Months in the planning, the Mall in St. James's Park was transformed for its largest ever street party to celebrate the Queen's patronage of more than 600 charities and organisations. The lunch for 10,000 guests is the first of its kind to be held in The Mall.
For those familiar with 'British summertime', you'll know the weather can be unpredictable...
This morning The Mall turned into a sea of ponchos as guests tried to shelter themselves from the rain.
It couldn't, however, deter the atmosphere.
Even the Palace shared a humorous tweet: "Long to rain over us. Great to see the weather hasn't dampened spirits."
Thankfully conditions cleared up before the royals arrived and the hampers were opened.
William, Kate and Harry joined other royals for a walkabout.
Kate told a member of the crowd about George's reaction to Trooping The Colour yesterday.
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| Rebecca English Twitter Feed |
The Prince even gave his verdict on the dismal weather this morning :)
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| Emily Nash Twitter Feed |
Kate chats with well-wishers.
Royal reporter Gordon Rayner noted Prince William was "literally shaking very single hand as he goes down The Mall".
The Queen and The Duke of Edinburgh arriving.
When The Queen spotted Princess Anne she shouted "Oh, you're still here". Anne replied "Of course!".
Princesses Beatrice and Eugenie wore two well-known Kate brands. Beatrice was in a Saloni skirt and Eugenie in a very chic dress from Whistles. William, Kate and Harry followed the Queen and the Duke of Edinburgh in state review vehicles. During a speech, Prince William said "Thank you for showing that the Great British public doesn't let a little rain spoil a good day out". Speaking about The Queen: "Thank you Granny for everything you have done for your family. We could not wish you a happier birthday".
The Queen shared her humorous side "How I will feel if people are still singing Happy Birthday in December remains to be seen."
At the very heart of The Patron’s Lunch is "a desire to give the British and Commonwealth public the chance to not only honour and thank Her Majesty for her extraordinary commitment to others, but to also inspire communities the length and breadth of the nation to do the same". The not-for-profit event will also raise money for a newly created charitable fund – The Patron’s Fund - which will support the charitable organisations within the UK and across the Commonwealth.
Throughout events marking her reign and milestone birthday, the Queen's legacy has been discussed by the media and commentators at length. An integral part of that legacy is the unwavering support she has shown to patronages throughout her life. It's a wonderful opportunity for the charities to come together to mark the special occasion of her 90th birthday.
The Patron's Lunch website notes how many charities she took on from her family: "The Queen has over 600 patronages, a large number of which were inherited from her father, King George VI, on her Accession. The Queen is also Patron of the Mothers’ Union, a role which was first held by Queen Victoria in 1898. Further the Queen has inherited patronages from Queen Elizabeth the Queen Mother and Princess Margaret." You can view the entire list of all 600 patronages here.
Members of the Queen's organisations made up a parade, led by musical groups and performers from the Royal Academy of Dance, the artistic showpiece told the story of all those causes over the past 63 years.
The royals watching the parade.
The Patron's Lunch is the brainchild of the Queen's eldest grandson Peter Phillips.
In an article for the Telegraph, he shared the importance of the day:
'From my early childhood – ever since I was causing havoc in the corridors of Windsor, Balmoral and Sandringham with my sister and cousins – it was impossible to ignore the standard my grandmother set when it came to her support of her patronages. For my whole family she has led by example, but never more so than in her dedication in this area. Over her reign, however, the Queen has gone about that work with quiet diligence and astonishing humility. So in this landmark year fo her, I thought it high time her lifetime’s unbroken service was acknowledged.'
As a child, I would attend charity events with my parents in school holidays, but as I’ve grown older the sheer number of causes of which the Queen is patron has become clear. So, too, has her commitment to every one of them – and that’s an extraordinary achievement. It may often go unnoticed, but almost every time the Queen appears in public it is in order to support one of these organisations in her role as patron.'
He also discussed his reason for wanting William and Harry involved:
'One reason that I wanted my cousins, the Duke of Cambridge and Prince Harry, to be joint presidents of the Patron’s Lunch is that very legacy. It is important that the Queen’s charity work is not confined to a single generation. In the future the Princes will take on many of these patronages, just as the Queen inherited a great many of them from her mother, father and sister. You only need to look at the success of the Prince of Wales’s major charitable enterprise, the Prince’s Trust, to see that Her Majesty’s ethos has been passed down – and long may that continue.'
The graphic below offers a glimpse into the scale of preparations for the day. 33,000 cups of tea, 19 BBC cameras, over 5,000 meters of bunting, and more than 10,000 lunch hampers, to name just a few items on the "lunch's checklist".
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| The Patron's Lunch |
What's on them menu for the lunch?
The Queen's 90th birthday street party hamper for two includes:
- Scottish Smoked Salmon mousse with hot and cold Sandringham oak smoked Lochmuir salmon
- Pembrokeshire chicken roulade with Wye Valley asparagus and minted Cornish potato salad with pea shoots, creamy mayo and a herb drizzle
- 'Posh' raspberry royale - Norfolk Tulameen raspberries and a strawberry jelly, layered with sponge and clotted whipped cream hand decorated with a chocolate plaque
- Best of British sandwich selection: Roast Northern Irish beef with horseradish mayonnaise and baby watercress on soft white bread; Smoked Scottish Loch Etive trout with a dill dressing and watercress on soft wholemeal bread; Farmhouse mature Welsh cheddar with Kentish Claret tomatoes and Windsor apple chutney on soft malted brown bread; Applewood smoked Wiltshire ham with Tewkesbury mustard on soft white bread
- Mini piccalilli pork pie
- Two butterfly cakes - one light vanilla sponge cake with strawberry frosting and the other a lemon cake topped with lemon frosting
- Cornish Cove mature cheese and Red Leicester with Scottish seeded oatcakes
- Pressed Windsor apple juice
- Pimm's
- Bottle of water
The Duchess chose the Marwood Colour-Block Wool-Crepe Dress by Roksanda for the day. The blue, coral and pastel-pink dress features zip fastening along the back and is cut for a close fit. It's a classically colourful Roksanda design and a fresh take on a silhouette the Duchess favours.
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| The Outnet |
The zip on Kate's dress has been altered, I expect it may have been purchased off-the-rack and sent to a dressmaker rather than being a bespoke piece.
This close-up offers a detailed look at the colours.
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| The Outnet |
Variations of the colours in Kate's dress feature in several garments in the designer's collection. Below, the Strapless Neon Wool-Crepe Dress, the Color-Block Crepe Dress, the Wool-Crepe Top and the Wool-Crepe Maxi Skirt.
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| Roksanda |
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| Farfetch |
Readers will recall Kate wore a yellow and white colour-block dress by the designer when the Cambridges touched down in Sydney.
Kate accessorised with her Mappin & Webb Empress earrings and pendant.
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| Mappin & Webb |
The Duchess carried her L.K. Bennett Nina Clutch.
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| L.K. Bennett |
And completed the look with her L.K. Bennett Fern pumps.
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| L.K. Bennett |
Full coverage of the event is available here.
As Her Majesty's birthday celebrations draw to a close, it seems appropriate to share this quote from the then-Princess Elizabeth on her 21st birthday in 194: "I declare before you all that my whole life, whether it be long or short, shall be devoted to your service and the service of our great imperial family to which we all belong."
We'll see you tomorrow for Order of the Garter!
She lacks the curves to really pull this off. Somehow the apriciot block is not where a and how it s supposed to be looking at the model.
ReplyDeleteEverybody looks great and I want one of those flag rain cover-ups.
ReplyDeleteWhat an amazing tribute and event. So many awesome things about it. Loved that Prince Phillip gently tapped on the roof of the vehicle in which he and the Queen were standing and told the driver, in a sweet way, to hurry up. Loved Harry's selfies with many people. Loved that Anne was enjoying greeting people along the way personally and up close, smiling even, no grumpiness, but actually having fun interacting with the crowd. Loved that William was trying to shake every hand and chat. Glad that Kate shared the cute quotes from George. Loved that the crowds didn't let the rain dampen their spirits. Loved the hampers and food selection and that the hamper will be a sweet momento. Hope the royal family each get one. Loved how nicely the event was planned and successful.
ReplyDeleteLoved that the charities blessed the Queen in this very memorable way. And I certainly love that the event was non-profit. I liked Kate's dress. I think it was perfect for the occasion. She stood out in the crowd. A good time was had by all, and safely. HalleluYah.
Amen 16:12, and Amen
Delete& I love that it was the brainchild of her firstborn grandson Peter & that he included William & Harry! I think it's a Family pulling together to both Honor HM now & for the future!:)
DeleteGoodness, at first glance I thought the Duchess had a bare midriff! Can't say this is on a par with her last few days, but c'est la vie. I do love Princess Anne's outfit. Thank you, Charlotte for emphasizing the Queen's service, which was what this amazing party was all about. It was an innovative departure from rock concerts for a queen who prefers other music! I thought Peter Phillips wrote a very nice explanation, with a not so subtle reminder to the princes of their coming duties. And Kate's reports on George were great fun. :-). Where were Charles and Camilla? I don't see them among the family.
ReplyDeleteCharles and Camilla were present at a more local street party. THere were lots of smaller ones held today around the country and they were present at one of those.
DeleteThey were at a public celebration in Glouscester or somewhere having a picnic with the public of egg salad sandwiches.
DeleteThank you anon 19.18 :) I read that they were at a thing they go to yearly, called "Big Lunch" that tries to get neighbourhoods out and eating and meeting as a community :)
DeleteExactly, Rebecca. It is Gloucestershire.
DeleteSo wonderful to see the public turning out to celebrate HM's 90th. The Queen has devoted her life to her country and continues to do so, what a fantastic role model, so proud to have her as our monarch.
ReplyDeleteBlue and pink, a nod to her children: another Kate thing!
ReplyDeleteWhat a wonderful event. Rain, yes, of course it is England!! I have been watching videos of the speeches, so happy. Kate looks lovely. Yes, her hair looks a bit bedraggled but I think that block of color around the middle of her dress lifts everything up. Even Richard Palmer hasn't had anything snide to say on his Twitter feed (so far). This has been a terrific weekend for Kate watching and once again, thank you, thank you Charlotte for the Rolls Royce of Royal blogs.
ReplyDeleteYes, Valerie, I totally agree that this blog is the Rolls Royce of Royal blogs. You put it perfectly. It is very professionally done and very respectful and full of historical information in addition to the fashion.
DeleteI prefer Bentleys, so "Bentley of Blogs", as someone said days before, is Charlotte's moniker for me.
DeleteRain never dampened your spirits. Well done. What a great event Peter Phillips created. That hamper lunch sounded yummy too. HM quick wit was on display today, and I also loved seeing those pictures of the young and beautiful princess/queen. I hope the cold and rain won't have any ill effects on them.
ReplyDeleteIt was nice to see them all out and about, plus another smiling picture of Princess Anne. Fun seeing William, Kate and Harry together. All around a great finish to the busy weekend.
what is piccalilli and what is Pimms?
ReplyDeletePimms is an alcoholic drink, sort of similar to sangria in the sense that it is sweet and served with fresh cut fruit in it.
DeletePimms is an alcoholic drink, sort of similar to sangria in the sense that it is sweet and served with fresh cut fruit in it.
DeletePimms is a liqueur, its been around since the 1800's and is very well known. Piccalilli is a relish of pickled vegetables. Hope that helps!
Deletethanks Mel.
Deletethanks Anon from New York
DeleteI have a piccalilli recipe from a dear cousin, now departed, and I make it every year. It is basically finely chopped red and green peppers and onions, pickled in vinegar and sugar. Very nice in chicken salad.
DeleteWasn't Pimms formerly called Pimms Cup?
A very sweet and fun watch! How delightfuly unpretentious! Really a nice street party and parade with only happiness as the mark of if it was good! Really nice to see! And seems like the royal family was a hit. The people who talked to Kate couldnt stop gushing it seems :) Very nice!
ReplyDeleteVery nice to see the trio front and centre at the celebrations. I still think it a little odd that C&C weren't there. I understand the reasoning of having them cover more ground, but it looked odd on the TV, especially with so much of the extended faamily present. Oh well :P
Really nice speeches by William and The Queen. I'm sure she's very happy that the celebrations are now over :P
I like Kate's dress. Not perfect, but very nice and servicable.
I imagine the Queen had a wonderful time, but I agree with you, Rebecca , that she is probably happy they are over. I can picture her taking a deep breath and propping her feet up when she finally made it home.
DeleteAnother elegant choice with the freshness of a summer day for Catherine. I was a big fan of the banana dress! I was startled, however, to see HM standing on off to the left and William, Catherine, and Harry standing in the centre on the Dias. Her raspberry rose coloured outfit shadowed--not popping in the usual all-eyes-on-the-Queen manner.
ReplyDeleteSomething about it said Quexit to me. The beginning, perhaps, of a Quiet and Queenly exit. Coupled with the Privy Council announcements, it was a very visual portend.
I too noticed the positioning today as well as the more prominent position of the Cambridges as opposed to Prince Charles and the D of Cornwall. Interesting to say the least.
DeleteI think they were standing in order of speaking appearance. William and Harry are co-presidents of the event they other gentleman who spoke first was first.
DeleteSame here Erika. I see why Charles and Camilla wanted to spread out in the country to highlight other areas etc. But I think it was a mistake in this case. This would have been a perfect case to have Charles and Camilla prominent. Even thought it's probably not intended, it does spark "jump over Charles" rumors. Especially after having the Cambridges so high up at trooping. Which was probably so they had closer to the door and a smooth escape if needed with the kids. But 2 days in a row and it doesn't give of a good look. Good thing Camilla was invited into the privy council this week and not only William, or even I would start to speculate!
DeleteAbsolutely Rebecca. Probably completely innocent reasons for all the logistics but it does make an impression nonetheless.
DeleteWell, this royal fan has no issue with them eating egg sandwiches in the country. :)
DeleteMy mom and I were discussing this today in light of the Orlando shootings. Sadly, we now live in a world where it might not be prudent to put all members of the royal family together at a large scale, open air event. Not that terrorism would be the deciding factor, but I imagine it probably is some sort of factor.
DeleteLet's hope they aren't left with egg on their faces. I know..I'll leave quietly.
DeleteWell from a security point of view, I was glad at least one adult heir was not on the Mall.
DeleteI suppose they were just taking their chances appearing on display on the balcony.Although, Charles and Camilla weren't next to the Queen. Every heir
Deletefor generations was up front.
The royals were so well-guarded and spread out on the Mall, I can't see that
C&C would have been more in danger there than they would have been on the balcony. Plus, that wasn't just a motley crowd; it was supporters from her
patronages, who may have never had a chance before to actually see the Queen up close.
No one's going to shoot a 90 year old Queen, anyway.And that would have been
the only security situation that would require one heir not being present.
It was a nice save, though and I'm sure one that helps save face for C&C.
The only criticism I have about the slendid event
ReplyDeleteis that I would question why William, Kate and Harry were center stage on the platform and the Queen and Prince Phillip way over to the side. In the photo, even the Queen is looking over at Kate and Harry as if asking herself the same thing. Even Prince Phillip has his head lowered as if in consternation about the unusual placements on the platform. It just seems so wrong, especially since the whole event is about the Queen and not William, Kate and Harry. I wonder if those three felt awkward about that also and I wonder who placed them that way.
I think they were placed perfectly correctly. The microphone was at one end from where William and the other co president spoke. In this placement they could see the Queen and address their remarks to her. Kate was with William and Harry as a unit as co-presidents of the event.
DeleteWatching the live streaming from the BBC was very interesting. They commented on the difference between Prince Charles and Diana and William and Kate. They pointed out that in events like these Charles would be on one side and Diana would be on an opposite side. With William and Kate they work as a unit. Both were on the same side working as a unit, much like the Queen and Prince Phillip. I also thought it very interesting the picture of The Queen and Phillip in the front car standing up and then followed behind by the trio. I think it may have been a miss for Charles not to be there at least visually. It was not lost on the BBC that Kate and William with Harry are the future of the Monarchy.
DeleteThe Queen speaking was a surpise. All pre event info via reporters and some bloggers was that William and Harry would make speeches. That is why when she was announced by William such a big cheer went up!
DeleteExcellent points Eva. They could address the Queen that way.
DeleteI realize this will may sarcastic and I honestly don't intend it to, but I think people saw the royals they wanted to see. The Queen, and the younger generation.
DeleteCan you imagine C&C walking down one side of The Mall, and W&K on the other? It reminds me of a comment Charles made while married to Diana...he regretted not having TWO wives to walk down both sides of the street while he directed the operation.
Anon 16:33, when you watch the video with Williams speech you can see, the Queen is standing on the center place - three persons on the left hand side, three persons on the right hand side.
DeleteI like this dress. The shape is perfect for the DoC and the color block is interesting. I have come to the conclusion that this shade of blue is not her most flattering. She looks amazing in true
ReplyDeletesapphire tones. I do wish she had channeled her
former half up/ half down hair style today as it
would have elevated her look above ordinary but
with the rain, I understand not wanting to put a
lot of time into it. The Fern pumps are a
seemingly perfect match for the pinkish nude
stripe on the dress:-)
The hamper looks yummy! Quite a picnic feast!
I want that picnic basket. Reading about the contents made me so hungry for that "menu".
ReplyDeleteAnd the basket is keepsake worthy. It is so cute.
The basket's strapping matched the blue along the mall and the colors on the stage. So nice that they provided so many rain ponchos.
Have you seen how Eugenie is refining and improving her style? She started with the beautiful red dress in St. Paul's Cathedral, yesterday she was in a nice, classic green dress with a beautiful hat, today we see another clean cut dress, very flattering on her. This way of dressing in a simpler style underlines her beautiful face, she looks feminine and young (as she is). Instead Beatrice seems very stubborn in her choice of horizontal strips, black and white complicated patterns and wide skirts, which are not flattering for her indeed. The hat she chose for Trooping the Colour was ... I cannot say what, a sort of dry-banana-peel?
ReplyDeleteEugenie has truly looked stunning lately!
DeleteAgree with you Paola, I have enjoyed seeing Eugenie's recent style choices and feel her last few outfits have been impeccable.
DeleteFashion is so subjective, and we all have our own opinions and preferences. Some women will always look good, no matter what they are wearing, and I think Kate falls into this category. Others (myself included) have to be more conscious of body type, fabric, patterns, etc. As such, when someone like Kate misses the mark (in one's opinion), it's not as drastic or severe as when Beatrice does (or when I do!). I have a friend who is tall and thin, and she can pick anything off the rack of any store and looks like she stepped off the runway. I have to be very judicial in my choices, especially dresses, skirts, and blouses - petite sizes only plus some additional tailoring, small or no patterns, plus watching my curves...and I still look frumpy in photos next to her. This may be what happens to Beatrice. I do not always like her style, but it is not as terrible as some make it out to be. But when anyone stands next to Kate, well, comparisons will always be made.
Another factor is confidence, and a good example of this is Zara. She looks great in every photo regardless of her clothing because she just oozes her confidence and self-security. I am looking to her more and more as a personal style icon for this reason, and I can see some of these attributes showing in Eugenie lately. Perhaps why I have found her style so appealing these days.
As an aside, thoughts and prayers to those in Orlando. Another senseless crime and many unnecessary lives lost, injured, and affected.
I do the same, J.L.G., I hate shopping because I have to try so many things before I can find something really fitting to me...
DeleteLove your observations JLG - Especially the confidence point, it's why I think Maxima just lights up a room/photograph/event, even in her more costumey ensembles :) She owns it, loves it, feels fantastic in what she's wearing, and it shows. Her personality is bursting out of her! Reminds me a lot of Diana's fashion personality to be honest...
DeleteI thought both B&E looked very nice today. I honestly did.
Deletei would love to know about the shoes Eugenie and Beatrice were wearing. Does anyone have any ideas or do they know where i can go to find out? There's only one pic but they look cute from that angle and i would love to know more. Thanks ladies!
DeleteEverything about the York ladies was admirable today. I thought their dress choices were fantastic-I thought Eugenie's was especially flattering,, their relaxed demeanor pleasant, and their wade into the middle of the crowd walk about impressive.
DeleteGiven the above and the fact that the Queen spoke in an informal setting and Princess Anne smiled and greeted crowds, although separated by a barrier-
altogether hopeful for the monarchy going forward.
Eugenie Got it right, recently. I wonder what happened to Bea sense of style, lately.
DeleteAs long as I' m concerned, I think the two sisters not once were elegant during these celebrations.
DeleteFor me, each of their outfits were more or less terrible, shape and /or colours. These girls lack distinction.
The orangle block on Kate's dress seems smaller then on the original Roksanda dress. Custom piece maybe?
ReplyDeleteAnd the fitting of the band too. The dress looks longer in the original version, a mid calf or under the knee lenght. Kate's is shorter. I wonder if it's been altered
DeleteFresh pops of color, perfect for a rainy day! Love her in this sleek, somehow sporty day dress! Would love to see this with a high ponytail, but can't have everything. Thanks Carlotte, for something fun to see and read on this grim news day in the US.
ReplyDeleteIf you look at the Daily Mail's pictures, you can make out the styling of the back of Kate's hair, which is actually quite interesting. I would love to see a closer picture of it.
DeleteCan we all agree that she needs to fire her hairdresser? Today. Honestly, I will personally pay for the advertisements to find a new one. Kate is gorgeous, with a fantastic figure, a designer wardrobe, she deserves someone who understands the world stage she is standing on. If ever an occasion and the weather called for a sleek ponytail this was it. She could have looked so polished, it could have been perfection even in the rain. Instead this fell flat. This is not a hairstyle. This is what you do in the morning to get your hair out of your face while doing your make-up.
ReplyDeleteJust my opinion of course! But so many of the events this year have been historic images in the making, they will literally be looked at for ages, by generations yet to come. She needs a professional team who understands that.
I don't agree. She had her hair pulled back from her face and looked proper. Don't see why that's not polished enough?
DeleteI agree with you Claudia, although I did think the SporrsAid Gala hair style as well as yesterday's were exceptional. This is very mom around town.
DeleteSorry, no Claudia. I can't agree with you.
DeleteYeah, she needs much more attention spent on her hair. It usually looks like all of 5 mins was spent
Deletei totaly agree she needs to fire her hair dresser! her hair looked like she had a day of shopping.
DeleteI agree with you 100 percent Claudia! That is exactly how my hair looks when I pull it back to do my makeup lol
DeleteYeah I haven't been a huge fan of Kate's hair stylist. Bring back James Pryce! She never had a bad hair day when he did her hair!
No "we" all don't agree! I love her hair down, up, half-up, Downton Abbey low bun. She has the most amazing hair even when it windblown. Is this a age thing?
DeleteI agree.
DeleteI don't agree.
DeletePossibly Gabrielle :)
DeleteBut I do think it's past time Kate had a professional wardrobe and styling team, surely you all agree she deserves, and is by now entitled to that?
An office PA who morphed, maybe wormed her way into the role as stylist, and a hairdresser who did W&H's hair when they were boys, doesn't cut it in my opinion. Kate's status and profile is rising rapidly, she will need a full fledged styling office like the Queen employs in the not too distant future.
I don't agree. Her hair is gorgeous. Loved the outfit too.
DeleteKate's hair has been lovely the last few days, both up and down. I am sure the weather had something to do with how it looked today, but she was also dressed in a more casual way, with a bit of an edge. So I also do not agree! And I hate high pony tails. ;-)
DeleteI tend to agree, Claudia.
DeleteMy own thoughts on Kate's hair today... The rain/humidity called for a ponytail, AND me thinks it's time for another trim. The length is bringing her down. And from my perspective it isn't about a woman's age and any set rules...it's about using what you have to your full advantage.
i think you also have to consider the weather. kate has naturally wavy/somewhat curly hair. rain and the humidity it brings wreaks havoc on that type of hair. i know this all too well as i have the same kind of hair as her. and i know when there's going to be something as little as a drizzle my hair, no matter what i do to it or my hairdresser of a roommate does to it, it's not going to look great. no amount of product and primping or fussing can fix it. humidity is the worst!!
DeleteI agree! I love half up/down hair on her as a general rule... BUT like myself, Kate has thick hair with a bit of wave to it. When you are out in drizzle and humidity, all it does is frizz and do half waves. If she had been out already and a rainstorm popped up, I wouldn't have thought about it but they were waiting for the rain to pass. Not that I am a fashionista but I usually pull my hair back in the summer to try and cut back on the giant poofing of humidity hair.
DeleteExactly royalfan :)
DeleteYes. She really should emulate Anne, Camilla, and the Queen:pick a hairstyle,
Deletelacquer it down, and stick with it the rest of her life.
The younger royal women tend to go for more relaxed, natural hairstyles.
Yesterday was the balcony and an elaborate updo.Take a good look at the back view of Sophie's or Autumn's or Zara's locks some time.
Today was a street party for pete's sake.She was greeting women who had stood
out in the rain and worn rain bonnets. So she appears in a faultless, immaculately groomed coif.Yeah, right.
Overall, I agree with Claudia. Her team is too "homemade", amateur Like.
DeleteI agree with you, Claudia!
DeleteI understand what you mean. I thought she wanted something low-key because the whole event was meant to be more informal and less proper. Perhaps her hairstylist felt a casual hairdo was more appropriate.
DeleteEveryone suggested a ponytail Anon, that's pretty informal. I've literally never heard a ponytail described as a faultless immaculately groomed coif, or that it would be lacquered like that for the rest of her life! I agree with royalfan that she needs a trim, it's pulling her down and making her look tired. This styling didn't help, the full half back would have been fresher.
DeletePonytails are for teenagers and sports events. ;-) I could like the occasional low ponytail, and Kate wore some innovative ones when she was younger. She could get back to more varied hairstyles.
Delete4:06, this is the first time I have read that Kate should copy the Queen, Camilla, or Anne in the hairstyle department. With the exception of the Queen (age/generation), I think the other two are examples or what NOT to do. :)
DeleteExactly, royalfan.You of all people should pick up on sarcasm. (-: I was referring to the suggestions made by one commenter that she should have a "styling office like the queen" and be "polished." By the way, this was the one day her
Deletehair hasn't been "polished" this week and it was rainy-couldn't cut her a break..A great deal of lacquer would be required to slick down a ponytail in those conditions with Kate's naturally
curling hair.Even those fancy hair straightening gizmos can do just so much.
I bet she made those ladies who had been standing in the rain in hair-do
destroying panchos right at home.
I do enjoy Kate's natural curls, so I may be a little prejudiced.
Hope this isn't a repeat- my original response to 17:58 got lost or something.
I absolutely a d o r e d the Roksanda dress Kate wore in Australia, but this one, sorry, is not working for me at all. The cut shows off Kate´s body to perfection, but the colours remind me of 1960s track suits.... The dress itself is very elegant in its simplicity, but the colours make it not "festive" enough for this occasion.
ReplyDeleteHM on the other hand... I´ve heard she wears these bold colours to stand out so that people will be able to spot her immediately, but I just LOVE them all on her!! Great idea to have this lunch so that all these charities can have their share in the fun of all this celebrating!!
Princess Anne seemed to have a lot of fun, too, during this weekend of celebrations. I haven´t seen so many pictures of her smiling in a long time....
Eve, I giggled at the track suit reference because my mind went there for half a second when I saw the first photo of the dress. :))
DeleteMy two cents...Kate loves blues and pinks and it is easy to imagine that it appealed to her for this reason. I thought it was a good choice in that it was dressy, but the color block made it "fun" for the occasion (while not competing with the Queen's outfit).
I also agree about Princess Anne. Perhaps she is mellowing as she gets older, and I'm sure her grandchildren play a role in her smile.
Another "Kate thing". Her dress matched the colors of the polka dots on the stage background.
ReplyDeleteCorrect.
DeleteLove Bea's dress, by the way
Not Bea .. Eugenie !!!! She is getting it right, recently
Deleteyep. Another "Kate thing". I loved the decor of the entire event. So bright, pretty and cohesive, not guady as some have been in the past at various locations around England. Kudos to Peter and his team. I would hire them for my events, for sure.
DeleteThis was non-profit though. That made it more sincere and genuine.
Very possible regarding the "Kate thing". :)
DeleteI liked Eugenie's dress very much, but both sisters looked good today IMO.
The York princesses wore an awful lot of stripes going in many directions!
DeleteLoved her dress. So happy that she was wearing the Mappin & Webb Empress necklace again, so I thought it was only fitting that I should wear my M&W Empress necklace for the day also!
ReplyDeleteOh Charlotte, the QUOTE! My favorite thing ever said by her! My favorite person in history, health, blessings and all my best wishes, always.
ReplyDeleteA wonderful post!! It is wonderful to see the Queen appreciated for her long years of service!
ReplyDeleteVery Kate! Her dress is pretty and perfect for this event. How unfortunate the day started off gray and wet. Or according to PG - "not very nice out." Charlotte, thanks for sharing the details on the "Hamper Lunch" as that's what I was dying to know about. Unbelievable to think the Queen has given her support to 600 patronages. I have to take a look at that list. I hope that William, Kate and Harry begin to take on more and more each year. This has been a wonderful week - filled with a variety of styles and looks for Kate and I hope we see her tomorrow - anyone want to guess if she recycles? Hoping to see the McQueen gray Easter coat.
ReplyDeleteIt is great to see all of them out and about in the crowd. That dress, however, was very plain and boring, although expensive, I am sure. She has so many other nice dresses that she could have recycled.
ReplyDeleteI like this dress on Kate. I wanted her to make bolder color choices and she's done that here.
ReplyDeleteI wouldn't mind the Marwood dress in sand pink for myself. :)
As much as I like Kate, I am so excited to see this post be mostly about the Queen. To be actively working and engaged at 90(or 95 for Phillip) is pretty remarkable. Glad she got to have a fun and new event to celebrate the occasion.
ReplyDeleteI think this dress is fabulous on Kate. She looks lovely and summery and fresh.
ReplyDeleteHer colors match the circles of color on the wall behind the podium.
DeleteThat dress has now sold out.
DeleteI think this dress is fabulous on Kate. She looks lovely and summery and fresh.
ReplyDeleteAfter the beautiful and polished outfits of the last two days, his outfit is a bit of a let down. The colors are washed out and needed to be stronger to make the contrast work.
ReplyDeleteThe blue color is the same color as the luncheon colors. Kste has a nack of dressing to match.
DeleteIt took me a few seconds to like this dress. I like the side with the stripe better but if the stripe was on both sides it wouldn't be as interesting. Also, can I have that maxi skirt please! Love it!
ReplyDeleteThe lunch baskets look delicious! I'm so glad the rain let up so it didn't all go to waste!
I'm getting spoiled again with all these Kate appearances ;)
At first glance it appeared as a bare midriff!
ReplyDeleteI am beginning to think the Queen is telling Kate, "If the event is about me, you must either:
a) recycle
b) match the background.
The Queen would never do that. Kate is one smart cookie. She also loves her Queen and her grandmother-in-law.
DeleteI can't imagine the queen would do that at all. Kate has a gorgeous wardrobe with a lot of things she hasn't had chance to recycle because of her pregnancies. She currently has the chance to wear a lot of things she couldn't for a while. She also spent a lot on her tour wardrobe and is trying to balance things out.
DeleteThis is a horrible day in the US, but I'm glad that the public in the UK had such a celebratory day. The Queen has definitely enjoyed this weekend. It has been evident in her smiles. It was nice to see some genuine goodness in the midst of so much tragedy here.
ReplyDeleteAmen Sarah. After reading the first few Florida articles, I find myself escaping back to the birthday celebrations
DeleteValerie-Thank you for sharing your honesty. There was to be no escaping;media stations were at it, on and on. This being election year and the way it is quickly turning into politics started blurring the crisis. I had to escape for a while; some times it is too much. I found the parade video, and it was another world for the day. This was a Sunday massacre on a day several faith groups hold worship services, it might as well be left to God on this Sunday. When one man can take the lives of 50 people in less than three hours and wounded another 52 people, at least this very Sunday, escape is the key word.
DeleteFor the most part, I can only scan the headlines, and I turn off the tv when it gets to be too much. I have read one or two very sad stories about the efforts of the victims to contact police and their families. It is indeed too much! I just hope something can again be done about assault rifles. They have been the weapons in too many mass tragedies.
DeleteWhere have Charles and Camilla been?
ReplyDeleteRepresenting the Queen at another picnic somewhere else, eating egg salad sandwiches.
DeleteGloucestershire, eating egg salad sandwiches at a regional Queen's birthday picnic.
DeleteIt wasn't to celebrate her birthday actually. That event is an annual event for members of the community to meet and greet. In addition to that, today they also commemorated the Queen's birthday.
DeleteSomething small I've noticed. Kate and Prince Philip always seem to have such fun together :) Nice that they've been seated together both at Windsor at today! :) They're always giggling and talking during the events. So great to see!
ReplyDeleteThey do. And she gets along with Charles, Anne's husband, and everyone else. A real blessing to William and the Royal family.
DeleteI noticed that too--that Kate is often sat beside Prince Philip. I wonder if he has a soft spot for her in a grandfatherly way.
DeleteI've noticed that and don't forget he has been photographed next to Carole apparently having a great time. I imagined she's fairly ballsy and he appreciates that.
DeleteThank you again Charlotte for the never ever
ReplyDeletedisappointing coverage you bless so many with with each page of your blog. Thank you for the abundance of perfect photos to illustrate each day. You really spare no expense to get the job done superbly. I am sure a huge group hug of appreciation from all of us here is readily available to you should you be willing to accept it. :) Thank you Charlotte.
California Girl
As a follower of this blog from day one, I second that emotion, 19:35.
Deletea little Smoky Robinson there?
DeleteI love that song.
At least we know of one thing the Queen was carrying in her famous purse today. Her written speech.
ReplyDeleteIs she cute or what. As soon as William took to the podium she opened her purse and took out her written speech. Her little nod before she made her funny remark was so sweet. Just a glimpse of mischief in her eyes. She has great comedic timing.
DeleteOkay you made me giggle!
DeleteI have loved everything Kate has worn this weekend! I especially love that she dresses to please herself and selects appropriate fashion for each occasion. I commend her for that!
ReplyDeleteAnother fantastic event in honor of an extraordinary woman and her tireless service. HM is such a rolemodel for every generation!
ReplyDeleteEveryone looked amazing and, most importantly, they looked happy--the weather didn't seem to dampen anyone's spirit.
Thanks for yet another fantastic post, Charlotte. It is a great distraction from the coverage of yet another heartbreaking event here in the US.
Take care, everyone!
Shantel (@FashionandFaith)
Minnesota, USA
Great weekend of Kate watching - thanks so much for the thrilling and informative info Charlotte as usual.I've not been commenting of late, merely 'lurking' but just had to thank you for all your hard work lately. It's been brill.
ReplyDeleteThere's been some classic and truly great looks over the last few days and I've loved pretty much most of them, yesterday was just pure magic with the family - she looked every inch a Princess.
Today was always going to be less informal, it was a good look but for me - although the colours looked slighty similiar to the brand signage and background, I could have actually seen her more in the other colour combination of sand and pink. It was the hair was slightly amiss and lacked the polish of the last few days - I do think she suits her hair either up, or full down as in Friday's - but we'll see what tomorrow's Garter ceremony brings... (the Grey coat from Easter Sunday in Oz HAS to make an apprearance surely? LOL)
And yes I agree with others, C&C were absent for a good reason, but it looked a little odd on screen with the focus of the 3 musketeers so much. But maybe it's a subtle way of introducing the trio to patronages that will one day becoming their way.
Great point about the patronages, I hadn't thought of that. Not to sound like royalfan ;) but I did find it a bit odd that Charles and Camilla would remove themselves from such a high profile event. But giving "the kids" a chance to get to know the patronages up close, on their own, could indeed have been the method behind their madness. Makes total sense.
DeleteThey were photographed dining with a picnic participants in another public out door party may be in some very distant location honoring the queen. They looked like they were really enjoying, and it was better they were away. This was a nice change, and may be deliberately planned.
DeleteI think I read somewhere that that is an annual event that Charles and Camilla always attend there in Glouceshire.
DeleteDo you really think Charles and Camilla took it into their heads to trot off
Deleteto dine on sandwiches elsewhere and give the kids a chance to shine? They
have been shining for days, working with multiple causes and patronages and appearing at royal events.
I doubt C&C chose to miss that very public and publicised event.
When I wrote my comment about Eugenie and Beatrice's outfits, I hadn't seen the front photo. I must say that here the choice of Beatrice doesn't seem so odd, it's a beautiful combination of shirt and skirt: but I still think that she might avoid this kind of pattern and this skirt shape, it makes her rather "big", when she is not at all.
ReplyDeleteTrue. Beatrice is going a Little too much experimental, recently
Deletei'm not fond of this dress i think it was to casual for the event she also needs to chang up the color she wears not so much blue. i also thought her hair looked messy. why were the queen and prince philip standing off to the side this was HM day not williams kate and harrys day. the queens dress was very pretty and festive although the green she wore yesterday was my favorit. what a truly wonderfull day for her. happy birthday to her HM she is just supper.
ReplyDeleteHaha, photos of curtsies always make me laugh. You can tell that they were implemented at a time where legs were hidden in long skirt. A nice curtsy in a gown can be so elegant and gracefull. But with legs shown, no matter how graceful you do the curtsy, it usually end up looking like leg pretzels :P This is no comment on Kate's curtsy, she makes them look as pretty as they can, but curtsies really come into their own with a proper gown :P
ReplyDeleteVery good points Rebecca. They do lovely with a long gown.
DeleteRebecca,
DeleteYour sharp observation is on point. In a way it gives away the secret of the gracious mystery. May be curtsying in a short dress should have an alternative way, as in just bend slightly on the knees. I wish Kate never have to curtsy in a short dress. It takes away from grace as well as from hers. It looks more like some exercise.
You can see pictures of women just doing a little bob. But I think Kate feels responsible for proper curtsies when she meets the Queen, at least in public.
DeleteFor those of us with achy knees, doing a set or two of curtsies is a good knee strengthening exercise!
DeleteThe Daily Mail has photographs showing that Kate's dress has a zip all the way down the back so it would appear that the dress has had some significant alterations.
ReplyDeletePhotographs can be seen here: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-3637422/Will-rain-Ma-s-parade-Palace-ponchos-Pimms-ready-sun-block-help-cope-Great-British-weather-Queen-s-birthday-lunch.html
The star of the show today for me is the "picnic hamper lunch"! I am amazed at the contents, as well as the cute hamper itself. You would never see something like that for 10000 here in the states!
ReplyDeleteIf I remember correctly, each charge of the picnic basket lunch to the participants ticket was 150.00 pounds ( I think the crowd paid its way/I stay corrected though). In states, US dollars about $230.00, caterers would have loved to compete for such contract if it has good profit for 10,00 people. Following the money is not difficult even for that volume.
DeleteCosts and lunches aside, Peter Philip used to be a marketing executive, the parade video is so nice, his involvement gains him a wonderful credit.
I was surprised at the amount of food as well as the quality, quite a lot if each basket is intended for one person! But I suppose it was expected that people would be there for quite a few hours.
DeleteI think the ads said the basket was designed for lunch for two.
DeleteI would have thought it was for two people, but the picture shows one plate, one glass, one set of cutlery, one Pimms, etc. Maybe that was just for the photograph.
Delete600 charities is an amazing number for the Queen to be associated with, but of course she wouldn't be able to be hands on or even visit them very often. I remember that Princess Diana in her last year pruned the groups she was associated with, presumably so she could concentrate more on the fewer number. So maybe it is a deliberate policy for Kate to start off by only selecting those she has a particular interest in and leaving the more formal patronages to other members of the wider Royal family. I was quite startled to see how many members of the family are involved in doing this now. The Queen does seem to be gradually handing over these sorts of duties more and more.
ReplyDeleteFor whoever was asking about the weather in London, it is currently 67F at Buckingham Palace.
ReplyDeleteThe Queen's outfit matched the colors of the stage also. Peter got the details perfect.
ReplyDeleteThank you for such a wonderful post! I was wondering where Charles & Camilla were- protocol question: if Charles & Camilla were in attendance, I assume they would have been in the car following HM and Prince Phillip and the royal trio would have been behind them?
ReplyDeleteLOVED Kate's dress! I am looking into purchasing the beige color:) I didn't love her hair like that today, but perhaps the rain had a bit of an effect on it of course.
Charlotte,
ReplyDeleteIt is very nice you provided the parade's video. Thank you, I may not have watched it else where rushing through other competing news of the world.
Yes, Charles and Camilla would have been in the second car with William, Kate and Harry in the third car.
ReplyDeleteThank you Charlotte for including the video. That was very thoughtful. Thank you.
Not necessarily. Charles and Camiills may have been seated in the royal box already. William and Harry were joint presidents of the Patrons lunch and that is why they were at the forefront today
DeleteCan anyone explain why there is a picture in which the only person curtsying is Kate?
ReplyDeleteWould not all the other folks in the picture also be showing this type of respect if it was, indeed, time for it? It just looks odd that no one else is.
Only the Royals would have curtsied to her here as it is when she arrived and before they went up to give speeches. Harry snd William had probably already completed their bow. Similar situation on Friday after the service and Queen drove off
DeleteHi! Moxie,
DeleteMy only guess is explaining the four ladies behind her. The lady in blue sang the national anthem. The three ladies all dressed the same, might have been the accompanying members of some specialty/may be the orchestra? who may not be obligated to curtsy. I think one can also choose not to curtsy in this day and age. Kate is obviously a holder of the tradition, and it fits doing it by example. Well, I tried at least; other people might give you a non guessing response.
--
Whatever happened to bluhare?
watch the video Moxie. Kate was the only female in the reception for the Queen.
DeleteWell, they were the only royals in sight. Most civillians dont curtsy anymore, and if they do, usually only when greeting the Queen, not just with her going past. So makes sense to me. Just like Camilla and Kate didn't curtsy when the Queen arrived back on trooping but you could see some others like Autumn curtsy on the balcony because they had not greeted the Queen previously.
DeleteIve seen pictures over the years of Diana Curtsying to the Queen and Autum Phillips and Sophie Wessex in public events where they are the only one. It's a show of respect for family and the Queen is my understanding,
DeletePerhaps a sort of parallel-in the US, some people place their hand over their heart when the flag goes by. It is not required, just a respectful, fond acknowledgement of a symbol of the country.
DeleteExactly, Rebecca.
DeleteI think ladies curtsey *as* the Queen passes by so it may appear that only one person is curtseying even if that is not the case. Hope this makes sense. :)
DeleteNow that I have looked at the Daily Mail's pictures (and avoided most of the text), I have seen some interesting things. One, that zipper that goes all the way up the back of Kate's dress has a fairly large silver ring at the hem, something George might have fun pulling. Kate almost slipped in her fern pumps, which show the use she has given them, and a funny facial expression was the result. Also, I saw the gentleman who camped out at the hospital, in his flag suit and hat and tie. He was not identified, but he was again attending an important royal event in full regalia. He looks like a nice guy. Most of the rest of the crowd was wearing ponchos - so nice that they were provided. Seeing the Marks and Spencer logo takes me back to my student days, when I shopped there frequently during a year in England. They certainly got together an elegant picnic lunch! And everyone appeared to be having a wonderful time. As several other US posters have said, it is nice to see Britain enjoying a great day, given the horrifying news we are getting from Orlando. I am so glad the Queen's picnic went off without a hitch, and that Her Majesty was honored in such a special way.
ReplyDeleteThroughout these events, and it seems most other events with the Queen, William and Kate take center stage. Charles is either absent or so far down the line that he isn't even in the photos. The British public seems to look to Kate and William as the heir and wife. The Queen clearly adore both William and Harry, but seems to ignore Charles as much as possible. Wonder what the future will bring...
ReplyDeletehmm all them looked great even its rainy love the duchess was wearing she knows these event for the queen love all royal curtsies I love the prince William speech to the queen and her grandmother sweet and lovely I noticed that prince phillp and the duchess makes a good laugh and has a soft apot us she was grandfatherly way to her same us prince harry queen speech was a great too and very strong I must say peter did a great job organize these event even rainning
ReplyDeleteNot a tremendous outfit on her too blocky but she looks happy and that's what matters and she is there to celebrate Her Majesty!
ReplyDeleteThere is another thing I appreciate of Eugenie and Beatrice: they look so close to each other. They walk always side by side, they look really good sisters. I don't know much about them, this is the idea I get from their public appearances.
ReplyDeleteLoved this photo of William with his hand around Kate and Zara smiling at them: http://us.hellomagazine.com/royalty/gallery/2016061231884/patrons-lunch-best-moments/8/
ReplyDeleteAlso, I noticed Princess Margaret's daughter, Sarah Chatto in a very pretty retro outfit of a full skirt topped with a sweater and an up-do. Classy. https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/564x/6f/9c/52/6f9c52d67d12e90a571e52f3ccaffc42.jpg
From the perspective of a tailor, it is likely the full length zipper was added because the side seams could not be taken in without affecting the side stripe.
ReplyDeleteI think this is a very unattractive dress -- but then I didn't like the banana dress by the same designer either.
ReplyDeletePeter Phillips, as the Queen's oldest grandson, has a leadership role among his cousins. He was asked to look after William and Harry after Diana's death. Choosing them as presidents of the patron's lunch, and talking about their future as royal patrons, has brought his influence into public. Along with the religious and military celebrations of the Queen's birthday, the street party illumined the Queen's connection with the public via her charitable work. Peter's mention of the Prince's Trust in the absence of the Prince of Wales brought the generational aspect of that work into perspective but put the spotlight on the younger generation. It was an innovative approach, and produced an amazing party. The preparation of all those lavish baskets, finding tables, chairs, barricades, ponchos and security for 10,000 people was a massive undertaking. It was fun. There was a sweet walkabout. But the serious intent of Peter Phillips to encourage the continuation of royal charitable endeavor should be noted as well. Some of the most active royals participated, Peter's busy mother of course, the Gloucesters, and those would be activists, the York sisters. The 'Three Musketeers' were front and center and could not escape the thrust of the day.
ReplyDeleteI notice Louise is carrying a picnic hamper in the photo Andrew was taking. It's the sort of thing you could imagine any young girl wanting from an event. I did feel sorry for her during the walkabout though, she looked lost and it would have been nice if her mother or father had walked with her.
ReplyDeleteLady Loiuse definitely needed a mentor with her to facilitate conversations for her to teach her and help
Deleteher feel more comfortable with the public. I don't think she has any contact with very many ordinary folk at all, ever.
Interesting, no, given that Sophie was a commoner prior to her marriage? This may not be a popular statement to make, but I think that Sophie is more concerned with pleasing the Queen than doing what is best for her children. There IS a happy medium.
DeleteThe Queen's children have said that they received no training in public appearances, and were expected to learn by doing. Apparently that continues.
DeleteYikes! I realize I need to clarify my remark...
DeleteI did NOT intend for it to sound like a general statement regarding Sophie as a mother...not at all. But when it comes to Lady Louise's wardrobe (overall) and what we see of her public demeanor, it does appear as if she is being raised by Queen Mary. She seems like a very sweet girl and I wish we would see her soul sing a bit.
I much prefer the zipper on the sample version of this Roksanda dress. Why on earth did Kate choose a full length zipper with a big ring at the bottom? It looks terrible. And that is a blonde shade of blue, she does look much better in jewel tones.
ReplyDeleteThe long zipper evidently zips down rather than up. The ring is the zipper pull. Someone suggested that the dress was altered along the zipper because of the stripe on the side. It also seems to have been shortened at the color block. That is all quite innovative tailoring, but I am not sure why the zipper was reversed. Since the other women wore coats and jackets, I wonder whether Kate was cold in short sleeves.
DeleteThanks for the wonderful coverage! I loved the family photo that Prince Andrew took of the group with Lady Louise holding the hamper. On a more critical note,I thought it was a shame for Charles and Camilla not to be at the main London event. While it was nice to have his presence at the satellite patron's lunch, what a powerful image it would've been to have the Queen and the next two Kings (Charles and William) on the stage together. Most sons like to help their mothers celebrate their birthdays...The fact he was else where just seemed odd. I'd love to hear thoughts from the group.
ReplyDeleteCharles was with the Queen at St. Paul's and at Trooping the Colour, where he rode right behind her with Prince William and Princess Anne, and then stood on the balcony with her and the next three heirs to the throne! The event in Gloucester is apparently an annual community gathering that Charles and Camilla always attend. It must have been a touchy choice, but Peter and William emphasized the grandchildren and great grandchildren. It was their day to honor the Queen.
DeleteMethinks thou dost protest too much.Lots of explanations being offered to excuse
DeleteC&C's absence from the Mall celebration.Those same people may have directed
scathing remarks at Catherine for returning to her home base to attend a charity
event of her patronage and missing an event that is held yearly, in her case.
The Mall celebration was a one-time event.It was about the Queen and her patronages, not about the grandchildren.
What a perfect day and celebration! The Queen really is a remarkable lady. The number of patronages she has is amazing. I loved the words Peter Phillips said about his grandmother in his article for the Telegraph and what Prince William said in his speech. You know of the deep respect and love they all have for their grandmother. She must be SO proud of all of them.
ReplyDeleteKate looked beautiful! I love how the colors coordinated with some of the backdrop. One of my favorite pictures is Prince Phillip with Kate. They seem to have such a sweet relationship. He always has her giggling. I would love to hear what he has to say. :) The Queen looked radiant in pink! She looked so happy and pleased. After such a spectacular weekend, I hope she got some much needed rest last night. William did a fantastic job! I have read a few comments above, but will agree with those who noticed the significance of having William, Kate, and Harry front and center. I was surprised that Charles and Camilla were at another street party across the country. In my opinion it spoke volumes. The future of the monarchy lies with William, Kate, and Harry. Charles will have his time, but....
Peter Phillips should be congratulated for a job very well done. It was a huge undertaking and everything seemed like a great success!
That is an interesting alteration. I wonder what prompted that change to the zipper. It doesn't look difficult to wear in the original design.
ReplyDelete