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.

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William and Kate plan to get cosy watching Downton Abbey as they move into Kensington Palace

William and Kate have finally moved into Kensington Palace. After months of speculation about the move, The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge have chosen a very modest flat. It is much smaller than their neighbours apartment occupied by Prince and Princess Michael of Kent. The couple have just arrived home from their hectic tour of Canada and I imagine were enjoying being back to 'normal' life in their Anglesey home. It must be difficult for the young couple to have to uproot yet again. The life of a Royal may not be as easy as people think?
Kate ordered a few minor renovations and builders discovered the place was riddled with asbestos, a material that became popular in building during the late 19th century, It was later discovered it causes cancer. Senior royals have confirmed the couple moved all their furniture from Prince Harry's apartment at Clarence House to Kensington Palace and spent a couple of nights there last week. (I must say I'm surprised the move escaped the ever watchful eye of the paparazzi) While Diana resided there she was hounded day and night. Hopefully it will be an easier transition for Kate. Sources also stated that William and Kate view Anglesey as their home and the arrangement at Kensington is only temporary. Royal aides are constantly looking for alternatives. The Queen has invited Kate to stay at Balmoral where she wishes to get to know her better. No doubt options will be discussed during the visit. The Queen was reportedly hopeful they would take an apartment at Buckingham Palace, they declined as they feared people would feel the Queen was favouring William over Charles.
 Perhaps the pair will relax and watch Downton Abbey while there, they told actress Jessica Brown Findlay at the BAFTA reception they simply love watching it together :) It is an excellent period drama series, Well worth a watch if any of you  enjoy period dramas, (I've seen the first series twice myself) The wonderful Maggie Smith stars.

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Will Kate feel trapped at Kensington Palace?

As the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge prepare to move into Kensington Palace in the coming weeks, they may be feeling more apprehensive than eager. After the divorce of Prince Charles and Princess Diana, Diana lived there unhappily. Due to it's high accessibility on all sides, it is perfect for the relentless paparazzi who hounded Diana day and night. Diana referred to it as 'KP' and openly admitted it became more 'prison than palace'. Staff consider it to be seriously 'unlucky'. One might ask, why did they choose to make their home there? William is fiercely protective of Kate and would have considered all viable options before making such a decision. Clarence House was considered until the Duchess of Cornwall declared: 'There's no room here'. St. James' Palace would be considered a depressing place to live for a young couple. Finally Buckingham Palace might have seemed like a sensible option. However senior royals felt this would indicate that the Queen may see William as her successor.

According to a source, Kensington Palace was the only place William had wanted due to his fond memories there of his mother. 'They are memories that are very precious to Will, though he doesn't talk much about his childhood'. After Diana's death it was left as a shell for ten years. Few men choose to move their brides into their mother's home, but it is different for Prince William, and Kate would certainly understand that. She was deeply honoured to have been given Diana's engagement ring and will most likely feel the same about moving into her old home. I do hope it is a happier home for Kate than it was for Diana with a degree of independence. Diana loved to go to the shops surrounding Kensington Palace, but the paparazzi never allowed her that luxury. The couple will make new memories at the palace and Lady Di would be happy to know William is bringing Kate there!

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Kate loves: Coffee and Cafés

Good evening Duchess Kate fans,


Many of you have emailed me regarding upcoming Kate engagements. Unfortunately, nothing is scheduled for Kate at the moment. However, it is definitely going to be a busy year for the Duchess. With the tour, the Queen's jubilee, Kate's new charities, and her role as ambassador for London 2012, royal aides will be planning numerous appearances for Kate. And just when we think we won't see photos for weeks they tend to crop up out of nowhere. In the meantime I'm working on a series of posts entitled 'Kate loves'. Giving us insights into Kate's favourite places, food and hobbies. Tonight we begin with 'Coffee and Cafés'.

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For those of you planning a trip to the U.K. the Chelsea neighbourhood would be the ideal place to spot Kate. Despite their hugely successful business the Middleton family enjoy dining at reasonable places. Pre engagement Kate, Carole and Pippa were photographed lunching at the Bluebird Café. (With thanks to Trisha for finding the amazing photo)

The contemporary Bluebird brings together a bar, café and restaurant feel. One can enjoy a three course lunch for just over £20. You can enjoy your meal al fresco like the Middletons did or pop in early for a classic breakfast. In the summer one can enjoy a BBQ in the beautiful courtyard.

Head chef Mark Block sources his ingredients locally. Apparently he can do wonders with a simple chicken and mushroom pie. Each month, Mark celebrates a different region with a special menu.

To take a look at the full menu which is incredibly reasonably priced, please click here. You can follow the Bluebird via Twitter and Facebook.

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Another popular choice among the young royals (especially Prince William) is the Brompton Bar and Grill. Located at 243 Brompton Road, the historic restaurant site has moved with the times. Post 1945 it was a greek restaurant, now it is one of the coolest places to hang out.

The Brompton is known for far more than it's food. It's bar and jazz scene are hugely popular among Londoners. One of the U.K.'s finest jazz and blues singers, T.J. Johnson is playing Valentine's Day. (If any guys from London are reading, it sounds pretty romantic)

For a look at the exquisite menu please click here. You can follow via Twitter.

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Duchess Kate is often spotted at her local Starbucks ordering a take out coffee. 

Located on 123a King's Road, It's the ideal location for Kate to pop over from Kensington Palace. Kate isn't the type to send someone else to run her errands. The world of coffee is not as simplistic as black and white. I wonder what Kate drinks? Espresso? Cappucino? Or perhaps this Caramel Macchiato? Looks delicious.

Aside from coffee, Starbucks is also offering healthy food options now. What do you think?

Take a look at the delicious coffee list here.

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In the last few months, Kate has also been seen buying coffee at Costa Coffee.

Costa Coffee has an extensive selection of coffee, pastries, sandwiches and cakes. The Espresso, 'No milk, no compromises'. Take a look at the selection here.

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Finally for today, It has been reported by a very reliable source that Kate celebrated her birthday with a quiet family dinner cooked by one of her favourite chefs at a property close to her home in Kensington Palace. 

I don't know about you, but I'm off to make a coffee now :)

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William and Kate advertise for servants

William and Kate had hoped to settle into married life like any other couple. However the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge have found managing household chores a royal duties quite difficult. The couple are advertising for servants to help take care of their household. A source from Buckingham Palace said 'William and Kate might have wanted a simple life and do everything themselves but it's just not possible. The whole place is buzzing with excitement. Lots of people will want these prestigious jobs. The royals always like to promote existing staff rather than bring in people from the outside. This is a golden opportunity for someone to be in at the beginning of William and Kate's domestic and working lives'.

The couple manage perfectly at Anglesey, however for Kensington Palace they will need housekeeper, valet, butler and dresser. Kate will be keen to have an excellent dresser. As a style icon Kate is conscious of looking immaculate. They will need to get along with Kate on a personal level and ensure she always looks her best. The Duchess of Cambridge will personally interview the applicants before her trip to Canada.

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Kate Loves: Anglesey

We are all familiar with William and Kate's Royal residence Kensington Palace but we know relatively little about their Welsh home Anglesey. I thought we would remedy that with a post looking at the town and places William and Kate frequent. 

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The isle of Anglesey is situated off the north - west coast of Wales near the incredible Snowdonia Mountain Range. The Cambridges reside in a five bedroomed farmhouse in a private location.

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Interestingly Anglesey has the village with the longest name in Britain, Llanfairpwllgwyngyllgogerychwyrndrobwllllantysiliogogogoch. ( I'm not even going to attempt to pronounce it, What about you :)) When translated to English it means 'The Church of St. Mary in a hollow of white hazel near a rapid whirlpool and near St. Tysilo's church by the red cave'. Quite a mouthful indeed.

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Prince William works as a search and rescue pilot at RAF Valley where he regularly works 24 hour shifts. The Prince is a very talented pilot and adores his work with the RAF, so much so that he hopes to extend his period of service with them.

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With William working 24 hour shifts, how does Kate fill her days? The Duchess loves nothing more than being a housewife. William's colleague Thomas Bunn said

"Kate has very kindly baked cakes for the boys but unfortunately I wasn't on shift when they were made. So I'm hoping she'll come and make us some more. Apparently they were pretty good."

Duchess Kate is regularly spotted stocking up on supplies at her local Tesco and Waitrose.

Baeur Griffin/Zimbio

A look at the main shopping street, quite a change from  Kings Road near Kensington Palace.

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Should Kate feel like a little retail therapy the 'Touch of Class' ladieswear shop is one of the most popular in Anglesey :)

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William and Kate nothing more than cosy nights in by the far with a takeaway and a dvd. A look at the takeaway 'The Sunny Valley'.

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The couple sometimes enjoy lunch at The Seacroft. Located on the scenic Trearddur bay it is a place to relax, enjoy your meal and a drink whilst taking in the surroundings. 

The Seacroft

A look at the main course menu. I wonder what Will and Kate have?

The Seacroft

Speaking of Trearddur bay, A newly engaged William and Kate visited the Trearddur lifeboat station in February 2011 where they named the Atlantic 85 inshore lifeboat the 'Hereford Endeavour'. 

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The Royals regularly enjoy a trip to their local Cineworld where they often avail of the 'Two tickets for the price of one' offer on Tuesday :)  Kate loves going for a beach stroll with William and Lupo on Llanddwyn Island off the west coast of Anglesey. 

A closer look at Llandwyn Island.

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During a media reception last December Kate spoke candidly about life in Anglesey

"I love our life in Anglesey. It's just nice to be outdoors and away from the city. As much as I love London, it's nice to get away".

One can easily see why Kate adores the idyllic Anglesey so much. It's beautiful, peaceful and scenic. I do hope she and William can spend as much time their as possible living as serviceman and housewife, a life they both adore, before commencing their roles as full time royals. Anglesey looks like a beautiful place to visit, If this is not possible you could try your luck at Anglesey Monopoly :)

Amazon/Monopoly

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Kate's Date Night With 150 Kids

Duchess Kate had a date with 150 kids from her patronage The Art Room this evening. She invited the children for a production of 'The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe' in Kensington Gardens. Daily Mail Royal Correspondent Rebecca English was at the event and very kindly shared news and photos via Twitter.

Rebecca English Twitter

 Prince William opted to stay in and watch the football (no doubt the Prince will be pleased England beat Sweden 3-2).

Rebecca English Twitter

The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe is described as 'an enchanting theatrical experience'. Allowing children to open a door and enter a spectacular new world with their favourite characters as they journey through the magical land of Narnia. Set against the backdrop of Kensington Palace this is a very special show.

A look at the hugely popular Lion.

Winter time in Narnia.

Kate joked with the children asking if the show had been too scary for them:

'No screaming too loud. I can now see your faces in the crowd so if you scream I know who you are'.

During the interval she said to the children:

'Did you see all the animals on stilts and wasn't Lucy cute? Wasn't it amazing? I just loved the way it is held in a tent. Really clever. What I really want to know is have any of you tried turkish delight?'.

PA

A look inside the Three Sixty Theatre.

The Duchess met with the cast backstage after the show.

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 Kate commented that she loved the fact that the event was only a hop from her house.

Rebecca English Twitter

Many of the children had never seen a show before so it was a memorable night for them. Lovely to see Kate taking her role as patron so seriously. I do believe she works incredibly well with children.

Rebecca English Twitter

The Art Room said the children had a 'wonderful evening' with Kate.

The Art Room Twitter

Kate wore a lovely teal Zara dress with a split at the back.

Rebecca English Twitter

The Duchess teamed her dress with the Whistles Helena Cropped Blazer (With many thanks to What Kate Wore) Unfortunately the £155 jacket is now sold out.

Whistles/John Lewis/PA

Kate was photographed wearing the jacket while shopping in Cheslea on June 2nd.

In Touch Magazine

Kate carried her Anya Hindmarch Maud Clutch. The £450 hinged clutch is available in various colours and can be embellished with embroidered initials.

Anya Hindmarch

The Duchess accessorised with her beautiful Links of London Bubble Stiletto Earrings. (With thanks to eagle eyed Cherry) The sterling silver earrings are available for $215.

Links of London

Kate completed the look with her Prada heels and a pretty necklace.

Kate left clutching a cuddly £15 'Aslan' teddy :) You can watch a video at ITV.

See you all in the morning for Trooping the Colour!

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Operation Princess Kate, Designer uniform for staff at Kensington, Kate doll, upcoming events + more

Hello Kate watchers,


It's been quiet on the Kate front since the Copenhagen trip with the exception of a couple of small stories, I would like to share with you. We all know Duchess Kate is loved worldwide, nonetheless I was a little taken aback to read that Afghan soldiers fought off the Taliban in an attacked named 'Operation Princess Kate'. Afghan soldiers were captivated by Kate after seeing photos of the royal wedding. Afghan National Army Sergeant, Abdul Wahid said


"We are grateful to the British troops for everything they are doing to help us become a capable army who can take on the insurgency. So we decided to name this important operation in honour of someone who is close to the hearts of the British people. Along with my fellow warriors, I was proud to play my part and to honour a member of the Royal family in this way".


Operation Princess Kate was a resounding success as a team of four hundred Afghan soldiers descended on a Taliban stronghold. Sergeant Wahid believe Kate brought them luck. Who knew Kate could be so good for international relations? There is nothing out Duchess can't do :)


I've often wondered what life is like for the staff at Kensington Palace, watching the Royals go about their daily lives, one thing I had not thought of is there uniforms. British label Jaeger are set to design uniforms for front of house staff as part of the royal residences £12 million transformation. The uniform which will be unveiled on March 26 2012 will be worn by around fifty staff. Great thought has been put into the design of the uniform. I was amazed to read the design was influenced by palace architecture and the interiors of the state apartments. The uniforms are being manufactured by London based Jermyn Street Design. Stuart Stockdale, Creative director at Jaeger said

"It's a great honour to have had access to the Royal ceremonial dress collection at Kensington Palace. I have been inspired by centuries of royal and court style and married this with modernity to offer the Palace staff a bespoke uniform that they can feel proud and enjoy wearing. The new uniform really tells a story".

William and Kate will need a large staff when they move in to their new apartment and working for the couple just became an even more attractive prospect :)

Prince William and Duchess Kate have been named as the most influential royals in a list compiled by London's Evening Standard. The panel of judges said the couples influence had grown greatly since their wedding last April. A wonderful honour for William and Kate.

Duchess Kate graces the cover of Hello magazine again this week, (She must be simply doing wonders for their sales) Photographed with Princess Mary of Copenhagen.

Companies around the world have cashed in on the royal wedding, In fact I would imagine it has done wonders for sales. With everything from replica engagement rings to books and DVDs available we could all have a piece to remember the wedding by. However, the latest 'Duchess Kate wedding doll' leaves a lot (Let me stress an awful lot) to be desired. 

The £120 figurine draped in a replica of Kate's wedding gown complete with lace detail looks exactly like 'Action Man'. With masculine proportions and a manic smile this doll certainly doesn't resemble Kate in any shape or form. I think with time and effort a wonderful doll could be produced which emulate's Kate, but this isn't it!

What do you all think? Will this doll be on your Christmas list? :)

I actually wanted to write this post to remind you all of the imminent Kate sightings. Tomorrow evening (November 10) The Cambridge's will attend a dinner at St James' Palace in aid of The National Memorial Arboretum appeal. The appeal was launched by William in 2009 to develop the world renowned arboretum into a centre for remembrance. I will include plenty of information on the Aboretum appeal in tomorrows post.

This weekend the 'Remembrance Day' ceremonies will be taking place. With events Saturday and Sunday we should be seeing quite a lot of new photos of the Duchess! We may possibly see Kate at an unscheduled event too.

Here is a video from last years Remembrance Day.........

See you all tomorrow, I will update with photos and news as soon as they come in.

Sources (Mirror.co.uk, The Telegraph, Youtube, Daily Mail)

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William and Kate to make social debut tomorrow night

Tomorrow night the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge will make their social debut as a married couple. The annual charity ARK dinner is one of the glitziest events on the social calender. William and Kate will make their entrance into a giant marquee on Perks' fields, behind Kensington Palace. The couple will be welcomed by 900 guests covered in diamonds and stunning evening dresses. After drinks and canapés guests will enjoy a lavish dinner courtesy of catering firm Rhubarb. Guests will have paid £10,000 per ticket and they are most looking forward to Williams first speech as a married man. He is expected to announce a calloboration between ARK and the princes' foundation. DJ Mark Ronson will provide musical entertainment.

Some feel this event is too decadent for the royal couple but considering the purpose is to announce William's future charitable plans it seems ideal. For the ARK charity William and Kate attending will be excellent for PR which all charities need at this time. Previously Bill Clinton and Madonna are among the high profile guests who have attended ARK dinners.  A source said 'There is a limited market of people to tap up. The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge and Prince Harry are keen to get as much money as possible for the foundation and therefore must schmooze'. I am excited to see William and Kate attend this function and of course........What will she wear? Will we see her wearing Issa or possibly Reiss again? I will update on this matter as soon as the royal couple arrive at the event tomorrow!

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Duchess Kate redecorates Kensington Palace

William and Kate have been keeping a low profile over the past few days, probably due to moving in too Kensington Palace. Reportedly Kate didn't feel at ease initially and has decided to do some redecorating. The Duchess of Cambridge had an entire crate of candles and room sprays delivered to the 17th century palace in an effort to modernise the place. She felt there was a 'fuddy duddy smell'. Kate had £900 worth of 'Scent 1' fragrances delivered including lavender, sandalwood and moss based waxes. Along with cushions to give their apartment in the Palace a more relaxed feel. A friend of the couple said 'Kate had little say in her marital home. But the only time she's put her foot down was when it came to interior design. Kate has a keen eye for contemporary, effortlessly cool styling and was adamant she and William would make their home feel like a home not a formal residence. Whereas William is used to the the smell and feel of the palace, Kate is used to a more modern relaxed environment. She felt it had an overriding, musty, damp smell and ordered a six month supply of her favourite products. William was happy to go with the flow'.

It is understood Duchess Kate ordered fifteen £38 candles and six sprays. Since Princess Diana passed away Kensington Palace has been somewhat dormant, The only mention of it was in relation to Diana. The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge seem very keen to feel as comfortable and homely as possible there. It is a world away from their relaxed life in Anglesey wales. The couple are moving into the four bedroom cottage within the grounds of the Palace in the coming weeks.

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