Prince William whisks Kate away on honeymoon

St James's palace has confirmed that the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge set off on a delayed honeymoon yesterday. They are believed to have flown out by jet, before being taken by helicopter to a secret location. A spokesman for William said, 'They have left for their honeymoon and the couple have asked for their privacy to be respected'. William's car was reported seen leaving Anglesey, North Wales, yesterday piled high with luggage. Speculation has been rife regarding the honeymoon destination the couple would choose. Kenya was the keen favourite as William proposed to Kate there in October 2010. According to newspapers, William and Kate are staying in a £4,000 a night villa in the Seychelles, in the Indian Ocean. The resort offers almost complete isolation, exactly what the newlyweds are hoping for. It is understood the location is a surprise for Kate as she is unaware of William's plans for their getaway. The public were surprised when the couple left Clarence house via helicopter the morning after their wedding for a weekend away in Britain instead of opting to honeymoon immediately. The press have not disclosed details of the exact location, anyone holidaying in the same location might just be the first to catch a glimpse of William and Kate celebrating their honeymoon!

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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. 

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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 

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New photos of Kate getting her hair done and William reveals his wish to postpone becoming a full time royal

Duchess Kate has been keeping a very low profile recently, but we are being spoilt with sightings this week. First it was announced William and Kate will open a children's cancer center on Thursday, then the photo's of the wedding and now photo's of Kate getting her hair done last Friday have emerged. Wearing a white sweater black jeans teamed with her Mulberry bag and knee high flat black suede boots (Yes the boots are back :)) Duchess Kate appeared happy and smiling as she left the salon.

Many of you mentioned you were surprised Kate spent four hours in Richard Ward's Chelsea salon. A source said "Kate goes in for a long appointment about every eight weeks. She loves her time there and has known everyone there for years so it's really relaxing for her".

Here is a sneak peak at the process............

In other Kate news
Vogue editor Anna Wintour has been campaigning to land Duchess Kate for the cover of Vogue. She has spoken to royal photographer Mario Testino in an effort to persuade Kate. A source said

A mockup I made

 'Anna has been speaking to Mario about winning over Kate. She is really pressing him to shoot Kate for the cover. Every magazine has been trying to get Kate, and many assume it will eventually be Vogue. But even with the Mario Testino relationship it is not clear if it will happen. The palace have to approve it and they are very protective of Kate'.

However Anna will be disappointed as the Palace are having none of it :) St James's palace have announced Kate has absolutely no plans to appear on the cover despite rumours in the U.S. I am not surprised to be honest, While Diana appeared on the cover of Vogue as a young royal, I do not think Kate wishes to go down that road. In the meantime I made a mockup of a possible Kate cover! 

Prince William gave a rare, exclusive interview to journalist Robert Hardman about the Queen, his wedding to Kate and plans for the future. William began by describing his feelings while planning the wedding.

"I came into the first meeting for the wedding, post engagement. And I was given the list of 777 names, dignitaries, governors, all sorts of people. Not one person I knew. They said these are the people we should invite. I looked at it in absolute horror and said I think we should start again".

The next day William rang the Queen for advice and she told him you start by inviting friends and then take it from there. William jokingly mentions how he wanted to choose what to wear for the wedding but was politely told his clothing for the day was non negotiable. Prince William holds great affection and love for his grandmother. 'I always say to people she is my grandmother first. As I've got older she has become more important to me'. He said both he and Kate drew inspiration from her majesty on their visit to Canada.

William and Kate were expected to become full time royals in about twenty months time. However this interview has put that into question. The Queen is reportedly supportive of William extending his time with the RAF there is even talk of a tour of Afghanistan. This would certainly be difficult for Kate to be separated from her husband for extended periods of time. I get the impression they simply love the anonymity being in Anglesey gives them and are eager to postpone becoming full time royals for a while. I think they should be allowed a little extra time to enjoy what they have.When asked about his future as a full time royal. William simply replies "I try not to think about it to be honest. As I'm flying along in my helicopter through the mountains of Wales, I try desperately hard not to think about it. That can wait until I'm a bit older".

Sources (Daily Mail, What Kate Wore Facebook Page, Royal Reporter Via Twitter, US Weekly,)

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Lady in Red Kate Joins Senior Royals for The Thames Diamond Jubilee Pageant

The Jubilee Bank Holiday Weekend officially kicked off with a wonderful display of pomp and pageantry at the Thames Diamond Jubilee Pageant. Over one thousand boats mustered on the River Thames from the UK, the Commonwealth and around the world. The flotilla reportedly measured seven and a half miles from end to end is the largest fleet of ships to be assembled on the Thames in 350 years. The event has been two years in the planning and cost £10 million.

PA

Kate was heard describing the event as 'so exciting'. Crowds lined fourteen miles to catch a glimpse of the royals, reportedly more than the royal wedding. No doubt an unforgettable experience for Kate.

Reuters

The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge joined Prince Harry, Prince Charles, the Duchess of Cornwall, Prince Philip and The Queen on board a tender that once belonged to the Royal Yacht Britannia, The Royal Barge, called the Spirit of Chartwell. The vessel was donated for use at the event by owner Philip Morrell. 

A closer look at the Spirit of Chartwell.

Thames Diamond Jubilee Pageant

From the Daily Mail

'The boat has been described as a vessel 'fit for a Queen' and has been decorated with nearly 10,000 flowers. It has been transformed in a project led by award winning production designer, Joseph Bennett. Lavishly decorated with replica carvings and sporting a majestic red, gold and purple colour scheme, the vessel's design will echo the richly decorated royal barges of the 17th and 18th centuries. A lavish red, velvet banner decorated with a version of the royal coat of arms made from more than half a million gold coloured buttons hands from the stern'.

It has been widely suggested the Monarchy needs to scale down in order to survive and the seven royals sailing on The Spirit of Chartwell represent the core members, present and future of the British Monarchy.

PA

All senior members of the Royal family are taking part in the event, except the reclusive Duchess of Kent. It is one of the rare occasions the entire family are together.

A look at a map from the event. 

London Town

The jubilee has brought a sense of national unity, thousands of street parties are taking place all over Britain. Today the Big Jubilee Lunch was held. The aim of the lunch is to get as many people as possible to have lunch with their neighbours enhancing their sense of community and friendship. People from all 54 countries in the commonwealth were encouraged to celebrate with a jubilee lunch.

A look at the pageant.

Kate looked lovely in a red Alexander McQueen pleated skirt dress. The cutout peplum showcases the A line skirt. The piece is from last years Pre-Fall collection. The dress was available for $2,045. Kate's dress is a custom made piece, lengthened with long sleeves. It is described as

'Rule, Britannia! Regimental uniforms, especially the British Order of the Garter, inspired Sarah Burton's Alexander McQueen Pre-Fall 2011 collection. Rendered in a vivid red, the exuberantly precise result is sure to delight both new and veteran fans of this British power house'.

Alexander McQueen

I'm delighted Kate chose red for today, not only is it a fabulous colour on her but a nod to the jubilee. It is noticeably similar to the pink Emilia Wickstead dress the Duchess wore to the Sovereign's Luncheon and most recently the Buckingham Palace garden party. The dress has been worn by a number of celebrities including Kim Kardashian (Yes, I never thought we would see Kate wearing the same dress as KK but Kate's is quite different :)) and X Factor judge Tulisa. (With many thanks to Kate Middleton Style)

Marie Claire

Kate wore a red by milliner Sylvia Fletcher at James Lock & Co. 

Reuters

Kate wore her favourite LK Bennett Sledge shoes. They are currently available for £185.

LK Bennett

Kate's brooch features two dolphins. It was a gift from the Royal Navy Submarine Service. Prince William is Chief of the RN Submarine Service hence the gift to Kate. (With thanks to @RoyalReporter)


Kate accessorised with her Kiki McDonough Citrine Drop Earrings. They are available for £495.

Kiki McDonough

Kate carried a tartan scarf made of newly created Strathearn tartan, a nod to her Scottish title 'Countess of Strathearn'. She briefly wore it before she disembarked from the barge. 

The Duchess also carried a red and gold version of the McQueen Skull Clutch with Bow (With many thanks to What Kate Wore) 

Ginny Brumback Blog/What Kate Wore

It was no doubt a memorable occasion for the Middleton family who sailed on the Elizabethan. Pippa looked absolutely lovely in an Orla Kiely ensemble. Pippa was obviously conscious of looking conservative and not detracting attention from the event with her sartorial choices and she did a wonderful job. Carole Middleton looked sophisticated in a cream dress and jacket. Mike and James opted for classic suits, the family appeared to be in very high spirits throughout the pageant, wonderful to see HM including them.

Daily Mail

The Princes looked very dashing today. Prince William wore his Flight Lieutenant No 1 dress uniform while Prince Harry, a captain in the British army wore the No 1 ceremonial dress of the Blues and Royals and Army Air corps blue beret.

British Monarchy Flickr

The Queen's outfit was designed by Angela Kelly. The ivory dress and coat decorated with crystals was a year in the planning, perfect for the occasion.

Reuters

You can watch a video from The Telegraph and The BBC.

It was a simply spectacular day, despite the dismal weather the mood in London and indeed around the world was one of joy and celebration. We are unlikely to see an event like this again for a long time. A wonderful way to celebrate Her Majesty's Diamond Jubilee. 


I'll see you all tomorrow for the Diamond Jubilee Concert :)

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The Duchess of Cambridge carries out first military role as a royal

JustJared

Duchess Kate performed her first military role as a royal presenting medals to soldiers who have recently returned from serving in Afghanistan. Prince William is Colonel of the Irish Guards. A source said Duchess Kate was very pleased to be undertaking this role as the regiment is 'so close to her husband's heart'. Kate looked stunning in a navy double breasted Alexander McQueen coat with gold buttons with matching shoes, and clutch. Kate wore a beautiful golden Irish shamrock brooch on her coat and a beautiful silver bracelet with the letter 'C' engraved on it. Kate has been wearing more McQueen lately and it suits her excellently.  I love this look on her and it's perfect for the occasion. Being a fashionable royal is a difficult task for anyone, but Kate is pulling it off wonderfully. A little girl handed Kate flowers and she and William appeared to thoroughly enjoy talking to her! Both William and Kate looked very happy throughout the day. It was certainly a royal occasion with Prince Charles and the Duchess of Cornwall also in attendance.

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William and Kate say thank you, Kate inspired hoisery and more

When childminder Carla Watts and the children she looks after made individual cards congratulating Prince William and Duchess Kate on their wedding day, They thought no more about it. That is until they received a letter on behalf of the Royal couple and a postcard for each of the children. The letter read:


"The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge have asked me to thank you for your very kind letter that accompanied all the wonderful cards which the children made in connection with their wedding. I have enclosed a card for each of the children and would be grateful if you could distribute them on their behalf
. Their Royal Highnesses have been overwhelmed by the incredibly kind messages they have received and have been immensely touched that you should take the trouble to write as you did, as well as organise the children to make such special cards. It was greatly appreciated and the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge have asked me to send their warmest thanks and best wishes"


Carla who was thrilled as were the children aged 0-6 said "When I was young, I did the same, I sent a card to the Prince and Princess of Wales for their wedding. I also sent cards when Prince William and Harry were born." This was very special to the children and a wonderful gesture on behalf of our favourite Royals.

One of the most popular trends Kate has inspired has been the return of invisible hoisery. Duchess Kate's legs always look flawless and the majority of the time one cannot tell whether or not she is even wearing hose. We know Kate wears John Lewis Non Slip Hose which are available for £5.The trend has become so popular that department store Debenhams has launched their own line of sheer hoisery for all skin tones. The tights will be available in various shades to cater for every skin tone. 

Here is a look at the models legs before they tried on the tights.

And after..As you can see there is no undesirable shininess nor colour alteration to the models legs.

What do you all think? It seems pretty good in my opinion. Colours available are olive, bronze, coffee, beige and honey. The best part is they are just £3.50 a pair. Debenhams hoisery buyer Joanna Townsend said


"Nude hoisery is one of fashion's best kept secrets. It's a woman's weapon to fight the onset of winter, when wearing black opaque tights is just too depressing on a golden Autumn's day. Producing product in nude colours should never take a one size fits all approach , and we are confident these tights will appeal to women of all ages and ethnicities".


I have always been a fan of Reiss clothing and I honestly think since Kate began wearing their pieces, It has got even better. Reiss have three new dresses in stock which are very Kate, The Lorna, Livia and Carlie.

I mentioned the Livia in a previous post, I think we could definitely see Kate in at least one of these, My bet would be on the Lorna. The wrap front trim dress comes in cream, cherry and black. The long sleeves and structure are exactly what Kate goes for. (I wonder if they have Kate in mind when designing pieces now :))

Next up is a very interesting story for any potential brides reading, Many thanks to the wonderful Susan at What Kate Wore for discovering the news!
French lacemaker Sophie Hallette is creating a stunning new line of bridal accessories using Enchanted Atelier the lace design used for Duchess Kate's wedding gown. The Enchanted Atelier collection will offer veils, a sash, a bolero jacket and gloves of various lengths. Any of these would be a special addition to any wedding and any bride would love to use the same lace as Kate. I think every bride would like to emulate Kate in some small way.
The collection debuts this weekend at New York Bridal Fashion Week, Looking forward to seeing the collection, I'll update you with news and photo's on the amazing pieces.

It had been widely reported Kate is gaining weight in a bid to fall pregnant. Apparently a source said "Kate has made a vow to accept any snacks she is offered, she has risen from a size six to a much healthier eight". With as much as a whisper of a rumour we can always rely on the press to jump on the bandwagon.


Yet again In Touch magazine are reporting William and Kate are expecting a baby in June (I believe this is the fourth false report this year :)). Again, there have been no official announcements so for the time being we can assume Kate is not pregnant. She looks radiant and healthy and appears to be enjoying married life.

I wonder do William and Kate find the media obsession and false speculation amusing! I expect they ignore it. If In Touch magazine prints Kate is pregnant every second issue they are bound to get it right eventually. :)


 I had to share this photo of Michael and Carole Middleton at the theatre the night before last. They both look amazing, Carole is wearing a Catherine Walker jacket too. (Favourite designer of Diana's and now Kate's) For more photo's check out the Middleton Page. It is very easy to see where Kate gets her excellent genes :)

Finally I have added a new poll asking what you most like to see included in blog posts, Please vote and leave comments if you have any suggestions. If there is anything you would like to see specifically included don't hesitate to let me know. I'm always seeking ways to improve the blog and your feedback is greatly appreciated!


Sources (Daily Mail, What Kate Wore, In Touch, Reiss)

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Kate Loves: Gowns Part 1

Duchess Kate has worn some stunning gowns over the past decade. From her university days to red carpet events, Kate's timeless elegance has shone through in her evening gown choices. Let's look back over the past decade beginning with a black halter neck dress Kate wore during her time as a student in St Andrews University.

Middleton Love

Kate attended the 2006 Boodles Boxing Ball wearing a striking blue BCBG dress. It was the first time we had seen Kate at a black tie event and the dress was a perfect choice, both youthful and elegant.

Harper's Bazaar

Sponsored by Boodles and held in the Royal Lancaster Hotel in aid of Sparks Sports Aiding Medical Research For Kids.

Hotels London

Kate accompanied Prince William to the Boodles Boxing Ball in 2008 wearing a beautiful £1,000 pink Issa gown. In my opinion this is one of Kate's best looks. The colour worked perfectly with her dark hair and her chandelier earrings added a touch of glamour. 

Alan Davidson

Issa designer Daniella Helayel added a very similar dress to her Spring/Summer 2012 collection. The Brazilian designer said she loves to recreate her best pieces.

Alan Davidson/Issa

Kate's many expressions while watching the match :)

The Telegraph

Another sartorial triumph for Kate in 2009 in another Issa gown. This time Kate chose a gunmetal grey dress with a naval cut neckline. You can see similarities in the dresses thus far, Kate obviously favoured a certain style pre-engagement which worked very well for her.

Alan Davidson

Kate hosted a table at the Saatchi Gallery to raise money for the Starlight Children's Foundation. Prince William and The Middleton family were also there to support the foundation. 

Rex Features

A look at the Saatchi Gallery.

Wikipedia

Which of Kate's pre engagement gowns are your favourite? (I do love the pink Issa myself) See you all tomorrow for Part 2 where we will look back on Kate's gowns since the wedding.

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William and Kate share hug after competing in dragon boat race

William and Kate today, competed in a dragon boat race in Prince Edward Island. William and his team victorious against Kate's team but it was the tender hug the couple shared after the race that grabbed everyone's attention. It is the most relaxed and casual I have seen them. Perhaps the press coverage is becoming 'normal' for them. The race which took place over Dalvey lake was disrupted by poor weather conditions but it didn't stop the couple performing their royal duties. Kate was seen taking photos of William throughout the day. (They seem so genuinely in love)

 Prince William also took part in a training demonstration landing a helicopter on water. Kate waved lovingly to her husband during this exercise. Kate changed from her McQueen knit dress into a trench she previously wore in 2008. She wore it with flats, pants and a Hugo Boss scarf. Kate later changed into skinny jeans for the race. Although the attire was practical, I thought Kate looked really good. She pulls off casual chic so well.

Kate first wore the trench coat in 2008

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William Whisks Kate to the Alps, Why the Queen is Protective of Kate + More

Hello Duchess Kate fans,
The Cambridge's have been keeping a low profile since William's return. It is being widely reported that William has whisked Kate away on a skiing holiday to make up for missing Valentine's Day. The 29 year old Prince has allegedly booked the romantic mini break. Last year the couple cancelled a ski trip over fears it would not be appropriate in these recessionary times. Kate has been incredibly busy performing solo duties and William spent fifty days in the Falklands, so I think it's a well deserved break. A source said

"William missed Kate terrible when he was away. They spent Valentine's Day apart and he has been thinking for some time how to make it up to his wife. He want a reunion in the most romantic possible fashion. They've had some brilliant times skiing, and William decided a getaway in Switzerland, where they can wear goggles and hats and go around unnoticed, would be perfect. Kate was delighted when he eventually told her about his plans and cannot wait for the pair to spend some quality time together."

We first saw the couple publicly kiss in 2006 whilst enjoying a skiing holiday. A rather romantic coincidence.

Let's take a look at a newly built chalet to get a glimpse of the couple's accommodation and surroundings. 

Swiss Chalets

The Chalet Frater is stylishly furnished to a high standard. The interior is bright and spacious. It features a patio with a built in BBQ and is only a five minute walk from the best restaurant in town. 

Swiss Chalets

The open plan kitchen, dining room and living room provides a relaxing, cosy setting.

Swiss Chalets

The breathtaking view faces the Grand Muveran, south of the Swiss alps. I hope the couple have a wonderful time!

Swiss Chalets

 I expect we will be able to gauge the veracity of these reports very soon as the couple were spotted on a flight today.

Mary Mc Twitter

UPDATE: It has been confirmed William and Kate joined the Middletons for a skiing trip 100 miles from France.

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Prince Edward has revealed her Majesty's true feelings about Kate. The Monarch has been thrilled and surprised by Kate's huge popularity and is determined to shield her. The Prince spoke candidly whilst chatting to guests at the Lord's Taverners' Umpires dinner at the Hyde Park Hilton last week.

"Catherine has taken to royal life like a duck to water. She's very gracious and the family is very proud of her. It was never going to be easy for Catherine as the whole world is watching her every move. William is very protective of her, he's grown up with the attention but Catherine hasn't. We were all thrilled to welcome Catherine into the family because she's lovely. Very charming indeed and a perfect companion for William."

Kate has grown into her role as 'Duchess of Cambridge' over the past years and it is wonderful to see it has not gone unnoticed by senior royals. Lovely words by Prince Edward.

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Prince William and Duchess Kate have been immortalised as cartoon characters for a special one off Wembley edition of much loved comic Beano. Prince William is often seen at Wembley in his role as the present of the football association. The artists have drawn Kate wearing a pink suit.

Beano

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It has been announced William, Kate and Harry will join her Majesty and Prince Philip on June 5  for a carriage procession through London to mark the Diamond jubilee. The Royals will also appear on the balcony at Buckingham Palace. Looking forward to the jubilee engagements!

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