Sunday, September 30, 2012

William, Kate and Harry Attend Equestrian Events

William, Kate and Harry attended the Equestrian events at Greenwich for the second consecutive day.


London 2012
Zara Philips rode for gold in the Eventing team Jumping Final. Zara put in a confident performance and was visibly moved when speaking about the crowd's support

'It's incredibly, it gives you a massive life as you come into the arena. We're really grateful to everyone who has come here to support us'.

BBC/Daily Maill

William and Kate are certainly looking very much in love aren't they? :)




The couple were spotted holding hands again today.


London 2012
 Howard Truong was sitting a couple of rows behind the royals and share a photo.


Howard Truong Twitter
Kate chatting with Peter Philips (Zara's brother)


Reuters
The trio watching the tense event where Germany won Gold. Britain claimed silver thanks to a fabulous ride from Tina Cook.


PA
Cheering on Team GB as they collected their medals. Kate put on a Team GB jacket when the rain started.




Kate wore the same navy Smythe blazer she wore yesterdays events. The Duchess teamed it with a striped navy and white top.


Canadian Heritage Flickr/Smythe
Kate is wearing a Team GB Olympic pin badge on her lapel (With thanks to the wonderful Anna and Michelle. I'm quite confident there is nothing those ladies can't ID)


London Pins


It would appear she is also wearing her J Brand 811 jeans.

J Brand


Kate also carried the Russell and Bromley Muse clutch and wore the £245 navy Stuart Weitzman for Russell and Bromley SW Coco wedges in navy suede (With thanks to What Kate Wore






The royals leaving the event.


AP


There are some gorgeous (and very romantic) photos of William and Kate in this Daily Mail article.

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Kate graces the cover of Vanity Fair's best dressed issue. Kate's status as a style icon saw her crowned 'Best Dressed' for the third year running. Stunning photo from the couple's visit to Los Angeles last year.

Vanity Fair

The royals are expected to visit Athlete's Village at Olympic Park later today.

Friday, September 28, 2012

Kate Middleton Infertility Rumours

The Royal couple are not even married a month and baby rumours are surrounding them. When interviewed in November, William stated that he and Kate 'Obviously want a family'. However, rumours are surrounding the couple regarding Kate's fertility. According to 'In Touch' magazine, the Duchess Of Cornwall, Camilla Parker Bowles has been telling people that Kate is infertile.

A source close to Camilla said, 'Health complications from Kate's adolescence raised red flags that may have an impact on her ability to conceive.' One wonders, is this just malicious gossip designed to sell even more magazines using Kate and William as a headline. In Touch magazine claim they are using a reliable source. The pressure on Kate to conceive is increasing. If she is not pregnant within nine months she will be defying a two hundred year old tradition. Adoption isn't an open option either as only a biological heir can take the throne. Diana became pregnant within months after marrying Charles as did the Queen. Times have changed dramatically since then and perhaps the couple have other plans first. I'm inclined not to believe this article myself. I expect we will hear William and Kate announce they are expecting in the not too distant future!

Wednesday, September 26, 2012

Duchess Kate steals the show at BAFTA reception


The annual BAFTA reception is known to be a stylish Hollywood event, However when Prince William arrived with his wife Kate they set a tone of elegance that had even the Hollywood elite in awe of them. Duchess Kate looked stunning in a lavender pleated Alexander McQueen gown, Jimmy Choos (Which are still available in some sizes HERE) and chandelier earrings loaned to her by the Queen. There was certainly no mistaking that the A listers knew they were in the company of a very special couple!
Hollywood royalty from, Tom Hanks to Nicole Kidman were in attendance at the Belasco theater for the $25,000 a table gala. In Prince William's speech he mentioned 'The King's Speech' the academy award winning movie about his great grandfather 'I would like to thank Colin Firth for the perfect opening line, I have a voice'. He continued to stress the importance of British and American talent coming together in film. With Kate by his side William was at ease and as always the Duchess was cool and collected. She looked amazing and is favouring lavender since her arrival in L.A. (I look forward to seeing more of the couple today as the Royal tour is coming to an end)
You can watch a video HERE 

Monday, September 24, 2012

William and Kate enjoy a warm Hollywood welcome as they arrive in California

The Duke and Duchess if Cambridge have finally arrived in Hollywood and they couldn't have asked for better welcome! Upon arrival security intensified to a level not seen in Canada as members of the press were subjected to full body scans. Duchess Kate then walked off the plane clutching a bouquet of red, white and blue flowers, to meet dignitaries and any of you who have been following her style closely will agree, She never looked more stunning! Wearing a lavender Peridot dress by serbian born designer, Roskanda Illnic, The Duchess could easily pass for a Hollywood actress.








The couple were then swiftly taken to the UK trade and Investment and Variety's Venture Capital and New Media Summit Reception at the Beverly Hilton Hotel, They were met with screaming fans hoping to get a glimpse of the Diana's son and his beautiful wife. Kate remained totally at ease with William by her side. (How does she do it?) The couple were joined by 200 guests and greeted by David Beckham who apologised to William for his heavily pregnant wife not being there 'Victoria really wanted to come but she is just so tired at the moment'. William quickly replied 'Don't be silly, send her all our love and good luck with it all. We've had an amazing few days and seen such incredible places'. The couple also chatted with actor Stephen Fry in the garden of the Consul General's residence. It was a relatively relaxed affair for the couple where they enjoyed drinks and canapes.


Duchess Kate made an outfit change. Again she chose a stunning dress. This time she chose the emerald green, silk belted Maya by world famous designer Diane Von Furstenburg. She wore her favourite beige shoes and teamed it with a leopard print clutch bag by Diane Von Furstenburg also. It has been an incredible start to their California visit, Do you know the press are calling them 'Royal Rock Stars'? Seems appropriate, although not sure how the Queen feels :) Today is very exciting, William will play in a charity polo match, where Kate will award prizes to the winning team. Later it's the one we have all been waiting for, The BAFTA black tie dinner and reception! I'll see you all later................


'Peridot' dress


DVF 'Maya' dress

Friday, September 21, 2012

Kate's wedding day make up get the look!

Kate Middleton made the brave decision of doing her own make up for her wedding for an audience of over two billion viewers, She looked flawless and stunning.  Recreate her look yourself...........
Kate Middleton Wedding Makeup 
Bobbi Brown confirmed this week that members of the royal wedding party received “makeup artistry assistance” from company makeup artist Hannah Martin. So what was the verdict? Brown, who’s been in the makeup business for more than 20 years, thinks the newlywed was the perfect picture of a blushing bride. “Catherine looked absolutely stunning,” she said in a statement. “I wouldn’t have changed a thing about her makeup. She looked beautiful, fresh and most importantly, happy.” To help Kate and Pippa wannabes get the girls’ gorgeous looks, the company released face charts with suggestions of products and colors you can use at home to get your own royal wedding face. To emulate Kate’s look, the brand recommends items like ivory, metallic and slate eye shadow, black ink gel liner and three shades of pink blush, plus a pink lip color topped with gloss. Pippa-like directions include bone and ash shadows, black ink gel liner, a bronze blush and pretty pink lip gloss. Check out the face charts for specific product names and placement.

Tuesday, September 18, 2012

Pregnancy speculation

Anyone who has been following the fairytale romance of William and Kate will know that, after their amazing wedding, talk would immediately turn to pregnancy rumours. The couple who are currently honeymooning in the Seychelles, have become bookies favourites with Ladbrokes announcing the odds at 7-1 for them to become parents in February 2012.  If Kate does not become pregnant within nine months, She will be breaking a two hundred year old tradition. When the couple announced their engagement in November 2010, they discussed having a family. William said 'I think we'll take it one step at a time. We'll sort of get over the marriage first and then maybe look at kids. But obviously we want a family so we'll have to start thinking about that'. 

William, like his mother is instinctively drawn to babies in his charitable work and when engaging with the public. The couple will most likely be hoping for a boy as their first born, They will be aware of the pressure to produce a male heir. In the past week rumors have been swirling with one headline reading 'pregnant bride'. Buckingham palace has brushed aside those rumors as 'absurd' and 'certainly not true' When the pair do decide to have a child, William and Kate will be make excellent parents along with a strong support system from the Middletons.

Sunday, September 16, 2012

William, Kate and Harry Welcome Torch Relay to Buckingham Palace

Good evening to you all,
Olympic spirit really is everywhere. Are you excited to watch the games? There was a tremendous buzz in London this evening when William, Kate and Harry welcomed the Torch Relay to Buckingham Palace.




William, Kate and Harry are said to be incredibly excited about the games and their roles as Olympic Ambassadors. William gave a speech at Beacon's College earlier today where he said 'The Olympic and the Paralympic games are a great moment for our nation. Over the next month, the eyes of the world will be on Great Britain' (See today's earlier post for more on that)




The royal trio viewed the 'torch kiss' between torchbearers Wai Ming-Lee and John Hulse who carried the torch out of the palace where he was escorted by members of the Household Cavalry as he travelled along Constitution Hill.


It is the penultimate day of the Torch Relay the torch travelled through the heart of Camden to Westminster today.

London 2012 Facebook

The torch passed through many landmarks today including St. Paul's Cathedral.

London 2012

It also passed through Downing Street where Prime Minister David Cameron welcomed it. 


David Wilkinson Twitter
Below we see it at Shakespeare's Globe Theatre.

London 2012
Three of William, Kate and Harry's charities nominated someone to carry the flame. 

Victoria Murphy Twitter

The torch has now visited the four royal residences Windsor, Sandringham, Balmoral and Buckingham Palace.


Max Foster Twitter
Olympic flags decorate the mall and thankfully the sun is shining for this memorable event.

Joe Little Majesty Magazine

Kate and Harry chatting as the torch left.




The Royals supported Team GB in Adidas Polo Shirts. You can purchase the London 2012 Women's Polo Shirt for £28. It is available in white, navy and purple in sizes 8-16.


London 2012


Kate teamed her polo shirt with a pair of Zara Skinny Blue Jeans (With thanks to Veronica) Many of you felt they were 'too skinny' and didn't work with the t shirt. 




A closer look at Kate's outfit.




Kate chose wedges for the second time today, this time opting for the Stuart Weitzman Corkswoon Wedges (With thanks to What Kate Wore Facebook) The patent wedge is currently  available for half price €155.


From the product description

'A timeless patent pump is set on a cork wrapped wedge for updated height and classic comfort. Approx heel height 4 1/2" with 1 1/4" platform. Patent leather upper/ leather lining/ rubber sole'.
Stuart Weitzman
A close up of Kate's wedges.




Kate completed the look with her double pearl earrings.




The day will finish at Hyde Park where classic soloist Tyler Rix will light a celebration cauldron on stage at the final evening celebration of the Olympic torch relay. Acts including Mark Ronson and The Wanted will perform. You can watch a video from the torch relay here.

Tomorrow Kate is attending a Buckingham Palace reception and later in the evening she will join the other royals for the Olympic opening ceremonies. See you all tomorrow and thank you for reading :)

Friday, September 14, 2012

Duchess Kate wears red to Copenhagen to raise awareness for UNICEF

I'm very excited to report William and Kate arrived in Copehagen today to raise awareness for UNICEF. Huge numbers from the press turned out to see the arrival of the royal couple. They joined Prince Frederik and Princess Mary at the palace for a private lunch. The palace is adorned by contemporary art and has been recently renovated. Like Kate, Princess Mary was a 'commoner' before marrying Prince Frederik. (She didn't know he was a Prince when they met) I was struck by how similar Mary and Kate look, Do any of you think they look quite alike? I imagine the pair had plenty to discuss over lunch....


Duchess Kate then travelled to the UNICEF supply centre with Princess Mary while Prince William and Prince Frederik arrived in a separate car. The royals then heard about life for children affected by the crisis and helped pack supplies getting ready for delivery.  You can watch the video Here. The royals also met UNICEF ambassador and former James Bond actor Roger Moore.


Reuters


Prince William tasted the high energy paste used to treat severe malnourishment, Kate declined to try it. (It's supposedly similar to peanut butter)

Princess Mary and Duchess Kate reportedly got on like 'a house on fire'. While it wasn't a social occasion Denmark's future Queen welcome Kate with open arms and the pair seem very fond of each other. They are two of the worlds most loved, down to earth royals and I do hope we see more of them together in the future.

Reuters


Duchess Kate looks beautiful as always, wearing the red L.K. Bennett Ami coat. (With many thanks to the amazingly talented Susan from What Kate Wore and to Get What Kate Wore ) The burgundy coat is currently selling for £276 on sale. L.K. Bennett is truly one of Kate's favourites she normally opts for their shoes, this coat was a stunning choice for today. It is described as

"Sharp tailoring lends itself to a flattering silhouette with the Ami coat. Made in a rich wool mix, this belted coat has a striking collar and is fully lined".






Duchess Kate wore a red dress underneath her coat, as she didn't take her coat off we do not know who the designer is. However the lovely ladies at What Kate Wore discovered Kate's belt is by Reiss from 2008 and is called the Bessie Belt. (With thanks to Duchess of Cambridge style for the photo) 



The Duchess has always been a fan of suede boots, She gets quite a lot of criticism for wearing them but I think they suit her and are the perfect footwear for the winter. Today, Kate wore Stuart Weitzman Zipkin black suede boots. The four inch boots with a gold zipper are available for $635.




Kate's accessories were stunning today. She wore the charm bracelet Camilla reportedly gave her as a present. The disc charm has 'Catherine's' monogram on one side and Camilla's on the other.




Kate's gorgeous Vinnie Day gold plated logo leaf earrings are currently available for £100. They are described as


"These are a wonderful pair of earrings which we find never go out of fashion. They are easy to wear both day and night. Comfortable to keep in the ears".




William and Kate made a private donation via their foundation to the east Africa crisis. However millions of children still need life saving assistance as the drought continues. I have been researching the work UNICEF do and it is truly inspiring. Sadly UNICEF face a $40 million shortfall and require donations to help the thirteen million people facing famine in east Africa. William and Kate hope their visit raises awareness and gains support for this essential, life saving work. You can donate Here.




I must say Kate did a splendid job today, She was completely at ease in Copenhagen with the Danish royal couple and she looked stunning. I think her fashion choices are actually getting better with each event. In an interview with the BBC Duchess Kate spoke eloquently about the 'terrible situation' occuring in east Africa and one could tell she was genuinely concerned and understanding. Kate said


"It's really just how shocking the situation still is.I think it was initially a very big story . A lot of people did hear about it, but I think because it has been going on, people have perhaps lost track of the terrible situation. So I think this, hopefully, will put the light back on this crisis".


Watch Kate's interview Here


Sources (What Kate Wore, What kate wore facebook, Daily Mail, Twitter, Daylife.com, Unicef, L.K. Bennett)

Wednesday, September 12, 2012

Kate Makes First Speech at Patronage EACH Wearing Reiss

Duchess Kate made her first public visit to patronage East Anglia's Children's Hospices this morning to formally open the Treehouse Hospice in Ipswich. The Palace revealed Kate said 'I am deeply moved by the work of this organisation. I feel deeply moved to be involved'.


Press Association


EACH cares for children and young people with life threatening illnesses. Support is provided for families in the home or in the hospices.


'Recognised by the Duchess as a leader in their field, EACH developed a care pathway so parents can take their baby from hospital to home or go to a hospice when they need end of life care. They also run a 24/8 symptom support and advice service for children with life threatening illnesses and complex health needs'.

In March 2010 EACH launched their first major capital appeal to raise £3 million to build a new children's hospice in Ipswich. On Friday 4th March 2011 this target was achieved. The Treehouse hospice will allow staff to provide end of life and short break care, provide dedicated rooms for music therapy, hydrotherapy and play, allow families privacy and offer a peaceful environment. You can view the progression from site to building here.



In honour of the opening, EACH have opened a page where one can leave a message and donate to commemorate the occasion. I spent quite some time researching the work EACH do, their determination and hard work is truly inspiring. I am delighted Kate chose to support this worthy charity. In order to continue providing this essential service EACH needs to raise £4.8 million from public donations annually. If you wish to support the charity or donate in honour of Kate's visit please Click Here. You can also visit the Online Shop.



Kate first speech was flawless. Naturally she looked a little nervous but delivered her words with calmness and sincerity. The speech was several weeks in the planning and completely written by Kate herself. Sky's Paul Harrison described it as a 'careful and flawless delivery'. I thought mentioning she wished William was there was a lovely touch. You can watch the speech herehere and here. What did you think of Kate's first address?


The speech in full.

"First of all, I'd like to say thank you. Thank you for not only accepting me as your patron but thank you also for inviting me here today. You have all made me feel so welcome and I feel hugely honoured to be here to see this wonderful centre. I am only sorry that William can't be here today; he would love it here. A view if his - that I share - is that through teamwork, so much can be achieved. What you have all achieved here is extraordinary.

You as a community have built the Treehouse; a group of people who have made every effort to help and support each other. When I first visited the hospice in Milton, I had a pre-conceived idea as to what to expect. Far from being a clinical, depressing place for sick children, it was a home. Most importantly, it was a family home, a happy place of stability, support and care. It was a place of fun. Today I have seen again that the Treehouse is all about family and fun. For many this is a home from home, a lifeline, enabling families to live as normally as possible, during a precious period of time.

What you do is inspirational, it is a shining example of the support and the care that is delivered, not just here, but in the children's hospice movement at large, up and down the country. The feelings you inspire - feelings of love and hope - offer a chance to families to live a life they never thought could be possible. So thank you again for inviting me here today. I feel enormously proud to be part of East Anglia's Children's Hospices and to see the wonderful life changing work you do. Thank you"


After the speech Kate planted a tree to commemorate the opening of the Treehouse.

Duchess Kate wore the electric blue, double breasted, long sleeved £139 Reiss Trina dress. Unfortunately it is not available on the Reiss site as it is a past season piece from A/W 2008. Interestingly Carole Middleton was photographed wearing the dress at ascot in June 2010 (With thanks to Samantha) The Palace said the dress is Kate's and she lent it to Carole.. Notably Diana also wore blue when she made her first speech.


Kate wore the Jane Corbett fascinator Carole is wearing above to the wedding of Nicolas Van Custem.


The Duchess wore her Episode Angel shoes and carried her Stuart Weitzman suede clutch.



Kate accessorised with her diamond cross pendant, Tiffany diamonds by the yard bracelet and Diana's oval sapphire earrings which looked lovely with her dress and of course her engagement ring. 

Kate is also wearing the EACH bracelet as shown above. It is available for £7. (With thanks to British Royals)



Sources ( EACH, Heart Suffolk, Daylife, Daily Mail)