The event is the Cambridges' first since they returned from their eight-day tour of British Columbia and Yukon in Canada with Prince George and Princess Charlotte just over a week ago. The couple have several engagements scheduled throughout the week with the theme of mental health included throughout.
The area has been a key focus for the young royals, thus supporting their initiative, Heads Together. The campaign aims to change the national conversation on mental wellbeing in conjunction with eight leading charities in the field - many of which the royals are associated with, including Kate's patronages Place2Be and Anna Freud Centre.
The Duchess was given a posy from Joanne Sibly, who has been chosen to represent Merlin's Magic Wand, the charity grants wishes to children who are sick, bereaved or terminally ill.
Prince William meets Joanne.
World Mental Health Day is an enormously important day in terms of spreading the word, raising awareness and involving more people in the conversation. This year's theme focuses on the importance of 'psychological and mental health first aid for all'.
More from the World Health Organisation:
'When terrible things happen in our communities, we can reach out a helping hand to those who are affected. Perhaps you find yourself at the scene of an accident where people are hurt. Perhaps you are a health-care worker or teacher talking with someone from your community who has just witnessed the violent death of a loved one. Perhaps you are called upon as a staff member in a disaster or volunteer to help asylum seekers who have recently arrived in your community. Learning the basic principles of psychological first aid will help you to provide support to people who are very distressed, and, importantly, to know what not to say.
The theme of this year’s World Mental Health Day, observed on 10 October, covers “psychological first aid”. Efforts in support of the day will focus on basic pragmatic psychological support by people who find themselves in a helping role whether they be health staff, teachers, firemen, community workers, or police officers.
Despite its name, psychological first aid covers both psychological and social support. Just like general health care never consists of physical first aid alone, similarly no mental health care system should consist of psychological first aid alone. Indeed, the investment in psychological first aid is part of a longer-term effort to ensure that anyone in acute distress due to a crisis is able to receive basic support, and that those who need more than psychological first aid will receive additional advanced support from health, mental health and social services.'
Yellow is the colour for WMHD 2016 with Heads Together charity partner Young Minds running a fundraising campaign, 'Hello Yellow', for children and young people. Nearly 80,000 children and young people suffer from severe depression and, on average, three children in every classroom in the UK have a diagnosable mental health disorder. The organisation is asking people to "join us on WMHD by wearing something yellow and donating £1 to YoungMinds. It could be a tie, t-shirt or even lipstick - if you’re feeling daring. Take a photo of you and your mates wearing yellow, tag @YoungMindsUK and share our #HelloYellow tips for looking after your mental health".
William, Kate and Harry attended a reception with the charities that are a part of the Heads Together campaign. They had the opportunity to meet with people who have received help from a relative, colleague or friend in crucial moments in their lives, and the person who provided that support.
The Palace noted: "They are interested in learning about the kind of support that helps and whatinformation is available for people who might find themselves in a situation where they need to helpsomeone or to direct them to professional services. These are issues Their Royal Highnesses areexploring with the Heads Together Charity Partners for possible future projects." The Palace continued to describe the day as "upbeat" and "celebratory".
The Palace noted: "They are interested in learning about the kind of support that helps and whatinformation is available for people who might find themselves in a situation where they need to helpsomeone or to direct them to professional services. These are issues Their Royal Highnesses areexploring with the Heads Together Charity Partners for possible future projects." The Palace continued to describe the day as "upbeat" and "celebratory".
More from People's story:
'Kate spoke with firefighter Richard McGhee, 33, and his mother Sharon, 64, about mental health in emergency services, which is something the royal family can relate to. Prince William is a pilot with the East Anglian Air Ambulance and often goes on difficult missions.
“She was certainly understanding with William’s involvement in the air ambulance and mine in the fire service,” McGhee, who suffers from depression and anxiety, tells PEOPLE. “She was empathetic. She said he comes home and explains what he’s done in the day and tells stories of what he’s seen,” McGhee continues. “It’s very similar to what goes on in my job.”
All three royals gave a joint speech in which they spoke about the issues surrounding mental health with William speaking on the topic 'Mental Health is not a dirty word'. William drew us on his experiences working with the Air Ambulance saying: "Mental health is not a dirty word – we all have mental health like we do physical health, good or ill. But not seeking help at those times when it all seems too much, or we are depressed or anxious, can impact the rest of our lives. Put simply, the three of us want to make asking for help no longer a big deal. On the Heads Together journey so far we have seen the difference that a listening ear can make to people’s lives – whether a father supporting a child suffering depression, a soldier who has returned from a testing deployment, or a child struggling with the pressures of a new school. Personally, in my work at the Air Ambulance, I see how colleagues and families help each other through traumatic moments."
Kate focused on the theme of 'We know how hard it can be to see a way forward'. The Duchess said: "William, Harry and I feel it is our duty to do what we can, with your help, to shine a spotlight on emotional wellbeing and highlight the support that is out there to prevent or manage the pain at difficult times. The three of us are coming to the realisation that more needs to be done to support people who are seeking help. Over the coming months, we hope to explore what else we can do to increase the level of service and support that people can receive."
Kate's portion of the speech in its entirety:
'We are fortunate to be meeting and celebrating today with inspiring people who have been there for friends, colleagues and family at crucial times in their lives.
'All of us know someone who has been through difficult emotional times, and we know how hard it can be to see a way forward.
William, Harry and I feel it is our duty to do what we can, with your help, to shine a spotlight on emotional wellbeing and highlight the support that is out there to prevent or manage the pain at difficult times. The three of us are coming to the realisation that more needs to be done to support people who are seeking help. Over the coming months, we hope to explore what else we can do to increase the level of service and support that people can receive.
But first, as William said, we must tackle the stigma that stops people asking for help in the first place. We want to encourage people to talk to one another. There are many people who are here today in order to share their own, very personal experience of the kind of support that can make the difference between coping and not coping – between good mental health and poor mental health.'
Victoria Murphy shared a video via Twitter.
Part of Kate's speech on #WorldMentalHealthDay pic.twitter.com/AWftO4kQxX— Victoria Murphy (@QueenVicMirror) 10 October 2016
Harry concluded: "It's time we ended the shame around mental health, speaking on the stigma and shame stopping many from seeking help. It's not rocket science, but most of us don't know what to do if a friend or family member is suffering. Having some basic knowledge, and having the confidence to act on your knowledge, can make a huge difference to those around us. Too often we think mental health problems are things that happen to other people, not us. But we will all experience pressure on our mental health at some point during our lives. The more we accept that, the better we can help each other. Catching it, and recognising it, early saves lives. So, it's time we ended the shame around mental health – the fear of judgment that stops people talking or getting help."
The royals introduced paramedics Dan and Rich who shared their experiences. Dan said: "What I’m going through is normal, and many people experience things like this from time to time."
Guests at the County Hall reception were able to take a photo with a message thanking someone for being 'There For Me' at photo booths set up by Heads Together.
Following the reception, the royals enjoyed a ride in the London Eye with people who shared their mental health first aid experiences.
The royals enjoy the view.
A video from Victoria Murphy.
William, Kate and Harry enjoy the view from the London Eye on #WorldMentalHealthDay pic.twitter.com/38XNq9IOUU— Victoria Murphy (@QueenVicMirror) October 10, 2016
London Eye (also known as the Millennium Wheel) is a giant Ferris wheel on London's South Bank of the River Thames in London. It is Europe's tallest Ferris wheel, and offered the highest public viewing point in London until it was superseded by the 804 feet (245 m) observation deck on the 72nd floor of The Shard, which opened to the public on 1 February 2013. It is the most popular paid tourist attraction in the United Kingdom with over 3.75 million visitors annually.
Later today day, London Eye will light up in purple in support of World Mental Health Day, joining other buildings around the world that will be doing the same to end stigma associated with mental health. The ‘LightUpPurple campaign’ was set up in memory of Canadian teenager Amanda Todd who tragically committed suicide aged 15.
For those unfamiliar with Amanda's story, more from Wikipedia:
'Amanda Michelle Todd killed herself at the age of 15 at her home in Port Coquitlam, British Columbia, Canada. Prior to her death, Todd had posted a video on YouTube in which she used a series of flash cards to tell her experience of being blackmailed into exposing her breasts via webcam and of being bullied and physically assaulted. The video went viral after her death, resulting in international media attention. The video has had more than 200 million views as of June 2016. The Royal Canadian Mounted Police and British Columbia Coroners Service launched investigations into the suicide.
In response to the death, Christy Clark, the Premier of British Columbia, made an online statement of condolence and suggested a national discussion on criminalizing cyberbullying. Also, a motion was introduced in the Canadian House of Commons to propose a study of the scope of bullying in Canada, and for more funding and support for anti-bullying organizations. Todd's mother Carol established the Amanda Todd Trust, receiving donations to support anti-bullying awareness education and programs for young people with mental health problems.'
Amanda's story is a heartbreaking one, but hopefully today's events will encourage more people to seek help and speak about their experiences. If you wish to donate to the Amanda Todd Legacy fund, you can find out more information here.
Before departing, William, Kate and Harry met children from Balham's Abacus Nursery. Rebecca English asked them afterwards if they had met a princess. One little boy replied: "Well, I've seen that Kate one." :)
Kate's beautiful new dress is by a new brand for the Duchess - Kate Spade New York (with thanks to Ana Gonzalez). The Encore Rose Chiffon Dress in 'plum dawn' is described: "Featuring a dramatic floral design that's inspired by the roses tossed on stage at the end of a show, this silk dress is pretty enough for date nights but covered enough for any day job--it's sure to become a star player in your fall wardrobe!"
The 100% silk collared dress includes long sleeves, a bow tie neck, left chest pocket, side seam pockets and Kate's favourite fit-and-flare style. The $498 dress is available at Kate Spade New York, Nordstrom and Zappos.
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| Kate Spade New York |
A closer look at the print.
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| Kate Spade New York |
More on the history of the brand from The Telegraph's article:
'The brand was founded in 1993 after Katherine Noel Brosnahan found herself disenchanted by the amount of lifeless black handbags being carried by women in New York. Nowadays, it is her colourful, creative and zany handbags that define the brand. Among the novelty clutch bags (perfume bottles, cocktail glasses and fruit have all manifested as leather Kate Spade bags) sits a selection of hard-working handbags that would slip neatly into any working woman’s wardrobe. The ready-to-wear collection, meanwhile, is feminine and flattering, but boasts character via pattern and stylistic flourishes, like Kate’s pussy-bow.'
The Duchess teamed the dress with her Gianvito Rossi Praline suede pumps. Crafted in Italy, they come with a stiletto heel and an elegantly streamlined toe. They remain available for $675 at My Theresa.
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| Gianvito Rossi |
Kate accessorised with her L.K. Bennett Nina Clutch.
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| L.K. Bennett |
Kate completed the look with her very striking Kiki McDonough morganite and diamond cushion drop earrings.
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| Kiki McDonough |
A closer look at the £3,400 earrings on Kate today.
We will see you tomorrow for Kate's first overseas solo visit to the Netherlands.
Awesome charity work.
ReplyDeleteI like the dress better with the bow at the waist then at the neck.
I wish she had worn it that way.
Nice to see the trio out again doing what they do best.
ReplyDeleteBeautiful print, beautiful color. I think a belt would have given her waist shape and hidden the badly aligned print. A shame because in general the dress is lovely. Looks particularly pretty from the back.
I like the print too, but not the dress and its waist, it looks bad and sort of unfinished or finished but in haste. I expected a warmer, heavier dress, it is not summer anymore.
DeleteShe did much better in her speech, or at least in the part I have heard.
The designer has listed the dress as a fall dress and it is fall in London.
DeleteVery pretty print of the dress and IMO a belt would have finished it off nicely.
She spoke with very little sign of nerves.
I thought the speech sounded good too, Anett, and no fringe problem this time.
DeleteWay too summery and it definitely needs a belt. Which is very strange since she puts belts on everything!
ReplyDeleteI think it would look better with a belt as well. With the bow and the floaty material, it looks a little bit like a nightgown. With that aside, her hair looks quite voluminous and beautiful today.!
DeleteIt is part of the Kate Spade F/W collection, not S/S one.
DeleteVery pretty pattern on this dress, but I wish the waistline was set a little lower, it looks too high even on the model. It's not a natural waist but not an empire waist either. Interesting.....
ReplyDeleteAnd I know Kate's been seen in these suede shoes many times before, but they are absolutely gorgeous and very flattering on her! :)
I agree. Can't believe I could ever say that, but that high waistline makes even Kate look a bit frumpy. Too girlish and just not flattering at all. The dress would be really nice with a natural waistline and, as others have said, a belt. As it is, a big miss for me.
DeleteWow, so underwhelmed with this dress. Whatever made her think of putting the belt around her neck as a tie. The waist is too high on this garment for anyone by looking at the designers photo and it certainly looks it on Kate. Really a ho hum sort of look.
ReplyDeleteKiwiNic
I must agree, KiwiNic. I could say that 99% of the time I will defend Kate's fashion choices, but this look surprises me. Kate has so many lovely dresses that would have been perfect for today. The colour is lovely on Kate though, soft and warm pink, I love it. The belt really needs to sit around the waist though, not as a bow, I am cringing here. I do love the shoes, they are the best I have ever seen, and I want some. Not that I cold walk in them, mind you! And the speech is wonderful. I really appreciate the work that this royal trio does, it is AMAZING!!!
Delete1346,
DeleteIt wasn't a belt that she put around her neck. That is a pussy bow (hate the name) but it is a design element that is classic, like a cowl neck design, a shawl collar, a boat neckline, all classic design elements. I know you weren't being mean in your comment. You apparently didn't know about the pussy bow.
There's a photo in the article that shows a model wearing the bow instead of the belt, so it's clearly offered by the designer.
DeleteAgain the shoes...they would have been great in burgundy...
ReplyDeleteI agree with you. I would have loved to see a dark burgundy or even a dark fuchsia. I think it wold have made the roses pop!. But otherwise, she looks beautiful as always.
DeleteTotally agree about the shoes. She also needed some color on her lips the dress seemed to wash her out.
DeleteI agree about the shoes as well! Some burgundy shoes really would have set this look off without being too matchy-matchy.
DeleteAlso, is it me or does Kate sometimes look very hunched in photos? I think that neckline just made her look very frumpy IMO, it almost made her look even more hunched over.
The cut and bow tie remind me of the red and white McQueen dress, which in retrospect is stylish. The pattern of this dress makes me think of a night gown.
ReplyDeleteAbsolutely gorgeous!
ReplyDeleteI wish she would wear this dress with her purple Gianvito Rossis.
ReplyDeleteI agree that the open necked, belted version of this dress would have been a better choice, but I do think the print is pretty. Those morganite earrings are one of my favorites!
ReplyDeleteAmanda Todd's story is heartbreaking. Cyberbullying should be criminalized, IMO. I hear so many stories like hers, but don't hear much about the perpetrators being held accountable. It's exciting to see TRHs involved in such critically important charity work!
I do wonder how Diana would have dealt with social media. Would she have used it or suffered from it?
DeleteTheresa,
DeleteThe cyber bullying issue is a delicate one. If you start monitoring for cyber bullying you can monitor the entire internet. There are many people who believe that the Internet is really the only truly independent freedom we have left on this planet. And to open the door for world security to monitor and enforce policy on content is a big issue. I agree that cyber bullying should stop. Doing that isn't as simple as it may seem.
I think most people agree that cyberbullying should be criminalized. But the thing is, the internet and it's global ways is still in it's infancy. I've heard it described as the "wild west" of the modern world with it's lawlessness because the society and our laws has not yet caught up to the technology.
DeleteRebecca that's an excellent description of the Internet!! Best one yet! cc
DeleteI completely agree with all you ladies. I am an advocate at the Durban High Court and I have had a case involving cyber bullying. It was only when I was presented with this case that I realised what a contentious issue it is. The reason why courts are not quick to criminalise such behaviour is because the majority of perpetrators are minors, still in school, and as a result the law does not hold children under the age of 18 as a criminally liable.
DeleteThis is the case with the law in most countries. Children under the age of 18 are not dealt with in terms of the Criminal Procedure Act but are rather dealt with in accordance with the Child Justice Act, in South African law at least. I do not want to bore anyone but my point is when I was presented with the mentioned case, as a prosecutor I had to find alternate "child-friendly" methods to resolve the case as it would not be heard in court. I followed the usual steps of referring the perpetrator for counselling, I explored all possible diversion methods but none had proved to be successful. The school had threatened to expel both learners unless a resolution was reached.
So my colleagues and I put our "heads together" and came up with a reasonable solution to order both the perpetrator and the victim to do community service for an hour, every Saturday for 3 months... together! As they were from different religious backgrounds, and the issue they had stemmed from religious differences, I thought it would be a good idea to make them do their community service at each other's places of worship as part of the learning programmes offered at such places. It gave them the opportunity to educate each other and also to get to know one another. Without getting too political, I think that there is too much of religious intolerance in the world and it truly struck a chord with me to see it starting with the youth. I was bullied in school because I was Indian and I know all too well what it feels like so I fully support this initiative which the royals are spearheading. I do not encourage anyone to go through life with that anger and animosity whether you are bullied or whether you are just a victim.
It's important to get to know the person you are bullying and also the person who is bullying you. Sometimes children may have much deeper issues than you would imagine so it's important to understand the perpetrator as well because they could also have deep-rooted feelings of self-loathing and depression as well. This is why I think this campaign is so incredibly important!
Love from Avee in SA
i agree that it needs a belt. the print is beautiful, but that dress is swallowing her whole. actually, it looks like a maternity dress without the belt (not that i'm trying to start with all that...)
ReplyDeleteAnnie
NY, USA
Oh my goodness, I was really hoping to see Kate in something 'Wow' for today's important events, but this is a huge sartorial miss for me, I'm afraid. I don't mind the rose print and it's nice that it's sort of purple in a nod to the LightUpPurple scheme, but the styling and fit are just awful in my opinion. The waistline looks seriously wonky in both front and back views (and even on the model in the product images), the bodice has way too much going on and I don't think a sharply pointed collar works with the softness of the print, the fabric or the floaty feel of the rest of the dress.
ReplyDeleteNatasha Archer certainly has her good days and, shall we say, her not-so-good ones. Sadly, this is verging on a nightdress for me and is another piece I hope we don't see again.
Feel a bit deflated at the moment to be honest. It's obviously great to see the charity work on this subject continuing, but I can't be the only one to have noticed that Amanda Todd was from British Columbia! You know, the self-same British Columbia that William and Kate have just returned from? Bearing in mind today's events and the link to the LightUpPurple idea, wouldn't it have been a wonderful, thoughtful gesture to have met with Amanda's family while they were over there to offer condolences, support and to promote the fund in her memory? Surely not too much of a stretch to link two engagements and follow through like that? Disappointed.
Do we know the circumstances? Maybe they did reach out to Carol Todd! Unless we know facts it is hard criticize.
DeleteMaybe they did but under the radar. If she were my child, I couldn't bear a public meeting with a lot of attention and press.
DeleteHow do we know that William and Catherine did not privately meet with the family-beyond the fanfare and cameras? If a meeting had been played up and capitalized on
Deleteit might have brought negative attention to TRH's and obscured any benefit for
the family or mental health. The tabs headlines would likely blast the Cambridges
for using the family to promote themselves.
The death of such a young person, by suicide, is beyond traumatic, let alone when it happens in the glare of national and international publicity. Perhaps the young woman's family did not want a media circus during the royal visit? Perhaps W & K did not want to participate in such an event where it could be viewed that they were courting publicity from someone else's pain? Perhaps there was a meeting with this family, and it was not made public, as those involved felt it was more appropriate that way? And, as has been said before on this site, the itinerary for the tour was not organized by the royal couple, so in all likelihood it was not their call anyway. Just a different view point . . .
DeleteIn another aspect of this sad case, it is interesting to know that the man responsible for the cyberbullying of Amanda Todd is from the Netherlands. He is charged with offenses there, and I believe he is eligible for extradition from the Netherlands to Canada to face charges in this case as well. According to news reports I have read, he used cyberbullying/extortion on 39 people. I wonder if Kate will learn more about this case while she is in the Netherlands this week?
I agree Erika. They may have done it under the radar while they were there on one of the private days as requested by the family. Of course, they may have asked and they said no or maybe couldn't accommodate it in the either schedule (family or W/K). I think yes, it would have been nice if there as a large public write up or a meeting, but just because it wasn't reported, doesn't mean there wasn't an effort made.
DeleteAs anon 15.34 said. We know nothing of the circumstances. Maybe the mother doesn't want to meet royals?
DeleteFirst of all, Amanda committed suicide four years ago. We don't know all the circumstances behind the scenes. Any kind of bullying should be made criminal. A beautiful young life was snuffed out because of the tortuous mental abuse she suffered.
DeleteErika, I agree, I don't think I could have handled that either in the circumstances, but it wouldn't necessarily have had to be a public meeting with lots of photographers and journalists present. William and Kate have met in private with families affected by natural disasters before. The media were made aware that the meetings were happening but were not invited to witness them. I think something like that would have given the media quite a powerful link to focus on for today's events and would have shown a knowledge and interest in events relevant to the really important cause of mental health.
DeleteWhile I agree that Amanda Todd's family may have their own reasons for staying private, Amanda Todd's mother started The Amanda Todd Trust to help with anti bullying programs and to try to make sure that no one else dies by their own hand as a result of bullying. I have a hard time believing that Carol Todd would not have appreciated the world wide attention and donations a mention by the Duke or Duchess of Cambridge would bring to the Trust she set up in her daughter's memory.
DeleteI love the print, but I wish the skirt was wine red or that this was a two piece w/ the top just as it is with a solid bottom. It's a lot of print for my taste, but the fabric and cut are beautiful of course and honestly, the issues and causes they are highlighting are so much more important than the dress (although it's so fun to see her choices!)... i'm so proud of the young royals and their work to de-stigmatize mental health. Heather C US
ReplyDeleteExactly. It's fun to talk about fashion, but easy to do it and overlook what the event is actually about. And this time people don't even have the excuse of "Kate doesn't talk, what else should we talk about".
Deletelol, true Rebecca, true.
DeleteThat would have been really something, very well thought!
ReplyDeleteMaybe you should apply for being one of their PR people,certainly you have better ideas than the current ones.
If I want to be mean here, maybe this is a sign of throwing events together at the very last minute. It is really sad that nobody made that connection in their team.
I meant this for Anon 14.30.
DeleteWhat a comment from that little one! The Kate one:))
Kids can be so adorable:-)
DeleteI agree a burgundy shoes and clutch would've been better however, I like the dress both ways. She is using the belt around the neck and I like the dual purpose of the belt/around the neck. This is a lovely dress. I think she looks beautiful. I just wish hair was not in her face.
ReplyDeleteI feel the readers missed the point on the dress. It's a gorgeous, colorful dress that expresses who Kate is in this setting. She loves the people she represents, and her heart is in the right place in regards to helping those that deal with mental health issues. The whole outfit as well as Kate's beautiful smile and actions exhibit uplifting feelings to those around her. That's what matters most!
ReplyDelete15:14,
DeleteI think we often "miss the point on the dress".
There is always a lot of meaning in the selections she chooses. Often, no one seems to care or even notice.
I certainly agree that Kate's head and heart are both in the right place. However, this is a blog about Kate's clothes, and this dress really missed the mark. She must know she has a long torso, but she keeps wearing dresses with high waists. She or her stylist (I suspect the latter, maybe trying to justify her job) keep altering dresses and generally for the worse. They made this dress look cheaper and more summery than it did on the model. If she had even kept the pleats in would have looked a little less summery. I'm an American but I've been in London in mid-October and it is very chilly and dismal. Sure, a bright cheerful dress is an asset in those circumstances, but the world is full of bright, cheerful dress that would fit Kate and wouldn't be too summery. I'm so disappointed after all these days of waiting since we got so spoiled in Canada.
DeleteThis Kate Spade dress is off the rack, not custom made. Even relatively expensive dresses are generally cut too short waisted for tall long waisted people such as Kate (and me.) There is no way to alter a dress with a waist seam that is too high. The problem is even worse for curvier people because the size of the bust pulls the waist even higher in front. She should just avoid those garments.
DeleteAnonymous 15:14,
DeleteI actually adored this dress and recognized the significance of the "plum" for a Mental Health event this week.
However, I think it is incredibly condescending to insinuate that other posters who didn't like it, or liked it but didn't think it was appropriate for today, or whatever the case, didn't "get" it.
You have no way of knowing what someone's reasoning is, and it comes across as a bit superior to infer that you "got" it and they don't, so therefore you're smarter or "right."
These are all just opinions. Of equal worth.
The dress is beautiful, Kate Spade is one of my favourite brands so I love seeing Kate in it. I think the bow at the neck would look better if her hair was up.
ReplyDeleteoh i love the speech of the duchess i would wish she wear her hair was on her face the i love the pattern of the dress but its looks like light dress for event..
ReplyDeleteThank you for your post Charlotte! I thought Kate looked beautiful and true to her style. The purple roses on her dress were a sweet memorial to that young girl to my eyes. Such an important cause. As a Toastmaster Kate is definitely coming along. I would tell her as a growth point to try not to look at her notes so much. At least she wasn't shaking her hair out of her eyes--her hair looked beautiful too.
ReplyDeleteHM,William and others could use your growth point advice. Kate seeks eye contact with her listeners more often. I think Harry may be the most engaging, natural speaker of the lot.
DeleteI agree with you Valerie. I think the style is so very Kate and love the print. Believe that the roses are a remembrance to a beautiful young lady. Love that the three of them are together supporting this very important cause. You can tell she is growing as a speaker, because the focus was more on what she said, rather than her....she is improving with each time.
DeleteI think the tie as a bow is much better than as a belt...too flimsy to be a true belt. Wish the waist were a bit longer and that perhaps she had worn a darker shoe, while I love the nudes, with this dress makes it seem less "fall like". But aside from those nit picky observations, Kate looks lovely, true to herself and her hair is completely enviable!! Today, I saw her face more than her fashion. cc
"kate spade" is a very popular designer especially her bags. Her clothes underwhelm me. I personally do not like the pattern, cut or general finish of this dress. I know this is a popular loose fitting style, you see lots of this with the "free people" label. For me it is just a "ugh". Good case of different tastes for different folks.:):)
ReplyDeleteAnon, I am laughing because I always comment on the fact that I am a horrible dresser and Free People is one of my go-to's....HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA!
DeleteHee hee Tammy, I actually love much of their clothes, was really just saying the design of the dress has been popular for several years. I do not think this kate spade dress is a good version of the bohemian look. Bet you look great in your Free People outfits. :)
Delete1430,
ReplyDeleteI do agree with you on the meeting with Amanda Todd's mother being a HUGE missed opportunity. As visitor's perhaps they couldn't do that. Although Cristy Clark could have made that happen very easily in my opinion. So, therein, lies the responsibility of it in my opinion. With Christy, not William and Kate. Although, Christy may have had to just focus on the First Nations thing and not "distract" with other issues. It was ALL about the First Nations. And perhaps for some very serious reasons that we weren't privy to.
we do not know if this did not happen during the "private" moments of the program .... we can hop it did !
DeleteThe image that Kate's dress left with me is one of beauty, freshness, life and hope.
DeleteThat is the lasting image. More very thoughtful "Kate things", purple for the lighting tonight of the London Eye in memorial to the passing of Amanda Todd. Purple in keeping with the purple that is the color for the upcoming London Marathon/Run for Mental Health.
Since when did the London Eye become the Coca Cola London Eye. Surely with the amount of tourism the London Eye generated previously, they didn't need to subsidize with Coca Cola. Now Coca Cola has dramatically associated it's product with London as a whole. Shrewd on the part of Coca Cola but Tacky on the part of the London Eye. (And with a product that is not the most healthful, no less.)
When we (and I don't mean 15:41 specifically, but any of us) speak critically about missed opportunities and who might be responsible or assigned blame in absence of ANY facts regarding the recent royal tour, I think we step way outside our boundaries. The final itinerary and reasons why certain people were not included was not made our business and it's even less our business to fuel speculation as to why or why not.
DeleteThe dress, while pretty enough, isn't a wow for me, either. I've said it before, but I'm not a fan of girlie day dresses. In spite of it being part of the autumn collection, this one has more of a summer afternoon tea party vibe for me and needs the finish of a belt at the waist.
How do you know they didn't meet with the family behind closed doors...
DeleteThe photo booth was a fun and thoughtful element to add.
DeleteWould love to see the London Eye lit up all purple tonight.
I actually adore this dress! I think it would look awful on anyone without Kate's height and svelte figure, but I think she rocks it!I think the necktie adds some whimsical charm to it, and it's very sweet. I might have opted for her pearl drops instead, but she has been wearing those a lot lately.
ReplyDeleteWhat a strange dress. Though I get the significance of the color, it does not flatter Kate. Nor does the fit or the loud print. I do love silk, and the gathers and pleats in the back of the dress are graceful. But it is unlike Kate to leave an awkward waistline unbelted, and the shoes and clutch do not go with the dress. I wonder whether she will change to something more appropriate for the London Eye. And we can hope she will choose an elegant outfit for her Neherlands visit tomorrow.
ReplyDeleteAs for the unfortunate child from British Columbia, perhaps there was private contact with the family. I wish someone could step in when there is cyberbullying and separate the victim from social media while providing support. I can remember a phase of childhood, long before the Intrnet, when I did not know whether to believe what my peers or my teachers said about me. This girl faced far worse, and she needed atrong help.
Beautiful dress on Kate goes well with the shoes and purse and the earrings add a touch of beauty perfect for a Fall day .
ReplyDeleteMost of the comments expressed my sentiments. The dress is -meh.
ReplyDeleteThe event, however, is wonderful and I wish they would start something like that here in the U.S. with our first lady instead of nutrition. Our whole country is blowing itself up or shooting itself up on a daily basis and our first lady picks nutrition...but I digress...
Childhood obesity has been a serious problem in the US, and I am so glad Michelle has tackled it.
DeleteTammy,
DeleteChildhood obesity and the resulting rise in childhood diabetes, heart disease, etc. was a CRITICAL cause in the United States. Just google logintudinal graphs regarding the rapid increase in those things. Michelle's campaign will save many young lives, enhance quality of life for children and build a healthy foundation for America's future. It is VERY, VERY important campaign. The need for it was CRUCIAL.
the colours of the print might be a tribute to the poor girl, but this looks so elderly ! especially for such an "out of age" design of the dress, hanging on Kate's shoulders with no belt to give it a little "puff" around the waist .... the way this dress is made is awfull, how could she not wear a belt ???? regarding the "fall collection" it is supposed to come from, have not you noticed that now, clothes looking very summary and made of light metarials, are sold as "winter clothes" ? this could explain the light dress .... and still nude (or so) accessories .... even the ear rings are of the colour of the print ! "clour-block Kate" .... not a bit of contrast, I am affraid Kate will soon get dressed wth the same colour as the curtains or the wall materials of the place she is visiting ....LOL
ReplyDeleteHave to love the dichotomy that Kate creates. There are those who say she recycles too much in the U.K. Then there are those who are condemning her for wearing too many new items. The latter of course are the twitter users who cannot stand Kate but are the first to tweet reporters and bloggers about information. That's social media for you and the root of so many social issues today. The three young royals are doing their best to navigate a very volatile world irrespective of their privileges and I for one encourage them rather than criticize their every turn for the sake of criticism. Yes they make mistakes, but not at the level that some make out.
ReplyDeleteOh I know those few Twitter accounts you speak of. They are vile and will reply to any reporter who listens. Anything to spite William, Kate or Kensington Palace. They pretend to care but actually will do anything to put William and Kate down. Sad bullies who deserve no attention from you.
DeleteWould have much preferred her hair up in this dress, both to keep it out of her face while she spoke and also to highlight the neckline of the dress. I think it is sweet and appropriate for the event, and the Duchess seems comfortable in it. Well done highlighting such an important cause.
ReplyDeleteSuch a horribly sad story about Amanda Todd - Erika might be right that it was too much for her parents to have a public meeting - but there does seem a disconnect that it was not mentioned there - perhaps there wasn't a suitable way to work it in - But it would have highlighted the international problem of this sort of cyber-abuse.
ReplyDeleteI thought Kate spoke quite well. I would still love to see her wear a pulled back hairstyle - the hair almost sliding in her face was a distraction for me - but I'm glad to hear her speak with much more polish.
I loved the feature of people being able to thank those who helped them - a lovely thing. The London Eye was something of a doodle in my eyes - especially since a lot of William and Kate's engagements seem to include "fun" activities - but it is wonderful that it is being lit up.
I liked the lovely silk of Kate's dress - the button up style is never a favourite of mine but she seems to favour it and there's nothing wrong with that. The pleating was truly lovely from the rear. It wanted a belt though. Although it is an autumn design - somehow it looked a little light for the outdoor engagement but still such a pretty pattern that I imagine those who saw her were delighted and that is a big part of it. I think little girls would adore it. know I should have.
Becca, I believe it was you asked me about Social Security and yes there is such a programme - it is contributory but there are provisions for pensions at some age even if one doesn't contribute. The ages are changing all the time now - you must look when you were born - but it is when you are over sixty for the most part.
For Anon, I would like to think that William has a good attention span - someday he will be given a red box every day but Christmas that he must read - but I was taken aback that it's claimed he said he hadn't read all the briefings - tours like that are very expensive for the country and important - it would not seem a place to be casual about preparation.
But a wonderful day of engagements and I'm so pleased to see more coming - sorry if I've missed something - busy at the moment.
Not reading all the briefings does not connate a short attention span in any way. A lack of diligence in reading the briefings perhaps, for whatever reason, but that certainly doesn't pertain to a short attention span. That is a totally different thing. He simply did not take time to read it.
DeleteWith due respect he had a twelve hour flight. Yes, he would want to sleep on part of that but being prepared is also part of it - I've had to prepare for work on similar flights - where I also had to hire a car, in spite of being jet-lagged find my way someplace and go to a meeting fully alert. William likewise is expected to be fully prepared - a tour like this costs millions of dollars - to Canada and Britain and is a place he may not return again for years - not to do everything to prepare fully for it -certainly speaks of a lack of consideration for those who did the prep work - if nothing else - and to my mind a less than full attention span. The days in Canada were intense but also short. If he cannot balance his work properly- he shouldn't be doing it - because that sort of preparation will be expected of him constantly in the future. I'm sorry to sound harsh but he needs to get his priorities straight. He is a future king.
DeleteI agree about his priorities Julia.
DeleteI was just disagreeing on the short attention span aspect. To me short attention span and diligence are not the same thing. It was about normal, adult selective choices not an organic medical mental defect, which is what short attention span is medically speaking. William could not, should not and would not be flying in critical rescue missions if he had a short attention span diagnosis in any way shape or form.
Julia, I don't think you sound harsh at all. To the contrary! You sound professional and responsible.
DeleteI am now a SAHM but did have a career before my child was born and never would have dreamt of going to a meeting unprepared, let alone admitting it! Especially when, in William'a case: someone else DOES ALL THE WORK FOR HIM. All he has to do is read it, and he can't manage that?
What a slap in the face to the staffer who worked hard to put those briefing notes together. And just shame on him in general. He's in his mid-30's, and should know and act better by now.
I think it's come to the point of speculating on why Kate likes high necklines.
ReplyDeleteWhen I was super thin, I was always cold and I found that when I kept my neck covered with some sort of fabric and my hair, I felt warmer.
When I was in Britain the first time, it was summer. I have never been so cold in my life during the summer.
I would harbor a guess that her choices help keep her comfortable. We all have absolutely criticized her out of coats. :)
I made the mistake of reading comments today. Almost every one of them has an "I wish" statement. That makes me sad for this lovely young woman. It was so hard raising kids and getting advice from the handful of people I had in my life. They criticized everything I did. I cannot imagine what her life is like when even the people who purportedly admire her (why else visit this blog?) nail her for EVERYTHING she does or doesn't do, but I can understand why the Cambridges so desperately want to shut out the world sometimes.
Bravo, Kari! Very well put and I one hundred percent concur.
Delete@Kari: I've often thought that to be why Kate wears coats (even indoors) & buttoned up blouses, too. She probably does get cold a lot due to her trim figure. And THANK YOU for your last paragraph....I feel for Kate, the scrutiny she's subjected to. I try to remember that she's a seemingly kind girl from Berkshire who is adjusting & rising to her royal role as best as one can hope if one of us were in her position.
DeleteThank you Kari
DeleteFor your words of kindness and compassion for Kate, simply, Thank You.
It is so great that the three add support and voice to such an important cause. Kate's dress was ugly and old looking. It doesn't diminish her important support, but it was a terrible choice.
ReplyDeleteI LOVE the print...but I don't like the collar that looks tight. Also, do the pleats stop in the front center on Kate's dress?
ReplyDeleteI am happy to hear the approach that "we all have mental health just like physical health "
This print and dress are gorgeous. I really like the look of it. I agree with others though it does scream for a belt. Since the waist of the dress is so high, maybe adding a belt on Kate was not a good luck and she didn't like it so decided to use it as a tie instead. But that is a small quibble. Quite innovating way to use the belt in the look in my opinion. I first thought that she should have had the dress altered to move the waist down to a more natural waist height.
ReplyDeleteI agree that the maroon accessories would have been beautiful but maybe it felt more evening then day with the nude accessories. Love those earrings! That Kate princess looks beautiful today in the dress, her actions, her confident speech, and her interactions/smiles with everyone today.
A great engagement with a great cause, and she looks quite beautiful.
Love Kate's hair. Looks like she has added some highlights since B.C. trip.
ReplyDeleteI am usually a fan of most everything the Duchess wears, but not today. I think it makes her look much older wearing a floral pattern that is outdated and makes her look much older than she is. Usually for events like this, she wears something very relatable. Something bright and stylish. Today, I took one look at the dress and yawned. Not. A. Fan.
ReplyDeleteHow sweet this Rain of plucked Roses on her dess! A tender homage to the dead girl, to all the young lifes plucked by cyberbullying.
ReplyDeleteYeah I love that you that. They do. That. I will share. my own story I was a bully I never go to school for six months I have a low self esteem But my parents help me as well as our neighbors and support system is better I overcome. It now I'm marketing director for firm I work for now I'm successful thank to organizations to shine the issue its improntant to raise your voice
DeletePaola,
DeleteI thought the roses were a special homage to Amanda Todd. Amazing that it seems no one here noticed or even cared about that design feature.
Bluefire it is great that you are now a successful woman, experiencing bullying is really a tough and bad experience. Help from people surrounding makes the difference. Thank you for saying.
DeleteI do think the colour was and perhaps the roses too.
DeleteA bit "later than normal" to commenting but I will do my usual "full comment post" before reading the rest of the comments so I might say alot of stuff others have already said!
ReplyDeleteWhat a great day and great event! I am so happy that the world is putting more focus on these issues (as alot of you know it hits close to home for me!) and that TRH are taking an active part in this change!
Great to see them meet people helped by the organizations. And then literally "shine a light" on the issue with the london eye bit. Meet and greet, speech and "cermonial bit". A great balance with meeting the acutal people and also reaching out to the world.
And a great speech! Nice to see Kate speak more and she is clearly getting better! Good for her! Cannot be easy! And this line from Williams part "Mental health is not a dirty word – we all have mental health like we do physical health, good or ill." Extremely good and important!
Also nice to hear that Kate mentioned that she is there to listen to William after his Air Ambulance shifts. And William continuing talking about how it impacts him. It's somethng we have already guessed, but it's nice that they themselves say it!
I've always wanted to see Kate in Kate Spade because she has some awsomely cute stuff! While this is not exactly what I wanted, it gives me hope that we might see her more in her stuff! And I like the pattern and the purple-ish colour (good choice for today!). The 70s silouette she can pull of well even though it's not my favourite. I really like the sweepy flow of the skirt! And I like these nude shoes because of their close look to her actual skin!
I am very much looking forward to tomorrow!!
You always sum everything up wonderfully! 😊❤
Delete"Always". THANKS, Rebecca.
DeleteWhat is the deal with the waist on this dress? It's bizarrely high, verging on an Empire or a babydoll silhouette - and I don't think that's the idea at all.
ReplyDeleteNot a fan of the self belt worn as neckwear.
I like the dress but this is where a legitimate, professional stylist, vs. Natasha Archer who apparently has the worst sense of style since whoever advised Queen Victoria on all that black silk, would have been ideal and would really have livened this dress up, while also staying within the bounds of appropriateness.
This is the style vs. fashion dilemma that we see so often with Kate. She wears the best fashions but seems to have no sense of style. It's like she just puts on an incredibly expensive dress and expects it to be stylish in and of itself. That's not how it works. I'd have put a great burgundy or plum suede belt with this and matching burgundy or plum suede pumps, lose the self-belt tied around her neck, add some deep amethysts and tie that hair back a bit and maybe even carry one of the designer's signature clutches.
And for heaven's sake, ask Granny-in-law for the name and number of a good tailor! That waist is just - awful and it ruins what is otherwise a nice dress.
This I've noticed too - especially recently.
DeleteI'm sorry but I laughed out loud at your Natasha Archer/Queen Victoria comment! 😂
DeleteI was always hoping she will warm up to Kate Spade. It's a perfect brand for her. The dress could use a belt, I'm surprised Kate didn't use one. And it's looking very beautiful on her, truly. Also fits the colour theme for poor Amanda. Such an incredibly sad story. We grappled with it when it happened years ago here in Canada. Good to know others will perhaps learn from it.
ReplyDeleteCatherine and the other royals are doing a great job lately. It's a good way to bring their privileges to raise awareness in the world. And we sure need to realize (in particular in the Western world) that we are all connected and can't ignore those who need help.
It's Thanksgiving in Canada today and I wish you all a happy one, regardless if you celebrate or not. We have so many things to be grateful for.
Royal fan in Northern Ontario
What an important event. Psychological First Aid, such a life saving concept. We all have known someone, or experienced ourselves, heartbreaking events that lead to depression and worse. That William, Harry and Kate are taking the stigma away from seeking help is a tremendous step forward. Their efforts will have long lasting effects. They are a great team.
ReplyDeleteWell said, Tedi. :)
DeleteTedi, "psychological first aid"
Deletecertainly is foundational for everything else. Thankfully they had a "hey, wait a minute" moment in their charitable planning, perceived that and are doing something about it. All the charities in the world won't help nearly as much without the grass roots effort of going to the foundation of the problems and nipping them in the bud. And THAT is exactly what William, Kate and Harry are doing. And they are starting to interface many charities with one another worldwide to streamline the effectiveness of the mental health initiatives, and that also creates a worldwide dialogue to even further destigmatize the issues of mental health. I think they each deserve a Nobel Peace prize.
Are the royals allowed to receive Nobel Peace prizes?
DeleteThe dress is awful poorly cut and pattern mismatched . I would have thought she was cold in it . Whilst I appreciate the importance of drawing attention to mental health I think It's about time she added more engagement s for the other charities she is patron of . She should seriously increase the number of engagements she undertakes
ReplyDeleteI think it's terrific they're all involved in this event. Repeatedly talking about mental health, getting it covered in the media and discussed in the public, is crucial to making it as easy to talk about as a broken leg. No one would hesitate to get help immediately if they fell and suffered physical injury, that's where everyone wants to get with mental health. And the 3 of them are helping that effort, so well done.
ReplyDeleteI do think, at this point, it would be nice to hear WHY they all feel so passionately about this issue, and devote so much of their time to it, just as other famous faces have revealed their connection to charities. It puts a lot more meat on the bone. I'm fairly convinced it's because of Diana, who likely first suffered tremendously as a child when her parents divorced, and that illness resurfaced with the pressures that came with suddenly being the most famous person in the world, not to mention the post-natal depression, the bulimia, the stress of her marriage... and on and on and on... and yes, Diana herself talked at length about her struggles and the treatment she received in various interviews, including Martin Bashir.
It would be great for William to somehow get into that, which I understand is deeply personal, but would be extraordinarily effective. Maybe in time.
I'm also very happy to see Kate speaking, I do wish she would wear her hair back when she knows she's making a speech. I think it adds to her nervousness to be honest. That half back look she loves (and looks good on her) would be perfect, hair tied away from her face and lying sleek down her back, nothing to worry about when looking up and down at her notes.
The dress is blah to me, Kate Spade and her husband (Andy Spade, brother of David Spade) actually sold the company many moons ago, and I think it's been diluted with the name now stuck on everything from a dress to a handbag to a notepad. I think the royal Kate can do better.
I'm not sure mentioning and talking about Dianas issues is the way to go. she is not here to concent (and it would also be a bit of "using her name"). It just doesn't feel right to me...
DeleteI am always surprised by the Diiana nostalgia that we read every now and then. I was one of her fans, but I also recognized her problems. Today, Kate should not be judged by a Diana standard. And Diana's sons were very young then to have a clear idea of her mentality. I don't think Diana should be a shadow in everything they do. This is their own adulthood.
DeleteClaudia, I understand your thought process, but I think it would only lead to W/K/H being accused of riding Diana's coattails AND make it more about her than the trio's work. I do agree that they are pursuing these issues because of Diana, but it's better to do so quietly and steadily, without spelling it out and having her name lead in the headlines of every single engagement. And, mentioning Diana would only serve to rehash her personal struggles which is something her sons have no desire to do.
DeleteRebecca, I do agree with you. And 15:32, Diana's vision for the future of the monarchy and her own work has made it possible and acceptable for W/H/K to "go there". This goes way beyond "nostalgia".
WAY, WAY beyond "nostalgia", RF. I agree.
DeleteThe results and implications of all Diana's efforts and changes she started are broad and far reaching. Through all, and in spite of all the chaos, Diana changed the monarchy (and the world) forever, and for the better.
That dress is truly dreadful. It looks like something my Gran would have worn in 1977. It does Kate no favours whatsoever, being ill-fitting, mumsy and downright dowdy.
ReplyDeleteGlad that she made a speech and excellent cause for her to be supporting but the fashion…..MISS.
Love the dress but her hair is a big no-no. Too puffy, too "done", too "WAG, too "Real Housewives". A sleek cut would look so much more professional.
ReplyDeleteI agree that this dress cries out for a belt. Burgundy, as others have suggested, would have been beautiful, along with some burgundy shoes. Her praline suede shoes are lovely, yes, but just wash out the dress, as does the clutch. Neutral is not always best! I like the dress well enough, although it can't hold up to her well-tailored, bespoke pieces. But it wouldn't have to; it just needs something more to define it, ie the belt and shoes. The earrings really rock, though. And her hair is lovely. And she's working for a good cause--which is what counts most of all. I don't understand the criticism of a "lost opportunity" to meet the mother of Amanda Todd in BC. We know nothing about how the plans for the trip came about or whether the mother would even want to do it or if, had it happened, there would not have been criticism of the Cambridges for "using" the mother. So, I'll go back to fashion for my final comment. I have had several Kate Spade purses and they are great. I have a pair of her earrings, which are inexpensive and very nice for the price. I never have purchased her clothes, though, but she has some fun and pretty prints that can work on the right person. I think pink is a good color for Kate (Kate the Duchess, that is!) and this print, on the whole, works for her. It just needed some different accessories.
ReplyDeleteI think Kate looks stunning. She looks like a breath of fresh air. And, as always, she always brings a lot of love and positivity wherever she shows up. All good.
ReplyDeleteMaking a difference that counts. How many of us do that? Hopefully all of us.
AMEN 1930
DeleteHow many of us do that indeed, 19:30. Let her critics answer that one.
DeleteYes, AMEN...and good question 10:05.
DeleteAgain I admire the focus on mental health. I like the silhouette of the dress but not a fan of the print.
ReplyDeleteHer hair is gorgeous today though. And I agree with the comment about her smile. When she smiles is doesn't matter what she is wearing. It's truly her best " accessory."
Yay, Kate Spade! One of my own favorite brands (though I can only buy them on sale, lol). Once again, more thought to the accessories would have made an enormous difference and taken an okay and perfectly appropriate look to something much more (purple shoes and a ponytail?) I am glad to see them again so soon after the tour, and this is SUCH a vital and important cause
ReplyDeleteObviously William and Harry consult on what to wear at these joint events and they all go for suede shoes! The dress is very pretty and the purple flower is in tune with the event, but I agree that it is too short waisted for Kate.
ReplyDeleteI think a burgundy velvet band as a belt would've been sensation BUT overall I loved it.
ReplyDeleteOh, that could have been really pretty!
DeleteIf the dress had been worn with the tie at the waist rather than the neck, not only would it have looked 100 times nicer, it would also have chimed better with William and Harry's open necked shirts. But I'd have preferred to see the princes in ties actually, or in shirt sleeves - I don't think jackets look good with an open neck.
ReplyDeleteSarah UK
I really like this jacket + open neck look. With only a shirt it looks too casual, with tie they don't look as inviting. I think it's a good balance :)
DeleteI love speculation just as much as the next person but I am continuously baffled why some believe we know more than what we see - which is not much. I 100% understand (and love) sharing ideas here and the idea to meet with Amanda Todd's family is a great one but we have no idea what the circumstances are, what the family's position is, and practically ALL of the politics surrounding visits like these. I have a hard time judging or being "disappointed" with something when it comes to the royals and the visits they do because again... we just have no idea. But that's just me!
ReplyDeleteAnyway, I love the dress but agree a belt would make it look nicer on her gorgeous figure. Her hair is looking fabulous today!
I agree. It is fun and interesting to speculate, and sometimes you think "Huh, that's odd. Why didn't they do that?". BUt the thing is, we have no clue why they do and don't do certain things.
DeleteWhile obviously there could be many reasons - I think speculation comes from the fact the tour was so recent - and there was time when some sort of reference could have been added - but we don't know the family wishes, of course.
DeleteRegarding Mrs. Cook.
DeleteIf William and Kate had highlighted that
in with the itinerary that had already been established for them regarding the First Nations, then they would have had to, to be fair, highlighted all their other causes while in Canada.
It wasn't about William and Kate's personal agendas anyway. It was about the agenda of their host country. Unfortunately, some people are still having trouble coming to grips with that fact.
I have no doubt that Mrs. Cook easily understood about William and Kate complying with the Canadian governments agenda. I also believe that she is also very appreciative of the mental health initiatives that William and Kate and Harry are so boldly and affirmatively putting forward.
I agree with many of the comments about the dress. The waist was too high and needed a belt but I loved the pattern. I did not like the neck - she's too young for a neckline like that. It struck me too as a bit like a maternity dress.
ReplyDeleteI thought that too, or rather that it could very easily be worn as a maternity dress, at least in the first trimester, given that almost Empire waistline!
DeleteI really can't believe that people are criticising K&W in relation to Amanda Todd's family. They might have visited privately, they might not. They might have made contact and been rebuffed. The family might have been away. There are all sorts of possibilities and it seems harsh and unfair to jump to conclusions.
ReplyDeleteI did not like this dress it is the worst ever . It needed a belt at the waist. I didn't like it on the model either. I do think that She is beautiful in anything she wears. She is a beautiful woman.
ReplyDeleteI am usually a huge fan on the Duchess of Cambridge's appearance. However, after her wonderful Canadian Tour, this is a huge let-down. I really cannot find anything great to say about this dress nor her hair. But I love her hair up and know I would like a much shorter style for her. Hate being picky, but to me, this just does not hit the mark. Sorry.
ReplyDeleteWonderful event, nice speech but I can't stand the dress. It doesn't fit her well as she has no hips to fill out the pleated skirt so it appears to just hang. It is a very "old" looking dress and I feel it would be better suited to Carole than Kate. Shame on the missed opportunity with the Todd girl (so sad) and with not wearing purple shoes. Ugh.
ReplyDelete21:13,
DeleteBut she showed up today and gave a speech and extended kindness to many. Yay
Catherine's hair looks like it did back before her slipt from former hair stylist. I love her dress, but the bow ages her. William and Harry look great. It's nice to see the three of them together. Congratulations for your support for mental health. Everyone is involved for a great charity.
ReplyDeleteI like the flowers the color but the dress needed a belt at the waist to hide the gathers . The waist could have been a little lower . She is a beautiful woman in anything she wears .
ReplyDeleteThe flowers look great. The brand has alot of stuff with this pattern! Bags, shirt etc. Even a phone case :)
Deletei think the dress is beatifull how ever the waist is all wrong it looks unfinished without a belt and i don't like the tie around her neck, i agree her burgandy shoes and bag would look much better the dress also looked a bit summery but the earings are one of my all time favorits.
ReplyDeleteI applaud the Royals for keeping the limelight focused on this cause; there's so much more to learn for the most of us and the work done by them really helps this one to gain a better understanding every time the issue is addressed.
ReplyDeleteIMHO, the Duchess looked lovely today ~ in spite of some serious quibbles I have with the dress she wore ...
The fabric, the print and the colors are so beautiful and complement the Duchess' coloring so well! However, IMHO, the dress seriously needed a belt (to cover up the ill-fitting seam at the waist line), and might also have benefitted from a more rounded collar, fabric-covered buttons, and sleeves that were cut just a tad wider. Also, selecting a clutch and shoes (possibly together with the missing belt?) in a color more aligned with the roses' color of the dress may have helped the overall impression in my eyes ...
Of course, that's according to my tastes and I'm a firm believer that differences in taste are to be celebrated rather than bemoaned :)
Let's see what tomorrow brings ~ All the best to Charlotte, our gracious host, and everybody, and Happy Monday all around!
Great comment! It has so much to do with personal taste! That is why, while it's fun to comment on fashion (and we all need fun distractions at times) I cannot understand people being disappointed or calling something a "fail" just based on their personal taste. It can look freaking ugly to a person. It still doesn't constitute a fail to me, because fashion (which is a form of art) is so subjective. So while people can point out and agree and disagree on what they like and don't like and which parts and all that, and that can be really fun, I don't think calling perfectly acceptable work-clothes "Fails". If her tatas were hanging out and she had gum stuck in her hair, yes I think she could constitute as failing that day satorically. Otherwise, it's just personal taste!
DeleteI try to divide it in three parts - one is if it meets my personal taste - for instance the high neckline and bow doesn't here - but that's not a criticism - it's just what I personally like or don't like. I did love the fabric so the dress and thought the pleating was lovely was basically a win for me, even if not something I would choose myself.
DeleteThe second is how it fits the engagement - here I think with the colour it does quite well. The roses may likewise honour the day and the dress shows up when viewed at a distance. Things like colour, the type of event and so forth come in here.
The third is how the outfit is styled - this is somewhat objective - the need for a belt here or how the accessories work. At least to me, this is a little different than personal taste - it may still vary but a lot of people here have noticed the waist needed something -(been in that position often myself - frantically looking for a matching belt.) This covers things like whether the dress fits or is creased. We may love a dress but think it needed something style-wise.
There is a fourth "what was she thinking!" category - fortunately Kate doesn't hit this category too often although Raina of Jordan recently wore an outfit that I couldn't understand at all - and Maxima has pulled out a couple.
Of course, the engagement is always what matters first - but being royal is about dressing as well - and if we're going to talk about clothes at all - there will be lots of opinions - personally I find that and polls very interesting. It shows most people are balancing all these factors - even if they don't think about it that way.
Thanks Julia, I needed that. All the criticisms were starting to really get to me, and not in a good way.
DeleteI appreciate your approach as you explained that by your categories. Just wish some wouldn't be so harsh regarding the fourth category.
The engagement is what matters most you are right about that, although some here seem to forget that. This is a blog about the life (and THEN) style of the Duchess of Cambridge.
lol, lol, lol, Rebecca.
DeleteOnce again your simple and direct eloquence has summed it up beautifully. And the "tata's and gum" example made me laugh out loud. Think about it. lol
Thank you. We do have to keep things in proper perspective. If William and Kate weren't the amazingly altruistic people they are, the Royal headlines could look embarrassingly different from the way they are. William and Kate shine their helpful light brightly in a dark and hurting world in my opinion. And, to me, they dress nicely, compared to many in the daily news, while doing it. They ALWAYS try their best each and every day. A much needed and true blessing to the world. We should be thankful and supportive.
15:46,
DeleteThat sums it up so succinctly. We need to be thankful, you are right.
I like the dress if the print as well as cut are a bit busy together. It means so much to see the Duchess and the Princes speaking on this day, to this issue. It truly helps me feel less ashamed of my own mental health difficulties and diagnoses.
ReplyDeleteI am so grateful to William, Kate, and Harry for working on issues surrounding mental health and stigma. As an instructor in Mental Health First Aid, part of our job is to destigmatize mental illness. One of the first ways to do this is changing how we talk about it. For example, instead of saying "committed" suicide, it is better to say "died by suicide". The word "commit" can have very negative connotations in this context, and is judgmental towards the individual.
ReplyDeleteOh, i've never thought of that. In Swedish you say "took suicide" or "took his/her own life" etc.
DeleteThe word commit can be very positive, when it refers to things like relationships, marriage, careers, children, vocation, etc. But, in the mental health world, the word commit is often used in reference to involuntary hospitalization, prison, crimes, etc. And, in reference to suicide, the word commit comes across as judgment or blaming the individual. When someone reaches that dark place where their level of emotional pain surpasses their ability to cope, they are trying to find an end to their pain. They deserve compassion. This is why learning Mental Health First Aid is so important, because it allows us to learn how to help someone in crisis and to destigmatize what they are going through. That's why I love teaching this course!
DeleteI am a native speaker of American English, Rebecca, and I have never heard this before either. Please explain the objection, Sarah?
DeleteMy two cents... the word has different meanings and I would never associate the negative with the positive (or vice versa) to be honest.
DeleteDid her stylist have the day off? This is a big miss in my view - busy print for the style of dress, should have been more of a fall color than spring; could have added a belt, shoes and clutch to tie in the floral print, kept the neck tie at home - maybe use this dress for Princess Charlotte's dress-up trunk.
ReplyDeleteAdmittedly this is very superficial as compared to the day's events, but this is the best her hair has looked in quite some time. It always looks like she went back to Richard Ward instead of using her current stylist.
ReplyDeleteIt's all well and nice that they are talking to people about these issues, but it would be nice if they did some work with a direct impact in terms of volunteer work. Or do we know if they give financially to any of these organizations? Surely they could spare a designer dress or two.
well comrade@22:51
DeleteI believe their charitable trust supports one or more, if not all, of the charities involved there today. They are doing volunteer work by showing up to the events to bring attention to them. Kate usually rewears her designer dress so don't begrudge her dresses for formal events she attends. Once she gets done wearing and rewearing the gowns she would likely do a charity auction.
I am sure they donate to causes from time to time. Sometimes they do it "publically" (as in saying, TRH donated an unspecified amount to this cause etc.) but I'm sure most of their monitary donations is their private buissness just like it is when you and I do it :) (As it should be, I say!)
DeleteWhat do you think William is doing all the time with his job? He is helping people in danger, in terrible situations, with terrible effects on their mental condition. Is it possible that alot of people can't do this small connection?
DeleteCertainly a very pretty and feminine dress. As others have pointed out, the dress is cut strangely and rides up in a weird way - even on the model - unacceptable at that price point. None the less, Kate looks lovely - definately a Spring dress, not a fall dress.
ReplyDeleteBelt, belt my kingdom for a belt!
ReplyDeleteBecause the dress falls above Catherine's natural waist, I believe a wide belt, especially something that contributes to the '70's vibe is called for. A good example is the Boho Wrap belt at Nordstrom's. Some bohemian belt would make the outfit
The dress looks really off without the self tie at the bottom of the bodice - with that tie there, the dress looks like it's an elongated empire waist - without it like Kate wore it, it looks like the dress is too short-waisted for her.
ReplyDeleteLovely dress and a definite nod to the "Light Up Purple" campaign for World Health Day 2016. There's a beautiful photo on twitter of the purple lit fountains in Trafalgar Square in honor of the event.
ReplyDeleteI thought the trio gave very nice speeches and looked to be engaged at each part of the day.
I have been a long time reader of this blog and love all your work. Never been tempted to post before but today's outfit has left me speechless. My mother wore this type of dress in the 70's, including the pussy cat bow and I wasn't a fan even then. The overpowering pattern, pleated skirt, chiffon material and retro style just leaves me cold. Sorry if I am offending lovers of the dress but to me it looks so unoriginal and ageing. The word that springs to mind is - fussy. But hey, that's just my opinion.
ReplyDeleteHahha, a fair warning.. don't look in fashionmagazines and prepare yourself. Pussy bows, dust ruffle skirts, flowy fabrics, bib collars, it's all coming back!
DeleteYou have been warning us Rebecca, thanks. :)
DeleteHas anyone been listening?
What a wonderful engagement for the three of them. Catherine looked lovely as usual. Her hair is getting longer again. I really liked it when she cut a few inches off, but it probably gives her more styling options with the longer length? In my opinion the dress is way too prim and old fashioned for her - she is young and vibrant and I wish she would dress more to reflect that. It's just "ewww" for me, a bit frumpy. Love those shoes! Thanks for a wonderful post, I always enjoy reading them.
ReplyDeleteNot my fave dress but she pulls it off well. also a great cause! Thank you Charlotte
ReplyDeleteThis dress looks way too flowery for me,,,the print is just way too busy-like wallpaper or a flower pot. I love her hair color though,,it is a new haircolor for her and it actually works well with the dress color. I was expecting a coat since its starting to get cooler but, maybe at her next engagement:) Thank You Charlotte!XOXO
ReplyDeleteI think this charity work is fantastic! Kate looks so beautiful and radiant, and it's a very pretty dress. People are so tough on this woman who every day does her best, just like the rest of us.
ReplyDeleteBEAUTIFUL, FLIRTY, FEMININE, AND JUST VERY, VERY PRETTY. I don't understand all the harsh criticisms. Give the girl some slack. She's there to do good. Sounds like that counts for little if you don't wear
ReplyDeletesomething that pleases everyone. This girl just can't win with you. It is enough to make me say adios to the peanut gallery.
I love those earrings. And the shoes. The dress, meh. It's the waist, it throws the whole dress off. But the whole day is a great cause. It's great to see them out and about.
ReplyDeleteWas reading the details of the day and the various programs.
ReplyDeleteKate's yellow and white sheath dress that she wore in the Australia/New Zealand tour would have been bang-on PERFECTION to bring attention to the "Hello Yellow" campaign. Absolutely perfect. And she looked stunning in it and that sheath, fitted skirt flattered her like nobody's business, despite William's whinging that it looked like a banana. So what? He dresses like a middle-class, middle-aged suburban nine-to-fiver most of the time.
If Kate had worn the yellow sheath, THAT would have been style! Put a pair of nude pumps with it, find a witty sunflower-themed clutch to add a bit of wit and whimsy, she's got a pair of yellow diamond drop earrings. Perfect!
This Kate Spade dress is, in concept, pretty but it's just all wrong. The waist is weirdly high and badly tailored, the belt at the neck is terrible and it just looks like something Kate snagged out of Carole's 1970s donation bag to a thrift store.
That fact that a meeting with Carol Todd wasn't included in their Canadian visit points up, yet again, that the tour was purely a political carrot dangled in front of the First Nations and others to quell their protests over Trudeau's failure to deliver on his campaign promises as well as for them to pipe down on the several land rights issues going on along Canada's West Coast.
ReplyDeleteI cannot imagine, knowing their interest in the mental health issue, given that Kate was herself bullied as a young girl (she switched schools because of it) and given the attention that the two would have brought to Mrs. Todd's fundraising efforts, that she would have refused a meeting with them, nor they with her, had it been offered.
I still stick to my original conclusion that this time, they were used as political and PR pawns by both the British government as well as the Canadian leadership. The fact that they were allowed to take both children along tells me that was the concession granted by the Palace to stop any protests or objections from Will and Kate about going on what was so clearly a photo op/grip and grin junket.
Also, while they're hopefully hiring an actual stylist, could they also please just hire a competent press secretary so they can get in front of the reporters - WHO ARE ALONG ON THE EVENTS WITH THEM - and speak vs. having the Palace issue those odd press releases about the event and what the royals are "feeling" and their thoughts on the topic - as the event is under way? It's just bizarre. I get they don't want to talk a ton but issuing those same-time press releases describing what the royals are doing/saying/feeling about the topic and the event gives the impression they're not smart enough to describe it themselves. They're all three very articulate and have an easy way with reporters - when given the chance to speak on their own.
It's a press style set by the queen, 02:56. She is still queen and likely
Deletehas a bit to do with who, what,when,where, and why royals speak directly to the press, especially when they are directly representing HM.
I looked at the pics earlier and have now come back to them and honestly. I hate this dress. I don't think it really does anything for her and looks badly fitted to me. One of the few absolutely total misses she has had.
ReplyDeleteAlso, I just watched the clip of Kate's remarks. Given how short an address it was, I feel she could have learned it a little better and actually looked at the audience more. She would barely glance up and then right back to the paper.
ReplyDeleteThis dress is one of my favorites. Bringing sexy back but in a very good way. Girly girl dresses rock.
ReplyDeleteI like the dress very much, but agree that a belt would have been nice. Perhaps a color to coordinate with the rose pattern...plus matching shoes and bag.
ReplyDeleteReading all these comments has made me extremely sad and actually quite angry. It's Mental Health Awareness Week, and yet all anyone can talk about is what Kate is wearing? All these 3 are trying to do is raise awareness for illnesses that are extremely debilitating for the sufferers (myself included), and hardly anyone seems to care. Of course, there is an element of fashion to this blog, but Charlotte puts so much effort into writing about the reason for the engagement BEFORE writing about what Kate wears. Why do you think this is? Perhaps because it's actually the most important thing?
ReplyDeleteGood point. Charlotte does a marvellous job of providing background information for each engagement. This cause is particularly personal to me too, but I imagine that mental health is an issue that would touch every reader of this blog ... either directly or via a relative or friend. I would have loved to hear more stories from the people they met at the reception. From the 'Photo Booth' shots, there seems to be some very interesting people with enlightening stories. What a fantastic cause and message the three of them promoted today.
DeleteNot sure if anyone else has commented on this yet, but has anyone else noticed Kate has kept her nails manicured and polished since Canada? Her hands look great!
ReplyDeleteThe Duchess must be an incredibly strong woman. To endure the type of never ending criticism that she receives with out ever hitting back makes me admire her so very much. She exhibits more class than most of us do here on this forum. So many seem to enjoy slinging mud at her for no reason other than she's not a robot who does not do things the way we would. Does it ever occur to anyone else that you/we could contribute to harming her mental
ReplyDeleteI also notice that many people criticize Prince William for everything from working as an air ambulance pilot to not wearing his emotions on his sleeves. It seems that he is suppose to be exactly like his mom or its not good enough. That is just plain silly. He is his own person as he should be. He shouldn't have to share every feeling or thought that he has in order to do his job. Not everyone is a fan of being touchy/feely. The Queen is certainly not. Yet you admire her. If not for William annd Catherine I would have no interest in the Royal family. Seeing them with their children solidified my opinion that they are great parents who are trying really hard to do their duty and raise happy healthy children. Bravo to them!
Lastly, to those who think that Harry would be a better King, be careful what you ask for.
Harry has never had to live with that realty day in day out. He might find it a bit harsh and difficult to deal with. He's always had William as a buffer. The grass is not always greener.
You have problem with people critising Kate or William but you have no problem with throwing Harry understand the bus! Lol
DeleteI don't think Anon 8:49 has thrown Harry under the bus. She/he is simply stating the truth. Harry is able to be who is more freely because of his role in the BRF and he has not had the training that William has had from the Queen. Harry has publicly admitted that he is relieved that he is moving further away from being in line to the throne and it is well known that William acted as a buffer for Harry especially when they were younger. They are both terrific guys and bring different aspects to different roles.
DeleteThere's a fine old expression I believe by President Truman - if you can't stand the heat - don't marry into the kitchen. Kate had ten years to decide if this is the life she wanted - ten years where she mostly partied and played. She entered into the royal family with tremendous good will but neither she nor William have stayed on a continuous course of royal duties - it's improving now as their popularity has suffered but there were some very light years in there - light years that some of feel the royal family could ill afford and which has helped lead to a void that has contributed to the rise of republicanism. William and Kate aren't the only part of this - but especially with people who believe as you say you do, and are only interested in them - there is going to be a huge weight of expectation on them. I hope and will believe you plan be around when they are dull people of sixty in not so many years- I'm sure you will be, but many people who are briefly interested in youth and beauty won't be.
DeleteCriticism is part of life for all of us - don't read our briefings at work and the majority of us won't last long at work - we'll get the sack. A violinist may spend countless hours of practice only to have his or her performance trashed, an actor or actress likewise - political spouses - many unlike Kate who may not have realized exactly what they were getting into have their lives shredded.
Kate is such a lucky girl. She had no expectations of preparations before her marriage and she didn't do any. Every where she goes, she is handed flowers (waggling the bouquet to get someone to relieve her of it without even saying thank you) - she's been given two places to live and enormous privileges for a few hours of work here and there on a schedule considerably within her own control = she has had the opportunity to be a stay-at-home mum where most mums have to work and are spending according to a recent article a third of their income on necessary childcare. And now we aren't even supposed to be allowed to question what Kate does - but accept what she deigns to give. It's almost enough to make this old royalist go republican - after all what is the point of royalty if not defined by service and duty - we are reminded - and I agree -- they aren't celebrities.
I don't think William is a bad man at all - I think he has a good way with the crowds - so does Harry, even more so, and so does Kate - there is promise in all three - but they are all in the prime of their life now - and every year as they age, more and more is going to be expected. I quite honestly don't think enough public work has been expected of the three at the moment - the queen tends to let her family rise and fall -and some have fallen hard - while Charles and William clearly aren't close - for good reason.
If Kate didn't want to face constant scrutiny she should have back away - others like Chelsy (who I think loved Harry as much as Kate loves William) decided the life wasn't for her. Kate rode through a break-up in public - I think she is one tough girl - but her polish will come from practice and dedication. And for the sake of the monarchy, I hope Kate is as popular at seventy as she is now, because she is all we have.
Totally agree with 8:49 and 15:56. And pointing out the reality of W&H's very different roles and the expectations that come with it is not throwing anyone under the bus.
DeleteIf you look at history, some of the most successful monarchs were not first in line for the throne which implies that natural aptitude is more important than training.
DeleteRaising children to be productive adults is a laudable goal, but has nothing to do with the royal family. And I agree with Julia. Kate is a lucky woman who got where she is by hanging in the longest. Not only did she ride through a break up in public, she didn't seem to shy away from being photographed looking very good and happy during it either. I'm glad she is stepping up more now, but if you believe Ephraim Hardcastle in the Dreaded Lying Daily Mail, she resisted -- even when asked by the Queen -- prior to now.
The line about resistance seems to have been tagged on at the end to get the usual Daily Mail dig in, so in this case I don't believe it. How does this gel with multiple reports that this couple have the blessing of the Queen in the way they are approaching royal duties? It looks as if they will continue to increase engagements as they transition into full time roles when William leaves his air ambulance job. Unless of course Kate falls pregnant soon.
DeleteWhew, what a dark analysis, Leo! Part of the preceding conversation was about Prince Harry. The original comment was a positive look at the work of Prince William and his wife. To follow up from that, have you looked at the next post, about Kate's very interesting day in the Netherlands? Have you seen the pictures of William conducting an Investiture in London at the same time? Did you follow the Canadian tour? Were you aware then of the Cambridges' cordial meetings with First Nations people and their care of their children? Have you looked at the sidebar calendar of coming events? Are you not struck by the way the younger royals are now often in the public eye more that C&C? Don't you think that is a very wise move?
Delete"She is all we have" is a strange and negative way of commenting about a beautiful and energetic Duchess whose public work is increasingly thoughtful and caring. I continue to find too much Diana nostalgia in commentary about Kate. I wonder whether "she is all we have" stems from that. Even so, I am surprised that you do not find Kate a wonderful gift to the royal family and your country. I am glad she is a member of the world of my children and grandchildren!
Anyone notice that the bouquets Kate's been receiving lately match or compliment her outfits. Today the bouquet was also the purple of the day.
ReplyDeleteActually quite liked the dress, very feminine! But i am getting really sooo bored with the LK Bennett Nina clutch. Kate has loads of neutral clutches to choose from but she is over using this very boring + bland clutch. Nice shoes but she needs to stop using the same clutch over + over. Rant over, sorry.
ReplyDeleteWith all the dysfunction we have seen from the royal family in years past, Wiiliam, Kate and Harry are a miraculously huge improvement. Faultless in my opinion as a matter of fact.
Delete12:36, AMEN.
DeleteI watched the video summary of the day that KP released on twitter. Catherine looked very moved by what the two NHS paramedics were talking about. Geez, I was moved too. That's what today was about! Not the dress (although I thought it looked lovely, but that's beside the point :0 )
ReplyDeleteCara, Australia
I think yesterday was the perfect day to focus on mental health, even online. Thank you to all the comments who touched on the importance of that and to those who refrained from judging on matters we know nothing of. Let us keep it in mind everyday and always.
ReplyDeleteShe looks so buttoned up and prim, its unbelievable.
ReplyDeleteBut she grabbed a microphone, and said something - and for a good cause. So .... rock on!
Kate looks lovely & this dress is beautiful on her but boy does it ever need a belt to finish it. Also it's a bit highwaisted. Doesn't sit at her normal waist. A belt would be lovely in the color of the flowers with purse & shoes in the same colour.
ReplyDeleteYou're completely right. The first time I looked at it I thought, 'beautiful print, but where is the belt?' The dress looks unfinished without one.
DeleteI love this suit dress it looks beautiful on her and very professional . a great way to represent the Queen on this tour.
ReplyDeleteI love about 95% of her choices, but I died a little when I scrolled down and saw this Kate Spade dress with the nude heels. They are lovely heels, but as the Kate Spade brand is all about color, I would have LOVED to see a bold or bright pump with it. Also, she looked a bit washed out in this without a little color in her cheeks or lips.
ReplyDeleteAmazing cause and speech though!
I prefer the dress with the belt, but it is a lovely dress. A bit old for her I think.
ReplyDeleteThose gorgeous shoes that she wore with the D&G lace dress would have looked so nice with this dress.
ReplyDelete