Monday, October 29, 2012

Duchess Kate's style at the Irish Guards medal parade

Duchess Kate looked beautiful today, performing her first military role as a member of the Royal family. The 29 year old chose a navy Alexander McQueen pre fall 2011 coat. On Net a Porter the coat is described as 'a double breasted frock coat, navy wool, buttoned epaulets, long sleeves, front welt pockets, slant pockets, high curved front and vent at back. Tailored close to the body this is a commanding outerwear choice'. 
The stunning coat is available to buy for just over £1,333  Here. Kate wore the beautiful coat with a navy dress, navy Prada suede shoes a gold shamrock brooch owned by the Royal family, citrine drop earrings, a silver bracelet with the letter 'C' engraved in it. and an Anya Hindmarch clutch. Kate chose a beautiful hat by Rachel Trevor Morgan.

 This outfit in my opinion is the most stylish she has worn to a royal engagement thus far. The tailoring fits her perfectly and shows off her slender figure. Kate is developing a signature style and when she chose McQueen for her wedding dress it was a sign of things to come. At the Trooping The Colour celebrations Kate wore a white McQueen coat. It was  also a nice touch how Kate seemed to be matching William's uniform! Her natural make up completed the look perfectly!


The McQueen coat is still available at NET A PORTER




Saturday, October 27, 2012

Kate shops at Boots before Gala dinner

Photographed just hours before her dazzling social debut at the ARK Gala Dinner, the Duchess of Cambridge could have been any other shopper on London's King's Road. Kate was spotted in flat white pumps, hudson jeans and a cream scoop neck jumper with a lemon vest underneath. Her long, wavy hair was tied back in a bun. Kate was accompanied by two plain clothes Scotland Yard police protection officers while shopping in the Peter Jones department store in Sloane Square where she reportedly spent almost an hour purchasing a small number of fashion accessories. She bought facial moisturisers from Boots low cost Nivea range. Kate browsed through Boots casually unnoticed by her fellow shoppers. Her protection officers keeping a low profile.

The Duchess was then driven back to the Clarence House apartment that she and William are sharing with Prince Harry until they move into Kensington Palace next month. Just four hours later, Kate was transformed, arriving at the ARK Gala wearing a shimmering pink Jenny Packham dress. The event raised £17.2 million for disadvantaged children in the U.K. and around the world. Kate is obviously keen to maintain a sense of normality, shopping on the high street as she had always done prior to her marriage.

Thursday, October 25, 2012

Royal Tour number two confirmed for next year

After William and Kate's tremendously successful tour of Canada and California. It seemed inevitable Royal aides would be eager to make arrangements for another. I'm sure you will all be delighted to hear the couple will undertake their second Royal tour on behalf of the Queen next year. Prince William is reportedly eager to visit Australia and New Zealand however a Royal aide said 'The couple will be undertaking a tour but it's unlikely to be Australia and New Zealand'. Apparently the Caribbean is a more likely destination. Would love to see Duchess Kate's fashion choices there! Wherever the tour is I'm positive it shall be a resounding success and fellow Kate watchers will be look forward to it!

As you have all noticed, The Cambridge's have been keeping a very low profile. For some reason pregnancy rumours seem to have accelerated. I have received quite a few tweets in relation to whether or not Duchess Kate is expecting. Thus far there is no reason to believe she is. Should there be confirmation of this rumour in the near/distant future I assure you it will be literally everywhere. Of course I will post about it here immediately too! 

Kate singing the Welsh National Anthem in Anglesey

In other news, The Duchess of Cambridge is reportedly learning to speak Welsh in order to fit in with the locals in Anglesey where she and William spend most of their time. A source said 'She is picking up the language and doing well. Because they live in Wales she is surrounded by the language when she is out about. It is not a case of a lesson a week, she hears the language around her and learns it like that. Anglesey is her home-If you immerse yourself in the culture you pick things up'. The Duchess has been practicing by speaking to locals in supermarkets and around town. In February Kate sang the Welsh National Anthem on her first official visit with William for the launch of a new RNLI lifeboat on Anglesey. 

Kate with Willem Marx in 2008

Those of you who are familiar with Kate's earlier days will remember her first boyfriend from Malborough Willem Marx. Marx has reportedly found love with a girl who bears a striking resemblance to Kate. He has been seeing magazine editor Shirley Leigh Wood Oakes for a while. The press are indeed turning this into a dramatic story but Kate was photographed with Willem in 2008 and the pair were clearly happier as just friends.

Monday, October 22, 2012

Send William and Kate a Christmas card and Duchess Kate's five outfits for Christmas day, What they could be?

With December 1st upon us, I thought it was the perfect time for a Christmas themed post. (I'm a huge lover of all things to do with the festive season, so expect to see it reflected in the blog in the coming weeks :)) Coincidentally Duchess Kate has been making the headlines today regarding her Christmas day style choices. Kate will spend her first Christmas as Duchess of Cambridge at Sandringham with the Royal family. 


King George V famously described the estate as:

"Dear old Sandringham, the place I love better than anywhere else in the world".


One would think The Queen's retreat, set in twenty four acres of stunning gardens would be the ideal location to relax and enjoy the festivities in casual wear. While most of us will opt for comfort, The Duchess has five outfit changes Christmas day. Royal etiquette expert Jean Broke - Smith said

"She won't be able to wear the same outfit twice. Kate will need a casual outfit for breakfast, a smart outfit and a hat for the morning church service, a dress for lunch, a cocktail dress for early evening drinks and a full-length dress for the evening meal. The golden rule is nothing too short, too revealing or too gaudy".

With all these outfits to plan for one day it is no surprise Kate was photographed shopping in Zara lately. She also visited L.K. Bennett where she reportedly purchased a black sheath dress and two cashmere cardigans. For the party season a little black dress is simply an essential and I expect the Duchess chose a black dress as a 'go to' item for the holidays. While looking through the L.K. Bennett website attempting to identify which dress Kate may have chosen I must say I was really very impressed with their collection. There are a number of black dresses Kate could have chosen and she would look amazing in any of these.

The first three dresses, The SukiDavina and Pia are all very Kate and would be perfect for Christmas drinks or worn with a coat and hat would look stunning for the church service. They are very similar in length and structure. The Davina is my personal favourite, It is available in an array of colours.




The long sleeved lace Eloise dress caught my eye immediately. We know Kate loves lace and I imagine this dress would have appealed to her. The elegant Allie dress features a chiffon overlay with stunning detail on the bodice. The Harriet (which is currently on sale) is a divine 1950's inspired dress. In many ways Kate reminds me of Grace Kelly with her timeless style and I would love to see her wearing the Harriet. I imagine Kate would pair it with a shrug. The full skirt is pleated allowing a 'dreamlike quality' to your movement.



As for the cashmere cardigans, These two instantly caught my eye. The black Street cardigan would look perfect with any of the above dresses. The merino wool and cashmere cardigan has jewelled detailing and velvet taping over the grosgrain covered buttons.
I can see Kate wearing the Chelsea Shrug with skinny jeans and her flat suede boots while grocery shopping. The flexible layering piece made with 100% cashmere would be ideal for the winter.



Kate has reportedly ordered two evening dresses from McQueen. I was amused to see the headline 'Kate will have a Christmas fit for McQueen'. These dresses could be for future royal engagements, however I would not be at all surprised if one of them is for Sandringham. These three dresses could easily be altered for such an occasion. 


Whatever Kate chooses I'm sure she will look elegant and beautiful. The only photos we will see will be from the church service Christmas morning. In 1989 Princess Diana wore stunning striped purple coat and hat for the service. Something similar would be ideal for Kate.

  

I received a tweet earlier from a reader of the blog enquiring about sending Duchess Kate a Christmas card. For Kate the formal opening is 'Madam' or 'Your Royal Highness' and end the letter with 'yours sincerely'. If you wish to send the Duchess a card you can use the address below. As you can see I was feeling quite festive while using paint.net :)

Saturday, October 20, 2012

William and Kate set a date for next week!

The couple will attend their first official public engagement since their arrival home from the Seychelles on June 9th. The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge will be the guests to watch at the 10th Absolute Return for Kids gala dinner to benefit the foundation for princes William and Harry. The event will take place at Perks Field, practically beside Kensington Palace, William's childhood home with Princess Diana.

A recent statement said: 'The Princes' foundation and ARK share a common vision and commitment to transform the lives of disadvantaged children in the U.K. and around the world'. It has been reported that there is a very good chance William will announce a callaboration between his foundation and ARK. I'm looking forward to seeing William and Kate attend this event. It sets the right tone that their first official public engagement is in aid of a charity. The couple are eager to be seen as using their status for good not enjoying the perks of celebrity life, hence choosing to decline an invitation the the state banquet in honour of President Obama. It is also a chance for Kate to prove yet again she is a style icon. I expect she will wear a classic evening gown, possibly by Issa!

Thursday, October 18, 2012

Wedding Album

The official Royal Wedding photo's have been released, Quite similar to those of Charles and Diana's, one crucial difference the couple look naturally happy and very much in love.. They were taken by Hugo Burnard, He had just twenty six minutes to take the perfect shots! Check out his website beautiful photography Hugo Burnard Photography.


There was a stellar guest list with almost two thousand in attendance, Unlike other Royal Weddings Kate and William's closest friends took centre stage. There was a stunning array of style of display with almost every female guest opting to wear a hat or head piece. Irish milliner Philip Treacy is said to have made hats for over forty guests. Guests arrived two hours early awaiting the spectacular day.

Monday, October 15, 2012

Kate: Queen of Wimbledon

Former tennis star and British number one Tim Henman may be on the verge of convincing the Duchess of Cambridge to be the Royal Representative at Wimbledon this year. The tournament is the most famous event in tennis, Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal are among the contenders this year fighting to win the coveted cup.

Speculation has been rife since the announcement of the engagement that Kate was being lined up for the role. As a major tennis fan, Kate is simply the perfect choice. She has attended matches at Wimbledon and has been described as 'tennis mad'. The stunning 29 year old would be the perfect addition to one of the most famous sporting events held in Britain. It has been suggested that she may present the trophy instead of the Duke of Kent. Princess Diana once executed this role and thoroughly enjoyed it. Prince William is reluctant for his new bride to be in the glare of the spotlight. Tim Henman has been invited in to convince Kate it would be the right choice for her. Henman has close links with the Middleton family. Weeks before the Royal wedding William and Kate were seen playing tennis at Queen's club in West London. A friend said 'Kate adores everything about tennis and would love to have an official role at Wimbledon'. I am a huge tennis fan, with a particular interest in Wimbledon, The tournament being on June 20, I'm hoping to see Kate in the Royal box, Even though his tennis career is over we will be hoping Tim Henman can persuade the Duchess. 'Come on Tim'. :) 

Friday, October 12, 2012

Duchess Kate Steps Out in White For Charity Meeting

You wait weeks for a 'Kate Appearance' and then four come along within three days :) Kate joined William in London today to attend a meeting of the Princes' Charities Forum at The Royal Society. To view more photos please visit the Daily Mail article.


Daily Mail/Big Pictures Photo

The Princes' Charities Forum is an initiative started by Prince Harry and Prince William in 2006. The Princes wanted to find a way of bringing together their charitable interests and to explore how they could best lend support to them through working together. Last November Kate attended a meeting for the Forum for the first time. Kate's patronages are also included.


British Monarchy Flickr


The forum meets twice a year gathering all the charities Prince William, Duchess Kate and Prince Harry support. During the two hour meeting the charities share ideas with input from the Royals. 


Royal contributor Victoria Arbiter recognised Kate's blouse immediately.


Victoria Arbiter Twitter


Duchess Kate looked radiant in a white Ted Baker Stardy Bib Detail Blouse. The last season piece is unfortunately sold out. It is described as


"Long sleeved blouse, Front pleat bib detail, Concealed button fastening, Small stand collar, Button fastening on cuffs."


Ted Baker/Asos


I expect Kate wore a skirt with her blouse. Prince William looked dapper in a navy suit and purple tie.


It was an unexpected surprise to see the couple out and about today. They plan to visit friends to reporting attend a wedding before celebrating their anniversary Sunday

Wednesday, October 10, 2012

Kate Recycles McQueen Sailor Dress for Wimbledon

William and Kate made a surprise appearance at day nine of Wimbledon today to watch Roger Federer take on Mikhail Youzhny on centre court.


Wimbledon Twitter
It is William and Kate's first Wimbledon appearance of the year. Kate's parents Carole and Michael Middleton sat in the royal box yesterday and Pippa and James attended last week. Prince Charles also made his first appearance at the tournament in forty years last week.


Rennae Stubbs Twitter


There was a loud ovation when the couple entered the royal box.




William and Kate sat beside Anthony and Jane Henman, parents of former British player Tim Henman and exchanged jokes throughout the match.


Wimbledon Twitter


Kate has been a huge supporter of tennis for year and has attended several matches over the years. The 30 year old is also a keen player.


Wimbledon Facebook
The couple enjoyed a private chat during the match.




The couple who are expected to travel to Edinburgh later today for a Thistle Service tomorrow where William be installed as 'knight of the Thistle' looked happy and relaxed in the royal box.


Wimbledon Twitter


Australian tennis player Rennae Stubbs was very excited about seeing the royals :)

Rennae Stubbs Twitter


The always incredible Roger Federer beat his opponent in three sets. Speaking about the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge the Swiss player said


'I think it helps when royalty shows up and other legends of the game come to see me play. I think it's inspiring. I'm happy they came to support tennis and to support me. It was very special'.

Wimbledon Twitter

After a short break the royals returned to their seats to watch British number one Andy Murray play against Spain's David Ferrer.


Kate never fails to impress at Wimbledon with her sartorial choices and today was no exception. The Duchess recycled the £1,100 Alexander McQueen cable knit sailor dress she first wore in Charlottetown for Day 5 of the Canada tour. A beautiful piece and simply perfect for the occasion.

The Mirror
The dress was worn by actress Sarah Jessica Parker in 2006. We also see Kate wearing it exactly one year ago. Did you prefer it today?

Red Carpet Awards

The Daily Mail article noted Kate's dress is somewhat similar to the tennis style from the 1920s.


Daily Mail


A look at the back of the dress.




Kate carried her Jaeger Kate Bag. The quilted leather bag is currently available for £75 reduced from £150.

Jaeger


Kate completed the look with her navy Prada shoes and Princess Diana's navy and sapphire earrings. Unfortunately the couple had to leave before the match ended but will no doubt be happy to hear Andy Murray won. See you all tomorrow for the thistle service!


Sunday, October 7, 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.

William and Kate will be excellent parents, The Middletons will obviously be a great support unit for them.

Thursday, October 4, 2012

William and Kate say farewell to California


It has been an amazing first tour for William and Kate as a married couple. I noted recently the tour had no lows whatsoever. From their arrival in Ottawa to the Canada celebrations finishing off with the BAFTA reception last night where they were the toast of tinseltown everything went better than anyone could have hoped for. For Duchess Kate on her debut tour getting it right in terms of style and greeting the right people was no easy task. However, everyone who met had nothing but good things to say about the beautiful Duchess. Whether she was meeting actress Nicole Kidman or a child at the inner city academy she treated everyone equally and gave them her full attention. One could tell she knew how much it meant to them to meet her. Today she told a reported she had 'really enjoyed the tour'. As for William he was a delight throughout the tour and reminded me of Diana in many ways.
The couple have just left California at LAX airport on a British Airways scheduled flight. I have been blogging about Kate since the Royal wedding and thoroughly enjoyed covering each and every event. I shall write a post on the 'most memorable moments of the tour' If there is anything you would like to see featured please feel free to comment. I look forward to covering the coming stories about Duchess Kate, I would like to sincerely thank you all who read my blog throughout the tour! Hopefully we will see another one in the not too distant future.








As you know I've been favouring posting quite a lot of the photo's from today, I will finish the post with two of my favourites. One of Kate wiping dust from William's jacket and secondly of her reaching down to talk to a little girl :)






Tuesday, October 2, 2012

Kate wears old favourites to Prince Philip's 90th birthday church service

The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge joined the royal family at Windsor today to celebrate Prince Philip's 90th birthday at a church service. More than 750 guests attended the service in Windsor Castle's St George's Chapel conducted by the Dean of Windsor.

Kate looked beautiful in a periwinkle purple coat, which she first wore back in August 2009 to a friend's wedding. Kate also appears to be wearing the Zara dress she wore the day after her wedding. (Thanks to poster below :)) Kate's cream heels are LK Bennett. She previously wore them to the derby. Yesterday we saw Kate wearing a dress from 2007 to Sam Waley-Cohens wedding. Kate is certainly thrifty! Today she teamed her coat with a purple dress and hat with her hair worn mostly down. William and Kate appeared to be enjoying the service!