Saturday 20 May 2017

Radiant Bride Pippa Middleton Marries James Matthews Surrounded by Family and Friends

The big day has arrived! Following months of planning, excitement and anticipation what has become known as the society wedding of 2017 took place this morning as Pippa Middleton and James Matthews got married at St Mark's Church, Englefield.


A beaming Michael and Pippa arrived in an open-topped vintage Jaguar.


The Duchess arrived with the bridesmaids and pageboys ahead of Pippa. They included Prince George, Princess Charlotte, Countess Philippa Hoyos, Lily French, Avia Horner, Casimir Tatos, Edward Sebire and William Ward. They were in adorable ensembles commissioned from Pepa & Co.


Kate attempts to keep the children quiet.


I love this photo of Kate and the children watching Pippa's arrival :)


Kate and Charlotte enjoying a peek. :)


George and Charlotte with Nanny Maria Teresa wearing her Norland uniform.


Princess Charlotte takes a look around before resuming her bridesmaid duties.


Whilst the Duchess didn't have a 'formal role', she carried out the duties of a matron of honour escorting the children and adjusting Pippa's train.


Of course, the scene is very much reminiscent from the royal wedding in 2011. I'm sure Kate was delighted to return the favour and be there by her sister's side today.


William and Harry arrived at St Mark's together shortly before the ceremony began. Harry was not accompanied by his girlfriend Meghan Markle although it is expected she will join him at the reception.


A smiling Carole and James Middleton arriving. As she did for the royal wedding, Carole chose a pastel pink Catherine Walker coat-dress with a nipped waist and button down front. She teamed it with a wide-brim hat.


James Middleton's girlfriend Donna Air opted for a cream Emilia Wickstead design and a Jane Taylor hat.


Princess Eugenie in a navy open-shoulder Paule Ka dress.


William and Kate's close friends James and Laura Meade also attended. James Meade is a very close friend of Prince William and delivered the joint best man's speech with Thomas van Straubenzee at the royal wedding in 2011. The Old Etonians poked fun at the Prince during the speech saying "he tries to be a man of the people, but his student cupboards were jam-packed full of Duchy Originals". William attended his stag do last month, a surfing weekend in Devon, and Mr Meade is also very friendly with the Duchess, whom he escorted to the 2007 Badminton Horse Trials during William and Kate's brief separation. James was chosen as one of Princess Charlotte's godparents. The couple were joined by another of Charlotte's godparents - Kate's close friend Sophie Carter.


Gary Goldsmith and his daughter Tallulah.


King of tennis Roger Federer and his wife Mirka beamed as they walked to the church.


Parents of the groom David and Jane Matthews.


Claudia and Tom Bradby.


The happy couple. :)


Mr and Mrs Matthews looking very happy as they walked hand in hand!


A beautiful photo.


St Mark’s Church in Englefield, Berkshire, just six miles from the quaint village of Bucklebury where Kate, Pippa and James grew up, was a perfect choice for the ceremony. The Middletons reportedly attend the church regularly; they were joined by the Cambridges, Pippa and James Matthews for Christmas Day service in December. The ceremony was officiated by Rev. Nick Wynne-Jones. James and Pippa have been friends for over a decade, and briefly dated in 2012 before rekindling their romance in 2015. After less than a year as a couple James proposed with a three-carat Asscher-cut diamond from jeweller Robinson Pelham. Financier James is the chief executive of Mayfair-based Eden Rock Capital Management Group, which he co-founded in 2001.


The parish church, dedicated to St Mark, consists of a tower and a spire, nave, south aisle, chancel and north aisle (or Englefield Chapel). It was extensively restored by Sir George Gilbert Scott in 1857. In 1868, the tower was added in thirteenth century style, surmounted by a stone broach spire. The earliest part of the church, the nave, dates from about the year 1190, when the Norman style was giving way to the Early English style of architecture. The arcade, between the nave and the south aisle, the eastern triple window of the south aisle, the several doorways and the older of the two fonts are good examples of this transitional period. It's a beautiful church and a lovely choice.


Kate and Pippa were all smiles as they left the church.


Kate and Charlotte.


The Duchess left with the children following the ceremony.


A wave from Prince George.


The Middletons and the Matthews leave.


Kate said she was a little anxious about today but by all accounts these two did splendidly! :)


Pippa was a radiant bride in a bespoke Giles Deacon creation - crafted to give the impression of being seamless. Giles said of the collaboration: "I was thrilled to work with Pippa on her wedding dress. The dress is constructed with a cap sleeve, high neckline and features a corseted bodice with draping to the front and a heart-shaped detail at the back. The bespoke silk cotton lace was hand appliquéd to create the illusion of the dress having 'no seams'. The lace bodice is embroidered with pearl detailing over an organza and tulle underskirt, which has layer upon layer to enable a floor-sweeping movement. It's a privilege to show the craftsmanship that my team produces in London and a real testament to Pippa's support of British fashion." 


It's a beautiful gown, the cut out detail on the back offers a romantic twist on an elegant design. The dress was perfect for Pippa!


The bride wore a veil by milliner Stephen Jones made from fine tulle with a dégradé of embroidered tulle. Pippa's 'Maidenhair Fern Tiara' with matching headpiece was hand made by Robinson Pelham. Pol Garcia did Pippa's hair for the day, both Pippa and Carole have been clients of his for some time.


Pippa's earrings are a familiar pair: the bride wore the Robinson Pelham diamond drop earrings which were originally commissioned for the royal wedding in 2011.

Robinson Pelham

The Telegraph reports: "The diamond earrings were part of a set of jewellery commissioned by the Middleton family for the royal wedding, from Chelsea-based jeweller Robinson Pelham. The Duchess's earrings featured an acorn and an oak leaf, both part of the Middleton family's coat of arms, while Pippa's pair had a more understated, classic pear-cut diamond drop hanging from a floral motif. It's these earrings that Pippa has chosen to recycle for her own big day, indicating their significance to the bride."


Another look at the tiara and earrings.


Pippa's ivory satin shoes are the Manolo Blahnik Seneca style. "Carefully constructed from lustrous oyster grey satin, these sought-after shoes can fit seamlessly into any formal occasion, from a wedding to a back tie ball. These Seneca Manolo Blahnik sandals feature a sleek pointed toe, a signature crystal embellished buckle and an ankle strap with side buckle fastening. They are available in limited sizes at FarFetch and Savannahs. With thanks to Middleton Maven!

The bridal bouquet by Lavender Green flowers was a collection of Peony, Sweet Pea, Astilba, Fressia, Waxflower, Green Bell and Alchemilla mollis.


A closer look at page boy George.


And two-year-old bridesmaid Princess Charlotte.


The bride and groom leave the church.


The Sunday Times reports Kate read a prayer during the service. More from the article:

'While Pippa looked resplendent in a Giles Deacon dress and the groom James Matthews looked like the cat who had got all the double cream, it was the gaggle of eight pageboys and bridesmaids — including Prince George and Princess Charlotte — who caught the eye. Not always for the most charming reasons: one pageboy appeared to flash a two-finger salute at photographers gathered for the big day, dubbed “the wedding of the rear”, and George was spotted in tears after being scolded by his mother.
The service included the hymns Tell Out My Soul, I Vow to Thee My Country and Be Thou My Vision. The Duchess of Cambridge read a prayer while the bride’s brother James Middleton and the best man Spencer Matthews gave readings.
A guest inside the church said: “It was an absolutely gorgeous atmosphere. The bride looked stunning and Michael [Middleton, the father of the bride] looked puffed with pride. Prince George was being very cheeky and playful, entertaining the bridesmaids, and he seemed to be hugely enjoying himself. “The flowers were like nothing I’ve ever seen, every inch of the church was decorated. The flowers alone must have cost tens of thousands of pounds.'

The Sun reports Kate sketched a picture for the Order of Service

"Art-fan Kate created the piece which sister Pippa and groom James Matthews printed in the order of service for the big day. The piece was printed in the order of service and wowed guests at the wedding service in the church which dates back to the 12th century on Saturday. Reverend Nick Wynne-Jones, who led proceedings, said it was a “lovely piece”. And later groom James gushed over his new sister-in-law’s drawing during his speech to around 300 guests. Speaking late in the night at 11.30pm, he said: “And to Pippa’s sister Kate, such ability – a beautiful drawing of St Mark’s church in the order of service." Then, referring to Kate’s reading as well as Prince George and Princess Charlotte as pageboy and pagegirl, he added: “A flawless reading and a kind loan of two adorable little ones.”

A glimpse of Kate's sketch.


Afterwards guests walked to Englefield House for a reception of champagne and canapés. It is understood speeches from Michael Middleton, James Matthew and his brother Spencer were made at the reception.


This evening, guests will gather inside the sparkling glass building erected on the grounds of the Middleton family home for a glittering Scottish-themed evening. The Mail reports: "The 300 guests at the wedding are set to enjoy a wealth of food sourced from the region around Glen Affric, including haggis canapés and lamb, all washed down with local whisky. The couple have even brought in a bagpiper."


The Duchess looked regal in a bespoke Alexander McQueen dress. More from Harper's Bazaar: "The Duchess of Cambridge wore Alexander McQueen to Pippa Middleton's wedding today, the same designer she wore to her own wedding in 2011. She chose a somewhat less dramatic look for her sister's nuptials - an understated pale pink, ankle-length dress, which she paired with a matching fascinator. The Duchess visited McQueen's HQ in recent weeks to meet with Sarah Burton to discuss the design. Presumably the Duchess didn't want to overshadow her sister on her big day, thus the pared-down, yet elegant look. The decision shows Kate's ongoing loyalty to the British brand, which she's worn on multiple occasions since the royal wedding."


The pale pink dress was an excellent choice for the day, encompassing a classic McQueen silhouette for an overall regal look without risk of overshadowing the bride. Kate's dress encompasses elements of the Ruched Wrap Long Dress and the past season Ivory Bell Sleeve Wool Crepe Dress (with thanks to MF Stylist Perth).

McQueen

The Duchess wore a bespoke hat by milliner Jane Taylor.


The Duchess wore a striking morganite pair of earrings by Kiki McDonough. Rebecca English noted the special edition pair are worth £7,000.

Kiki McDonough

Kate completed the look with her Gianvito Rossi Praline Pumps.

My Theresa

You can view an arrival video here.


And a departure video here.


A nice wrap up video from The Telegraph.


The couple drove off in a classic car.


At the wedding reception, guests changed into glamorous evening looks before enjoying a delicious meal. The Sun reported "Music could be heard belting out from the glass marquee from a live band on Saturday evening, including jazz renditions of Call on Me by Eric Prydz and The White Stripes banger Seven Nation Army. Best man Spencer Matthews, the younger brother of groom James, could be heard earning rounds of applause speech which took place at the late hour of 11pm.". Prince Harry drove back to London to take his girlfriend Meghan Markle to the reception. Meghan reportedly wore a black gown and a white jacket.

Mail Online Twitter Feed

A video of the Spitfire flypast.


The bride and groom, William, Kate, Harry, Meghan and guests enjoyed a night of dancing until 4 a.m. The Mail reports "Hundreds of VIP guests watched as footage of Pippa Middleton and her new husband was beamed onto the back of her family's £6million Berkshire mansion in a dazzling display during the reception on Saturday night. The newlyweds' faces were projected onto the windows of Bucklebury Manor along with psychedelic lights and, at one point, what appeared to be the silhouette of a shapely dancing woman against a green background." It sounds like it was a fabulous night.

Daily Mail U.K. Twitter Feed

Congratulations James and Pippa! 


Wishing the couple a lifetime of happiness!

288 comments:

  1. Rebecca - Sweden20 May 2017 at 15:10

    Really fun following this live! (And most of this comment was written as the pictures came in so fair warning for major squeeing and general hype in this comment!)

    My god. George and Charlotte!!!!!! Absolutley precious!

    I love that Kate was "in charge" of the kids! So nice to see her involved in the wedding like that even without a role in the bridal party. Shushing and "herding" the kids! Adorable!
    What a fun day it must be for the family! And also loved Kate helping Pipa with the veil etc. It's so nice seeing them acting as the family they are! She really was acting like the perfect supportive sister making sure she was present but not overpowering! So nice to see! And the pictures with all those kids in tow is absolutley adorable! A mother hen!

    I love that Carole and Kate matched the flowers!!

    I love Kate's look! So elegant as well!! The silouette is great and the v-necks stops it from getting too matronly. And a very pretty hat as well!! I love the retro/40s feel of it and how she's muted and blends in with the bridal party but still looks very stunning in her own right! I like how the peplum and tailoring is quite sleek. It balances out the general "poofiness" of the dress. Very nice.

    And I adore her earrings. I'm very very fond of that colour and have looked many times at these earrings on the website. Very pretty!

    Pippa looks absolutley splendid! Really elegant! Absolutley perfect. Elegant but not stale. Her hairpiece was perfect. Everything was really really nice! Good for her! And I love that she rewore the earrings she wore to Kate's wedding!

    It has been so amazing just basking in the happiness. So many big smiles. Heartwarming!

    Congratulations to the happy couple and hope they and their family and friends have a splendid day!!

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    1. Rebecca-you have the best comments. :)

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    2. Anonymous in Colorado20 May 2017 at 16:18

      I echo all of your sentiments, Rebecca! It warms my heart to see Kate minding the kids & assisting her sister. Exact role reversal of the royal wedding. OMG those kids are off the charts adorable!!!! Princess Charlotte, two going on too much!!!

      Pippa looked radiant & utterly gorgeous. I admit, her dress was underwhelming to me at first (expectations were unreasonably high) but the more I study it, the more I love it. Pippa wore it well, her toned arms! So sweet to see those earrings again.

      Kate's dress is so retro & I actually really love it. Some shots show some "saggy" ahem features but overall I thought it was lovely & didn't steal the show.

      Thanks a million for all this, Charlotte!! This excitement brings back so many warm fuzzies from the royal wedding 6 years ago!!!

      xo

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    3. The children scattering flower petals in the departure video was beyond precious! One is straight-up chucking them in the air, another is gently dropping them on the ground, and George turns around looking for Aunt Pippa's approval that he's doing it correctly. I loved it!

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    4. What Rebecca said!

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  2. I love that Kate's dress coordinates with the pale pink of the flower girls! Everyone looks lovely.

    Pippa's bouquet is so similar to Kate's. I wonder if it's a popular design or she copied on purpose.

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    1. I was thinking the same thing. I love that kates dress was the same colour as the bow on princess Charlotte. It was nice to see her helping her sister with the train and minding the children. And Pippa looked amazing. Thanks so much for the post amazing!!

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  3. Pippa's dress was beautiful, but the tiara was overkill. Kate looked matronly and the bustline of the dress looked hideously saggy. Carol Middleton looked fabulous and the mother of the groom looked lovely, too.

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    1. Agree on Kate. I couldn't believe the tailoring considering the likely cost. It was so aging. She looked so much older than her years, like a friend of the parents. Compare to Donna Air and others who were subdued but vibrant. I don't get it.
      And the flaps and pleats at skirt, puffy sleeves, it just overwhelmed her and was not flattering at all.

      I liked Pippa's "tiara" just looked like a hairpiece to me really.

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    2. I suspect that the gathering in the bust line of Catherine's dress looked quite lovely rather than hideous or saggy if viewed in person. However, at some angles and due to shadows cast by the gathered fabric, that detail doesn't translate well into a 2-dimensional photo. Especially photos that are not part of a well-lit fashion shoot or digitally enhanced.

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    3. Thank you Charlotte for a lovely way to start a sunny May morning. As Victoria, BC is quite a few time zones behind I could wake up to the wedding photos.

      What an elegant gown. Understated simplicity. So hard to pull off. So suited to Pippa and highlighting all her best features. Her hair, make-up, earrings and veil are gorgeous, too. I love the diamond headband. Does that truly qualify as a tiara in the UK? As a headdress goes, it's amazingly modest, even less than a floral garland or crystal options many brides choose. So I don't get why there'd be a negative reaction to throwing a few diamonds into her hair. But then, I'm pretty Zen about this whole enterprise.

      The wedding seems to be going beautifully. For anyone who has been in event planning in any capacity, the attention to detail which creates this level of serenity and elegance is immediately obvious. Pippa and James look wonderfully happy and in love. Pippa has had to sacrifice a lot because of her sister's marriage to a future king. She's also drawn a great deal of bashing that is quite undeserved. I'm glad she is having a splendid wedding day of her design with her closest family members and friends. I wish her and James every happiness.


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    4. At first glance I wasn't a fan of the tiara either, but after seeing the video above I grew to like it more. It looked well with the headpiece, especially once the blush veil was turned back. As she and James are walking away from the church there's a nice view of the veil against the back of her gown; it's simple but lovely.

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    5. Yes, that bodice is quite unflattering. When I saw the first photo of Kate from the front, I thought, "Eww."

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    6. Rebecca - Sweden20 May 2017 at 17:55

      I don't think the bust is badly cut, per se. It's a stylistic choice, a very traditional 1940s cut. So it's not "badly cut". What it is though, is a very stylistic cut, a designchoice, that probably wont appeal to everyone. And that is ok. This dress in general is very 40s, which I happen to appriciate. But it is a non-safe choice and therefore will divide more opinions. I think the v-neck is a nice modernisation of this look instead of the typical high neck. Also the sturctured semi-peplum adds a modern and youthful touch to it. I really like this dress but can very clearly see why it wont appeal to everyone.

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    7. Lol Anett, we could think that Kate's hush was also for commenters in the blog!

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    8. The bodice-Philly, Kate was bending over tending to the children in so many photos, I wonder if the loose "give" of the material gave the saggy appearance when she bent forward? Marie

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    9. I also think it might be because she spent a lot of time leaning over. There are a few pics where she is kneeling but her top half is more upright. In those pics the fit appears correct. I think it's when she is constantly leaning over that changes the fit.

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  4. Sarah from Calif.20 May 2017 at 15:34

    Beautiful Charlotte, thank you for sharing.
    Love lace, Congratulations to the newlyweds, Kate, Charlotte and George Awesome!!!

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  5. Pippa looked stunning if I ever get married I'd like to look like she did her hair and makeup and dress were on point. I know Kate wore that dress to not overshadow the bride but she could have worn something more nice than that it's too old looking and Pippa certainly did try to not overshadow Kate on her own wedding dress in the very sexy bridesmaid dress she wore. Of course Kate as a royal would never do that but she could have worn something nicer and still not overshadow the bride. I wish Pippa and her husband many more years of happiness together. I find it sad that Harry is not able or does not bring his girlfriend with him.

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    1. I agree, Mellie. It was sad that Harry didn't have his girlfriend there with him. We'll see who Meghan invites to Westminster Abbey, lol.

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    2. I always thought it was unlikely that Meghan would be at the wedding because of not wishing to have the attention diverted from the bride plus she's not a close friend of Pippa or James (yet). Can't wait to see if there are pictures of her tonight! That "no ring/no bring" was nonsense that the media made up. Look how many of the guests brought boyfriends/girlfriends (e.g. Eugenie who looked the best I've ever seen her look!)

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  6. Some thoughts:
    Love Pippa's while look. Very elegant.
    Kate's dress is lovely. Love the retro feel of it. Also like how she coordinated with the wedding party. She could almost a partial owner in Kiki's jewelry company with all of the earrings she has by them! This pair is particularly nice.
    Love the heart shaped baby's breath flowers that Charlotte is carrying inside the church. I saw clearer pics of it somewhere else I think.
    Not too crazy about Carol's dress, but it's not awful.

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  7. Nice lace on the bridal gown - I think Pippa should have not worn anything shaped like a tiara as a headpiece. Not a fan of Kate's dress at all. It's a blaugh color on her, and a tired looking silhouette.

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  8. Love the duchess dress so much... The colour, the hat, the updo. The children are so cute too. Like that Kate's dress matches the belt of the girls dresses.

    The flowers outside the church are beautiful too. Kate and the children are matching perfectly the flowers!

    Beautiful dress for pippa, bit for me personally there wasn't that wow factor. However, love the heart shape on in the back of the dress.

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    1. For me the wow factor was that there was no wow factor ☺ because everything was so simple and elegant, all in the details. This wedding for me was really close to perfection.

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    2. Agree, Paola. Marie

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    3. Paola, you summed it up beautifully. PERFECTION. This, IMO, is what a dream wedding looks like.

      The bride looked beautiful. I loved her dress and the hairstyle allowed the neckline (and back) to shine. The tiara was lovely and definitely not over the top. Kate's look was beautiful from head to toe. Carole looked great, once again. And what a proud and happy father Mike is (and handsome!).

      What a lovely family, on every level.

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    4. Just got a look at the pictures and I am blown away. Yes perfection indeed. I LOVED Pippa's dress. This silhouette and no-seam kind of dress is difficult to pull off because it highlights every lump and bump. So you have to not just be slender but literally have very little body fat content to wear it. I personally would have chosen sleevess over cap sleeves because I don't like the latter at all.
      The flowers framing the gate was just a lovely touch and the pictures with the kids - just picture perfect. Kate looked stunning as usual. I know we are all fans here but I do say that she is probably the most exquisite looking person wherever she is. It's sort of hard for her to stay in the background - your eyes will drift to her no matter who else is in the room. Hence the choice of the slightly matronly dress. I thought she was trying very hard to stay in the background and let Pippa shine. But the color really suited her. I hope she wears it again.
      The tiara and hair - I would not have worn that tiara or headpiece or whatever. Because it inevitably raises comparisons with Kate and makes it seem like she wants a tiara but can't afford a real one hence this dinky little thing. But the hair is beautiful. Pippa just looked perfect.. beautiful from head to toe.

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  9. Hmm i love the wedding gown pippa wedding.gown many copying. Her gown princess charlotte did a fantastic job as bridemaid. Duties. And prince george As pageboy was cute moments I love the duchess mother role on keeping the little bridesmaids. And little pageboys. Behave in.church I think the duchess. Has role me adjusting. Her sister train and keeping kids in order. Hmm i love princess eugeine and donna air. Dresses. Hmm and i love uncle gary. Daugther dress too i think. The. Media quoted no ring policy. No invite Looking forward. On wedding reception. Hmm pippa and james. Drove reminds me William and kate back buckingham

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  10. So lovely! I adore Pippa's dress. Actually the whole look. I love that she wore something 'old' in the earrings from her sister's wedding. Although the hairpiece might technically be a tiara, it's small and understated. I have seen many wear similar pieces that are really more like headbands or veil clips.

    Kate looked great. A new look, perfect for the day. I am a fan of v-necks and agree with Rebecca. It kept the dress from looking matronly. She is clearly used to being around small children and the kids seem to be on their best behavior, listening well.

    Charlotte and George. So stinking adorable. Charlotte with her tongue out! Shades of a young George and his facial expressions. I love the picture you posted of Kate and Charlotte looking out the door. I had seen a close up version before and thought they looked good but I love that they are looking at Aunt Pippa and Grandpa with huge smiles on their faces. Forget that mom and well, herself, I bet Charlotte thought Aunt Pippa looked like a princess in her pretty dress and veil.

    The closeness and ease of the family relations really comes through today. It's all about Pippa and everyone is so excited to celebrate it!

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  11. One other quick thought. I like how Nanny Maria Teresa is wearing her Norland uniform. I know some people think it's overkill or that she's "made" to wear it at formal events, but I don't think so. I think she's probably proud to be a Norland Nanny, and wants to wear her uniform for events like this. That's just my 2 cents.

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    1. Rebecca - Sweden20 May 2017 at 17:58

      She kind of is "made" to wear it. But not by the cambridges. It's the generally done thing for Norland Nannys. Like a police officer or military person might wear their dress uniform, this is the nannys dress uniform. I don't like the uniform itself, but I do see the pride in wearing it.

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    2. So far Maria only wore it at formal events: today and Charlotte's christening.

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    3. I've seen Norland nannies, with two separate families, in the drivers' lounge at the Goodwood Revival which is a multi-day event. Both were in their uniforms on the first day and in event appropriate attire for the remaining days. - Julie in CA

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    4. While I don't know if it's true, I heard staff isn't allowed to dress up for events, reason being is they're employer wants people to know "they are staff" and not guests.

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    5. Rebecca - Sweden20 May 2017 at 22:22

      I didn't mean she wears it while working, like a police officer. (Although, some of the nannys might do that), but that the uniform is like the dress uniform that can be worn at fancy event. The kind that goes under the morning coat/national dress/uniform kind of category.

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    6. The Norland uniform information from the college website: http://www.norland.co.uk/college/student-life/uniform/

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  12. Lovely lovely wedding. Everything is beautifully coordinated down to the smallest detail as if the set of a movie.

    Several standouts to me: the flowers are divine. The floral arches to enter the church are so beautiful as are the little girls' tiaras and heart bouquets.

    The clothing for the children is wonderful. Love the color palette and design. Not too costumey. Princess Charlotte has stolen the day imo.

    Love the vintage cars as well. Looking at Pippa's gown and Kate's dress along with the cars, I think they are going for a 1930's vintage feel here.

    Pippa is glowing and radiant. I am a little underwhelmed by her gown. It's lines are very similar to Kate's but not as impressive, so, unfortunately, I think comparisons will abound and not in Pippa's favor. I think a completely different style would have worked better for her but, obviously, this one is her vision and it is a beautiful dress. I think the tiara and veiling are very pretty.

    Undecided as of yet about Kate's ensemble. I get the 1930's silouette. She does look beautiful. The earrings are fabulous. Not sure if I think it works here or comes of as dowdy.

    The couple looks so happy. I hope this will be a happy marriage for them. Hoping we get reception pictures if only for the cherry blossoms.

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    1. I am happy, I am not alone, the same gown as Kate's feeling. I truly expected something different. Kate's looked more exquisite, although the budget was certainly not the same. But I had the feeling, I have seen it before. And yes, we did.

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    2. Anett, yes, the feel is similar to Kate's. I saw a side by side comparison in the DM and the lines are so very similar. The flow from the waist to the skirt to the train is the same. I wish she would have gone a different way to avoid that but this is what she wanted.

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    3. Kate's dress reminds me of this styling that the Duchess of Windsor really enjoyed. It does seem to age her a little bit -- maybe a bit matronly? Have a look at Wallis here: https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/564x/79/d6/cb/79d6cb93bbbe6222fbcf769488ec5c86.jpg and also here:http://i.dailymail.co.uk/i/pix/2011/03/05/article-1363229-0D7A8C3E000005DC-472_306x477.jpg

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    4. Anon 21:02, Kate's dress did remind me of some of Wallis Simpson's outfits. In some ways, Pippa and Kate's wedding gowns are similar, especially the skirt and the lace. I can't help but compare the two, which I found surprising, as I thought Pippa would've have chosen something completely different.

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  13. Gorgeous, Gorgeous! Pippa looked beautiful, I love her dress, so elegant and simple. The children were just adorable, and Kate was radiant corralling them. I love her outfit as well. Classic and regal. Everyone looked so happy, and the weather cooperated. The Middleton family were all stunning, and the groom's mother is a beauty. Just a fantastic day.

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  14. Pippa's looked stunning. I thought the profile of her dress is quite similar to Catherine's - the cut the the skirt and train. Loved how Carole and Kate both wore pink. They both looked so elegant! Kate's dress beautiful and flowy. Images of the guest very interesting - the British are so fashion forward and eclectic in their dress - but one thing for sure is the maxi dress is stronger than ever.

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    1. I love maxi dresses, I think they're very chic! Some of the fashion of the guests was a bit 'out there' for me, but at least it wasn't boring :) Eugenie looked great & Pip's niece, Tallulah, looked nice too.

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    2. *cousin, not niece LOL

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  15. USA: I adore Kate's look, or what I can see of it this far this morning. It's light, flowing, feminine. I think the neckline, sleeve style and skirt length are all prefect. Her hair and hat are lovely. The children look lovely too. Very sweet, muted color palette. The bride looked beautiful; her hair and veil and earrings were my favorite. I however was disappointed in the dress. The combination of the high neckline and short, cap sleeves seems off. And the lace everywhere seems very heavy, especially in combination with the high neck. I also didn't care for the back. But no matter what she wore shed be compared to Kate and that's an impossible act to follow. It just seems like her dress was a bit too close to Kate's and didn't come off so well. Just my humble opinion, I doubt she cares!! Such a great blog post! Thanks.

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    1. USA,

      I have seen Pippa's style of dress in bridal stores myself, in person. The back wasn't in a heart shape per se but pretty close. I have seen them in the cap sleeve and in long sleeve. The ones I've seen have covered buttons down the back also. They weren't seamless. I have seen that dress on the "Say Yes To The Dress" TV show from Seinfeld's in New York. In fact, more than one of their contributors on the show have said "Yes to that dress". Giles Deacon HAS to know that that is not an original design. Granted, his lace is more couture and the design is more clearly a heart but it is not a new design. The quality is not the same. His, of course, is better quality. Ultimately, I guess as long as Pippa felt special in it that is what matters though. Obviously she did.

      Delete
    2. The bridal store on Say Yes to the Dress is Kleinfeld's not Seinfeld's. I watch the show frequently and have never seen this dress. I think Giles Deacon has created a masterpiece.

      Delete

  16. Oh no, where is Meghan?? Did she really not invite her? Shame!

    Here comes my verdict: Pippa's dress is not my cup of tea. I am not a fan of lace, looks nice but expected something different to Kate'S. Same with the tiara, tick as Kate's.

    Liked Kate's look, minus Kikis.

    Kids are gorgeous but oh my, Charlotte needs a haircut. Seriously, I could hardly recognise her.

    Mirka Fed, Donna Air, Eugenie looked absolutely beautiful. Carol Middleton is meh.

    Congrats to the happy couple!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Meghan is most likely at the reception tonight, which is more appropriate.

      Delete
    2. I thought Carole looked wonderful, very elegant. And I don't understand about Princess Charlotte's hair. It is thick and wavy and lovely. She had it controlled nicely under the circlet of flowers. She is cute!

      Delete
  17. Everything is just stunning!! I love the seamless design of Pippa's dress. She looks so happy!!! The picture of the two little boys holding hands is so precious!! Also, Charlotte looking back as she entered the church is a phenomenal picture!! She definitely has her mother's hair. Prince George is growing up so much. And KATE!!! Oh my goodness!! She has never looked better! She looks like a Queen! And those earrings!! I fully expect Kiki McDonough to design her a tiara one day when she is the Queen. Everything is just perfection!!!!

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  18. I feel Kate missed the mark. She looked gorgeous with the hair and makeup and hat. The dress, however was blah! the color is beautiful but the cut with pleats or drape at the bust and the peplum was just not there. I thought Donna air and mother of the groom (Jane Matthews) really looked good. And definitely, the bride was gorgeous! The dress, makeup, hair was perfect.

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    1. Lol anon, for me Donna's outfit was a total miss ! It's really a matter of personal taste.

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    2. Laura in Canada20 May 2017 at 20:21

      I am with you Paola. Didn't like the shape of the skirt or the sleeves of Donnas dress. The shoes were cute.

      Delete
  19. Pippa's dress is stunning. Hopefully it will stop the tired and tacky trend of wedding dresses that look like cocktail dresses such a sad idea to show cleavage at your church wedding. Actually, everone looks great.

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  20. Jean from Lancs20 May 2017 at 16:13

    Catherine may not have been called Matron of Honour, but she surely carried out all the duties.
    Everyone looked great, including Princess Eugenie.

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    Replies
    1. Agree Jean. Not acknowledged as Matron of Honor but she sure was without a doubt.

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    2. Nice to see you, Jean! I agree that Kate was Matron of Honor, slash, Marshal of Children. She did a great job, and dressed in that beautiful shade of pink to coordinate with the little bridesmaids. I thought she was every inch who she is, but also the perfect attendant.

      By the way, do you remember whether Princess Margaret started the custom of children as bridal attendants? It seems to me that Princess Elizabeth's bridesmaids were grown. But Margaret was tiny and did not want to be overshadowed. I think.

      Anyway, this group were adorable, and apparently well behaved. Charlotte appeared to carry a flowered heart on the way into the church, but she and the other children had baskets on the way out, probably emptied of flower petals they scattered. Charlotte must have remembered the Christmas candy cane, and tasted the basket to see if she had been given another treat. :-)

      Nanny Theresa apparently took over after Kate was seated. If William was ushering, I suppose they both left their tasks to take their places for the service. So well organized, and it seemed to be altogether a very happy wedding.

      Delete
    3. Patricia-obviously, you are familiar with the Spanish protocol for names. It is indeed Theresa or Maria Theresa, not Maria. Marie

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    4. I know that because it has been explained here, Marie. I am surprised that the error continues in spite of good information provided by knowledgeable posters.

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  21. Congrats to pippa and James on becoming mrs& mr matthews today May your love for each other grow with lots of happiness for many years to come.god bless you both.

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  22. Oh my I have been waiting to see this all day! I was out and about with friends today and didn't see the post until now.
    I absolutely LOVE Pippa's dress! So stunning and the craftsmanship is superb. I love the small tiara/headpiece she is wearing. It is just right and I want to something like that for my wedding day!
    Kate looks beautiful but does not draw to much attention to herself in her dress or presence so as not to shadow the bride. I feel this is something she does so well!

    Could the little ones be any cuter? All of them are adorable but I think we had all been looking forward to seeing George and Charlotte in Auntie Pippa's Wedding. I really like the little baby's breath flower crowns!
    The pictures of Pippa with Papa Middleton are so lovely, Kate with the children are too cute and I just love the picture from behind the Page boys and bridesmaids of everyone coming down the steps is sure to be by far the favorite!

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  23. Everything was so lovely! Looks like it was an gorgeous day weather wise also.

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  24. Although Kate's smilling she looks unhappy in this dress. I can't explain that but this is not a dress of a young, happy woman.

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    Replies
    1. Rebecca - Sweden20 May 2017 at 18:01

      She doesn't look unhappy to me. Nor do the dress tell of her happyness.

      She looked tense at times, but considering she was herding 8 young kids it would be very odd NOT to look stressed and focused.

      Delete
    2. Justyna, I understand your point. I don't think for one minute Kate is an unhappy woman but I can see why you would say that. If I were to show up in that dress, my whole family would think I've sunk into a deep depression but I think Kate just has trouble navigating what she thinks she needs to look like in certain situations because of her position.

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    3. Justyna,

      I thought she looked "focused". A "look" that is common when overseeing 8 children in clothes they don't usually wear at functions they don't really understand. Universally, moms know that "look". Nothing some reception-time chilled vintage champagne won't change. 🥂 🎉

      Delete
    4. Kate was there in a supporting role and I think she was flawless in juggling her attention to the bride and the little ones.

      Delete
  25. Pippa was amazing. I've never really been a fan, but she really knocked it out of the ballpark with her young springtime bride look. So dewy and fresh: she really was radiant. And I am very proud of her, that she didn't "accentuate any body parts," so to speak: the high neckline was perfection and only added to the youthful, blushing bride look. Very tasteful and spot-on.

    Now...her sister. Oh, the Duchess was lovely and impeccably dressed. Perhaps it's the curse of royalty, but I agree with Virginia: too matronly...unless she wants to be thought of as a matriarch figure. Carol Middleton looked like a M-O-B, but with a youthful twist with a short, pink coat. The groom's parents just looked delighted all round: his mother looked very elegant.

    I am guessing that Megan will appear somewhere at a later date. With all the chit-chat about her finally being allowed to go to the ceremony, I wonder why she wasn't with the Prince?

    Now, as for Donna Airs' look...eh. But the woman with her in the navy eyelet dress: I want that dress! It's been beastly hot in the NYC (USA) area, and it would be perfect! Please let us know! Many thanks!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. I, too, am eyeing that navy dress! I love that and Princess Eugenie's dress. Clean, simple, classic.

      Delete
  26. The children looked adorable. I think Kate's look was absolute perfection. I wouldn't have changed a thing about it (and I say that as someone who thinks her looks are sometimes a total snooze and/or just not my taste). Pippa looked beautiful and happy. On the whole the event looked wonderful! I do wonder about Meghan though... totally expected her to be there based on recent reports.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. According to one of the reporters, Meghan was there but she snuck in through a side door to keep the press attention on the bride.

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    2. Then why would Harry leave the reception early without her as seen in photographs? Katy

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    3. I think Harry went to get her in London. The photos are available of Harry leaving the church.

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  27. How wonderfully happy they look!

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  28. Looks like a lovely wedding! I thought Pippa's dress was beautiful and the veil and "tiara" very understated. I didn't recognize Charlotte, she is losing her baby look and becoming a little girl. A beautiful little girl. In that one photo where she is looking back, in the church entryway, she looks so much like a young Elizabeth. And George, what a cutie!
    Personally, I don't like Kate's dress, the cut nor the color. I thought it was too matronly. And some of the other guests' clothes were quite wild. The man with the patterned red trousers?
    Small points though. The wedding was beautiful.

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    Replies
    1. Rebecca - Sweden20 May 2017 at 18:03

      I think the men with those trousers might have been wearing their family tartan possibly.

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    2. I thought they looked spiffy, lol. It is all about the tartan. "All is fair in love and tartan". ❤

      Delete
    3. Oh, you are right Rebecca. It might be the Macgregor tartan. Maybe they are Pippa's friends from Edinburgh University days. My Scottish paternal grandparents are whacking me on the head from their graves for comparing tartan trues to patterned red trousers....

      Delete
  29. Beautiful event! Thanks for posting all the photos! LOVE Pippa's dress! Different, modern, young, beautiful and conservative. I love wedding dresses that don't show off what should be saved for the groom later. The photos of the bride with her dad and later with her husband show such love between them. You can tell the bride and groom are genuinely happy. And the Duchess with the children! So adorable! Love seeing her mom-skills. She is such a natural with children. I know it wasn't stated, but I think she was the Matron of Honor. Her dress coordinated with the wedding party and she seemed to perform the role.

    A comment about her dress... Someone mentioned about the saggy look. I noticed that too from one of the photos and thought it a bit out of her style character to have something that doesn't fit to perfection. Then I noticed in the same photo that the wind is blowing her sleeves. I think the "saggy" look is just the wind blowing the fabric out of place. The Duchess is always so appropriately and elegantly dressed. Sometimes it may seem like she's dressing older than her age, but I think it is entirely intentional. She is the future queen. She obviously takes that role quite seriously. I think her intention is to be a great role model and be respectful to the monarchy and the people she interacts with and obviously cares so much about. My husband has been in a semi-public leadership role for years and I have had to adjust my dress to the culture as we moved as to not draw too much attention to my dress but keep the focus on my role of encouraging the people we interact with. Catherine has this down to an art.

    Thanks again for all the photos and videos! It has brought delight to my heart seeing the love and happiness of this family!

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    Replies
    1. OK. On looking at the video, uh, the dress is saggy. It's probably hard to have it sleek and fitted with that fabric. Nonetheless, she is always elegant and beautiful. We are the peanut gallery just looking and critiquing but in person there is so much action and excitement it probably wasn't noticed.

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  30. Enjoying all of this immensely this morning. I'll skip posting my thoughts on every element as so often someone (usually Rebecca-Sweden) has already commented how I feel but in a more eloquent way than I would. :)

    The thing that linger in my mind this morning after the big event is Kate's role - perfect and it endears me to her more. She was understated (that dress is awful in any other occasion - baggy, matronly) but perfect for today. She didn't stand out in any way and was happy to be one of the humble cogs in the wedding wheel that makes it all work. She was in charge of children and her sister's dress looking perfectly arranged. Kate was anything but a future Queen and 100% a happy, supportive sister. I imagine once all the kids are out of the picture (tonight for the party) she will breathe a sigh of relief and thoroughly enjoy the evening.

    Harper's Bazaar has photos of George being upset and being disciplined by Kate. In one shot she has full-blown "mom face" lol! I'm glad to see I'm not the only one who has had to make "that face" before when my kids were being less than little Princes!:)

    Pippa's dress is wonderful! I am just so tired of seeing strapless wedding gowns! I was afraid she would go that route but she didn't and the dress is beautiful.

    Hope they have fun tonight and hope for more pictures!

    Oh, I am not surprised they stayed at Kensington last night. I was wondering what they might do and I thought that Kate will do what is best for the kids and figured that the kids being home would be best. Between the reports of how she has them on a schedule, George being naturally "fiesty" and them having an important role in this wedding, they needed their rest. I also guess they will leave Bucklebury after the reception, go back to Kensington and have a normal afternoon for the kids and then go to the evening party while Maria puts them to bed. I imagine they'll come back to KP tonight even if it is 4am! :)

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    1. Full on 'mom face' and I think a finger point too!

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  31. Love, love, love Pippa's wedding dress! I actually love it more than Kate's wedding dress! It has a similar silhouette and style to Amal Clooney's wedding dress, with some differences. Where was Meghan Markle? Everyone is asking the same question... Are we going to see any of the guests arriving for the evening party?

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  32. I loved all of it. It was absolutely perfect. I loved that Kate got to be there for her sister. It made me sad to think she couldn't be a part of the wedding as to not overshadow Pippa but it looks like she had the perfect role. I loved Pippa's dress and wish I could marry my husband again to wear this elegant style! I loved the pale pink. Oh, and George and Charlotte were perfect!! This made my day!

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    1. Mrs. T. Not to worry, Kate still overshadowed Pippa, in my opinion. Her grace shone brightly through.

      Delete
    2. Florida Girl. "mom face", lol. Can we all relate or what? Except Kate's now goes worldwide. Yikes.

      I agree with you about their schedule for the afternoon and evening. Kate will be able to enjoy the day more then.

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  33. Sharyn from AUS20 May 2017 at 16:48

    It is 2.45am here so only couple of quick comments/questions before I go to sleep
    1. As much as I like Kate's look, it is not one I would replikate
    2. Eugenie's shoes are brilliant xo

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    1. I loved Eugenie's shoes too!

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  34. Just took a look at all the attendees on the Telegraph, my thoughts as follows:
    Pippa - absolutely ravishing, gorgeous dress. Her smile lights up every photo!
    Kate: she looks very nice, but her dress hangs a little heavy on her.
    Carole- pretty color but quite plain, I expected something a little more dressy from her.
    Eugenie - surprisingly, one of the best dressed ladies there. Her hair looks uncombed though.
    Mirka Federer - looking good, nice skirt length, not too long or two short. She and Roger were the best looking couple!
    Donna Air: Not bad, but on the verge of dowdy.
    All other ladies in attendance: A cross between "Extremely dowdy" or "WHAT were they thinking?". With maybe 2 exceptions of people who looked pretty good.
    If this is how British upper class dress for a formal event, I can only shake my head.

    ReplyDelete
  35. Oh I forget to add Mrs. Matthews outfit to my critique: She looked great, and was a little more "dressed up" than Carole. I thought she outshined Carole today.

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    Replies
    1. I thought Jane Matthews looked great, too. I was a bit disappointed in Carole's outfit for some reason...I can't quite put my finger on it.

      Delete
  36. Pippa looked lovely as did Kate...fun to see her corralling the kids! I do not understand why Meghan was not at the ceremony, though. Am I missing something, not being British? It just seems weird from all angles. Were I Pippa, I would have been honored that Harry deigned to spend all day at my wedding...and let him bring whoever he wanted. Conversely, I can't imagine Meghan declined because she'd overshadow the bride - how conceited that would have sounded! Read all the speculation about her presence leading up to the event, and still it just seems inhospitable to leave her hanging around KP by herself all day. It seems the Middletons are nice people...please explain!

    ReplyDelete
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    1. Rebecca - Sweden20 May 2017 at 18:07

      I've heard that there will be more people at the party later than in the church since the church was quite small. Someone also said that the invitations were probably set back in the autumn and Harry and Meghan were quite new back then compared to Euginies boyfriend and Donna Air who would easily be put down as coming to the wedding.

      Delete
    2. Here are two other thoughts, although I do like Rebecca-Swedens suggestion too!
      First of all: I still think the queen just told Harry not to bring Meghan and Pippa would have been fine if she would have joined.

      My second thought is that I do think comparing Meghan to Donna Air is not completely fair.
      Besides before mentioned that those relationships have been going on for years instead of months, Donna is the gf of the brother of the bride, which means that Pippa and Donna might have met so many times that it could be that she is considered a part of her life with or without her brother.
      My brother is dating for quite some years and I would not consider not inviting his gf because there is no ring, as she is now such a nice part of my life too!
      This is however not the case for Meghan, as she is the girlfriend of the brother of her sisters husband (who happens to be a prince, which makes Meghan maybe more important to royalty watchers, but maybe not to Pippa).
      I might also not have kicked someone else out of the church for Meghan if I had sent my invites a while ago ;)

      Delete
  37. Louise, London, UK20 May 2017 at 17:13

    Pippa looks beautiful. The dress gives her an amazing shape and I love the wave in her hair. I love how excited and happy Kate and Charlotte are to see Pippa arrive. Not so keen on the page boy outfits and one of them needs a stern word about his behaviour.

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    1. If you look carefully, the boy was holding up THREE fingers, not two. Just a misleading camera angle.

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  38. Robbie from Hampton VA USA20 May 2017 at 17:16

    Pippa was exquisite, Kate lovely per usual, and Carole radiant! For those who typically comment unfavorably about nude heels: wonder if you changed your opinion after seeing Carole and the mother of the groom today. I think the nude heels are preferable. What a glorious day; hope we will see some pictures from tonight.

    ReplyDelete
  39. Pippa looked amazing. The dress is a show-stopper. The mothers looked great too. I will have to say that the dress Kate wore was disappointing. The color was a dull pink, but more to a skin-tone pink. The design was too matronly. Also, the pleats under the breasts sagged at the sides. I can't think of anything else she has worn that has disappointed me more.

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  40. That was lovely. Thanks for your post, Charlotte! Pippa looks really happy; I wish them both joy.

    I love the lace and design of her wedding gown, veil, and tiara. I don't like the design of Catherine's dress as much as I had hoped for. I wish she had elected to keep the cross-over design of the bodice and a narrow waist instead of this gathered bust line and wide waistband. Ah well. The color is perfect and the skirt flows beautifully. Carole Middleton looks perfect. I was noticing how much grayer Michael Middleton is compared to 2011. Sigh. How quickly the time goes. The little children were darling. It looks as if Charlotte might have been unable or unwilling to precede the bride and groom out of the church afterward as her mother appears to have her by the hand behind Pippa. It reminds me of little Eliza Lopes at the royal wedding. It looks as if the children did well, and their outfits are adorable.

    Now if that look William was giving Harry as they approached the church was, "You're next, old man!" -- we'll have another interesting wedding to look forward to.

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    Replies
    1. I, too, noticed the look William gave Harry...it definitely said, "You're next!" :D Here's hoping!

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  41. I thought Pippa was just stunning. Head to feet perfection. I am in envy. Carole was gorgeous. George and Charlotte adorable. But as for Catherine...she's a beautiful, beautiful woman. But that dress, I have no words. I normally like McQueen, but this was awful. Where's the normal edginess and style factor? The color looked dirty when in the same photo with Carole, the bustline saggy and the sleeves so dowdy. The saving grace, if any, was the V-neck and from the waistline down. Why couldn't it have had bracelet length sleeves? Or followed the original design more closely except shorter?

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  42. What a lovely day. Kate got it spot on - beautifully elegant but muted, letting Pippa shine. It was perfect. Carol looked absolutely divine, as did Donna Air, and didn't the chaps scrub up well! George and Charlotte nearly stole the show, such a treat to see them, but Pippa, my oh my, she looked radiant. I think that young lady has had to put up with a lot of negativity, a lot of it most unfair. She was a stunning bride and I wish her and her husband all the love in the world :) Linda

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  43. What a beautiful wedding. I am so glad that Pippa had her well deserved triumph. All those hideous commenters on the press, what a shame. I love every single picture of the day, all details are so Well chosen, exquisitely.

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    1. Completely agree Paola!

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    2. Paola, I agree--every detail was exquisitely planned and executed. A perfect wedding.

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    3. I agree Paola! Did you notice the flowers? Incredibly beautiful, so old English garden.

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  44. Everyone looks just fabulous. Pippa looks especially gorgeous- and all I can say I wish I had her toned arms! I am happy the sun came out at the right moments so that we can all enjoy the wonderful pictures of the happy couple and the wedding party. I think Kate looks wonderful too, understated and yet appropriately grand as befits her elevated role. McQueen does know how to do her right! If we get the privilege of seeing a Baby Cambridge #3 in the future, this outfit would be a great recycle for the christening. But I get ahead of myself.... Cheers to the Matthews and Middleton families. Here's hoping they have a wonderful time this evening!

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  45. I really like Pippa's dress & veil, and I actually prefer it to Kate's. I hardly see turtleneck/high neckline and cap sleeves on wedding dresses, so I found it refreshing. And I like that she had her hair up, I thought Kate's wedding look would have been better if her hair had been put up like Pippa's.

    OK...I don't mean to start a blue & black dress/gold & white dress debate here, but is James Matthews's mother wearing a light green dress or light blue? My mom says is a certain color of green (given that she has a green clutch and wearing green shoes), but I see light blue. I found some other pictures of her up close and it still looks like a light blue color to me.

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    1. It depends on which photographs you look at as some seem to be a light pea green, others a light blue. It appears to be the light green in more pictures, so I'm going with that. I think it matches the pale green in Pippa's bouquet.

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    2. Rebecca - Sweden20 May 2017 at 19:01

      Lets call it "light seafoam" or something and you can both be right :P

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  46. The bride was beautiful as expected, and Kate as well,perfectly coordinated color to match the darling little girls. I loved Kate's dress, and she was beaming with joy for the occasion. The children were just precious! Thanks for the pictures and comments.

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  47. Thanks Charlotte. I enjoyed all the pictures and comments. Pippa looked beautiful. Prince George and Princess Charlotte and the other page boys and flower girls were all so cute in their ensembles. The mothers of the bride and groom were lovely. The Duchess of Cambridge achieved her goal of not "over-staging" her sister. I think the 'Telegraph' described her perfectly: Suitable and Sisterly.

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  48. Virginia,

    Just goes to prove that Kate looks radiant, gracious and beautiful no matter what, even in a baggy, oddly old-fashioned dress. Sorry, Pippa it didn't work. lol Kate still dazzled. Don't mean to be a buzzkill, honestly, I was waiting with such giddiness for this wedding, but to me Kate and the children carried the day, along with James' recognition to Donna with a "who-cares-about-protocol" hug of affection and recognition.
    To me the gown, the tiara, the awkward almost macabre (yes, macabre) look over her shoulder prior to entering the church, seemed to try to mimic Kate's gown, tiara and look over the shoulder upon entering the church. Only Kate's were "of the moment" and fresh and spontaneous. (Many outlets have noticed and commented on the similarities, btw.)

    The photos of Kate and Princess Charlotte "taking a peek" when Pippa arrived, the photo of Kate "shushing" the children, the photo of Kate arranging Pippa's veil were among my favorites.
    The photo of George waving from the car not only was another favorite but such a relief that he is not resentful of the press. Much healthier than resenting the media. That made me glad. :) Many of the photos of Kate and her children today will become iconic, no doubt. There were many very sweet ones. And the children were so grown up, and no meltdowns, yay.

    Don't know why Meghan couldn't have come to the wedding. Sophie Carter isn't married is she? I was very disappointed that Pippa didn't fit her in somehow.
    What's up with that?

    I know I may get in trouble for saying this also, but Pippa's dress had feminine lace and it had cap sleeves. Her muscular arms detracted from that to me, and I work out, bicep curls, etc. so it isn't that I don't like muscle, tonedness and fitness. Just that cap sleeves might not have been the best choice.

    Her make-up was a little heavy on the eyebrows also.

    I thought Carole's dress was an okay color. It fit in with Pippa's wedding palette, but it was baggy and the fabric didn't look the best. Disappointing because I like Carole (from what I've read) and I like Catherine Walker also. Don't know that Carole liked it that much either. She wasn't glowing like she usually is. Pippa, what's up with your mom's dress?

    Was surprised to see Eugenie there, especially Eugenie without Beatrice. No uber bizarre hat from Beatrice though so maybe that explains her absence. lol. I liked Eugenie's dress and hat. The skirt wasn't too full as it sometimes is. Not a fan of the shoes. Glad she and her boyfriend got to be there for Harry to keep him company, ah-hum.

    I am happy for Pippa and James. I just wish that Pippa had let loose and had her own style. I know that Kate's wedding was very much over the top, a truly royal extravaganza. To me, Pippa kept hers in Kate's shadow by trying to mimic it. I think the attention given Kate affected her more than she realizes. I wished she had burst through with something fresh and different. Something truly hers and hers alone. I think they'll start a family soon. They've both had a lot of time to play and even be with each other. George and Charlotte need some more Middleton cousins to grow up with.

    I think James Middleton will get to the altar before Harry. I am still miffed that Pippa didn't cut Harry some slack and let him enjoy Meghan's company at the wedding, (Can you tell? lol) Why didn't she?

    Going to look at the gorgeous photos of Kate and the children and cheer myself up.

    Thanks Charlotte for your, as always, excellent coverage of the wedding and stuff. :)

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    1. I'm pretty sure Pippa was ok with Harry brining Meghan - i'm sure Meghan stayed away due to the high level of interest in her attending, and didn't want the attention to be on her.

      Pippa looked gorgeous...really loved her dress!

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    2. I think that Pippa is friendly with Eugenie. I also thought that Pippa's make-up was a bit heavy. James Matthews looked very happy and natural in his behaviour. Pippa seemed slightly stilted; not surprising, I suppose, given the press pack present.

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    3. Tammy from California21 May 2017 at 03:32

      I honestly don't think Pippa had any rules about people not being married couldn't come. I think royalty sticks to their strict rules about princes going to a wedding with a girlfriend. I really do believe this.

      Delete
    4. I wonder why Beatrice wasn't there? I thought it was strange to see Eugenie there without her sister.

      Delete
  49. Charlotte,

    Pippa had diamond? clips holding her veil in place.
    Any information on those yet perhaps?

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    1. Rebecca - Sweden20 May 2017 at 19:01

      Matching the hairpiece/tiara, made by Robinson Pelham

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  50. What a beautiful wedding. It was a nice small affair. Pippa was glowing I really loved her dress. Everything fitted her perfectly from the tiara down to the bouquet. I wish her and the groom nothing but happiness.

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  51. There is a photo of Harry leaving the wedding, presumably foregoing the champagne reception (not confirmed), and going to Kensington to get Meghan
    presumably (not confirmed). Harry's PPO was in the car with him and had his earphone on to stay connected to security. Harry was driving,

    ReplyDelete
  52. Charlotte,

    The photo of Kate showing her hat and earrings is beautiful. That's what I mean. She looked gorgeous in spite of the dress. She always does. :)
    Great photo.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. The dress is growing in me.

      Delete
    2. The more I look at Kate's dress, her whole look, the more I like it. I also loved Donna Air's dress and shoes - amazing fabric in the dress - probably stunning in real life. Thought Serena Hood, a Brit Vogue editor, really rocked it in her maxi dress, although I suppose some you "oldie" posters will think she looks "matronly". IMO Eugenie, and Roger Federer's wife were misses - wrong silhouettes for their body types.

      Delete
    3. Jeanne, seeing Serena Hood's outfit my first thought was: she will loose her Job! What a bad choice! Not only matronly but really bad fitting,
      with senseless shoes, a total total miss, so reading your opinion it is Clear
      that it is only a matter of personal taste.

      Delete
  53. Pippa is perfection. Kate is a hard act to follow, wedding of the century and all, but imho, Pippa excelled. I know the media has made a huge fuss, telling us all that she is trying to outdo her sister, that she is trying to set her self apart, or is self-promoting. I don't see it that way at all. I think she is as she always has been, a girl who knows her own mind and does what she wants, no matter what anyone writes about it. I think there was a tone of joy in the pictures that says everything. The whole family looked beautiful, the Middleton sisters especially. Love love love Kate's earrings! Can't wait to see pictures of the evening reception!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. I agree with you re: the media trying to make something out of nothing in trying to make it seem like poor Pippa is trying to outdo Kate or copy her. I have never once thought that. Both of them seem supportive of and happy for each other and more than happy to let the other have the attention they deserve.

      The first thing I noticed about the pictures when I first saw them (besides Pippa's gorgeous dress) is how happy they all looked, especially Pippa. I hope we get to see some pictures from the evening reception!

      Delete
  54. Okay, did anyone notice Sophie Carter's dress? I really liked it.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. I did. I can't say I like it but it is interesting and does suit her.

      Delete
    2. I did and disliked it. Starchild

      Delete
    3. I loved it too. She always looks sooo nice at these events. Very chic and put together.

      Delete
    4. Sophie looks pretty & her dress is unusual, but personally, I didn't like it. I think her sense of style is a bit quirky.

      Delete
    5. Tammy from California21 May 2017 at 03:35

      I agree with Kiwi gal. She is so pretty and always wears these oversized frocks that do nothing for her. I also agree with Kiwi gal that she may have a quirky sense of style. Quirky people are usually pretty fun though ;)

      Delete
    6. What would people say if Kate had worn that dress?

      Delete
  55. I loved the wedding gown and fail to see the comparisons so many have made to Kate's wedding attire!! The neckline is beautiful and the cutout in the back is perfect and unexpected. As for Kate.....what a lovely and composed big sister!! Her dress and hat are simply beautiful and reflective of Kate and the occasion! I simply appreciate that Kate does it her way every time!! How hard.....no impossible.....it would be to please everyone. I certainly feel no room to be critical!

    ReplyDelete
  56. Found out what I didn't like about pippas dress... Think the shoulder part looks to sportive with that short shoulders. And think an semi updo (as she had at Kate's wedding) would have looked more feminine.

    Regarding Meghan.. Maybe pippa didn't want to be outshined by her because media would have given her lots of attention (?) Out maybe she was invited only for the evening reception who knows.

    Wondered why the Cambridges stayed at Kensington. Thought that Anmer hall was close to Buckleberry (but I'm not from the UK).

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. I think Anmer Hall is almost on the north edge of Norfolk while Bucklebury is to the southwest of London. At least a 3-hour car trip without traffic . . .

      Delete
  57. I loved the dress! Pippa looks gorgeous, radiant and lovely.
    If I could pick a dress from all weddings I have seen so far it would be this dress I would wanna marry in!
    I love how refreshing it is, how beautiful it fits and how she styled it with her nice earrings, the little hairpiece and the veil.

    I read a lot of comments about copying Kate:
    about the dress: both ladies have a similar posture (hey, they are sisters after all) and had the luck to have a dress designed for them. Could it be possible that the same lines in the dress would bring out their bodies in the nicest way? Why is that copying... it seems to me that you would design a dress that looks best on you!
    Furthermore, have you recently looked at wedding pictures? All brides do the same looks, look back over their shoulder. Do all those brides copy Kate? Is this something that every bride wants? I would like to cut Pippa some slack...

    I did not like the model of Kates dress. I think she looked blurry and dowdy.

    The parents all looked great.

    About Meghan: if the "rule" of the Crown is that without an engagement there is no place for her at the ceremonie of a wedding, why do we assume that it was Pippa who decided that she couldn't come?

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Liz,
      I thought about that rule, if it is a rule and then I remembered,
      What about Eugenie and her boyfriend?
      James Middleton and Donna?
      So, I don't know. It can be a little confusing. :)

      Delete
    2. Your comment about the sisters' body styles made me think that of course their taste in clothes has always seemed to be very similar too, so I agree it isn't much of a surprise that the lines of their wedding gowns would be somewhat similar. But they really aren't the same at all. This gown doesn't have the defined waist and padded hips that Kate's gown had. To me that makes a big difference.

      Delete
    3. Haha it is confusing. I don't actually think there is a rule though... I think the Crown pr-team would not want all the attention on the couple.
      I think Donna is kind of easy to explain: she and her boyfriend are no royalty, plus she has been in James life for 3 years, so by now she might know Pippa quite well. She could have been invited on personal title and not as the plus one of her brother.
      I don't know about princess Eugenie, but her boyfriend stayed at Balmoral before, so I feel like the queen/pr-team might be a little less strict when it comes to the people a little further from the crown? Also, he has been pictured with her so many times.... there is no reason for any pr-team to worry about another picture of these two right?

      Delete
    4. Liz, could be. I have stopped trying to solve that puzzle, lol. It was making me anxious. No need. :)

      Delete
  58. Thank you for the post Charlotte! Today is such am exciting day! I Like Pippa's dress, for me Kate looks ok, but nothing special. I generally dislike the colour of her dress and fascinator. But Carole really looks perfect! I love her hat and dress, and her figure is really something to be admired!

    ReplyDelete
  59. Beautiful photographs! I love in the departure video, James is telling George to stop walking, but they all keep going. Very sweet, and I wonder what kind of relationship George has with his Aunt Pippa and now Uncle James (well I guess he has 2 Uncle James!).

    I understand why Meghan wasn't at the service, although I held out hope we would get a peek of her! Sigh.

    Kate's dress is pretty in some photographs but ill-fitting in others. I never agree with those who say she looks matronly, but today she did. She looked 44, not 34. Charlotte and George are adorable. Carole underwhelmed me a bit. I hope we get some photographs of tonight's festivities!

    Pippa's dress is growing on me, although I do feel her makeup was too heavy. I liked her makeup better at Kate's wedding.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Nina, I agree. I liked her make-up lots better at Kate's wedding. Who did her make-up then? Who did her make-up today?

      Delete
    2. What did you think about Kates make-up?
      I thought the blush was too pink and heavy on her face

      Delete
  60. I think it is important to remember that just because we didn't see Meghan, that does not automatically mean she wasn't at the ceremony. None of the press or photographers were allowed inside the church, so they cannot say with any certainly that she wasn't present. I never believed that we would see any pictures of Meghan at the wedding, because I had a feeling that she would want to ensure the day was focused on Pippa and James. I imagine there would have been a way for her to privately enter the church so that none of the press or public saw her. She could have exited the same way, so it is very plausible that Meghan attended the ceremony. This was a highly managed day (from a security and privacy standpoint), and rightly so. I hope that everyone can relax at the reception, without the stress of photographers. George and Charlotte are adorable and they look so much alike! When Charlotte laughs, her expression is identical to George. There was a sweet picture where she and her brother were holding hands. Priceless. I hope the day was filled with wonderful memories for all of them.

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  61. I do think that the flowers around the arched doorways of the church were perfection. And the flowers hearts the little girls carried. If the flowers dry properly they can have those as a cute decoration in their rooms for a while if they want to.

    Michael Middleton was as handsome and gentlemanly as ever. And I loved the photo of James Middleton with his mom on his arm.

    Was George Percy there? Alex? Nico? JJ Jardine?
    I'd be really surprised if she didn't invite George Percy. He's been a good friend to her over the years. But she apparently didn't invite Meghan either so maybe I shouldn't be surprised. (sorry)

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. The bride and the groom can invite whomever they like. This speculation is needless and petty.

      Delete
    2. hrhhd,

      Of course they can invite whomever they want. For those of us who have been following Kate and her family for years on honorable blogs like this it is normal to want to know. Not petty.

      Delete
    3. Rebecca - Sweden20 May 2017 at 21:35

      Did you hear that Charlotte? You have an "honorable blog"! I suppose that's better than one of ill repute ;P

      Delete
    4. Rebecca, There are some very tacky ones out there. A shame that we have to differentiate like that but in this day and age, alas, we do.

      Delete
  62. Sarah Maryland USA20 May 2017 at 19:39

    Pippas dress was amazing. I think her whole look was better than Kate's wedding look because pippa wore her hair up and the girl was simple and didn't smush her hair and I don't like brides wearing their hair down for weddings because it ends up getting messed up
    And Kate's look looked more suitable for someone twice her age so I guess she didn't want to upstage he bride lol
    Like the hair and hat though

    ReplyDelete
  63. I think Kate is wearing the archetypal bridesmaid's dress (even though she wasn't a "bridesmaid.") You know the joke where you buy a dress to be in a wedding and then you NEVER wear that dress again. Most brides pick a color and suggest a style and then the bridesmaids have to cope. I went shopping with a friend from Canada who was over visiting last week and she was looking for a grey mother of the bride dress. She is very outdoorsy, very NOT dress-oriented. She didn't find any dress that suited but she DID find a great grey fascinator. She is threatening to go to her daughter's wedding in her grey running gear with the fascinator (she won't of course.)

    My daughter found a very simple sheath dress for her bridesmaids many many years ago--looked nice on everyone. On the other hand my sister chose styles for myself as junior bridesmaid and the maid of honor with a tight bodice that I couldn't breathe in. I was short and round and the maid of honor was tall and willowy. And those stiletto heels--back in those days there were peau de soie stilettos that were dyed to match the dress. The shoes shrank in the dyeing process so not only was I tottering around but my feet were pinched. Aghhh! This was the wedding of the 4 year old ruffled panties flasher. Ah the memories that a wedding brings. My husband and I went to a JP with just my daughter and his brother as witnesses. I never did have a white wedding, flower child rebel that I was.

    Anyway, I can't help hoping that this will be the case with this dress--hope we won't see it again or if we do that some adjustments will have taken place. Of course, if you ever watch the movie "27 Dresses" we can all breathe a sigh of relief that it wasn't worse. Imagine if Kate had had to dress like the pages--white blouse and pouffy gold taffeta skirt or a grown-up version of Princess Charlotte's dress.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Haha, the image of your friend in her running gear & a fascinator is hilarious, Jo! I feel your pain of having to wear a tight bodice & high heels to perform bridesmaid duties :( It could've been so much worse for Kate (a la 27 dresses! LOL). I think Kate hit the right note, though she did look older, IMHO.

      Delete
  64. Pippa looked sensational and so happy! I preferred her look to Kate's wedding look, but both looked splendid on their respective wedding days. I loved Pippa's wedding colors and the children's outfits. Looking forward to hopefully seeing more details of the reception (and more outfits!) The only thing I am confused about is why Pippa's bouquet (and Kate's, back in 2011) was so tiny? Is that the trend now? Trivial point though! :)

    At first I didn't care for Kate's dress, but it is growing on me. Loved the rest of her look!

    I liked the color of Carole's outfit but thought she would have worn something similar to Pippa's mother-in-law, who looked fantastic.

    Eugenie looked great.

    ReplyDelete
  65. Reposting my comment from the last open post: Pippa looks gorgeous and radiant! I think her gown is stunning. It truly looks seamless. I have no issue with her wearing a "tiara", if it even is that, really, and can't understand why people are so upset by it.

    I think Kate looks so beautiful. I love her dress and hat and look forward to seeing them both repeated. I wondered about the earrings though. They look so similar to the unidentified pair she wore to the BAFTAs earlier this year, so not sure why she would want 2 very similar pieces, especially when this pair was 7,000 pounds (!).

    George and Charlotte look adorable. I hope we get to see a picture of Prince Harry and Meghan! It looks like a beautiful wedding and I hope they had a wonderful day.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Are Pippa's tiara and hair clip diamonds?

      If so, that was a noticeable investment. Where will she wear those again? Maybe for functions with William and Kate? Would she be allowed to wear a tiara to official royal functions that she might attend with them? Maybe William and Kate plan on giving the Middleton's titles in the future? I find it odd that the media isn't describing the tiara and clip. They are describing the earrings and everything else.

      Delete
    2. Rebecca - Sweden20 May 2017 at 21:09

      They are by the "family jeweler" and considering the small size I assume they are diamonds. Someone elsewere speculated that the tiara might be convertable into a necklace.

      Delete
    3. Thanks, Rebecca. That would come in handy. She's going to have some pretty interesting and posh events in her future. Nice to have pieces that are versatile.

      Delete
    4. Tiaras are often designed so that they can be converted into necklaces. The larger ones will often convert into a necklace, brooch, and hairpins. Pippa's looks to me as something that she will wear often as a necklace. And the hairclips could also see a lot of use. Imagine them atop an updo with her diamond earrings and a sleek black dress at the theater, for instance.

      Delete
    5. It looks like the clips might be matching earrings for the necklace.

      Delete
  66. That's the thing about wedding dresses: they are for the bride and the groom. Pippa looked stunning!
    I wish them a very happy life together and hope they will have as many beautiful children as they desire! I am beyond happy for them!
    Would love to see more pictures from the wedding.
    Stop it with critisizing her dress, people. It's their day. Pippa loves it and that's what matters most! I am pleased to see she went her own route with the entire look. She is a beauty!

    ReplyDelete
  67. Wonderful day, I think Pippa's dress is absolutely gorgeous. I love that she chose Giles Deacon. Perfect choice from so many perspectives and it fits her incredibly well.

    Lovely traditional wedding, not done to outshine anything or be frivolously glamorous (possibly the opposite of a Kardashian wedding). Reading some of the comments above, I can only see how much glitter is taken over substance these days.

    Royal fan in Northern Ontario

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  68. Didn't William and Kate leave the wedding in a vintage sports car? Another similarity.

    Hopefully, James disengaged the parking brake. Charles said William didn't.

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  69. I was so happy and relieved to see nanny Maria at the rehearsal and wedding. I hope she gets to stay with the family for a long time. Maybe even a third and fourth child.

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  70. Meghan made it to the reception. E News and other outlets have confirmed it. Haven't found any photos yet or descriptions of what she wore though.

    ReplyDelete
  71. What an amazing day! Everyone looked SO incredible and the kids were utterly addorable!!
    I was wondering, if Amanda did Pippa's hair for her big day, who did Kate's? I don't think she travelled from KP to berkshire and did both, but maybe she did?

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  72. Lovely pictures!! And what a perfect wedding!! Everyone looked lovely, especially our radiant bride!!!Thank You Charlotte for this post!!

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  73. Pippa looked spectacular and I love here very elegant very beautiful dress. The veil and "tiara" are gorgeous and to me elegant and minimal. Everyone from the kids to the guest looked wonderful. The parents are looked great. Flowers very pretty, an no rain.

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  74. 1: pippa made an elegant and beautiful bride. Amazing dress!
    2: George and Charlotte! Ohhh my loves they look soo cute and little chubbies!
    3: I didn't expect to see Kate like this. This is understandable that she didn't want to overshadow her sister in her big day but she should not chose this look... to disappoint for words. Also i think she should have let her hair down...
    🍫CONGRATS TO THE LOVELY BRIDE AND GROOM🍫
    Faiza

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  75. My husband and I are sitting in the pool enjoying our Saturday night and discussing what's going on at the party (well, I'm talking, he's listening).

    I read that Pippa and James have ping-pong tables set up at the party tonight. We're imagining who's playing Rodger Federer at table tennis right now! :)

    The future King vs Rodger Federer in table tennis after a drink or two - what a wonderful sight to behold that would be! Fun! :)

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Rebecca - Sweden20 May 2017 at 22:24

      Haha, that sounds amazing. Let's hope their not close to all the glass though :P

      Delete
  76. Kate and Pippa look stunning. Prince George reminds me of my son emotionally overwhelmed at significant occasions. I understand why Kate was worried. (My son has high functioning Autism). Beautiful pics and blog that bring such joy!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Anon 22:54, you could be correct but to me he looks pretty typical and not overwhelmed at this event or any of the others I have seen. Maybe independent...:).

      Delete
  77. From the speculation beforehand, I was afraid this wedding was going to be garish. On the contrary, I think it was absolute perfection. Pippa's dress was beautiful (I far prefer it to Kate's wedding dress - sorry!) The flowers were spectacular, the Paige boys and bridesmaids outfits were perfect... If I could dream up a perfect English wedding, this is what it would look like. Well done, Pippa!

    ReplyDelete
  78. From the speculation beforehand, I was afraid this wedding was going to be garish. On the contrary, I think it was absolute perfection. Pippa's dress was beautiful (I far prefer it to Kate's wedding dress - sorry!) The flowers were spectacular, the Paige boys and bridesmaids outfits were perfect... If I could dream up a perfect English wedding, this is what it would look like. Well done, Pippa!

    ReplyDelete
  79. Sharyn from AUS20 May 2017 at 22:22

    I really liked the classic look of tue wedding. The quintessential country church and the lace wedding dress were darling. Kate's dress seemed to a part of the vintage look and feel. I feel that Kate's look wasnt a huge departure from outfits she worn before with the V-neck and peplum. I saw that a few media outlets are calling this an ankle length dress, but it looks more midi to me.
    The colour of Kate's dress seems to go with the sashes in the little girls. We're all calling Kate the matron of honour- is it possible that this was a title Pippa always gave Kate but it was decided not to release that information to the public? Kate and Pippa are very close and Kate would not want media to focus on her being MOH rather than the bride. This can be seen when the happy couple depart the church; Kate is behind them, then takes a step back into the shadows so the bride and groom can have that picutre perfect moment without the headlines reading 'Radiant DOC looks happy at her sister's happy day'. This was Pipppa's special day. She should be the focus, and I'm sure Kate wanted this for her sister.

    ReplyDelete
  80. I'm not crazy about this dress, although I get wanting it to be completely different from Kate's. I like her hair and I don't mind the tiny tiara. I think the pageboys are cute, the outfits look silly but I know it's tradition haha. Little girls in dresses are always cute :)

    I love carols outfit from head to toe. I love her hat. I also love donnas look.

    I love Kate's hat, disappointed in the same shoe all the time even though it's a nice shoe:) started with the sledges, then ferns, now these lol.
    I don't like her dress, I do like the bell sleeve, but the top looks like it doesn't fit her, almost saggy looking? I think that dress looks mantronly, something that carol would wear. I love the earrings, although I thought she was wearing those large pink ones she wore for that event with the black and floral gown. They're pretty similar looking.

    This must just be a Canadian/American thing but I would never wear white to a wedding. No white, cream or off white. Is that just our thing? Even at Kate's the other guest and people in the wedding were in cream. It must not matter in the U.K. Usually the brides mades would wear the wedding color. White and creams are strictly reserved for the bride, although if you had a white dress with a large pattern breaking it up that would be ok. Just interesting to see the rules are different in different places :)

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  81. Thanks for such wonderful coverage Charlotte, I've enjoyed todays proceedings hugely. I LOVED the dress so much. Heres wishing the happy couple every happiness in their married lives together. I wonder how all the naysayers out there can be so hostile to today's events. #Pippaswedding was the number 1 trend in the UK but so many of the tweets were negative. Even if your indifferent to Pippa and the Royals, whats not to like about such a quintessentially British wedding with All the UK fashion on show, the classic British cars etc...Not too mention all the local businesses whose work was on show today i.e the florists. The fact that Pippa has chosen to source locally and show such wonderful faith in British talent to create her dream day demonstrates what a class act she is.

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  82. Julia from Leominster20 May 2017 at 23:18

    Back finally - my views as always a bit different. First of all, I believe no one outshines a bride (well almost no one - Maxima did once regrettably) and Pippa was absolutely radiant. I thought the gown was perfect for her - understated, contemporary yet classic, made up of beautiful details and showing off Pippa's marvellous figure. Didn't think it would be strapless and am relieved I was right - I'm weary of those. It should age nicely.
    The headpiece tiara didn't do as much for me, but it was subtle, which is good. But best of all was the absolute joy in the face of the bride and groom - they both seemed filled with such happiness - just as it should be - so relaxed, absolute bliss - those photos of them driving away, Pippa arriving with her dad and that very cheeky page boy are my favourites - oh, and George waving. Loved seeing James embrace Donna too - wish Freya had been part of the party - and frankly - against many here - wish someone had been a junior bridesmaid to handle the children - Kate often seemed distracted and frazzled in her hybrid role.
    The church was beautifully decorated - and after all the fuss about security every seemed open and relaxed - if there was heavy security - it remained out of sight.
    On dresses, I thought Carole looked understated and elegant - I like the simplicity of her dress - avoiding mum of the bride fussiness and Mrs Matthews is simply a lovely woman in that beautiful green. Kate - I don't know, the colour is lovely - I rarely think she dresses too old but here - that dress just seemed mother of bride - her mum's dress was almost younger. If she was meant to be a bridesmaid - that would explain the softness - but the hat stood against that. But it should photograph nicely. Most of all, I wish she had been less involved with the children - she looked at them more than her sister - a little was sweet and Charlotte is very young, but it was constant. In church, perhaps it was different.
    I was taken aback at Donna wearing cream - I'm old-fashioned that way - didn't mind her dress otherwise. Eugenie looked quite nice. Gabriella was the other royal I noticed there - a nice outfit but too short on her to my thinking.
    As for Meghan, she probably doesn't know Pippa and there has been a lot of ridiculous speculation about what her presence would mean - which was nonsense - Chelsy attended weddings with Harry and they didn't get engaged. I don't know who is creating this engagement buzz - the press or the lady herself - it may happen but the constant speculation is troubling. So I would imagine it was by mutual agreement she would only attend the evening reception. I don't believe for an instance there was a no-ring-no-bring policy as such but when churches aren't large, partners are often left for evening when there will be dancing.
    Delighted the spitfire happened - it seems fun and appropriate to the family - so a fine wedding indeed- it would be lovely to see a formal snap or too and some of the evening but it is a private wedding so we shall see. I'm grateful for what we did see.

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  83. What a beautiful wedding!

    The standouts for me are (while numbered, these are not in any particular order): 1) Pippa's gown! It is perfect in fit and proportion. All of the design elements came together impeccably so that the bride is radiantly wearing the dress instead of the dress consuming the bride; 2) Peonies! in the bride's bouquet and the church flowers. Peonies are the very best reason to get married in May; 3) Pink! for everyone from the bridesmaid sashes to Catherine's and Carole's beautiful hats, but most beautifully in Catherine's morganite earrings...wow! 4) Waistcoats! (Are you thinking "What?") It seems only right to give a shout out to the gentleman looking dapper in their individual waistcoat colors, which seems one of the few ways to distinguish themselves in a sea of suits.

    I'm glad a small amount of press coverage was arranged so we could see beautiful photos of this very special day.

    Thank you for this amazing blog!
    - Julie in CA

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  84. Jane Mathews looked wonderful and I love her shoes! Saw a good picture of them on another site.

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  85. Wonderful wedding! Everyone looked happy, especially Pippa :) The flowers were really beautiful, I loved the way they framed the photographs, very well done. I thought Pippa's bouquet was gorgeous, too. To be honest, I think I prefer Pippa's wedding gown to Kate's. Kate looked amazing on her wedding day, of course, but I really like the combination of the lace, cap sleeves, high-neck & the opening in the back of Pippa's dress. The lace blew me away and the seamlessness of the design really suited Pippa's shape, Giles Deacon did a great job. Her veil was beautiful in its simplicity. The little tiara, I could've taken or left it.
    Kate's dress was lovely...a little bit towards the matronly side, but I liked the colour and flow of the dress. I especially loved the hat! Her earrings were show-stopping. I think she did an excellent job of looking after the children and making sure Pippa looked her best, just as Pippa did for Kate's wedding :)
    The classic Jaguars were a highlight...I loved seeing Pippa arrive with her father in one, such a sweet moment.

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  86. At first glimpse, I didn't really like Pippa's dress but it has grown on me and the more I look at these pictures I think it all came together very nicely - she looked absolutely beautiful and glowing! Loved the simplicity of the whole event and the decor was done in good taste. Seems like it was a wonderful day. Also, was surprised to see Roger and Mirka as well as Eugenie and her partner - didn't know that they were close to the bride and groom? Hoping we'll also get a glimpse of the couple and guests at the reception!

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  87. Pippa looked oh so lean! I didn't expect her to wear a gown right up to her neck, but loved the lace. Would have preferred for her hair to have been partly down to produce a more natural look. And her make-up reminded me of Kate's wedding day make-up, heavy with thick eyebrows.

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  88. Does anyone know who made Jane Matthews dress?
    She and Dave Matthews looked spectacular!
    Thank you :)

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  89. I didn't mind Kate's dress as much as other readers, but still think it could have been a better dress. I like both of the dresses Kate's seems to have been inspired from. I guess bringing the two looks together just doesn't work as well as the originals for me. I do love the color and how it matches the sash of the bridesmaids. It reminds me of Pippa talking about her bridesmaid's dress and how it was intended to "blend in" and not be a stand out look (boy did everyone get that wrong in the end). I absolutely love Kate's hat and hope to see it someday at a garden party, church service or another wedding (maybe with the pale pink/nude lace McQueen Kate has repeated before).

    I thought the earrings were a bit too dramatic for the event and the ensemble. I would have preferred diamond/pearl earrings to compliment Pippa's repeat of her royal wedding earrings.

    Still hoping to see photographs of the evening reception at some point or some "official" photographs, but I wont be too disappointed if we don't as this wedding has produced some amazing images already.

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  90. Pippa looks amazing and glowing! Well done on all fronts!

    Kate on the other hand...looks dreadful. That dress does her no favors and she is a beautiful woman! I can't believe this is McQueen. It is the worst dress I have EVER seen her wear, such a shame. Really, I cannot believe this is McQueen-the tailoring, the length, the color, the draping-just awful. However, from the neck up she was radiant. Loved the fascinator and the Kiki's. This dress however, just can't be salvaged.

    On a more positive note,the children were as cute as they could be. It looked like a lovely day and I'm so glad the rain held out! Happy wishes for Pippa and James!

    -Brooke from South Carolina

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  91. I saw someone make this comment on Instagram and it bears repeating. Michael seems to be such a wonderful and doing father! In the videos, you can see him lean back when the car stops in front of the church so people can get a better view of Pippa. He also stops with her when she turns to look back before entering the church and he helps adjust her dress and veil after entering the church. How proud he and Carole must be of both their beautiful daughters.

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  92. Tammy from California21 May 2017 at 03:41

    Just wondering if there are any pictures out there of the reception at all? I can't find any, but find it hard to believe there are none...

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  93. Best memorable moment was how she looked at her new husband adoringly, and happily beautiful before they kissed; their drive alone happy and waving to members of the community she grew up in, and her father looking at her before they entered the church.

    I wish her to continue in striving at excellence of being Pippa first; next, as a happily married Mrs. Pippa Middleton Matthews; if any children, to be a fulfilled mother; of course continue to be a good daughter to her parents; then the usual id post her sister’s marriage as the dutiful and agreeable “the duchess’s sister”; and a lovable aunt to “royal nephew and niece” all in this order.

    Her bridal choices were all impeccable especially the dress. There seemed to be some wind, and she planned her hair to perfection which looked intact.

    Best wishes to the happy bride and groom.

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  94. Eve from Germany21 May 2017 at 08:52

    LOVED, LOVED, LOVED this wedding!! Such a welcome treat....
    Pippa´s gown: LOVED it!! It was exquisite and I loved the shape and flow of the dress and train.. But most important of all: the bride herself!! That look she gave "us all" when she was walking towards the church and quickly looked back: priceless!! When she came back, newlywed, with her husband by he side: pure radiance and happiness... and her husband looked really "chuffed" which I absolutely loved, too!! ;-)))
    Wish them both every possible happiness and good luck!

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