 Running Trainers (With thanks to What Kate Wore) The vivid red/metallic silver trainers are available for £87.11.




Adidas


Kate is wearing navy jeans and carrying and the Longchamp LePliage bag. It is available in several colours for £145.


Longchamp




************

Kate then joined William and Harry for the Men's 100m final. 

Reuters
Jamaican sprinter Usain Bolt defended his title by setting an Olympic record time at London 2012. 

London 2012
Prince Harry raced Usain during his tour of Jamaica earlier this year and was supporting him from the sidelines (as you can tell from his choice of scarf)


Reuters

Thursday, August 23, 2012

Kate in Sleeveless White Top and Denim Skirt for Team GB Hockey

Hello to you all,

Duchess Kate was at the Riverbank Arena today to watch the Women's hockey bronze medal match between Great Britain and New Zealand.


Reuters

Kate jumped up to cheer when Team GB won with a score of 3-1. The bronze medal is the team's first medal in twenty years and a wonderful moment for the players.


Reuters

Team GB celebrating their victory.


London 2012

PR manager Liz Rawlins shared a photo of Kate entering the stadium via twitter and described her 'as beautiful in real life as she is in the pictures'.


Liz Rawlins Twitter

We can not go any further without mentioning Kate's stunning outfit......


AP

Kate looked stunning in a sleeveless white Team GB top and A line white denim skirt. I had expected the Duchess would stick to her Polo shirt, Smythe blazer and jeans but it is a beautiful summers day and Kate's outfit reflects that, while still supporting Team GB with her sartorial choices.


Reuters

The pretty white skirt has been in Kate's wardrobe for quite some time. She was last photographed wearing it in 2007 in London where she was pictured returning home from shopping at M&S with a shepherds pie in her hand. Kate teamed the skirt with a navy jacket and ballet flats on that occasion.




Kate wore her Hobbs Neston Belt with the skirt.



Hobbs


Kate accessorized with pearl earrings and her Tiffany Diamonds By The Yard bracelet.



Tiffany

Kate completed the look with her Stuart Weitzman Corkswoon Wedges. I think they worked wonderfully with the outfit. What did you think of Kate's look today?


Stuart Weitzman

After the match Kate congratulated the team.



Jess Wilkes Twitter

Monday, August 20, 2012

Kate's Second Hand Dress, Paris Fashion Week, Plans For Leicester + More

Duchess Kate surprised us all last month wearing a grey coat dress by defunct label Jesire for her first official solo engagement at the National Portrait Gallery. Fashionistas were eager to get their hands on the dress and curious to find out where the Duchess had purchased the dress. The talented people at Grazia have found the answer! 



Kate sourced the dress from a second hand dress agency close to her home in Berkshire called The Stock Exchange. The store sells nearly new designer clothing. Staff at the store revealed it was purchased for Kate by an assistant
"She bought the Jesire dress form here. We remember having it in and were really excited when we saw Kate on tv wearing it. None of the Middletons have ever come into the store though, so Kate must have a secret shopper."


************

Last night McQueen showcased their Autumn/Winter RTW collection at Paris Fashion Week. The show was hugely anticipated by Kate fans hoping to get a glimpse into Kate's possible wardrobe choices for next season.





Looking at the collection I could not see Kate wearing any of these pieces without serious alteration.....




Sarah Burton described the collection as 'a beautiful future, positivity, optimism'. What do you think? You can watch the video on The Alexander McQueen site.




************

We haven't seen Kate wear many Stella McCartney pieces thus far, but I expect we could see this change in 2012. McCartney unveiled her A/W collection at PFW this week. It is being hailed as her finest work yet. It's been an amazing year for the designer who landed the plum job of designing the British Olympic team's uniforms. As you all know, Kate is an ambassador for London 2012, therefore Kate wearing a Stella piece would seem quite fitting.


Striking blues and high necks were a prominent feature of the collection. Both favourite's of Kate's.


************

Yet another magazine cover for Kate this week. OK magazine features a photo of Kate from the day before the royal wedding. I doubt Kate ever expected simply holding her hand over her stomach would lead to the photo being used for endless pregnancy speculation stories.


************

The schedule for tomorrow's royal visit to Leicester has been released via the BBC (With thanks to the incredibly kind WhatKateWore)


It's going to be a busy day tomorrow for the royals. Preparations have been under way in Leicester all week. A look at the finished Queens table at St Martins House where the trio will enjoy a private lunch. 


A big screen TV is already set up outside St Martins giving crowds a chance to view the visit with ease.


De Montfert University holding their rehearsals today.


BBC's Anne Davies testing one of the Royal chairs :)


A map showing the locations Kate will visit tomorrow.


There is obviously an incredible buzz in Leicester at the moment. The visit looks like an exciting one. It's wonderful to see Kate playing an important part in the beginning of the UK Diamond Jubilee tour. Follow Jubilee Tour Via Twitter for all the latest updates.

Please feel free to comment and discuss the upcoming event on the blog or on the Duchess Kate Facebook Page. See you all tomorrow :)


Sources ( @Jubilee Tour Via Twitter, Yahoo, Grazia, What Kate Wore, Style.com)