The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge arrived back in London bright and early Sunday morning and travelled straight to Bucklebury to be reunited with George and Charlotte following their successful tour of India and Bhutan. Today we're hosting the first of our tour polls, but first we have some seriously interesting news. Earlier today, Kensington Palace promised "surprises were in store".
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| Kensington Palace |
The first surprise revealed news the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge will host President Obama and the First Lady for dinner at Kensington Palace on Friday night. "Their Royal Highnesses are very much looking forward to welcoming the President and the First Lady to the Palace." This is very unexpected indeed - and an important step towards the younger royals taking on duties involving heads of state.
More on President Obama's visit - recent news the first lady will join him and his plans to take tea with the Queen. More from the Telegraph:
'Until now, the US Embassy had indicated that President Barack Obama would be on his own for a private lunch with the Queen at Windsor Castle on April 22, the day after she turns 90. But Buckingham Palace has confirmed that Mr and Mrs Obama will make up a foursome for lunch with the Queen and the Duke of Edinburgh.
President Obama is expected to deliver a strong anti-Brexit message in a speech during his stay in the UK, and royal sources said there was no reason he could not discuss the European referendum with the Queen during their lunch. "The US President can raise whatever he wants to raise," said a source.'
It promises to be a memorable and glamorous night. Readers will recall William and Kate first met the President and First Lady at Buckingham Palace in 2011. Most recently, Michelle Obama contributed to The Hufington Post for Kate's edit focused on mental health. No doubt topics on the agenda will include Prince Harry's Invictus Games which are coming to Orlando, and perhaps the couple will meet George and Charlotte? :)
What else can we expect? In terms of surprises we may see official photos released shortly. Perhaps the rumoured photos of the Queen with her great-grandchildren? Prince Charles is reportedly hosting a dinner to mark HM's 90th, and we may see something from that if the family are all attending. Other possibilities include a photo to mark William and Kate's anniversary and, of course, Princess Charlotte's birthday takes place on 2 May. We should see something released to mark it. In the meantime, KP confirms there are a "couple of busy weeks" ahead, beginning with William and Harry's visit to the Star Wars set tomorrow.
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| Kensington Palace Twitter Feed |
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Vote for Kate's Best Tour Evening Look
Also today, we're beginning our tour polls - asking you to vote for Kate's best 'Evening Look' throughout the tour. Although the tour has just ended, it was interesting to look back at Kate's sartorial choices and notice the variety of designers, colours and prints chosen. For the Cambridges first night of the tour - they attended a glittering Bollywood Gala at the Taj Mahal Palace hotel. The Duchess chose a sparkling sapphire-blue gown with matching cape by Jenny Packham. The beading of the gown was done in India - adding a nod to the host country. It was a splendid look for the Duchess.
For the second night of the tour, William and Kate attended a birthday party for the Queen at the residence of the British High Commissioner. The Duchess surprised us all - opting for the stunning Temperley London 'Delphia' Crop Top and Maxi Skirt. It was such a fantastic look and really wonderful to see Kate opting for a youthful yet elegant ensemble. Again, it had a connection to India: the Delphia pieces carry the season's theme of global curiosities with opulent embroidered motifs of Indian chintz and lattice.
We saw the Duchess whole-heartedly embrace prints and boho-chic in her tour wardrobe choices. For their arrival to Kaziranga National Park Kate selected the vibrant and colourful Printed Crinkled Silk-Chiffon Maxi Dress by American designer Anna Sui. Featuring floral and animal motifs, the blue and green style was a pretty choice for an evening of meeting locals and watching traditional performances. For dinner with the King and Queen of Bhutan, the Duchess opted for another American designer - the immensely talented Tory Burch. The couple were photographed leaving the Taj Tashi hotel and once again Kate debuted a sartorial surprise. Looking at the product shots of the Floral Mesh Gown - an intricately embroidered garment with shades of orange, sky-blue, green and blue - I would never have imagined Kate wearing it. It's always nice to see her experimenting and what better time than a royal tour?
On the penultimate day of the tour, William and Kate attended a reception celebrating links between Britain and Bhutan. Opting for a crimson poppy print dress - the national flower of Bhutan - by one of her favoured British labels Beulah London - Kate looked effortlessly elegant in the 'Juliet' gown.
Glancing over the five looks a few thoughts strike me; they are incredibly different. From the choice of designer, to the colour, necklines, prints and embellishments, they are five very different evening looks. We all wanted to see Kate embrace colour during the tour and I think she did it with aplomb. My favourite takeaway from Kate's overall tour wardrobe? Seeing the 'Kate Middleton' pre-wedding style shining through. :)
We'll be looking at Kate's daywear dresses, casual looks, jewellery and shoes in our next polls. :)
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Finally, Cara from Australia shared a fantastic album from the UK in India's Flickr Feed with over 900 photos from the tour. There's a fantastic selection, from previously unseen photos of receptions and the gala dinner, to behind-the-scenes shots.
I thought I'd share some of the snaps I haven't seen previously and ones which offer an additional insight into events during the tour.
A lovely shot of Rebecca Deacon, Kate's private secretary, during the Bollywood Gala.
Entertainment at the gala.
Below, the Cambridges meet British High Commission staff and their families.
The Duchess receives flowers from a very excited little girl.
Images of Her Majesty on display during the Queen's birthday party at the British High Commission.
Kate mingles with guests.
The Duke and Duchess at the Taj Mahal Palace hotel.
Meeting children from India's Childline.
An overview from William and Kate's visit to Kaziranga National Park.
You can view the album in its entirety here.
Are you looking forward to the Obama dinner? Any style predictions? We can expect to see Kate in a gown and sparkling jewels.
Will Kate be involved in most of the Queens birthday celebrations? I sure hope we see a lot of her during these coming few weeks.
ReplyDeleteI'm enjoying the previously unseen photos, they're helping me get over tour-withdrawal! Thanks for the great posts during the tour, I love following your blog.
ReplyDeleteI agree. It was alot of great photos on there! I love all the "person shaking hand with royal" pictures in there. Nice that they took so many of them so each of those people have a picture of themselves shaking their hand :D
DeleteI was really surprised about them hosting the dinner!! Positively surprised, obviously! The Obamas always seem like such fun and especially Harry and Michelle seem to have a really nice time! Do you really think it will be a gown kind of dinner? Or just a more low key cocktail party dinner? :P This is gonna be great either way!
ReplyDeleteI wondered the same thing Rebecca, when I read the comments about jewels and gowns. I suspect this will be a low key dinner with the Princes and Kate. I could be wrong, but I'd be surprised if it is as formal as all of that.
DeleteI agree. I think it will be cocktail dress and some minor bling. And anything above that would have to be a nice surprise :P
DeleteAre they hosting them with a State Dinner?
DeleteIf not, I doubt they will be wearing long gowns and tiaras. Probably cocktail dresses and light bling, if any. It would be funny if they both showed up wearing the same designer label. Not the same dress, but label.
Do you think we would get any pictures from it? It does sound informal and potentially private
DeleteI am hoping whitehouse.gov might have photos, unless the Palace asks the President's photographer not to publish them.
DeleteI was definitely dreading this poll. Her evening looks were all so different and she had some great choices. Of course I had to vote for the Juliet dress but my other favorites were the black and white Temperley London 'Delphia' Crop Top and Maxi Skirt and the Tori Burch.
ReplyDeleteI am excited about the dinner with POTUS and FLOTUS this coming Friday and really thrilled that they have an engagement already scheduled this close to ending the tour. Can't wait to hear about the other surprises from Kensington Palace.
Great shots! Thanks for your link on twitter (but you posted here some really neat ones I managed to not see...not hard w/900+!!). I noticed your tweet about KP possibly releasing Princess Charlotte pics––while the surprise was W & C hosting POTUS & FLOTUS, I think P. Charlotte pictures are indeed around the corner, to mark her bday on May 2. Silvia
ReplyDeleteI will start this comment with another thank you to Charlotte! You have been so tireless this whole week, I have no words! As it can be seen, it is very appreciated by the whole Duchess Kate community.
ReplyDeleteSecond, I will say I am very excited about Obama visit and it is important for Will and Kate to maximize on recently gathered good will. These kind of engagements should put an end to previously spread criticism.
Also, I would like to start a conversation about your thoughts on how all the tours Will and Kate did rank in your heads while we are waiting for suma sumarum on this one. My two cents:
-North America tour: it was a splendid introduction to Kate! I have followed Kate since as early as 2005, but this was her first time in the spotlight (aside form the wedding, of course) in such a magnum way. The outfits were great and this is where she showed us her thoughtfulness and art of dressing for occasion. They had that newlywed glow about them and who can forget those hugging pictures after the dragon boat race or William adjusting Kate's sweatshirt for a second? Obviously not me.
-South East Asia tour on the other hand was lovely tour to follow but not so sartorially successful as the previous one in my opinion. Something about dressing in such a hot weather seemed to blur Kate's Britishness, if you get what I mean. Such impression could be down to me imagining her at her best when she is doing the country girl thing (Cheltenham races and blue jacket being example, or her Michael Kors suit, or Wild Chlothing ensamble form ten years ago and more).
-New Zealand and Australia tour-this was very much to my taste! Form the grand red coatdress for the start til the Easter pale grey ensamble, to the Sidney opera yellow and white Roksanda Ilincic I was floored!
-And now India and Buthan tour-again soooo interesting to follow! In terms of Kate's sartorial choices it was the most literal of all. It surprised me and I think there may have been a print or two to much, but it was great fun never the less. Also, I will be endlessly boring and bring the hair thing again. I just think everything would have looked so much better with her longer haircut. I will sort my thoughts in the days to come, and I will be ready for some pools, haha!
So, these are my opinions, if anybody would like to come on in with theirs... It would be great to hear different perspectives! Greetings to everyone!
Hi Marija, I just have to say that your posts are really nice and upbeat. And you have a much better memory than I do for her clothes!
DeleteMarija - everything you said, I 100% agree with. I could not have said it the way you just did. Keep your posts coming! :)
DeleteI find it hard to choose one tour over another. The Canadian-California tour was a wonderful beginning - it really set expectations for Kate's style, all those lovely little dresses and that gorgeous lavender one where she outshone Hollywood. It set the tone for a mixture of both serious and action based events that have continued through each tour.
DeleteThe Malaysia-Singapore-Island tour was one of my favourites because it included some of my favourite dresses - that wonderful blue Temperley, the hand-painted one Kate wore on the first day, the robins-egg blue Packham, the unusual but to me stunning formal dress she wore by Macqueen - less conventional than the magnificent but more traditional India gown and a very good balance of events. To me, as a royalist of long standing - it was the most pleasingly traditional. I suppose in many ways, Kate did dress in the most "British" way - but I'm perhaps showing my age in saying, I didn't mind that - even appreciated it.
I have to admit to more mixed feelings about Australia - fashion-wise, no formal gowns, some very good outfits, the yellow dress and the Easter coat, but some not so good ones, and too much use of the "uniform." Going with that, I thought the tour just a little too "touristy". So many similar "fun" engagements. There were some very serious ones especially to Darwin and the ANZAC ones, and I appreciated Kate's choices for those, especially, the Kors coat at the end, but somehow this tour didn't do as much for me, even with the delightful presence of George. And in many respects, this tour was about George.
This present tour seemed back on track to me, even though I began to be Boho-ed out by the end. There were some very meaningful visits included, the meeting with the women and the boys from the station. The national park visit might have been seen as just a doodle if the serious issue of poaching hadn't been brought home so clearly so soon. The Taj Mahal visit helped heal a wound that had been raw for years and Kate looked wonderful.
But all in all, each tour has had its fantastic moments so I wouldn't have missed any of them and hope for more in the near future.
That's a good question :)
DeleteI only registered Kate's existence on her tour of SE Asia, (as well as their wedding), but have looked at some/most of the retrospective stuff.
I enjoyed the SE Asia tour the most, I think. She seemed really happy and enjoyed it. Though I think she was a bit lost as to how to relate to people in Tuvalu and the Pacific.
Following them as they toured my country (NZ) was enlightening. It made me realise how little of a country they would truly see, and how everyone panders to their needs. They have the best of everything! They would never slum it in average accomodation, they're driven around a pre-planned route that has been spruced up just for them, there are fancy events to meet them and celebrate something random, people go out of their way to make everything perfect. And at the host country taxpayer's expense.
So I think their experiences of all countries they officially visit are decidedly skewed. The NZ and Australia tour was like a holiday - honestly! They got to do some pretty sweet stuff, and the schedule wasn't as booked out as the India/Bhutan one just finished.
The way tours work grosses me out a bit, actually. I keep watching, because it's fascinating. I'm similar in age to Kate and William and I also have two young children, so I feel like they are peers in some ways and it is intriguing to see how they manage their positions.
Clothes-wise, I don't really care anymore. I used to be interested, but not so much now. Kate = appropriate in my mind, and that's fine, but not worth much attention. I'd really like to see Kate and William continue to build on substantial charitable work (I think they've made a bit of a start), and I'll be watching to see how they go negotiating life in the public glare.
Thank you for your kind words! I forgot to comment on evening dresses, so here we go. Blue one: beautiful, yet matronly as I have already mentioned. Temperley: a little "out there", I don't know... The top was good, the skirt a bit too much. she did look young and fresh in it. Anna Sui though... Well, the colours combo was nice, but it was too busy. Tory dress was very interesting, and due to the lack of more photos, I think we cannot understand how cute it actually is. It has my vote. And then there is lovely red one. It is the most Kate of all, and again she looked very delicate and girly in it.
DeleteI liked Catherine’s first official solo overseas visit to represent HM The Queen on the occasion of the 50th anniversary of Malta's independence in September 2014 best: 10 engagements in two days, upping her international profile ahead of the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting in Malta and the obvious link to HM & Prince Philip’s stay as a young couple etc. :)
DeleteDay 1: call on President Marie Louise Coleiro Preca, call on Prime Minister Dr Jospeph Muscat, re-enactment of inspection of fort & garrison by Grand Bailiff of Order of Knights of St John, National Library (view letters from King Henry VIII, George II, original citation awarding George Cross to island), Independence Day Celebrations.
Day 2: Independence Day church service at St John's Co-Cathedral, viewing of paintings by Caravaggio, Agency for Youth, Folklore Presentation, walkabout, view more art work at church, boat tour of Grand Harbour, garden party at British High Commissioner’s residence in Naxxar.
Obviously William stepped in last minute because of Catherine's HG in her second pregnancy. (If I remember correctly, this poignantly lead to the future King publicly attend Mass for the first time.) http://royalcentral.co.uk/uk/cambridges/prince-william-celebrates-maltas-50th-independence-anniversary-37428 has Prince William's Day 1 speech, including the message from the Queen. I suppose that it's the speech Catherine would have given, obviously minus the parts referring to her being very sorry etc.
I think it's a real pity she couldn't go and I am also wondering whether one or two of the sartorial choices we saw in India where meant to be worn in Malta (or for the cancelled State visit from Spain this spring).
There was something fresh and authentic about the Canada tour.
DeleteAustralia tour with their first born, a child, was an experiment in progress. It was different and introduced some culture of the area.
Singapore’s floral and nature environment was interesting and beautiful. Whatever happened to Kate’s first international speech in Singapore which was well done with confidence, clarity and composure? That was very good however brief.
The India and Bhutan tour had a mix of culture, industry, diplomacy, history, social issues, conservation, life style of monks, glamour of fine arts, contradiction of lives, cities and villages. It was a designer’s tour; crafted, visualized and experienced by viewers. Most likely the India and Bhutan tour might leave people with interest to know more. It was a packed tour which highlighted so much in a short time. In all its speed and variation, if only there was as much sound from people of all kind including the youth; more from W&K, Indian PM, the royal couple of Bhutan, monks, Indian music at Bollywood to the sound of those animals enjoying a feeding by future monarchs.
I hope to see official photographs of these two lovely fashionistas (and their handsome husbands). Very exciting news that the young Cambridges are hosting their first diplomatic dinner.
ReplyDeleteThank you for this wonderful article... I can't choose a dress, they're all beautiful !!!
ReplyDeleteI loved her wardrobe in India and Bhutan !!! Thank you for the photo album, what wonderful pictures !!! Kisses Charlotte (Sandrine, France) (sorry for my bad english...)
What a lovely post Charlotte, my goodness this was a great tour. I had such a hard time picking (they were all so fabulous) but had to go with the Tory Burch. She just looked perfect in that.
ReplyDeleteAlso, I just have to say that I now really really understand Will and Kate's hesitation towards the press. I would really like to bring about positive and interesting conversation (not hate) but I really just don't understand some of the things I read. Today I saw a member of the press whom I follow on Twitter who had nothing but wonderful things to say during the tour - from great pictures and insights, to praise for Will and Kate. And what happens a few days after? I scathing article about how bad the tour was from there being no "wow" moments (really?) to Kate dressing boringly (again, really?). The 180 is absolutely insane and it feels to me that they are just writing these articles to get a rise out of the public. It's very annoying to me.
Anyway, I can't wait to see what's going to happen in the next few weeks, it should be exciting! Anniversaries, birthdays, pictures, the Obamas! What a great compilation :)
Yeah as you know I usually stick up for the press but I was son confused by articles by Emily Andrew and Victoria Murphy both saying they weren't impressed by the Cambridge's
DeleteEspecially Kate. It seemed to them she has yet to perfect the art small talk
I think I agree with other posters: Kate is soo sooo nervous about saying anything that might sound bad. But she needs to relax!
I wonder if we will get pics from the dinner?! I'm not holding my breath
I couldn't agree more about the press. How nasty can they be, especially the women. A little solidarity would be nice ladies! As for Kate speaking, why would she? Everything she says is twisted and misconstrued and turned inward to look like its about her and she is so self-involved. Women can often be so very abusive to each other. And this is even worse because Kate can't do much to stick up for herself, although maybe just carrying on being herself - calm, dignified and "royal" - is probably the last laugh. I disagree Sarah, I don't think she needs to necessarily relax, I think the press need to grow up and stop acting like playground bullies.
DeleteI know I may be exposing myself to slings and arrows here :) but the art of small talk is a key part of royal life, it's probably the most basic skill you have to master to be successful. The only way Kate will improve is by going out and doing more.
DeleteShe could also look to some of the more experienced royal women for advice. Sophie Wessex gave a candid interview recently and said it was one of the key things she learned from the Queen, who is obviously a master. Sophie said it was one of the things she worked hard to improve and really studied the Queen's approach.
I've said this before too (sorry I'm repeating a lot lately!) but I sometimes wish the Cambridges were closer and spent more time with William's side of the family, simply because only they have experienced the kind of life W&K will be living long term.
The Middletons may be great for many things, but they cannot help in how to live a successful, long term royal life.
they aren't acting like bullies. kate has to learn to speak to people. There is no way around it.
Deleteit isn't the press's job to show solidarity with kate because they are women so that was a little odd of you to imply.
if kate is nervous speaking in a public setting murphy and andrews aren't not going to say anything because they are all women
Kate does need to learn to relax. That is why the public loved diana. she was so relaxed around people.
I was confused by what they said only because a little earlier in their twitter history they were praising the tour
I agree with what they said by the way. But I found it hypocritical of them to say one thing and then turn around and right a column saying something else
Exactly Anon 19.37! The twitter coverage was benign and occasionally sweet and fun during the tour but the articles written post tour (thinking particulary of Camilla Tominey) were of a very different tone. Why would you trust *some* of the press after that kind of treatment? Cara, Australia
DeleteIt's like the press is in self-destruct mode. The are not even trying to meet W&K part way. As the saying goes "you get more with honey than with vinegar". The Bullying tactics are definitely not going to work on William, they will just fuel his already justified distrust.... & how do you think he must feel seeing the press go after his wife? After all she's done to show herself to be a genuinely sweet person giving of herself to causes that help Children & their Families? Instead of focusing on how she digs right in, whether playing cricket, football or sitting on the floor in the slums coloring with street children.... they focus on her toes & lack of nail polish..... oh & they pull in "expert" Podiatrists to analyze Kate's feet? You really begin to understand why William feels the way he does. :(
DeleteI agree Marny.
DeleteThe press will try to create a story even if there isn't one. The Diana bench is one of them. The world came to see that as a definitive and iconic moment largely because of the way it was spun in the press. The photographer who took the shot talked about the fact that it was common for the couple to go to separate events as they could cover more ground that way. After the break up the photo became a bigger deal--evidence of some kind. There were plenty of other hang-dog Diana and fed-up Charles shots, but none of those became a big deal because they weren't shot in front of the world's most famous landmark to love.
DeleteHow many times did I read this past week that Charles had said the next time he visited the Taj Mahal he would bring his bride? And when she came she was there along. In that kind of hot seat (literally) we want her to "relax"? Anything and everything Catherine says might be twisted and/or repeated forever. The Queen Mum stayed mum for very good reason. And she wasn't loved less for it.
Quite recently, even here where she is admired she was taken to task for talking about herself or speaking in a way that was incomprehensible by quite a few posters. Five years in, she has grown into her role in admirable ways. Let's remember that she cannot be and do everything to perfection. No one can.
Victoria Murphy has actually a written a very nice and positive post tour analysis. As have The Times. Even the photographers are satisfied. Don't mistake them with Camilla Tominey who is always critical and Emily Andrews who acts nice up front but always stabs royals in the back.
DeleteSorry my mistake! I always get Camilla and Victoria messed up!
DeleteDoes anyone have the Victoria Murphy link ? Or the Roya Nikkah one? I was looking last night but could not locate them.
DeleteI agree with Claudia and Sarah that Kate does need to learn to speak better. She is incredibly silly sometimes and the overwhelming nervousness reinforces the impression of being a ditzy college student. Yet she is not a college student. She is 34 years old ! At 34 many women are well up their professional ladders and in important leadership roles.
Saying "Gosh that's interesting" to a story of children being mutilated is astonishing. Why shouldn't the press point that out? While the Andrews article was quite aggressive in tone, she did convey facts and the facts aren't all pleasant.
I don't mean to be disrespectful, because I truly admire HM, but have you ever really listened to her "small talk?" She has an assistant hovering behind her,
Deletefeeding her pertinent information. I did not notice anyone hovering over Kate's
shoulder to assist her. Besides, she is a very wise wife and royal consort-to-be.
How much does Prince Phillip contribute to the interview when the Queen is
questioned by reporters? Wait a minute-that never happens and, as far as I
can tell, PP keeps a lid on it in public with HM. This is the example Catherine has been given by "The Boss."
Here's the Victoria Murphy article link. I found it quite favourable actually.http://www.mirror.co.uk/news/uk-news/royal-tour-mission-accomplished-william-7773928
DeleteI was quite interested in how the India papers reported it. Here's a link. http://www.telegraphindia.com/1160418/jsp/nation/story_80732.jsp#.VxZ7YHqX420
The Times of India seems mostly caught up with whether it was right or not, to print a photo of Kate's skirt blowing up. The Telegraph which is what I mostly read/follow these days - didn't hesitate. Personally, I continue to feel that is Kate's responsibility, not that of the press, since she has had ample opportunity to be aware of that risk.
Lecia-the "Gosh that's interesting" story-from video/audio record or does
Deleteanyone really know how that got started? I assume it is her actual words, as
quotation marks are used .
Sarah: I guess it depends on what you mean by small talk. If you mean small talk in talking to the press, you may have a point. But from all accounts and from the pictures provided here from the India Flickr Feed pictures, Kate looks like she is not having any problem at all speaking to any number of people at the various events. In addition, most people from other events that Kate attends have commented to the media and they have reported that she speaks very intelligently and knowledgeably about the matters she is there to highlight. So I don't think she needs any help in the small talk department. I think she just doesn't trust the press with her thoughts. And neither would I. She might loosen up in that department as the years pass, but I don't think it will happen any time soon. Almost every time she opens up around the press, they vilify her or report her words out of context.
DeleteI have bitten my tongue on this one point for some time now, but I will say it...
DeleteI find it supremely condescending to read comments like "Kate needs to learn" ... "Kate needs to relax". Really?
With all due respect, I'd love to see some of her sharpest critics walk in her shoes and show us how it's done. How many of them could deal with the media circus that has surrounded her (including attacks on her family) from a very young age with the poise, grace and manners she exhibits? I see a classy and compassionate young woman who is doing her best to support the Queen, her husband, and raise two young children. She needs to learn? Perhaps she needs to give one or two lessons.
Leica, did you by any chance hear some of the video of her talking with the workers or read any of the Twitter feeds from some of the reporters after the meeting with the children. From what I could hear for myself she asked pertaintent questions. The report at the time was she was well informed and interested. Please remember the source of the article you are quoting is someone who twists things into negativity. I for one sure hopes this form of so called reporting soon backfires.
Deleteroyalfan- It needed to be said. I think she teaches us all a lesson every time she walks out her
Deletedoor with her head held high and just carries on. She exemplifies true
humility but she is no shrinking violet.She has an inner strength that has seen
her through many difficulties. She will weather this storm, too.
I still think she and William and maybe Rebecca get a few giggles over the
pompous lectures sent her way on everything from parenting to under-garments.
Did anyyone see that photo of Rebecca and another young woman smiling over
what appears to be an I-phone at the Bollywood event? How about the photo of
Kate and William sitting in the stands at the Glasgow Games, laughing over
something on their phone. It is ludicrous and beyond presumptuous to give
advice to a woman of Catherine's calibre, especially if the advisor clearly
could do with some advice.
Apart from the Anna Sui dress which is too busy, a weird length and over-fussy I haven't disliked a single outfit on the tour.
ReplyDeleteI hope she wears some serious bling for the Obamas. I really wish she had worn the Queen Mothers spectacular sapphire earrings with the Packham dress.
I think it is highly likely that Kate will repeat the Tori Burch gown on Friday. US designer, Michelle Obama wears Tori Burch quite often, and Kate tends to repeat shortly after a tour (probably due to the high expense associated with a royal tour wardrobe and the negative press associated with that). It'll be fun to watch for the photos. Thanks for all of your hard work during the tour!!!
ReplyDeleteOh, I hope she doesn't. While it was cool in that setting, I hope she goes for something more "princess" and less "aristrocrat on a beach resort" for this friday. Both looks are very nice, but for different occations :D
DeleteI agree Rebecca, I'm not sure Kate's Tori Burch will fit in as well in London in April as it did in Bhutan last week.
DeleteI hope no repeat - too often, especially after the Australia tour, Kate did that and made home seem as if it was "second-best". Lately, there has been less of that - she has debuted some wonderful new things and even the not-so-wonderful are interesting, and I hope that continues.
DeleteI was only half joking when I said the next tour William and Kate take should be one of their native land - of late they have been very regional, mostly only seen in East Anglia (what I call today's Gloucester, where the young and the rich are seen as hanging out) and the London area with an occasional Scottish visit. Their mental health scheme is important, but also limited in public scope - often they don't even engage the crowds when they come to an engagement. There was a reason for royal progressions before the press - so the monarchy would be seen, the nobles subdued (and sometimes bankrupted) the common man left in awe. Today if not awe, the public still welcomes being dazzled, and impressed with royal duty.
Today, William and Kate don't seem to fully realise that the established press remains their main messenger, that many of us don't follow Twitter, and the young on Twitter often don't follow the royals. The established press has some controls, they may be negative, and will probably continue to be until William and Kate make an effort to mend that relationship, but they aren't outrageous, while everything including the outlandish and offensive is found on social media.
If William and Kate are going to limit their royal involvement at home, they desperately need good press from every source, but my hope is this is the beginning of expanding their horizons and that the public mood will encourage positive press.
Good point that the older generation who seem to follow the royals sticks to
Deleteprint/older sources, while the younger follow internet/newer sources, but not so much the
royals.
I do think this situation is rapidly changing, however. The number of 20-something and younger followers of royal-themed blogs has surprised me (don't forget- our Charlotte is herself a 20-something and adeptly Twitters)
Also, some or all of the print/older source royal correspondents also use the internet, sometimes using a quite different voice in each format.
Positive press, Julia? Is there even really such a thing as a positive press? It is fleeting at best.
DeleteI am sorry, I am 72 and very much follow Twitter and solely use the Internet for my information, so I find this labelling based on age somewhat of an insult. I followed several Twitter feeds of these so called royal reporters during the tour and find those totally different than what is now being written by them. Charlotte's "reporting" is so far superior to ANY of these so called correspondents. She tells us the facts and allows us to draw own conclusions and not try to spin their own agenda.
DeleteOf these dresses, my faves are the Temperley, Anna Sui and the Tori Burch. I didn't really think of the Anna Sui as evening wear and would not have included it in this cluster. Of the three, the one I would most like in my closet is the Anna Sui. But for the purposes of the vote, I'll go Temperley. I'm also with Marina and others yearning for longer hair.
ReplyDeleteTory Burch for me! Between the bold color and design, and the gown's long clean lines, it a winner.
ReplyDeleteGlad the momentum is continuing. Should be an interesting few weeks.
That one got my vote too. :-)
DeleteI agree on the momentum Erika, they really need to keep up a decent level of activity after the tour for it to make a difference at home, and so far I'm impressed. I wouldn't have begrudged them a week at home!
DeleteThe Presidential dinner is a significant step for them too, hosting a Head of State, very good sign.
I've mentioned this before, but I wouldn't be surprised if a statement from BP comes sometime this year, maybe before summer break: "The Queen has asked the Duke of Cambridge to resign from the EAAA and help her full time with her schedule" something to that effect. She did a similar thing with Edward and Sophie... I feel it in the air :)
I wouldn't expect any announcement of that nature for a while yet, Claudia. William hasn't been with the EAAA a year yet and it would be ridiculous for him to start a job and then leave it just as quickly. Besides, at the time he started this new job,the palace made it clear that the Queen fully supported William both in his new job and their desire to focus on their young family for a few years yet.
DeleteAnett, I said it before but I'll say it again, I think we have very similar clothing preferences :)
DeleteI wouldn't have begrudged them a week or two either, Claudia. I was pleasantly surprised to see the dinner announcement. Also, I had the same thought about PW resigning. I have the feeling that he has had enough of that and the juggling between both worlds has been more difficult than he imagined.
@Claudia. I don't think the queen will ask him to resign. He is under contract for two years. And the queen gave her blessing for him to do the job. I understand she does not get involved in their private life.
DeleteReally Claudia?? Wow, I'm not as hopeful as you are - especially after William made that comment about being King and a pilot. But I certainly hope it happens. It's time. Definitely time.
DeleteI would like to think you are right, Claudia, I feel strongly it should happen and that there have already been warning signs for where there could be greater damage if it doesn't happen. One mistake by an air ambulance that William is involved with - a patient dies because it didn't arrive on time or something like that, and with a press already unhappy with William, the damage to the monarchy and George's future could be enormous.
DeleteHaving said that, the queen is notorious for not getting involved - or we might not be dealing with Camilla today. Edward and Sophie were in a desperate situation when they were called back to heel - I suspect they were all too glad to heed that call, but Edward had made a lot of mistakes before that. Andrew was reined back only after the damage to his reputation became overwhelming and the queen still seems in denial. Charles and Diana's marriage was in a miserable state when the queen finally intervened - had she done more during the separation to give Diana a role and to control both sides it would have helped so much, but that has never been her way.
So while I always hope for a major step-up in William and Kate's role, I won't be surprised if it doesn't happen.
Yesss! I loved it at first sight. The colours are great on Kate, but obviously we are a minority. :)
DeleteI know it may seem like a stretch, and yes Julia's right, the Queen is notorious for not getting involved. Max Hastings said in his piece today that it was perhaps the greatest oddity in her extremely disciplined life, failing to reign in her children and now grandchildren.
DeleteShe may not come to it on her own, Charles may give a nudge and it may even come through official channels as well. There had to be a lot of head scratching in departmental meetings Monday, negative press after a royal tour and limited press in the host country is strange. And the govt doesn't spend money on a mission like this without a lot of people and departments involved, and a lot of analysis after the fact.
Many in the press did compliment William as growing as a statesman, I think there is just a resounding drumbeat that he needs to adopt the mantle more. He can be very good at it.
The air ambulance liability issue is one I've thought of before. Funny, one of the things that struck me when I moved to the states was that everything is seen through the prism of liability, almost everything is done to protect yourself from the almighty lawsuit! The BRF could use a little of that right now, all it takes is one mishap, one opportunistic patient or family member... "Oh Prince William was flying that day, well, well, well..." Why the royals and private business are usually not a good mix.
Oh and Erika I agree, William himself must surely be feeling as if he's living two separate lives. That would wear on anyone.
DeleteHM was very much involved in the C&C situation. She's likely the reason they
Deletedidn't marry in the first place.
The Queen doesn't get involved theory simply does not compute. Especially with
William and Harry calling her The Boss. It may have been meant affectionately, but there is an undeniable message there.
Erika, I agree:-)Let's see how the rest of the polls turns out!
DeleteClaudia, I agree. A lot of head scratching indeed.
DeleteHopefully, anyway.
Disagree respectfully but completely on the queen and C & C. From all reliable reports, the queen played no role in the early relationship of Charles and Camilla. Lord Mountbatten, who no one would ever accuse of being a stand back sort of bloke, was apparently one of the strongest opponents to Camilla. It's easy now, since he died so long ago, to forget how much of a surrogate parent he was to Charles and how strong his influence was.
DeleteWhy did he oppose Camilla. It may have in part been her past and her lack of strong aristocratic connections - Mountbatten was a snob - but also I suspect because that discerning man realised how little charisma she has and how unsuitable she was to be a successful royal bride for that reason. She still doesn't - she is the most un-photogenic royal lady of all, and not at all impressive in public, only age has to some extent lessened these deficiencies - to the public they are now just old fogies - lovable or not as one sees fit.
But most of all Mountbatten wanted Charles to marry his granddaughter Amanda. Rumour has it Charles did propose and the lady said nay - but that was after Mountbatten's death and I suspect more than one potential bride of Charles saw how much influence Camilla had over him and stood back - Diana was too young and naive to see this until it was too late.
As for Camilla, she was apparently completely besotted with Parker-Bowles - and married him while Charles was still dithering and not ready for marriage. Since she couldn't foresee Mountbatten's assassination, she may have figured she had little chance of marrying Charles - and whether she has ever truly loved him is open to debate - their one private call speaks more of heavy flattery on her part more than depth of affection or sincerity.
As for the queen, once Mountbatten was gone, there were ample opportunities where she could have stepped in. A posting abroad of Parker-Bowles abroad would have been an extremely good idea in the early days of Charles and Diana's marriage - getting Camilla out of that marriage would have been a huge help, but Charles was allowed to keep that connection. Later, when he made Camilla, "non-negotiable" there is no evidence, the queen suggested it might be a good idea he considered whether he wanted to be king - in fairness to her, with William barely ten at that time, it would have been a hard thing to do. As for waiting to marry Camilla, by all reports, that had more to do with public acceptance which was constantly monitored, than the queen. The queen's religious beliefs are well known, so it's not surprising she refused to attend the civil ceremony - the legitimacy of which remains in some doubt, although that's not likely to have long-term impact. I don't think the queen and Camilla have much to say to each other outside of horses, nor do I think there is much closeness between Charles and his parents- and the queen seems to have little influence with him even today.
Even Kate said the Queen is just a gentle guidance and doesn't force advice on her.
DeleteCamilla married Andrew Parker Bowles while Charles was at sea in the royal navy. That was not the Queen's decision. Of course it is unknown whether whe thought Camilla a suitable Princess of Wales. But Camilla decided between her suitors.
DeleteBeing a medical professional, I do not see a liability issue for an air ambulance pilot. If he were involved directly in administering the care then I might be able to agree with you. Someone also has to prove negligence. Also there may be immunity for emergency health care workers in UK.
DeleteAnon 21:00, were you around in 1981 when Charles and Diana got engaged? If so, do you recall the discussion of the virginity issue (as shocking as that may sound in 2016)? I would not say that "Camilla decided between two suitors." I would say that Charles loved her, but was never going to ask (certainly not back then) and she moved on. (And she married in 1973...quite a few years prior to 1981 when suitability was very much an issue.)
DeleteAnd then there is Edward VII, reportedly a role model as well as ancestor of
DeleteCharles, who was said by more than one biographer to have arranged for marriages
for his mistresses, one of whom was Camilla's ancestor. It allowed a safe playing field for the Prince/King and covered for pesky details such as offspring. His mother Queen Victoria, was also a heavy-handed matriarchal presence in his life who must have lectured him repeatedly on "appearances."
I liked the crop top dress! It was just so different!
ReplyDeleteAlso, I am green with envy over the fact that William and Harry get to visit the star wars et! And the new star wars is currently being filmed there!!!! I'm such a star wars geek and I think Kate is insane not to go lol I would die to go.
I nearly died when they toured the Harry Potter set but they weren't filming at the time
If I were being toured through that set security would probably have to keep me from trying to steal a script lol
Mark Hamill had a funny tweet (he plays luke) asking if the princes could clarify if he was technically a prince since his sister is princess Leah lol
Haha, I am not in any way a Star Wars fan (have nothing against them, just didn't grow up with it) so I get her. If she's not geeky for it, I understand why it was decided that she will be home. I mean, they just left the kids for a week so she's probably soaking up some kiddy love :P I also fully understand William and Harry going there. I mean, if they are fans of it, it is really an oportunity to jump at! I love how William at least has an excuse to go there with the Bafta thing, but it's so clear (and cute) that Harry will just tag along :P Reminds me of when he asked Daniel Craig for an autograph at the bond premiere. He's such a fanboy :P Hahah.
DeleteI loved everything Catherine wore, but the Jenny Packham was the most elegant and beautiful "evening wear" for the trip. I really love the Alice Temperley too, but it was more "garden party" than" evening wear. The Burch dress was one of my favorites of the trip and the Anna Sui is to die for....loved all the maxi dresses!
ReplyDeleteThanks for a fun time Charlotte your coverage was award winning! :)
to Julie from NC - I voted for your dress! It was a hard decision because the dresses were all so different and I liked/loved them all except the Anna Sui. The Jenny Packham dress along with Kate's hair that evening were beautiful but yet it was such a typical evening gown. I loved the originality of the Temperley, and the Tory Burch was just a little too busy (slightly gaudy? ...seeing it on Drew Barrymore really showed that aspect of the dress so after seeing her wear it I didn't like it as much). In the end I had to think back to my original reactions upon seeing the first photos posted of each look, and the one that wowed me most upon first sight was the Beulah London poppy dress.
ReplyDeleteThanks Pam! I see that Beulah has released a scarf in the same print and I am campaigning to buy it with my husband right now. It's a bit expensive, but since I wouldn't be able to afford the dress, I think it's a great compromise.
DeleteThat dress/print will always be special to me now.
Charlotte, is it confirmed that we will get to see pictures of Will and Kate's dinner for the Obamas? Might it be a private dinner?
ReplyDeleteI just can't imagine that there won't be pictures what with KP getting everyone excited about upcoming "surprises". I am hoping there will be.
DeleteI love surpises!!! Can't wait for all the exciting things coming up, especially the photos of George and Charlotte :)
ReplyDeleteI wonder what other dresses Naeem Khan sent Kate for the tour and if they would work for this dinner. It would be the perfect way to segue from the tour to the presidential visit since he is an Indian-American designer.
ReplyDeleteYay, a poll already! I was worried that we would have a delay in the polls! I LOVE LOVE LOVE the Jenny Packham on her, with or without the cover! I love the color, i love they Style, I love the whole thing! My 2nd favorite is the Temperley London dress, it is so different but I like it!
ReplyDeletewhat great pictures that you added, i really need to go check the rest out.
Wouldn't it be AWESOME if Will and Kate fly to Orlando for the Start of the Invictus game's?!? She couldn't go to the last opening ceremony bc of HG with Charlotte so I think this will be a nice way to help support Harry! I can't wait for the pictures of kids, I wonder how much hair Charlotte has now?? I also wonder what the other surprises that KP has in store for us!
Charlotte, I love when we due a poll on Kate's best hair for the tour, but most of her hair styles were down this time, so I don't blame you if we don't.
Thank you for the new post, Charlotte! I enjoyed looking over the new photos that you linked to and it was interesting to see what the other guests were wearing, as well as general shots of the locations W & K visited – sometimes during their engagements all the pictures are so focused on them that you don't get the "whole picture."
ReplyDeleteAs for the evening wear poll, I voted for the Temperley without any hesitation. The Anna Sui dress I wouldn't really consider evening wear. I think it was my least favorite outfit of Kate's from the whole tour.
Looking forward to the events of later this week!
I agree Alya, the Temperly dress felt young and fresh. It was my absolute favorite!
DeleteI'm very excited about the Obamas visiting with the Queen and Prince Philip, and the Cambridges and Prince Harry. They have always gotten along well together. The president loves children, so I hope he gets to meet George and Charlotte. I know they will have lots to talk about. I hope there are many moments of laughter and relaxation.
ReplyDeleteLooking forward to seeing the results of all the polls!
ReplyDeleteDo we know if we'll get photos from TRH's dinner with Obama and Michelle or is it a private event?
Also - wow, Kate was seriously tan on her US tour when she met Michelle!
That tan is straight of the honeymoon :) As are the shell jewelry :P
DeleteThe photoshowing Catherine an Michelle was taken May 11th 2011 in London not USA.
DeleteKate met Michelle at Buckingham Palace shortly after her island honeymoon. Of course she was tan!
DeleteThis is very interesting indeed! William and Catherine having the visit with the King and Queen of Bhutan and now this. It looks like things are going to start changing very soon with the monarchy!
ReplyDeleteMe thinks we are witnessing "History in the making" as a "Royal Shift" is upon us! We Know there will be No Abdication & I for one thought Nothing Official would happen until Charles became King, but me thinks that a "Change" is afoot.... A version that none of us may have seen coming!? The Queen is a Wise Woman & between The India Tour & now W&K&H Hosting The President of The United States & His Wife for Dinner?..... " I don't think we are in Kansas anymore Toto!"
DeleteYes She was:) If you remember, they had just returned from their Honeymoon!
DeleteMy first choice had to be the blue Packham gown with the wonderful Indian embroidery. It's hard to compare the rest as they are really more Boho gowns than true evening gowns but my choices more or less follow the poll so far - I loved the Temperley in its own way as much as the Packham - I thought it very original, very flattering and very successful of picking up Indian style.
ReplyDeleteI made my peace with the red poppies - and was thrilled to see Kate in something one of us had chosen, more or less made my peace with the Tory Burch - although I didn't like the orange on Kate or the two sided split - but it worked for the occasion. The Anna Sui was a pretty enough colour but reminded me of the bed covering Mr Leo and I had when we were first married and didn't have any money. In fact, you don't suppose she is recycling bed coverlets?
For interest, I had Mr Leo, ever reluctant, ("it doesn't make you look fat") to rate the five choices. The Packham again came out number 1 - it is in a class of its own. His number two was the Beulah poppies, it was a draw between the Temperley and the Anna Sui (nostalgia for that long gone bed coverlet) and he really hated - never a word I use lightly, the Tory Burch - hated it in the sense it is the worst thing Kate has worn that I've forced him to look at.
So there's one man's opinion - any other ladies here prepared to corner their hubbies?
Kate did most definitely wear the Burch better than Drew Barrymore - but Drew had a lovely dog as an accessory and that wins favour with me.
I just asked my other half and he chose the Temperley. (I may have been raving about it when Kate wore it which could have influenced his decision). He said it fitted impeccably and the style suited her so well.
DeleteOn another note, I think Alice Temperley has really found her stride again - the current collection is amazing!
My husband picked the Packham as his first choice, I did too. We loved all of her choices. I was torn between the Packham and the Tory Burch, but in the end the magnificent blue gown, with the wonderful Indian touches, won. Drew Barrymore looked sweet, but Kate looked spectacular. I agree the pretty puppy was wonderful. Our Beagle, Molly concurred!
DeleteI asked my husband. He said without hesitation, the Packham gown. I'm more a fan of the Temperley or the Beulah.
DeleteMy husband wouldn't comment on the formal dresses but he loved loved loved the white Wickstead dress! He thought it was very 50s housewife and he thinks that look is sexier on women than anything low cut or short!
DeleteMy husband wouldn't comment on the formal dresses but he loved loved loved the white Wickstead dress! He thought it was very 50s housewife and he thinks that look is sexier on women than anything low cut or short!
DeleteOh Julia you had me laughing out loud:) It did remind me of a Maltese coverlet I recetly saw but it was one I liked:) How funny to put Mr. Leo on the spot:) They do role their eyes at us I'm sure, especially since we are so enthusiastic :)
DeleteI'm not surprised that Mr Charlotte liked the Temperley - it is more youthful than the Packham. Interesting what Anon 2:22 hubby thought - I'll try that dress with Leo when we get to that poll and see if it hits him that way. I'm fairly sure he won't like the Boho dresses as he didn't when I used to wear that sort of thing.
DeleteAh, that coverlet, it gave way to white matelasse which I thought so-oo sophisticated - I paid a fortune for it at an elegant shop that sold Italian linens on the Kings Road but Mr Leo never knew how much..., and then we got our first dogs...
My husband has gone to his reward-24/7 ESPN. ha! However, my dog loves the
DeleteJP and she has impeccable taste.
PS May dogs vote?
DeleteI hope so, because if dogs can, I have a couple of kitties all set to go......... :))
DeleteI missed the last two days of the tour as I was at the cottage and without internet access but right after coming back, I just sat down and couldn't stop reading. I loved the photos at the Taj Mahal. Thank you, Charlotte, for the whole tour coverage- it was awesome and I can't imagine how you did it! So good to know they are safely home. And what a surprise about the Obamas. It seems that even though the tour has finished, we won't suffer from abstinence syndrome :)!
ReplyDeleteThe press oh the press. Of course the stories would be negative as we have had a positve week and need a change to attract readership. Added to that I am sure they absolutely hate not only KP twitter stream but also those of the other royals. The British Monarchy website has also been revamped. Well worth a look. It is full of all sorts of interesting information. This is not about the Royals in particular but about survival for the press. The royals are easy targets as collectives but just think of the impact twitter accounts etc of A-listers is having on traditional media sales. Absolutely devasting I would think. Just as an example I watched Downton Abbey (the Queen Mum is a contemporary of Lady Mary) their twitter etc accounts were excellent so one had little need for the press. I follow this blog because I enjoy social history in the making and I watch with interest what is going to happen with traditional media and what will wash up in the end. In my humble opinion the press and reporters have been slow to realise they no longer have an absolute monopoly over what we read etc. Interestingly Arthur Mathews who must be one of the oldest of the media pack had about the best and most interesting twitter stream. I wondered at the time if the media barons do not allow the reporters to use or post much on social media. Now there is an interesting thought. No revenue from twitter accounts. However this generation is one which responds well to image and caption so the mainstream media will need to repackage their brand to deliver that and earn revenue. I will watch with interest the evolution.
ReplyDeleteWe have a bad marriage, William and the press. It has all the elements of a bad marriage, an overly controlling partner on one side, a partner that wants the moon on the other, lack of a good role model on one side (William thinking of Diana and eliminating sources of her greatest pain, like his father and step-mother and focusing on the press) and unenthusiastic in-laws on the other – (the more established the press, the more republican their editors are likely to be) Outside relationships getting involved, William and his dangerous flirtation with social media, like all philandering, likely to do him as much damage as good, since it is completely uncontrolled and as many damaging and crazy articles come out of it as good one. (Republicans are pinning their hopes on social media and the young – assuming, correctly, the established press with only embrace such a bold attack if their readership is demanding it.)
DeleteMeanwhile, the tabloid press getting muddled with the established press on the other side. No good advisers to help - William seems surrounded by yes-people who probably fear for their jobs and are serving as enablers. It's reaching the point just as Charles and Diana did, where repair will be extremely difficult, one side suspicious, the other attuned now to every slight, reasonable or not (exclusion at the monastery was reasonable but there have been so many others, that it was seen as one more.)
And at the end, we have a bad marriage with two people who need each other and ironically, as is often the case, the one who thinks he doesn't need the press is the one who needs him the most of all. William and Kate (at the moment, but only this moment) are a huge money-maker to the press, but the press would survive without them -even Hello! and the royal magazines made it through the dark days of the nineties. But the monarchy needs a supportive press since that is how most people get their impression of it. And William and Kate, so little seen at home, need this most of all. When there isn't real royal news, a visit or an engagement, the press is that much more motivated to find a topic to write about - and a lot of those topics have been very negative.
Synergy between the press and public is always at issue – the press will write what they believe will sell, they take their mood from the public, but at the same time, influence it. Why I’m not leaping on the “hate the press” wagon, although I often disagree with elements of it (the press is not one uniform body) is that while the distinction of press and public is clear in our mind, I think it is becoming muddled in William and his advisors’ minds to the point some issues that concern the public deeply may be taken as just one more abusive press article. And that can become very dangerous to the monarchy.
William is one of the least media savvy royals out there – or he wouldn’t be getting such press. The Bhutanese have to be one of the most media savvy – we got some negative reports about them and Christianity today but from a reader- the press was glowing, and those gifts didn’t hurt. The same with Camilla, what public acceptance she gets today is from pure courtship with the press.
Bad marriages are always painful to everyone and spread mud everywhere. My mother, who had the best possible marriage, once told me marriage means each side thinking they are giving ninety percent to the relationship. William will have to give more to start with, but if he does, and if he provides ample opportunity at home for people to think favourably of him, there will be no public mood for bad press. Now, at this positive time, is a good moment to start.
AMEN JULIA
DeleteSuch a smart analogy Julia.
DeleteMarriage has a symbiotic kind of contract while remaining a whole person with an individual identity despite the partnership. The media and W&K need each other. Tweet can’t compare to the outstanding photos of Bhutan monastery and nature up in the mountain. Tweeters who follow them don’t climb up rigid mountains and roast in 105 degree Fahrenheit heat waiting to take their images. For the ongoing record of history in the making, it is the presence and at times sleepless dedication of the media entourage which will help inform the public for the ages. Between KP press office, PR staff and the couple, it is a matter of sifting out what media is most workable for them. A good media is eyes and ears of the public while being honest and fair about celebrities like W&K. They are more than celebrities since they are also an extension, as well as the prime core of a country’s government system. One of the most important decisions in life is who to marry. The same might apply here somewhat, except in this case the marriage is the critical and mutual marriage among the couple, nation/s, media and the public.
DeleteI got a little lost in all that Julia, but I think I get your point. It is very much a living, on-going symbiotic relationship whether either side likes it or not.
DeleteAgain, Julia. You nailed it. Boy I wish someone at KP would read your post. And soon. Ariagurl.
DeleteHello everyone,
ReplyDeleteWe definitely expect to see at least a few photos from the dinner :)
I think so too. Probably not photos throughout dinner, but I would be really shocked if there were no posed photos.
DeleteI think William and President Obama's personalities will mesh perfectly. They will have a lot of laughs no doubt. President Obama has a warm sense of humor.
DeleteThank you, Charlotte. Very much looking forward to it!
Deletelook at Rebecca Deacon, she gone all acorn for the reception! Thats identification with the job and boss ;)
ReplyDeletePS: Charlotte, I think we could never thank you enough for your hard work and especially fast postings. I find your blog the most complete in any aspect (particularly the backround of every meeting there is and not just the clothes).
And: I thought I postetd the pal and joe cape first, but apparently I was not :´( Damn, I'll try next time :P
CU AMY
Can't wait to see the posts and polls! It was a wonderful tur indeed!
ReplyDeleteI'm going to look over the album, such high-quality photos!
Is the dinner super formal, semi formal, casual? I'm thinking it's like the one they gave before leaving for India. What do you think?
Thanks a lot!
Lovely news. Look forward to Friday.
ReplyDeleteI wanted to assert that India did not pay for this tour. I think you would see rioting in the streets if the Indian people were asked to fork over 270,000 GBP to host British Royals. Ever. I can imagine the headlines that would invoke - OOOO FFF!
The tour was NOT done on the basis of an invitation. It was done at the request of Her Majesty's Government, meaning that the Government asked William and Kate to make the tour and therefore, the British taxpayer is solidly footing the bill. The only people India ever invites and probably pays a bit for are Presidents of the US.
Anon 22:16- Your opinion? Otherwise, source for those rather emphatically-expressed statements.
DeleteWho pays the expenses of the press pack? Tax-payer funded?
DeleteEvery press release from KP stated that "The visit is being undertaken at the request of Her Majesty's Government." Is anyone really still unsure about this?
DeleteThe govt, or British taxpayer if you will, pays for these tours, nothing unique to W&K. India is an important and growing economic power, the UK wants a relationship there. There's always shrewd political business behind these tours. The reported cost of this tour (in several outlets) was 270,000 not including the cost of security.
And I'd imagine certain British officials have known for some time that the Indian company Tata steel was planning its announcement, and maybe they thought W&K could change some minds. From one report "The Indian conglomerate recently announced it's pulling out of all the steel plants it owns in the UK, meaning tens of thousands of jobs, and a crucial part of Britain’s industrial infrastructure and heritage could be lost unless a new buyer is found."
That was a serious mission for William to attempt, 40,000 British jobs on the line. He reportedly received specific instruction from the Foreign Office on how to proceed, in a diplomatic fashion. But the head of Tata steel seems to have made up his mind. Very challenging.
I tend to agree. It would bebhivhly inappropriate for India to pay for their former colonizers who had a LOT to do with any poverty in the nation to come visit.
DeleteCharlotte, is there any way to get factual information as to who paid for this trip (not from the media)! In the past it was the host country. Thanks
DeleteI am at a loss to discover which reliable, non-tabloid sources published that information. The fact that a story is reprinted in multiple formats means nothing..One unvarified source can start a story that is picked up and passed
Deletearound like, well-you name it. One has difficulty tracking down the origin of such glorified rumors.
Of course the Cambridges went at government request. I doubt the high-level engagements, including the PM meeting, would have taken place without both the British and the Indian goverments' requests for the visit.
For one thing,Corporate deals of that magnitude are in the works for months, if not years before announcement. By the time William hit India, the steel deal
was likely done and dusted.
This is a really interesting topic. Perhaps it is only in the realms where the Queen is sovereign that the host country pays for all the costs within the country and because India is a republic the British taxpayer pays for them? However if you look up on the internet how the British Crown is financed, it says that the Hanoverians gave up the Crown Estates in return for a percentage of that revenue and that is basically what happens today. I understand it is about 15% now, so the treasury gets the majority of the revenue remaining. Out of this 15% the Queen pays for herself and for the expenses of several members of her family who undertake Royal duties. There seems to be an arrangement for maintaining some royal buildings as well. This monetary arrangement excludes Prince Charles and his family. Out of his revenue from the Duchy of Cornwall he supports Camilla, William and Catherine and Harry. As well as the above, there is some kind of allowance for Royal travel including overseas but it was a bit hard to work out. So that still leaves the question of whether the British Government makes a special grant for a tour like this one. It does appear that security is paid for by the British taxpayer, but this would be happening when they are in UK anyway, so it is not an extra expense. Also presumably the function at the British High Commission is paid for from UK diplomatic funds. I'm not sure how we can find the exact amount. Presumably they publish annual accounts? However it does appear that on balance the British taxpayer gets a good deal from the Crown estates and the Queen and Prince Charles do pay tax. Of course the Queen has in her possession royal jewels, valuable paintings etc but they are not her personal possessions in the true meaning of that word.
DeleteVery excited that our President and First Lady will be with William, Kate and Harry on Friday evening. Oh to be a fly on the wall!
ReplyDeleteOh to be Harry's date, Tedi. lol
DeleteHello Dear Charlotte,
ReplyDeleteYour tour coverage was just outstanding. Thank you so much for all the hard work!
I had a major computer meltdown on the day the tour started! A part called the "logic board" overheated. This is the part that allows visual/video info to be translated from the Internet to the individual computer. I had to "beg, borrow and steal" computer time from my husband and son to keep up. My computer is now fixed so I binged on all your splendid coverage to catch up. Wonderful!
Just a few observations on the tour:
-What a pace! They packed a lot into a week. I appreciate that this was likely to reduce time spent away from G. and C.
-Her clothes were beautiful. They were true to her style parameters but also interesting.
-I never imagined the stop in Bhutan would be so wonderful across the board. Just a fantastic chance for all of us to learn more about the country.
-Fantastic highlights IMO- the boho prints, the interactions with children and various sports, the wildlife encounters, HRH making traditional styles her own (the tunics, the statement earrings, the many patterns and bright colours)
-the forbearance with which the Taj Mahal visit was handled, considering how painful the rehashing of his parents' marital problems by the press must be for William
As far as evening gowns go, it was tough to choose. I went with the Tory Burch because I thought Kate looked stunning and so much like "herself" in it. I know I have no idea what she 's really like but she looked so pretty and fresh. The colours were lovely, especially the pop of orange in the shawl.
But I also loved the Temperley (the fabric of the skirt was gorgeous). The Packham was a gorgeous colour but a bit too old for Kate IMO. I always loved the original red Beulah worn for the 100 Women Gala so this one was also very pretty, especially the red colour. But I loved the Anna Sui pattern. ARGH!! So hard to choose...
And now the treat of the Queen's Birthday, the Obama visit, Charlotte's birthday photos...we're getting spoiled!!
N.B. Who else thinks we'll hear about Baby #3 in the fall. Tour, then baby, tour, then baby, tour...
Enjoyed the behind the scenes photos. Question that I can't seem to find an answer to: Why do their private secretaries join them during dinners and other very big occasions (Like Rebecca at the Bollywood Gala)? Do they double as body guards? No problem with it but I'm surprised by it and wondering why.
ReplyDeleteBecca goes everywhere with Kate. More like a lady in waiting combined with personal assistant.
DeleteThey probably whisper stuff about the people they are meeting ("This is XX XX who is a big cricket player. He just had a son") and also might carry makeup and run small errands and stuff. Also keep track on if the clothes or makeup or hair is starting to look odd, usher the royals towards people they should talk to etc.
DeleteI doubt Rebecca is a Kate-whisperer, as she remains far in the background
Deletethese days, away from Catherine. Of course, Kate may be wearing a wire with
Rebecca whispering into her ear-piece . lol
I'll probably see this notion on at least one other blog by tomorrow. ha!
Kate usually makes the rounds on her own, which is varified in numerous photos.
Thanks! Makes sense. Oh, and, one more thing - where do I apply for Becca's job? Lol
DeleteWould love to be a fly on the wall of the Obama dinner. Probably would be fun conversation, relatively speaking. He's on the way out of office so his mood wpuld be less tense and the Cambridges and Prince Harry seem like they know how to make good conversation. Sort of a casual/formal evening. :)
Anxiously awaiting the Leibowitz pictures of the kids with the Queen! :)
My favourite ie the blue Jenny Packham dress love it.
ReplyDeleteYippee no Duchess Kate withdrawals!!!!!
ReplyDeleteI voted for that divine Jennt Packman gown. My second choice was the Temperley Crop top set. Then again I loved that gown she wore for the dinner with the King and Queen of Bhutan. Choices choices we are definitely spoiled for choices. Thanks Charlotte
Hmm...I didn't actually realize that 3 of my 4 favorite looks from the trip were all evening wear. But there it is. I voted for the Temperly Delphia crop top and skirt though really, that was tied with the Tory Burch floral mesh dress. Those 2 are definitely my top choices from the tour. It will be interesting to see what the upcoming surprises are!
ReplyDeleteNo competition, IMO. :)) The sapphire blue JP was a regal winner in my eyes. I was very pleased with MOST of Kate's other pieces, but the JP gown (and the overall look that evening) had FUTURE QUEEN written all over it.
ReplyDeleteIn second place, Tory Burch. And third is a split between the Beulah London and Temperley London gowns.
I completely agree with you on all points regarding the blue gown royalfan :) In a class of its own.
DeleteIt is, Claudia. :) I just wish that the bouquet had not been supersized so that we could have a better view of it. Lol.
DeleteWhat exciting news about hosting the Obamas for dinner. You have such excellent posts, I truly appreciate your information and the lovely photos. Your coverage of the tour was amazing. Since none of her evening gowns excited me in the least, I shall refrain from voting but I do look forward to seeing the results!
ReplyDeleteSo this is Emily Andrews' recap of the tour. I am not quite sure of what to make of this extreme animosity of the press. It seems to me that things have gotten slightly worse after the tour?
ReplyDeletehttp://www.thesun.co.uk/sol/homepage/news/7083186/Taxpayers-blast-William-and-Kate-tour-of-India.html
And I don't understand simple things like William and Kate slipping out of the backdoor of the hotel to go to the airport. It boggles my mind - why would he do that? They are dressed, they are going out in public - why avoid the media? Is he genuinely filled with rage against the media? Because it makes no sense whatsoever.
The fact that Arthur Edwards William's favorite photographer is also joining the bandwagon in calling them dull, that says something. Did they offend Arthur as well ? He has been all praises so far. I think that we will see more from Palmer soon. I guess I am mystified as to why the media is so angry at them now - I thought they would be happy !
Off to dig up the Roya Nikkah article.
Edward Arthur said they are dull???????
DeleteThat surprises me. What is the link to that please.
The back-door thing might very well be for security reasons, since a back door is usually less open and exposed than the front door.
DeleteI've been meaning to comment on this for a while! I often see people here speaking very highly of Arthur Edwards, which is well deserved.
DeleteBut it's worth noting, for those of you who may not know or be to young to remember, that William had Arthur Edwards himself banned from covering *official* royal engagements, because The Sun dared to publish photos of him and Kate skiing IN PUBLIC!
There was an enormous backlash in the press and even the public caught on, and Clarence House had to put their tail between their legs, cancel the ban, and acknowledge it was a mistake.
As Julia noted above, William's control freakery with the press knows no bounds, something he does have to learn to distinguish.
This is NOT what he says on an interview that is published on his Twitter feed on the last day of the tour. He also seam not to agree with his paper. The Sun
DeleteAgain, the very subtle contrast between official activities done in public and private
Deleteactivities done in public. The press has every right to publish photos of
public officials at official duties; their demand for 24/7 access during
private times is not illegal, necessarily-it is a matter of ethics. Something most royal correspondents acknowledged at one time and only a few follow
today.
The Cambridges posed and posed-over 900 photos on the RC site alone. In what universe is that not generous access?
And how did the press show their appreciation once home?
Re the Sun publishing those photos: there was a time, also, perhaps even then, that anyone else enjoying a holiday would have been asked permission, if not for taking the picture, at least for publishing it. Privacy concerns are daily
becoming a greater issue. I have noticed lately in crowd scenes on television showing an
official, faces n the surrounding crowd are sometimes being shown with those blurry blobs over their faces to protect their
privacy.
I don't blame William for being angry then. It just shows William's ability to
compromise for the general good that he appears to work well with Arthur now.
The Cambridges did their part. It is time for the correspondents to reciprocate.
It had been announced that the visit to the Taj Mahal was the last public event of the tour. Leaving the hotel in the middle of the night to drive to the airport was not a public event. They were wise to go when traffic was light, few people were around, and there were as little confusion and security problems as possible. There was no need for a media chase!
DeleteI did not know that about the ban, Claudia. Hummm.
DeleteBy EMILY ANDREWS, Royal Correspondent, in India
Delete(It seems she is the one who wrote the view point report link you posted. The expression that is dull is also included in this same piece. Others on this blog have posted Photographer Arthur called them dull. I don’t know the correlation).
Some body is putting it as she saw it. The funny part was the scribble on refreshing makeup and hair during the hike. Ms. Andrews sure is not happy. The Indian woman’s remark she quoted regarding the Sari worn by Indian women vs Kate may not have made it in that article if not for the bad relation with the media. There was something catty about it, and as Kate’s fellow country woman, the writer could have been taken back. That remark is not true for all Indian women. Just so the Indian lady can express distaste for one person, to justify false generalization however favorable for her own people was not right.
Wow a poll already....very nice. Torn between Jenny Peckham and Beulah but the Jenny Peckham edged out. Even though when I saw each one originally throughout the tour I loved (or liked) each one. Since I'm not a fan of the obamas,I'll just bypass the dinner, ok I'll give a quick glance and move on.
ReplyDeleteI'm so glad the Cambridges and Obamas and Harry will sit down to dinner. Nice to be a mouse in the corner! There should be great conversations and laughter. The Obamas will have lunch with the Queen and Prince Philip that day and no doubt will wish the Queen a special 90th year of happiness.
ReplyDeleteI had to choose the Packham because it is just so beautiful. I feel rather sorry for the Anna Sui, getting so few votes. It is really quite pretty and appropriate for the fireside entertainments. I also very much liked the Beulah gown. And I hated (yes, Julia, hated) the Temperley and the Tory Burch.
Thank you, Charlotte, for this great post to get us over our lethargy after the tour ended! Fortunately it is early spring here, which helps. And I am glad that Kate and William have a busy week planned, which also will help a lot.
glad to here from you so soon charlotte,my favorit is the temperly london it has been since i first saw kate in it. it was just a wow factor for me. hum dinner with te obamas very intresing i must say i'm not a fan of them didn't even vote for him but stranger things have happened. i thought he insulted the queen at a state dinner?
ReplyDeleteThis is Obama's farewell tour he will not be back in Great Britain as President after this. I will look forward seeing William and Kate from that dinner but that's it.
ReplyDeleteI am so happy about President Obama and Michelle's visit. There will be a lot of insight and laughter for all concerned during the visit. The sartorial choices they make are secondary to that for me.
DeleteI am super excited to see Kate in a sparkling gown again this soon after the India tour. Any chance we might see a tiara? Also, will there be any pictures released when W & K celebrate the Queen's birthday with her?
ReplyDeleteI am having major Kate withdrawals! Loved the tour. Excited to see Charlotte's birthday pics.
ReplyDeleteReally surprised to see Temperley poll so high. The outfit honestly didn't impress me that much. Can't wait until the dinner with the Obamas.
ReplyDeleteMy vote is in :)
ReplyDeleteI voted for the sapphire blue gown - only drawback is I wished to see some serious royal diamond earrings instead of those blue ones.
ReplyDeleteI'm glad that William and Kate seem to have got the message from their abominable choices earlier this year. I thought the tour was fabulous, but at the same time I was quite annoyed when I thought back to earlier this year. The tour really showed that William and Kate are capable of delivering for the public, if they want to. I think I agree with Claudia that perhaps the reality of royal life is dawning on them. The first few years are exciting, but then the reality hits. It seems this tour (I hope!) was a way for them to feel a bit more inspired by their role again. I'm glad to hear they are stepping up their game and I hope it continues.
So excited to finally comment! Charlotte - I've followed the blog for years and meant to chime in! Thank you for doing such lively reporting.
ReplyDeleteI chose the Temperly - but looking at all of the looks (all of which I loved except the Anna Sui) I think what I love most is the youthfulness of the whole look. It's so fun to see her still be a young woman. Thanks for the pre-wedding reminders of her core style.
And so excited to see her with Michelle - my other style obsession!!
Charlotte, Wow! That link from The British High Commission has some superb photo's from the tour! Thank you for sharing it and once again great update on the upcoming dinner with The Obama's!
ReplyDeleteShould be an interesting occasion and the photo's amazing! Blessings to you for your spot on reporting! Keeps us on our readers toes so to speak! LOL!!!
Thanks for the great news Charlotte! Do you really think they will pose for photos with the President and First Lady? That would be so wonderful!!
ReplyDeleteAnd am really hoping for birthday photos but maybe they will only be released on HM's birthday.
Amazing that the younger royals are gaining so much diplomatic experience these days. Excited to see photos.
ReplyDeleteI loved the blue Jenny Packham with and without the wrap. Rebecca from Sweden, I think, said Kate acted and smiled like she knew she looked good that night. Maybe that extra confidence helped. It was just such a gorgeous color on Kate and the sparkle and the swishy skirt all looked so princessy. I can't wait to see this dress with a tiara!
ReplyDeleteI was surprised we didn't see Kate in one ponytail the whole trip. I thought with the hot weather that would be a given. I was really expecting one at Kaziaranga or the hike in Bhutan. We got huge surprises with the clothes, but not the hair.
I remember Charlotte talking about Kate wearing a casual maxi dress before the trip and I thought to myself no way would she do that. I can't believe we got two casual maxi dresses-the Glamourous one and the Anna Sui. Never say never!
I was disappointed that we didn't see one hat. Not sure why. Thoughts?
I know many people have thanked you, Charlotte, so I haven't because I didn't want to sound like a copy cat. But, I have enjoyed every single one of your posts. They are so well researched, very accurate, and posted so speedily. What more could a girl ask for? A heart felt thank you!
LOVED the Temperley London 'Delphia' Crop Top and Maxi Skirt!
ReplyDeleteI just had to add one more comment after looking at more of the pictures from the link. I really like how the Indian men who wore turbans and suits matched their tie to their turban. Very classy!
ReplyDeleteExtremely happy about the dinner for two reasons:
ReplyDelete1. Glad they are doing engagements so soon after the tour and not disappearing for a month.
2. Very important and significant type of engagement. THIS is a royal duty and not just a fun charity engagement. Having dinner with the POTUS is a huge deal, hosting him at your home even bigger. It's great to see William and Kate showing that they are comfortable with Heads of States. This dinner, the dinner with the King and Queen of Bhutan, meeting with the Prime minister of India gives Will and Kate more gravitas and it's good practice for when they are King and Queen.
On to the dresses:
WOW- Jenny Packham. The color, the train, the big earrings, everything about this look was just next level.
Love- Temperley and Tori Burch. These dress are so different yet so appropriate for their settings. The Temperley was beautiful and delicate for a garden party in India. The Burch was colorful and fit in with that beautiful colorful welcome they received in Bhutan.
Nice- Beulah. Kate looked nice but boring. I'm just not a fan of this style in either this or the 2011 version. The top and waist remind of her engagement dress witch makes me want to cut the dress above the knee so it's not an evening gown. But, obviously Kate likes this type of dress so I'm sure we'll see more of them and I'll continue to think them boring.
Meh- Anna Sui. Not a fan of the pattern.
I like the Jenny Packham appropriately nodding to the country when acknowledgeing local craftsmanship, being classical and just a tad grand with its simple train and quiet stole.
ReplyDeleteI like the 2-piece-ness of the Temperley and it vaguely evoking classical garden architecture. I love the colours (especially of the skirt), the flowers, patchiness, 3-D-ness of the fabric, and the allusions to wildlife of the slightly archaic ethno-retro Anna Sui. I like the flowers and very much the colours of the Tory Burch.
I like the relative simplicity and flowiness of the Beulah Juliet, the milky colours, its reference to x-ray photography (the arts, modern life/technology/ perhaps even health care). In this year of 1916 commemorations, I find the twofold symbolism of the poppy very appropriate. I very much appreciate Catherine wearing Beulah London because of their involvement in helping women out of sex trafficking and into earning a living. So I voted for the Juliet.
Charlotte I have seen people posting that Harry will be attending the dinner but I didn't see that in your report. Can you clear this up.
ReplyDeleteHello Joanna,
DeleteHarry will be there, it should be a great night!
hubba, hubba. :) Harry will be there. yay
DeleteI have given some thought to what we saw unfold on The Indea Tour between William, Catherine & The Press. This business of the press not appearing to be interested in accuracy or the truth of W&C's life, but rather concocting twisted versions just to sell papers! It's an odd business, this generating of stories or nasty angles, instead of writing interesting articles focusing on positive things happening as W&K work together as The Team Diana & Charles were never able to be...the press could be focusing on the barriers W&K are breaking down in previously stigmatized portions of the population crippled by mental health or addiction issues. Furthermore, the bringing to the fore of the critical connection to early intervention in both these areas at childhood & how it can have amazing healing & preventative benefits for a whole family unit effected by these issues! I often am reminded of a line from the book "The Once & Future King" regarding the use of "Might for Right"! I also found that a point that was made by one of you has really stuck with me... That of (to paraphrase) the fact that Catherine may be hesitant to express her opinions in public (unless in knowingly safe situations) lest anything she might say being twisted & taken out of contact. The 'ol best not say anything at all:( Another point made that also stuck with me was a reference to how strong she must be, to not feel the need to get in the dirt correcting negative things said about her, but instead not stooping to the press & other critic's level, but taking the high road! She continues to turn her energy towards the purposes she knows are right, to meet the needs of The Queen & to tend & nurture her family. After The India Tour, I was struck by how much Courage & Mindfulness it must take, to not let the ill-informed or just plain nastiness sway her from doing what She "Knows" is right. She is focusing on her duties, while not letting it rock her boat & fill her with self doubt as it did for Diana! Cathrine is of course blessed with oodles more support from William, Charles, Harry along with The Queen & Prince Phillip. Sadly none of which Diana had, as well as being years older & wiser & having the Extreme Benefit of The Path Diana plowed before her, leaving a wealth of lessons from which to learn. As I mentioned earlier, I truly believe we are on the cusp of an Historical "New Stage". I must applaud Catherine for her presence of mind, her courage & her unwavering Devotion to her Husband, Her children, Her Queen & Herself, as She continues moving forward on this path that will be her life's work & all while not letting herself get thrown off course by whatever is thrown at her or by being picked apart in the press.... All the way down to her toes. I'm proud of William & Catherine, & it's a joy we all share watching her continue to grow, having all watched her grow up before our eyes since she was a late teen. I also think, like anyone, they benefit from prayers for wisdom & strength in various forms, not the least of which is writing on This (Charlotte's) Blog, as I believe it's one of, if not The Most Respected Blog devoted to HRH! I also have come to agree with many of you & I do think She or Her Team Do Read It! Why shouldn't they.... I believe (we all do) that it's the Most Informative & Well Balanced, both in Charlotte's Posts & in her moderating of our discussions & opinions. So that about wraps up what was on my mind.:) Thoughts anyone?
ReplyDeleteI agree with much of your analysis, Becca USA. Isn't it interesting that those of us who are not British can see Kate's strengths better than those who are. That is so obvious among the press but also among some of the British posters here. It is as though they are afraid to respect Kate for who she is and what she does.
DeleteI think the British people who loved Diana and were traumatized by her fate are hesitant to love another young princess whose husband is in the direct line to the throne. From the outside perhaps, even though many of us shared the fascinations of the 1980s and the disenchantment that followed, we may have a broader and more forgiving viewpoint. We of course are not royal subjects, which makes a difference, but we do know how to react to leaders. You have done a nice job of describing Kate's character.
It seems that constant visibility is more important to a lot of Kate's public than the substance of her efforts. This is unfortunate, and it must be wearing for her. In time, I suspect Kate will be a deeply loved and respected queen. For now, she needs to be given some breathing room and sincere approval.
Courtney, hope you are doing okay.
ReplyDeleteCan't wait for the dinner with the Obama's. I'm only 25, but I don't remember any United States President meeting the royal family this many times. It's really great. Great way of keeping our countries friends. Michelle and Harry seem to always have a laugh when they see each other. Does anyone know if Malia and Sasha are coming to the dinner? I know they have had tea with Harry before.
ReplyDeleteSo glad they will be busy right away so we won't be on each other's case as typical of past lulls in their schedules. Saved by the itineraries. Whew.
ReplyDeleteCan't wait for the Obama's to visit UK again. And it will be nice for them to be able to meet the two kids, hope we can get some photos from that occasion! Looking forward to see what Kate will wear to meet Obama this time, cos' to be frank I am not that big fan of that beige dress look. I think she looks the skinniest she's been at that time, and the most tanned as well. The whole look is a bit 'wag' but I suppose that's her early days in the royal family and she's still developing her style. Which is why I can't wait to see her evolved style now and how that compares to Michelle! Should be interesting! :)
ReplyDeleteThey have different body types. How they will dress for the same occasion will be interesting, each with her own individual taste.
DeleteI think US first ladies have dressed conservatively, or preferred business attires. Michelle is the first one who had been free with variation in style. She knows her body type, chooses well and is comfortable in her variety. Behind the scene political machination of her inner mind and circle I don’t know much about. Over all the way she is natural in how she connects with audiences, and she had probably given more speeches than all first ladies (I doubt if Hillary made these many speeches during her FLOTUS days) is equally, if not more of her strength.
I really enjoyed the colorful variety of her choices from this tour, especially since they were so different from what Kate usually wears. Sometimes, as of late, a few of her outfits have seemed a little too old for her, so it was nice to see her in such fun prints and styles--I definitely agree about the pre-wedding Kate style shining through. These tour outfits hearkened back, a bit, to that, as well as just-married Kate.
ReplyDeleteI agree with all the comments about it being a nice surprise for William and Kate to have an engagement so soon after the royal tour. I was afraid they'd just disappear in Anmer Hall again for several weeks, so I was really excited to see KP's tweet. I'm surprised they're meeting with President Obama and Michelle--definitely wasn't expecting that, but look forward to the news and photos.
I think we can expect to see a few official photos released in the next few weeks to mark the wedding anniversary and Charlotte's birthday.
Each worked out in its own place. I really appreciate Francis’ reasoning which is well thought out.
ReplyDeleteOutstanding designers are creative; it takes a lot of investment and hard work to get recognized as a brand label. Once established, they make a lot of money. Beulah’s involvement in empowerment of others can make it a winner for many people including me.
The JP sapphire complete vivid depth of color, image of abundance, shawl, entire presentation and embroidery has something settling and meditative about it to me. It also serves time, purpose and place very well. Without the shawl, I would have dismissed it as an old fashioned and classic evening gown except the color. I never cared for sapphire blue for clothes color, although dark blue is my favorite. This is the first time sapphire mesmerized me as clothing. I voted for it.
Thank you, Anon15.
DeleteStrange, I typed this and turned around and there is a floral design of cobalt blue all mixed with aqua, white, lemon grass, beige, black and light blue tunic on my chair. It seems cobalt blue/some call sapphire blue high lights other mellow colors. I did not care for it in solid colors, now I recognize it better. People have been calling the JP dress sapphire blue. It is actually closer to cobalt blue.
ReplyDeleteNo wonder the little girl was so excited: Kate looked "the very model of a modern royal princess" in her green dress. (to paraphrase Gilbert and Sullivan.)
ReplyDeleteThank-you for including the "pre-wedding Kate" fashion photos. It has been my opinion that her tour wardrobe reflects Kate's "true colors" and that she only tones it down
in England per "the Boss's" example. I doubt it has anything to do with being bold, changing it up, or experimenting .I also doubt she will challenge HM's ideas of proper
royal lady dress back home.
It was a toss up between the gorgeous Jenny Packham and the Beulah, but I ended up choosing the latter because of the stunning colour and poppy print - and the way the gown flowed. I, for one, loved, loved all her outfits. Can't wait to see what she wears for the Queen's birthday celebrations.
ReplyDeleteI have to say the more I look at the dresses the less I like the Sui or Beulah dresses. Better in the settings but still do not work for me. ali
ReplyDeleteHello everyone,
ReplyDeleteI have been asking around about the Obama dinner and we can expect to see quite a few photos on the night. I think we're going to see a lot more from the evening than initially thought.
So glad to know that there will be images released. Pretty exciting engagement for TRH. Really glad all 3 are involved in hosting the first dinner like this in their young royal lives.
DeleteThanks for the update Charlotte. :)
DeleteCharlotte,
DeleteCould we have a "none of the above" category added to the polls so that in the event we don't like any of the selections we have a vote also?
Oh Charlotte I love you! Thank you thank you for asking!!
DeleteFirst Charlotte: thank you so much for all of your hard work and the awesome coverage of the tour. Next, I voted for the Jenny Packham but really I was voting for those AMAZING earrings OMG they are so beautiful. Happy hump day all!
ReplyDeleteWith Harry in the mix, President Obama, Michelle, William and Kate will for sure have fun.
ReplyDeleteDefinitely. :))
DeleteAnother "Kate thing" perhaps. Her dress echoed the blue and white of Diana's ring and so did William's shirt and Jacket.
ReplyDeletePersonally, I thought Kate picked the dress because it is so "her" and we know she loves blue. William, too, has been known to wear the color once in a while. ;)
DeleteI did not read a "nod" to Diana into the outfits they selected. To do so would have been too stage managed, IMO. The most important aspect of the visit to the Taj Mahal was that Kate was there with man she adores and with whom she has created a loving family unit. As a mother, Diana could not have wished for more.
Somewhere above, there are comments about William and Catherine and their entourage leaving the Agra hotel from the back. Of course they did. Isis threatened them, and airports are a favorite venue for Isis attacks. Security obviously did not want to call attention to the timing of the Cambridges' departure, or have their motorcade followed by the press pack.
ReplyDeleteI looked up the available flights a day or so before I wrote a post giving the times, as I did not think it wise to talk about them if William and Kate were still traveling. If that occurred to me, think what was going through the minds of security and the Indian police! The journalists had plenty of beautiful pictures from the tour and from its last day; they did not need midnight snaps of threatened travelers.
EXACTLY, 23:53. How would photos of them leaving for the airport add value to the tour?
DeleteI understand there was also some fuss when the media photographers were wanting to take photos in the Taj Mahal gardens. There are very strict rules about photography there and normally professional photographers are not allowed to go much further than the entranceway. However I read that The Royal staff asked the Police to permit the media to take photos of William and Catherine sitting on that bench. Photographs are always strictly forbidden inside the Mausoleum so that is obviously why we only saw official shots without people in that area. Maybe it wasn't just William wanting to be private on that occasion.
DeleteCharlotte thank you for this exciting news!!Can someone tell me what does anti-brexit mean??
ReplyDeleteI voted for the Tory Burch dress, I love how she looks in that dress with the red shawl! Can't wait for the month of May,,lots of news to look forward to!!XOXO
The picture of Queen Elizabeth, Prince Charles, Prince William and Prince George is a beautiful photograph. I imagine this is one of the surprises that Kensington Palace mentioned would be forthcoming.
ReplyDeleteFor me the Jenny Packham gown won hands down! It was striking and sparkling, exactly what I would imagine a princess would wear. The color and beading were beautiful and I loved the flowing skirt and train. Absolutely gorgeous!
ReplyDeleteThat's exciting news about the upcoming dinner with President and Mrs. Obama. I hope we get to see pictures from the evening. It should be a memorable evening (and fun with Harry around) for everyone! :)
The Palace has released a FABULOUS photo of HM and the three heirs. It is apparently on the front page of tomorrow's papers ahead of her birthday on Thursday. Prince George is absolutely adorable with his cheeky little smile. What a little love! It is a wonderful picture!
Did you see the stamp!!!!????-Helen in Indiana.
ReplyDeletehmm most probably will see the photos have you seen the duke and duchess wipping the tears or sweat in daily last Monday in daily mail
ReplyDelete