Caring Kate shows her maternal side at EACH

Yesterday St James' Palace confirmed Kate's Patronages. Kate spent months researching worthy causes and one in particular touched her heart. Duchess Kate visited the East Anglia's Children's Hospice in November. If you read yesterdays post you'll know the centre supports and cares for children with life threatening conditions. One would imagine working with EACH would trigger an emotional response in anyone which is exactly what Kate discovered.


Kate met Grant and Charlotte Clemence whose daughter Fleur sadly died soon after birth last  May from a rare heart condition. Duchess Kate met surviving twin, eight month old Sophia. Grant and Charlotte were taken aback at how loving and kind Kate was 


'Kate was brilliant with Sophia and spent a lot of time with her. She couldn't stop playing with her and poking her cheeks. She was absolutely amazing and a totally genuine person. It was only supposed to be a short visit but she was here for about four hours. She was very emotional. She will make a very natural mother'.

Grant, Charlotte and Shophia with EACH CEO Graham Butland

EACH CEO Graham Butland was simply thrilled Kate chose to support the hospice. 

'It was such a surprise that she wanted to come and visit us, and following on from that an even bigger surprise that she wanted to become patron. We are honoured, extremely proud and thrilled to be finally able to talk about it'.

I found this story particularly touching and it gives us a wonderful insight into the 'real Kate'. Despite being beautiful on the outside it's Kate's inner beauty that shines and obviously why William loves her so dearly. I believe we are going to see Kate do trojan work with her causes. Not to mention she is going to be a fantastic mother. Kate's patronage will be of significant importance to EACH in terms of awareness and funding essential for helping families like Grant and Charlotte. To read more about the Clemence family click here. To find out more about EACH or to donate please click here.

Source (pronceofwales.gov.uk. BBC News)

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New York Fashion Week Designers dress Duchess Kate

Following on from yesterdays post about Duchess Kate's impact on New York fashion week. I saw an  amazing article in NY mag where top fashion designers are asked about Duchess Kate's fashion and which of there pieces they would ideally put her in. Each of these looks is simply gorgeous. I love the fact we are seeing clothes on the Runway that people can actually wear, all inspired by Kate! 


Designer Jason Wu said if he could dress Kate he would put her in his blue ball dress. 'I think Kate Middleton's so beautiful she could wear anything from S/S 2012 collection and look gorgeous.'. 

John Zee, Creative director of Elle said he prefers Kate to Pippa as he loves a Queen. Zee would love to see Kate in a YSL tuxedo. 'I think she would look fantastic in that'.

Stylist, Mary Alice Stephenson said 'I'd love to give Kate a little edge. I think she's so pretty, but I think she's dressing in a formal elegant way and they need a little youthquake. I'd love to see her in Alexander Wang in Ohne titel'.

Designer, Sally La Pointe would love to see Kate wear the finale look from her show. She thinks Kate is beautiful and classic.

Designer Richard Chai said 'She looks very proper. She's doing a very good job of looking a Royal. I'd love to see her wear something colourful and printed'.

Finally stylist and designer, Nicola Formichetti thinks Kate is 'very chic'. His ideal look for Kate is a Zara Rhodes caftan. I must say I'm not entirely sure about this look for the Duchess :)

What do you all think of these looks? It's interesting to see Kate in different styles, I think the Jason Wu blue dress and the YSL tuxedo suit are absolutely stunning and would look amazing on Kate. I think Duchess Kate will experiment with more designers as time progesses and we may see her outfits like these in the future!

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Duchess Kate Reveals She 'Misses William Desperately' on Royal Visit to Leicester

Duchess Kate, The Queen and Prince Philip arrived in Leicester via train this morning to mark the beginning of the UK Diamond Jubilee tour.

Press Association

This photo of Kate looks like it was taken out of an old movie.

AP

Mayor of Leicester, Sir Peter Soulsby said 'We're a modern city that has changed most dramatically during the sixty years of Her Majesty's reign - and I think very appropriate that she should begin her tour here.'

The people of Leicester have spent five weeks preparing for the momentous visit. More than 10,000 union jacks and 1,000 metres of bunting were delivered to Leicester City Council ahead of the visit. Areas around each of the venues being visited were decorated. If interesting in purchasing your own union jack or jubilee keepsake you can visit the Official Jubilee shop.

Could anyone but Kate exit a car with such grace :)

Kate and Her Majesty applauded dancers who performed in honour of the visit. The Queen is wearing a pink outfit by Angela Kelly.

The Royals visited De Montfert University where Kate and the Queen watched a fashion show in a marquee featuring designs by four students. 

Six design students each designed a pair of shoes for Kate. The Duchess chose the dark blue pair by Becka Hunt, Below Becka poses with the shoes which were inspired by the colour of Kate's engagement ring. Perhaps we will see Kate wear them in the future :)

Kate and The Queen toured the University.

The trio  then visited Leicester Cathedral for a service.Kate greeted the crowd before the service. Over 5,000 people lined the pavements to get a glimpse of the Duchess.

The cathedral has been an important place in Leicester since 1927. It is home to several projects which aim to help asylum seekers, refugees and those living with cancer. Each year over 25,000 people visit. If interested in donating, you can find all relevant information here.

The service was attended by over seven hundred people.


A member of the crowd asked Kate how William is, She replied 'He's fine but I'm missing him desperately'. It must be a very difficult time for her at least her schedule is keeping her busy throughout William's departure. The 30 year old also said she's being well looked after.

After the service the royals will walked to the nearby St Martins House where they enjoyed a private lunch. Below we take a look at Kate's place at the dining table.

The Queen, Prince Philip and Duchess Kate signed a visitors card at St Martins house. 

Kate met with outreach worker Russell Bentley. He told the Duchess one of his role was to hand out flips flops to women whose high heels had got the better of them after a night out, Kate laughed and said 'I bet you do'. 
You can watch a selection of videos from the day at ITN Source.

Duchess Kate looked stunning in an L.K. Bennett peplum suit. Kate bought the teal Jude Jacket last November for £295. It is described as

"Femininity and unexpected detailing is key with the Jude jacket. Beautifully tailored with a nipped waist, this wool jacket features kick pleat detailing at the back and uses a soft wool feeling luxe to the touch."

 Kate also bought the L.K. Bennett Davina Dress in Teal last November for £225. The structured dress is described as

"Part of the L.K. Bennett signature collection. The Davina dress is beautifully tailored in a luxurious crepe. Elegantly designed, it's chic, gentle ruching down one side adds to the already feminine silhouette."

The Davina comes in array of beautiful colours.

Kate completed the look with the black and gold belt she last wore during her visit to Liverpool. (With thanks to Carolin)

I was hoping Kate would wear a hat today and she didn't fail to impress. Kate wore the Fairy Tale hat by milliner James Lock. (With many thanks to Kate In Waiting) The beret style hat is available in a variety of colours for £285 and can be ordered online.

Kate wore black Episode shoes. The brand is exclusively available at House of Fraser. (With thanks to Kate's Wardrobe) She also carried her black suede clutch.

Kate wore her beautiful Kiki McDonough 18ct gold and diamond earrings. They were available for €2,271. The green amethyst earrings were first worn by Kate on Christmas Day and were reportedly a gift from William.

This is one of Kate's finest sartorial selections to date. The structured suit and shorter hemline complimented Kate's tall, slender frame while the hat and accessories add a touch of 1940s glamour. Her hair and make up looked incredible. Without a doubt one of my favourites. What do you think?

Another engagement has been added to Kate's diary for this month, On March 15th Prince Charles will introduce Kate to his charity Children and Arts. This means we will be seeing Kate on the 15th, 17th and 19th. A very busy and exciting month for the Duchess.

Source (Daily Mail, Jubilee Tour, Daylife, Clarence House Via Twitter)


Look online for travel promo codes and follow Kate as she goes to upcoming engagements!

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William and Kate's Next Three Engagements Revealed + What Kate Might Wear

Hello to you all,
William and Kate's Royal diary is looking busy again - with three engagements in two days pencilled in for the end of this month. On April 25 the Cambridges will attend the UK film premiere of nature documentary 'African Cats' at the National Film Theatre, London. Narrated by Sir Patrick Stewart the 'true life adventure' tells the story of two animal families in the wild trying to survive on the African Savannah. You can watch the trailer Here.

African Cats/TheMirror

The premiere is in aid of Prince William's charity Tusk Trust, a wildlife protection charity which was established in response to 'an urgent need to halt the decline in Africa's natural heritage and find a way to combine the interests of people and wildlife alike'. William is expected to make a short speech. Last January the couple attended the premiere of Steven Speilberg's War Horse and Duchess Kate was reduced to tears. No doubt the Duchess will need a box of tissues on hand as 'African Cats' is said to be a tearjerker. 

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On April 26 the couple will have two engagements. Firstly they will attend a reception to celebrate The Scott - Amundsen Centenary Race to the South Pole. The couple will honour two British Army teams who raced across Antarctica to raise much needed funds for the British Legion's commitment to help recovering and unwell service people. William is a patron of this incredible organisation. Truly inspiring story. 

Scott Amundsen

                                       

That evening the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge will attend a reception at the Imperial War Museum to launch their First World War Galleries: Centenary Campaign. For those of you interested in history or unique coverage of conflicts involving the Commonwealth the museum is a must see.

Imperial War Museum

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I am delighted about the choice of upcoming engagements and think they tip just the right balance. I'm particularly looking forward to the 'African Cats' premiere and seeing Kate in another full length gown. In terms of sartorial choices the 30 year old hasn't put a foot wrong In fact in terms of anything she hasn't Which lucky designer will Kate choose? Let's take a look at some possibilities beginning with Jenny Packham.

Jenny Packham

I'm secretly hoping Kate choose a dress by the amazing Alice Temperly. We discussed the beautiful Greta dress in this post last week and I do hope to see Kate wearing it this year. Although it could be quite chilly and she may opt for long sleeves. Below we look at the Camille, Vera and the Long Draped Spiral Dress. Adore the Vera.

Temperly

Should Kate choose Amanda Wakeley, all I can say is the dress below is gorgeous. 

Amanda Wakeley

Kate's other 'go to' designer is of course Sarah Burton at McQueen. Due to the rather eccentric feel to the latest collections, a dress for Kate will most likely be custom made by Burton. I will be surprised if the Duchess chooses a designer apart from the four aforementioned British designers. What would you like to see Duchess Kate wear?

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Duchess Kate steps off the plane in Erdem Moralioglu dress as they begin royal tour

Reuters

The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge have arrived at Ottawa Airport. The couple were greeted by Canada's Prime Minister, Stephen Harper. He unveiled a special flag made for the Royal couple with Prince William's seal of approval.

Kate has made her first outfit change also. She boarded the plane in a navy outfit but landed with her hair worn half up, half down and had changed into a beautiful  Erdem Moralioglu Resort 2012 Cecile dress. Again choosing a Canadian designer. She also chose her favourite LK Bennett sledge 2 pumps with the clutch she wore to Prince Philip's 90th birthday celebrations. Anyone who changes on a plane and look that good deserves serious style points........What do you think of Kate's looks today? The Duchess has reportedly brought thirty outfits with her. The Queen who is said to be extremely fond of Kate has given her the option of taking any jewellery she wishes for the tour. I expect we shall see some classic pieces in the coming days.

The couple greeted onlookers at the airport and both appeared excited and enthusiastic about this historic visit. A young boy welcomed the Duchess of Cambridge. At the National War Memorial event where the couple paid their respects as the crowds began chanting 'We want Kate!' The couple stayed ten minutes longer than scheduled, meeting fans and Kate reportedly accepted the gift of a pillowcase made by Francine Dorian 'It's a tapestry I hope the couple will hang on their wall.'

William and Kate then arrived at Rideau hall where they were officially welcomed. William made a warm speech where he spoke of how he and Kate had longed to visit Canada prior to their marriage. The Duke of Cambridge even spoke in french and joked it would improve as they went along. Kate looked on adoringly. I love how her face is so animated and expressive. The crowds absolutely adore her. Kate mania has officially begun!

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The Duchess of Cambridge attends her first 'Remembrance Sunday' service

The Duchess of Cambridge attended her first Remembrance Sunday service this morning in Cenotaph, Central London. This is a special day for Duchess Kate as we rarely see so many members of the Royal family gather for any one event. Senior members of the Royal family laid a wreath to commemorate the lives their lives during hostilities. You will notice Duchess Kate wore two poppies. This is to commemorate the lives of two of her relatives who died in war. One of whom was her late grandfather Peter Middleton who trained pilots in Calgary during the second world war.

Kate did not lay a wreath, Instead she joined the Duchess of Cornwall and watched from the foreign office. Only members born into the Royal family lay wreaths. Prince Philip seems to be the exception to the rule, this is most likely due to his military history. While the Duchess did not lay a wreath she took part in singing the anthem. You can watch a video f the event here.

Prince William's laid a wreath and left a touching card remembering two of his friends who died in service.

"For Jo, Lex and all those who have made the ultimate sacrifice for our country Wills".

Duchess Kate, the Duchess of Cornwall and Sophie, Countess of Wessex look pensive as they reflect during the service.

Other photos of Kate from the service. One think I almost notice about Kate is how happy she always seems to be. We rarely see her without a smile.....

Duchess Kate looked elegant in a black A/W 2008 Diane Von Furstenburg coat. It was one of the most difficult Kate pieces to ID as the coat is not on the DVF website. However the talented Mary Ellen from What Kate Wore Facebook found it. It is sold out on the site, The coat has detachable cuffs and collar and is 100% wool. Kate teamed the coat with a striking hat with a large bow, by milliner Jane Corbett.

Kate wore her beautiful Kiki McDonough Grace earrings. The white topaz stud earrings framed with diamonds are currently selling for £695.

Remembrance Sunday takes place on the second Sunday in November annually. It is day put aside to remember those who have given their lives for peace and freedom. This morning, the Queen lead the nation in remembering and reflecting. A two minute silence took place and the Queen laid a wreath on the Cenotaph. A very special day to to remember relatives or friends who died in conflict.

The Field of Remebrance outside Westminster Abbey

(Sources: Daylife, Daily Mail. Just Jared, pure people)

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Why the fashion world refuses to acknowledge Duchess Kate as a style icon and Why fans of Kate prove them wrong

I was doing my daily search for Kate related news today and I've noticed a trend among articles. It seems the fashion world and a healthy number of journalists refuse to accept Kate as a fashion icon. After the recent 'Bridal Fashion Week' the press joyfully wrote there was no "discernible Kate Middleton effect"
British bespoke wedding dress designer Sassi Holford said,


"The long sleeved demure look was already emerging before Kate Middleton appeared in her Sarah Burton designed gown. Five years ago, It was all strapless. The last two years - and more this year than any other people say, I don't want strapless, What can you offer me".


Below a model wears a gown by Sassi Holford which seems very Kate inspired to me.....

Other designers including Matthew Williamson and Gregory Nato spoke along the same lines. You can read the article Here. There is absolutely no doubt Kate has influenced bridal trends. I'm sure most of you who have attended weddings this year have noticed lace, longer sleeves and boleros being worn by brides more so than in previous years.


TV fashion presenter Mary Portas felt the need to criticise the Duchess too saying "Is that fashion? No. I do not know how can you say she is a fashion icon. I just don't get that". Portas, not known for mincing her words, recently labelled the female members of the British Cabinet "an ugly bunch".


Others including designer Vivienne Westwood have made similar comments. However designers such as Alice Temperly and Julien MacDonald have spoke out in favour of Kate's style with MacDonald stating Kate is "chic and sophisticated". I've decided to take a look at trends Kate has inspired and why I think she is a fashion icon. With thanks to the Daily Mail for putting an excellent article together documenting Kate's fashion influence.


Firstly 'The Kate effect' has been simply amazing for the retailers she chooses. British high street label Reiss (they currently have up to 40% off on selected lines :) had to reissue the £159 dress she wore for the engagement photos while their website crashed after Kate wore their Shola dress while meeting the Obamas. London based label Alexander McQueen experienced a fifty percent increase in turnover compared to the previous year after Kate wore a Sarah Burton wedding gown. In these recessionary times, Kate is a huge asset to British labels who need all the business they can get. 

No one can deny the massive popularity of Nude court shoes since Kate has been photographed wearing her favourite L.K. Bennett Sledge 2 Pumps. Even Carole and Pippa Middleton are fans..........(You know you're a trendsetter when you're mother and sister want to emulate your look :)) At Zara Phillips' wedding it was pointed out almost every woman in attendance was wearing nude court shoes.

From Kate's wedding gown to the Royal tour and most recently while attending a wedding, Kate is clearly a fan of lace. Classic dresses with clean lines look spectacular with lace detail. It's a look that works wonderfully for the Duchess and any woman can emulate it. Journalist Jessica Vince wrote "Middleton mania has influenced every designer, most notably through lace sleeves that repli Kate the famous Alexander McQueen gown of Royal Wedding day".

Kate's stunning sapphire and diamond engagement ring, originally Princess Diana's sparked a trend for colourful gemstones. Replicas of Kate's ring sold out all over the world. Dervla Cogan from By Brillians jewellery company said

 "In the run up to the Royal wedding we constantly had customers visit our shop and emailing our website requesting a similar piece to Kate's engagement ring. We created a piece inspired by the famous ring and it was hugely popular. It sold out before the big day and people who wanted it had to be put on a waiting list. Even after the wedding it continues to be one of our best selling items".

These are but a few of the trends Kate has inspired but what is the true testament of a style icon? Is it someone designers are influenced by? Someone who makes the headlines? In my opinion a true style icon is someone who is admired and emulated by people like you and me. From your average college student, businesswoman, homemaker and fashionista, Kate's style is loved. Women want to dress like her. 


I asked some wonderful fans of Kate's style what they love about her look. I would like to sincerely thank each of them for taking the time to participate. It is greatly appreciated.


Chiara via Twitter "How she's always appropriate wears the perfect thing according to the event and her role".


Kate Middleton Fans via Twitter "I love how her style is timeless, yet accentuated with such grace. She truly is such an icon, and everyone can wear it".


Alyssa Via Twitter "She's classic and elegant, not overdone. Clean lines, sticks to what works.


Pamela Via Twitter "She always looks effortless. Sounds cliche, but true. She wears clothes, they don't wear her. Never overdone".


Anne Marie Via What Kate Wore Facebook "Several things. I really like choosing things she has worn (the exact not a copy) because it always is very high quality, and has, I guess you would say, a little twist to it. Like the ruffle on the bottom of the trench coat,..".


Brittney Mick Via WKW Facebook "I love how glamorous yet effortless she looks".


Jami Via WKW Facebook "I am also young like Kate and I really like that she is making it stylish to dress conservative, but cute and classy. You don't need to dress trashy to get noticed".


Amber Via WKW Facebook "I love how she "recycles" her clothes as they say. She is not afraid to be photographed in it twice. I love how she wears pantyhose. But I think we can all agree we like her conservative, classy attire".


Dolores Via WKW Facebook "I also like her influence on young girls. She's showing them that you can be beautiful and elegant without being trendy, and garish".


Alyssia Via the blog "I personally love her style, her courage to put sophistication back on the map (so sick of this Lady GaGa/it's OK to dress like a ho fad), and the way she pulls it all off by wearing (for the most part) reasonably priced clothing in a way which makes even the least of us feel as if we can always channel our inner princess. Most of all, and beyond her "style icon" status, she is a good person, an exceptional lady, an advocate for humanity and charity. And that's what makes her one of my favorite people on the planet".


The general opinion appears to be that it's Kate's classy, effortless style we all love. It's attainable, yet glamorous. Affordable, yet chic. Modern, yet classic....................
Why do you all love Kate's style? If you would like your comment added to the list please let me know :)
Again a huge thank you to the women who contributed to this post. Kate has some wonderful fans :)


Sources (Daily Mail, What Kate Wore Facebook, Twitter,Wall Street Post)

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Crowds gather as the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge arrive in Yellowknife

Prince William and Duchess Kate have arrived in Yellowknife, The fourth stop on their Canadian tour. Large crowds gathered around the airport as they arrived. After a tiring dragon boat race yesterday the couple showed no signs of slowing down. They are taking tomorrow off to relax. (A welcome rest I'm sure) William and Kate were greeted by two little girls with flowers. It is again, a busy day for the couple. I will update with photos and news throughout the day! :)

Kate was wearing the navy trench coat from yesterday, It's the 'Ted Baker Jinan trench coat'. (With many thanks to @Perfect_sinner on twitter who is just wonderful regarding Kate's looks) Even on her first official royal tour, Kate is proving she is still a fan of the high street. She looked amazing and very chic. With navy pumps and her hair worn down it transformed her look from day to night! 

Yesterday was such an eventful day from the dragon boat race to Kate posing with someone dressed up as 'Anne of Green Gables'. I just had to show you more photos. (Sometimes the best photos don't surface until the next day)

The couple share a private joke

With 'Anne of Green Gables

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Duchess Kate keeps her promise to cancer patient Fabian Bate

You will all recall William and Kate's recent visit to the Royal Marsden Hospital, while there Duchess Kate was touched by one little boy in particular, Nine year old cancer patient Fabian Bate. After briefly meeting him and his parents Kate kindly promised to leave a message on Fabian's blog. However, Kate decided she wanted to send Fabian something even better - a personal letter. 

The Bate family were stunned to discover the letter from the Duchess of Cambridge. Kate wrote "I was so touched by your strength of character. I will keep my fingers crossed that your healthy goes from strength to strength". An incredibly kind gesture on behalf of Kate and this proves what a caring person she is. As a Royal she meets a vast number of people but this little boy touched her heart. The letter now has pride of place in the Marsden family home. Fabian Bate's dad Darrell said "She really personalised it and obviously remembered him". 


A look at the letter, personally signed 'Catherine'

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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.

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