The Duchess of Cambridge travelled in a horse-drawn carriage with Prince Harry and the Duchess of Cornwall.
A wave from the Duchess.
Crowds at the Palace enjoying the sunshine.
Recent tragic events and the current mood in parts of Britain were clearly very much on everyone's mind. In a thoughtful message, Her Majesty wrote:
Today is traditionally a day of celebration. This year, however, it is difficult to escape a very sombre national mood. In recent months, the country has witnessed a succession of terrible tragedies. As a nation, we continue to reflect and pray for all who have been directly affected by these events. During recent visits in Manchester and London, I have been profoundly struck by the immediate inclination of people throughout the country to offer comfort and support to those in desperate need.
Put to the test, the United Kingdom has been resolute in the face of adversity. United in our sadness, we are equally determined, without fear or favour, to support all those rebuilding lives so horribly affected by injury and loss.
ELIZABETH R
Her Majesty and the Duke of Edinburgh observed a minute's silence at the King's Door before the first of the Birthday Parade carriage processions left Buckingham Palace. For the first time, the Duke opted for morning dress instead of military uniform.
Although the Queen's birthday is 21 April, it has long been tradition to celebrate the sovereign's birthday publicly on a day in June, when good weather is more likely. Her Majesty has attended Trooping the Colour every year since 1947 except in 1955 when a national rail strike cancelled the event.
The background of the prestigious annual event? Trooping the Colour actually originated in traditional preparations for battle. Colours, or flags, were trooped down the rank so they could be seen by the soldiers. In 1748, it was announced the parade would also mark the sovereign's official birthday.
The event is steeped in royal history and tradition. The Royal Collection Trust shared this photo of the Queen Mother, Princess Margaret & 3-year-old Prince Charles travelling back from Trooping the Colour in 1951.
An enormous amount of planning and preparation goes into ensuring the annual event runs as smoothly as possibly. Over 1,400 officers and military personnel are on parade, together with two hundred horses; over four hundred musicians from ten bands and corps of drums march and play as one. Some 113 words of command are given by the Officer in Command of the Parade. The parade route extends from Buckingham Palace along the Mall to Horse Guards Parade, Whitehall and back again.
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| The Army in London |
On horseback were Prince William, Colonel of the Irish Guards; Prince Charles, Colonel of the Welsh Guards; and the Princess Royal, Colonel of the Blues and Royals.
At precisely 12.52 pm, gun salutes were fired across the capital: the Honourable Artillery Company fired from the Tower of London and the Kings Troop Royal Horse Artillery fired from Green Park.
As always, it was a magnificent display.
I spy a little Prince and Princess taking a peek before their official appearance :)
A highlight of Trooping is always seeing so many members of the family gather on the balcony of Buckingham Palace. It has become even more interesting with the addition of George and Charlotte.
I love this photo; there's quite a bit going on with Kate fixing George's hair with one hand and holding Charlotte with the other. William is keeping a close eye on George while Charlotte looks like she could do with a nap :)
It's always lovely to see those little family moments.
Below, a lovely shot of the Cambridge family.
William and Kate lifted George and Charlotte onto a step to ensure they had a good view of the flypast.
An overview of the balcony.
The complete royal turnout.
Isla and Savannah Philips made their debut.
Kate and Prince Philip share a laugh.
A beautiful mother-daughter photo.
A big smile from Princess Charlotte.
Those expressions :)
Another sweet shot.
A dramatic sight as the flypast approaches.
A great video from the flypast.
The @RoyalAirForce Red Arrows perform their display above the crowds gathered on The Mall and outside Buckingham Palace. pic.twitter.com/V0j4Qj9MNn— The Royal Family (@RoyalFamily) June 17, 2017
The royals headed back inside afterwards.
The Queen's birthday honours list was released last night. More from the Telegraph:
'The honourees this year include the policeman killed after confronting the Westminster attacker outside Parliament and the heroic passer-by stabbed trying to protect MP Jo Cox. Billy Connolly was given a knighthood and actress Julie Walters was made a dame. Oscar-winner Olivia de Havilland, who turns 101 next month, is the oldest woman to become a dame in this centenary year of the modern-day honours system.
Those also honoured from the world of entertainment include chart-topper Ed Sheeran and comedian David Walliams. Twenty years after he was knighted by Queen Elizabeth II, Sir Paul McCartney is being upgraded with a Companion of Honor award for services to music, alongside J.K. Rowling for her services to literature and philanthropy, in the queen's Birthday Honors list. Britain's last surviving Dambuster, who has been awarded an MBE, said he is very grateful to the thousands of people who signed a petition calling for his wartime service to be recognised.'
Kate's private secretary Rebecca Priestley has been made MVO (Member of the Royal Victorian Order) by the Queen. It's an award Her Majesty gives independently of government and recognises distinguished personal service to the Royal family. Rebecca is moving on from her role later this summer, so it's a very nice thank you from the Royal family for her service.
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| Peter Hunt Twitter Feed |
The Duchess was pretty in pink today, opting for what we believe is an Alexander McQueen creation.
The garment appears to be a bespoke version of the brand's Paperbag Waist Dress (with many thanks to Perth Fashion). The original sleeveless design was described: "Pink silk-cotton-wool blend pleated skirt skater dress from Alexander McQueen featuring a round neck, a concealed rear zip fastening and a short length."
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| FarFetch |
A closer look at the distinctive paperbag waist.
Kate's elegant pink hat is by milliner Jane Taylor (with thanks to Anna).
The Duchess added the Queen's sparkling diamond pendant earrings to the look. Her Majesty's Jewel Vault reports: "This pair of diamond pendant earrings includes a pendant of separate stones hanging within a diamond frame. These appeared at the 2012 State Opening of Parliament, but have no publicly known provenance as of yet."
Below, the Duchess wearing them at the 2015 Place2Be Awards and the 2016 Diplomatic Reception. I think they are a fabulous addition to her jewellery box!
And Kate carried her Etui Bags clutch.
You can watch a video below.
Hope you're all enjoying the weekend!
I am always impressed by all the logistics around these events. Not just the "obvious" parts as in the military. But everything around it. One of my favourite moments oddly is when the police walk the public down the Mall down to Buckingham Palace for the balcony appearance. It looks almost machine like and it always impress me! So the logistics lover in me loved the BBCs coverage of the behind the scenes people. Everyone plays an important role in these events! The Queen, the colour carrier, the musicians, the police and the flag hangers all make these days into wonderful spectacles! Everyone playing their roles in harmony.
ReplyDeleteI loooooove the colour on Kate! And the dress is very pretty! Although I'm not a fan of the "paper bag waist" that has been coming back in style lately. But for being such a waist it's rather clean and I don't dislike it as much as I usually do that kind of waist. The hat is rather standard but still pretty and works very well with her updo! And she has really started getting used to more bling! Nice with some big royal bling on a day event. My go to is always big earrings to make me feel dressed up so this is right up my alley! She looks very elegant.
It was rather startling to see Prince Phillip not in uniform. But it makes very much sense. That berskin hat must be heavy!!
As of this comment the "big" balcony appearance has not yet happened so am looking much forward to it :)
And I must say, the Queens message was right on point!
What a fast post!! I cant wait to see the kids again. Lets hope Wiliiam doesnt get in trouble this year from the Queen. LOL
ReplyDeleteHaha! :)
Deletelol, Emily. Hence the stool to William's rescue. :)
DeleteI'm so glad George and Charlotte are there! I was worried they weren't going to be there after they weren't on the balcony with Kate as the Queen and Prince Philip drove up the Mall
ReplyDeleteI don't think they have been there at that time either of the years.
DeleteI loved when the kids arrived out. George being sooooo bored in the beginning. Charles, the Queen and Prince Phillip pushing the stool towards George! George and Charlotte waving to the planes! Absolutley precious! Prince Phillip talking to and enjoying George and Charlotte. (If you can't tell, I'm writing this while watching...) Big Charlotte joining on the stool. Not easy keeping the kids calm during this! Either bored/scared or over enthasuastic. Very rarely a middle point :P Always so great to see the kids!
ReplyDeleteThe Queens smile at the end before going in was wonderful as well!
Enjoying your commentary, as always, Rebecca! :)
DeleteYes, so funny see them on the balcony!
DeleteI especially liked the "push-the-stool" team. :) A new sport/game in the making? :)
DeleteHmm i love the duchess. In pink. Hmm i love the cambridges. Looking. Good i spot savannah and isla but i have keep eye on the younger royal tots
ReplyDeleteKate looks stunning in pink. She should wear bright colours more often. And I am in love with that hat.
ReplyDeleteDitto :)
DeleteOne of the few occasions we can watch in our TV as well. Unfortunately I can't stream BBC outside of the UK. Due to the short delay of the ceremony our broadcast stopped at the beginning of the air show. So I saw George and Charlotte shortly but not all of it. I'm looking forward to the posted pictures here in this blog. George's outfit looked very cute. And I loooved the moment where the duke and even the queen pushed something with their feet towards G+C so they can stand on it. Very considerate. At this moment they seemed like normal (great-) grandparents who think of the littlest people around.
ReplyDeleteI don't like this type of waist on a dress but the colour suits Catherine and the earrings are a nice touch.
The stool moment was amazing! As you say, such a normal family thing!
DeleteYes, one could say, our German TV broadcast stopped at the most interesting part of the event... Kate was simply gorgeous - love this shade of pink on her and those earrings are to die for! Always a special treat to see George and Charlotte and the Cambridge family together.
DeleteOn a side note: Did anyone else notice that there is barely interaction between George and Charlotte on these official outings? Like they don't even notice each other? Or is this normal for kids at such a young age?
And did you also notice, Natalia, how William always looks after GEorges while Catherine takes care of Charlotte ? Seems weird to me .....
DeleteTotally normal-especially when there are so many more interesting sights than your sibling!
DeleteNicole - not weird at all. Mom's usually tend to the younger child.
DeleteThank you for the fascinating history of Trooping the Colour, Charlotte. I'm amazed by the amount of organisation that goes into the parade. Also amazing that HM has attended for almost 70 years!
ReplyDeleteThe Queen's message acknowledging the awful events that the nation has experienced recently, was very touching. I hope that people of the UK will find strength in her words & that in time, they can heal from these terrible tragedies.
It looks like a beautiful day for the parade...Kate looks stunning in pink. I especially like her hat. Can't wait to see the little Cambridges...they're getting bigger by the minute!
Kate looks lovely as always. Can't wait to see the little ones:)
ReplyDeleteIt's so lovely to see Kate in this shade of bubblegum pink. I think the last time I saw her in bright pink was when she wore her Issa dress at the Boodles Boxing Ball in 2008.
ReplyDeleteI agree. It's a great color for her. I'm undecided as to whether I like this dress or not though. It is a fussy design. I think I'll have to see it in full to make a decision. Do not like the hat at all. The embellishment looks like droopy Christmas ribbon candy to me. The earrings are divine, however.
DeleteShe wore a bright pink coat in New York at ground sero.
DeleteVERY "Pretty in pink" indeed!! :-))))
ReplyDeleteLove the colour, so fresh and bright!! The waist I´m not yet sure about, I would love to see it while she´s moving, so I have to look for some footage of that.
I was deeply touched by HM´s message. Very much "her" in those words - and exactly the right words to say right now.
The children - adorable as usual. Thank goodness the weather is good - London and Britain (and us, too, if I may say so!!) need a bit of "pomp and circumstance" right now, a tiny "ray of sunshine" in these rather dark days.... I look forward to many other lovely shots!
Thanks, Charlotte, for the quick post and some pictures that actually bring a smile on one´s face for a change!
Wonderful, thoughtful and inspiring message from the Queen. All the 'Royal' ladies in their carriages look lovely.
ReplyDeleteIt was so lovely to see George and Charlotte alongside Isla and Savannah. Their colours so beautifully coordinated as last year. I did notice that William was a little less 'hands off' than usual, and Kate did most of the minding, apart from one photo where William puts his hand on George. But perhaps G and C are growing up and don't need so much attention.
ReplyDeleteAltogether a lovely occasion, and beautiful weather too! The Queen did seem a bit more sombre than usual, quite understandably. I thought the message she sent out was extremely sensitive and very appropriate. She is quite something, the Queen.
Amidst the terrible sadness over the last month in London, a moment of happiness and joy. God Bless you your majesty and happy official birthday from your Commonwealth. Catherine looked beautiful in pink, and the children are absolutely darling. It was a special moment of happiness amongst the sadness. xx
ReplyDeleteI might have chosen a quieter colour (just as I wouldn't have chosen yellow for that garden party if I were the queen as so forth.) My feelings on colour are known. But it is a lovely shade on Kate - looks to be a very pretty dress and a smart hat.
ReplyDeleteCharlotte is adorable as is George, although such a cautious little man compared to his father and uncle at the same age. Such a sweet smile though.
Think the queen handled the situation very well with her statements - and do not believe the Trooping should have been cancelled - so nice to see happy excited crowds.
I don't think it should have been cancelled either Julia. It has been part of the fabric of Britain since
Delete1748. To have cancelled it would have given the Manchester and London Bridge attacks a semblance of victory. I am glad the Queen kept the tradition going.
I'm so thrilled to see Kate in hot pink again - yay! It's one of my favourite colours on her - I think it suits her far better than the blush shade she's worn a lot in the past. I love the bodice of this dress but I'm with you Rebecca and Francesca, I'm not at all fond of the "paper bag" waist - it just looks messy to me. It would have looked way more sophisticated with a simple pencil skirt lower half I think - although that might have made it difficult to negotiate getting into and out of the carriage! (Quite a funny mental image!)
ReplyDeleteJust watched the balcony appearance on TV and I'm still taken aback at how fast little Charlotte is growing up. Standing on the step with big brother George really made her start to look like a little lady instead of a baby, and she looked so interested in everything. The moment when they both waved at the planes was so adorably cute! I just can't wait for the time when they start to attend the official Christmas and Easter services too - what a treat that's going to be.
On a completely different (and admittedly selfish!) note, I'm soooo pleased to hear that the dates for Germany and Poland don't interfere with Wimbledon and the Spanish state visit - so many great appearances to look forward to over the next few weeks!
Love the color on her, the hat, and the bodice of the dress. Not a fan of the waistline design at all. Bit of a disaster.
ReplyDeleteThe Queen, in dress and message to angry, grieving people, is perfect.
The Queen's statement was unusual but absolutely necessary and pitch perfect. Well done to the person who understood that, and the writer. Really excellent.
ReplyDeleteI know the royal show always goes on, but the timing of this is unfortunate in a way in my opinion, I'm afraid these visuals are just too much a stark contrast to what's happening in the country and will be used to agitate. (I'm not saying if that's right or wrong, just saying it is reality) No one seems in the mood for it right now.
The protests in London may only be a few hundred strong but millions around the country identify with their feelings. Again, as I said in a previous post, easy for someone to latch on to this mood and use it toward any number of ends. The Times described the protests like this today "They were angry at being ignored. Angry at the landlords who would not show their faces and a prime minister who refused to meet them. Angry with the excuses and the silence. Angry at the unknown number of dead entombed inside Grenfell Tower, angry at the response to a preventable disaster and angry at the raging inequality of London's richest borough that had been written out in flames." (The Telegraph has details on the budget cuts and dangerous work that was done on the tower) The Times piece also added that "a significant number of far left political activists had joined the protest. Leaflets advocating a revolution to "bring down the government" were being handed out."
Tom Bradby had a commentary yesterday and said the tower is becoming a symbol of "deep national divisions" saying that when you see the shell it's "hard to shake the sense that something's not right." It was very good I thought.(You can see it online)
So the Queen and William did a good job yesterday, William in particular handled himself very well, and I still think it's lucky they got in and out early in the day. And this was a smart and truly heartfelt statement today.
I have also noted that the timing for all the summer stuff is not the best right now. First this, then ascot and state opening (thankfully toned down this year) and then state visit and all of that. Quite a hard balance at a time when class division is a hot topic.
DeleteI agree with your whole post.
Claudia, I echo your sentiments. It is a really tense and troubled time in the UK at the moment and it's such a shame that Trooping the Colour has fallen right in the middle of it all. The BBC's Trooping coverage talking about making over flower beds and removing traffic lights especially for the parade was particularly ill-advised and insensitive I thought, in light of the fact that the cost of doing all that could probably have paid for the fire-resistant cladding that might have saved lives.
DeleteThat said, I don't really want to get too political on the blog - this is not the right forum. However, for me personally (and I know others will react differently), today's events have helped to soothe my simmering anger a little. I could never look at George and Charlotte and still feel angry - at least for a little while! :)
I don't understand why a fire, while tragic beyond words, is such a political topic.
DeleteIn short, there were some corners probably cut in the building of the apartments and they (as I understood it) were low cost housing by the government (correct me if I'm wrong). So that is a part of it. Add to it that this building is in Kensington which has some of the richest people in london living there.
DeleteI have no opinion either way but it is much tensions building that the royals and "the establishment" will have to navigate.
I just got back from London a couple of days ago- what a week to be there. For the past five years I have been in London every June for work. Sometimes I am there during Trooping: last year I was walking around in Chelsea with friend when the planes from the Trooping flew past and my friend and I had a short discussion on the monarchy and its symbolism. She is a professor and her research is in marketing - she has several academic papers on the monarchy. What changes the past year has brought.
DeleteI don't really know what to say - I thought I would just pop on by. Anything said seems quite meaningless really today. My political opinions - I have a lot of them but this is not the forum. But class divisions is something their society needs to face up to and the royals are the face of those class divisions - divisions are why the royals exist. Sooner or later the people will wisen up to the fact.
No short answer to that KP unfortunately. A snap election that was supposed to strengthen the plans for Brexit went incredibly wrong, no one seemed to have the pulse of the people, Corbyn, the Labour leader and an outspoken socialist and anti-monarchist gained incredible steam and popularity, people tired and frustrated after years of austerity, social cuts, NHS problems, this fire just seems to sum it all up for many.
DeleteIf KY is for Kentucky :) here's a clip from the NY Times that may help:
"The deadly blaze has mushroomed into a political crisis, testing the fragile government of Prime Minister Theresa May. Her political future — already in doubt after her Conservative Party lost its governing majority in snap elections she called — has been further questioned because of her response to the fire. Some have even referred to it as Mrs. May’s Hurricane Katrina moment.
The prime minister’s response, characterized as stilted and lacking empathy, and her failure to meet with victims during an initial visit to the site only served to amplify complaints about her leadership. When Mrs. May finally went out to meet with victims at St. Clement’s Church on Friday she was heckled with shouts of “Coward!”
Fire safety experts believe that cladding used on the building’s exterior may have fueled the blaze. Many residents are still unaccounted for, and the police said some remains may never be identified. Community groups have said that warnings about poor fire safety have long been ignored, and that in the aftermath of the disaster, officials failed to immediately take care of those affected.
The fire has also become a symbol of class inequality — the Grenfell Tower’s charred remains stand high above one of the British capital’s wealthiest neighborhoods. The building had been home to a diverse group of residents, many of them from Sudan, Eritrea and Syria.
A short walk away, however, are apartments and houses that cost millions of pounds and are home to a wealthy elite that residents of the Grenfell Tower had seen as a world apart."
****
I think May's in an impossible situation, but she is the PM and that's where people look. There were many local errors just as there were with Katrina, but Bush got the lion's share of the blame there as well.
There is excellent detail in the Telegraph about the construction cost cuts, they used a cheaper cladding to save only a few thousand pounds, and it wasn't flame retardant (it's also banned in the US) and the residents had been complaining for some time about the conditions.
I thought Bradby summed it up well if you can watch that.
I only have one fashion comment: What on earth was Prince George wearing?!
ReplyDeleteAlmost exactly the same thing that Harry wore to Trooping the Color in 1988, only in a different color and with short sleeves.
DeleteThe close up photo of Kate which you used to showcase her hat is the first time I've seen a strong resemblance between Kate and Carol. No one has yet commented on her hair, so I will mention that I am very happy to see it in a beautiful chignon again. That look just seems so regal to me and, while I know it's not everyone's taste, I think Kate looks her most beautiful when her hair is styled this way.
ReplyDeleteLooks like a beautiful day for the event!
You're right, she did resemble Carol here! Good eye.
DeleteLovely views as always for this event, and my thanks to you, Charlotte, for making this annual post always seem fresh with new background information.
ReplyDeleteI didn't like the tucks at the neck of this dress until I saw the whole thing, and then they fit with the waist and long sleeves. It's a good look for the Duchess, very pretty effect overall. Seeing George and Charlotte and the balcony interactions was fun.
Shout out to longtime reader Katie from Texas who was there in the crowd today!
Katie, you were THERE????? How cool is that?
DeleteI am glad to hear you are doing fine. We haven't heard from you for quite awhile. Anything to share about the day? other stuff? :)
Love the outfit! I love how all the reporters weee talking about how it was outside and I looked up the weather and it was only 80 degrees which to me is considered a cool day this time of year lol
ReplyDeleteThe Duchess always looks stunning for Trooping, but this look knocks it out of the park! Wow! Love everything about her outfit! She looks gorgeous and most importantly, she looks so happy!!
ReplyDeleteThe top of kate's dress is lovely, but I don't care for the waist. Someday, maybe she'll have the seam reversed, keeping the pleats. Interesting that almost all of the other women wore summer mourning colors. Kate's pink was a bit bright by comparison, though very pretty.
ReplyDeleteShe truly looks lovely in pink. I think she is such a loving and gentle young woman. I believe you can see the soul of a person thru their eyes and you can clearly see Kate is a woman of love,grace,kindness and dedication. They sparkle when she looks at her children. She is inspirational worldwide....she looks very pretty in pink. Thank you for sharing her with us!!!
ReplyDeleteNo words needed... so so cute little Charlotte and George!
ReplyDeleteLiked that Kate's and Charlotte's dresses matched perfectly! Any photos of which shoes the duchess wore?
Princess Beatrice with a sleeveless dress? Mmmmh...
And who are the two girls with the brown long hair on the right side of the balcony?
The two girls with brunette hair are Estella and Eloise Taylor, daughters of Lady Helen Taylor who is a second cousin to the Queen. She is 40th in succession to the throne and Estella and Eloise are 42 and 43 in succession.
DeleteIt is Eugenie wearing the sleeveless.
DeleteOh I love it! I love the color, the waist on the dress, and the hat. Looking gorgeous. And the kiddos look cute too. I love Charlotte's little hands as she watches the display.
ReplyDeleteWow, Kate looks stunning! Can't wait to see more pictures.
ReplyDeleteKate is lovely in pink. And the children are adorable as usual :)
ReplyDeleteThank you Charlotte! I was out and about when BBC was broadcasting live on our streaming service here and so will have to wait until the recap tonight to see the full video. I love Kate's dress and hat color--don't like the paper bag waist though. After all the Diana revelations this week it is very weird to see photos of Camilla riding in the carriage with Harry. It hasn't really struck me before but it is so splashed across the tabloids at the supermarket right now--Diana's misery.
ReplyDeleteAnyway, K & W and the kiddos look like a happy family on the balcony. The Queen's message was lovely. I know this is probably a weird thought but when we had a massive fire near our previous hometown in Arizona, the firefighters walked along the parade route on Veteran's Day carrying firefighter boots to fill up for people who had been displaced. Imagine if they could have done the same at the Trooping. I will bet they would have collected thousands!!
For what it's worth the "revelations" are 20 years old, Morton milking the Diana cash cow once again. Within months of her death, he revealed that Diana was in fact the source for his book, that James Colthurst was the go between, ferrying these tapes back and forth. He released a book then with the transcripts of the tapes with Diana's own notes in the pages. So the Mail hitting readers who weren't around then I suppose... shame on them for running this old news as something new and without any context or rebuttal.
DeleteAnd I think the "revelations" should be taken with a giant boulder of salt. Diana was lashing out in the moment, very angry and isolated, and within months of recording those tapes admitted to several people she deeply regretted it. The problem with lashing out with a book, it comes out many months if not a year after the tirade, and is around for eternity. Diana cut off anyone who was involved in the publication - including Colthurst who risked an awful lot - and to close confidants she said "I've made a terrible mistake". Also not included in the transcripts, the endless attacks Diana made on her own Spencer family and in-laws, ironically Colthurst was the one who convinced her not to include that. (And Morton also revealed it was Diana who leaked the awful Fergie stories to the press to take heat off herself & the publication, not one of her better traits)
I think in William's GQ interview he was clearly referencing Morton, Bashir, and others, all the media people who knew Diana was vulnerable, manipulated her, and made fortunes for themselves in the process. William said "I know some games and shenanigans were played, but she was isolated, she was lonely, things within her own life got very difficult.. I think she was possibly a bit naive and ended up playing into the hands of some very bad people." Then: "I hold a lot of people to account that they did not do what they should have done, out of human decency."
Far more likely he was referring obliquely to his father, his step-mother and his father's friends - that is where all the claims of Diana's mental instability - as well as claims about affairs vastly exceeding the truth. These interviews show Diana frustrated and angry and emotional but don't support the statements that have been made about her. Claims that she was naive and fell in with the wrong people play directly to St. Charles and Camilla so burdened by this angry irrational woman and I can't agree - Diana had every reason to be angry and these interviews show how carefully she thought about the situation.
DeleteNor do I agree with your take on London - whilst hugely sympathetic to those who have suffered loss, the mob (many of whom have nothing to do with the tragedy) are being whipped up to bring down a government that is comparatively new and had no immediate role in the tragedy. In the process, real concerns are being lost and the situation is becoming hopelessly undignified and blame is being cast so widely that it is likely to become impossible to have a clear analysis of why things happened and how to correct them as quickly as possible.
We often agree Claudia but not today.
Nothing wrong with that Julia :) At some point in every post I say this - if we all agreed on everything all the time, it would get very boring, very quickly!
DeleteI agree Julia. To me, seeing Harry in the carriage with Camilla, it made it very real. The book wasn't a figment of imagination. Charles actually did that book. Incredibly, the drama continues. Needlessly. I feel so sorry for William and Harry and the children. How could William and Kate possibly feel comfortable having their children around Charles and Camilla after they wrote that book? The book was unbalanced and seditious. Are the authors?
DeleteAnd, as for the crowds and their reactions, that is why I made the comments that I did regarding the heckler yesterday. People said the man had lost his children. As bad as any loss is, they were not his children. The whole thing seemed more political to me than sincerely personal. Can I prove it? No. Just a strong feeling in my knower.
Claudia,
DeleteI feel better to find some support for my thoughts as I had kept up with reading the excerpts this past week on dailymail.com. It is also nice to know she regretted it. I never knew that. I was not aware of William’s conclusion on the matter, and how he implied the issue in his GQ interview. I have read some Diana biographies some years ago, but not “Diana in her own words” by Andrew Morton.
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Twenty years later, approaching her 20th anniversary in August all these excerpts from the book is annoyingly selfish and cunning. The tapes in her words will follow in the near future is cringe worthy. I wonder if the friend who made the arrangement between Diana and Andrew Morton knew of any binding agreement as to when to release the tapes including how much right A. Morton was to have on the transcript and tapes.
I wonder if her family can take a case to court to prevent and / or ban future attempts to release the tapes. Diana was about William’s current age at the time; angry, vulnerable, betrayed, disappointed, and labeled within her in-laws circles. It might have given her great release of the stress in a spirit of some vendetta she might have thought best at a time. It is like a something which reappeared to sting at a time when her sons are doing well and adorable grandchildren are becoming her continuance. Parts of the excerpt are personal, and people might share only with their Psychiatrists to process and filter what took place. This was over the board to hand it to a tabloid journalist however good a writer he might have been. In all fairness, her sons as they pointed out recently (we could have looked out for her) should not feel that way at all, especially at the very young age they were. We all had shortcomings, and she did have hers too. Sadly, she is not let to rest in peace, and to be young, vulnerable and be in a state of mind she was is part of being human. It is as if she is the gold pot who kept on giving to the media even long after her rest.
Not from a judgmental perspective, but of care. She is one of 21st century people I took a liking as if I know her.
Hello Charlotte,
DeleteI am sorry the discussion turned into the blues on a blog which observes celebrations. May be it is not necessarily avoidable as a parallel universe is taking place. One of them, as very awkward excerpts of a member of BRF, Diana’s story currently going on in the media.
Otherwise, as usual, your posts are second to none. Kate seems to be most memorable in bright pink clothes.
Interesting comment surfer girl. While I know about Charles and his failings as a husband, I'm not aware of his involvement in Morton's book. Is this a widely known fact?
Delete`
What book, surfer girl?
DeleteAnd while I often agree wholeheartedly with your royal comments Julia and sincerely hope we don't fall out over it, I am afraid that I, in turn, cannot agree with your assessment of the Grenfell Tower tragedy. I didn't want to bring politics to this forum, but I feel I must provide some balance here.
DeleteFirst of all, this is not a "comparatively new" government - it is a government that has been in power for seven years; it is a government that has closed numerous fire stations in London and when the former Mayor, Boris Johnson, was questioned about the possible impact of the cuts, his delightful reply was "Get stuffed"; it is a government that sat on a report into the safety of tower blocks, and the guy responsible for that (Gavin Barwell) is now the PM's Chief of Staff; it is a government that voted down an opposition bill to "make all rented accommodation fit for human habitation" just last year. And it is a government led by a woman who refuses to meet victims of a terrible national disaster.
In my humble opinion, it is absolutely no wonder people are deeply angry. They have been trying to be heard by the powers that be on the issue of safety for years; it should not have taken this heartbreaking tragedy and the deaths of many people for them finally to have a voice. To quote a very apt Tweet that I read just yesterday, "It is not the anger people should be condemning; it is the injustice that led to the anger."
Morton, Bashir, Bedell-Smith, etc. Don't know that they need to stir things up. How much of Bedell-Smith's book did Charles contribute to? Did he counter the negative comments by others with anything? Does he do the photo responses like the Queen like with Carole Middleton being driven by her at Balmoral? Showing up in loving photos with his boys and grandchildren? Of course they may have private family photos like that but the public needs to see that loving solidarity. I would like for him to somehow defend Diana's memory rather than let detractions of her escalate at all. To take care of the elephant in the room in a definitive and healthful manner. Otherwise people might be left with the impression that he and Camilla are doing
Deleteanother smear campaign against Diana.
I understand Helen and it is a complex and divisive issue - the push for insulated cladding came under the Blair government and both parties have had a hand in housing issues over the years. Whilst there have been cuts to fire brigades - it's unclear if this affected this tragedy - the response was almost immediate and recovery of any tragedy like this takes time - witness 9-11 - there was frustration there too.
DeleteBut May is a recent P.M. - that's what I meant. We can agree to disagree on the May v. Corbyn response - I personally feel this would have been a situation best suited for a unified response as happened at 9-11 but this blog isn't about politics.
Righteous anger is understandable but there seemed to be more going on here. The most important thing is to get the displaced housed, ascertain if more towers are covered with the cladding which is barred for high buildings in the US and Germany, and make certain that buildings are fitted with sprinklers and alarms.
There has been a huge outpouring of support - financial, physical and emotional and that's what counts the most. Unfortunately, it is always going to be the truth that councils and others will look to the lowest bidder - that is world-wide - the important thing is to make certain regulations about materials don't permit inappropriate ones - and to review rules such as remain in place which clearly cost lives here.
Surfer girl - I do think this recent bio about Charles which included statements about Diana's mental health has been the main issue for William and Harry - it appeared there was cooperation at least from his friends. Because this has been noted, William has released a father's day card - perhaps to defuse tension.
Lovely coverage as always, Charlotte. Thanks so much for getting the tone perfect in all of your posts. Over the past weeks that may have been a challenge. It's a fine art and you nail it every time.
ReplyDeleteI love the hat, hair, earrings, the colour of the dress and even the paper bag waist. A tall person can pull that off. However, were I restyling the original dress to include sleeves, I would have kept the original neckline. To my eye the tucks on top detract from the distinctive ones at the waist; then again, I'm a minimalist. The tucks on the neckline also emphasize posture that isn't ramrod perfect.
George and Charlotte grow more adorable by the minute. I loved the shot of William's tender gaze on them and the joy on Catherine's face.
I have to concur with your comments again, Philly! �� I love the Duchess' overall look especially the gorgeous earrings, but the tucks at the neckline sit so oddly which is perhaps emphasised by Kate's poor posture. I would have much preferred the original neckline and perhaps dropping the waistline slightly, as having the darts so close to it created so many folds in the fabric.
DeleteI haven't watched any videos yet, (it's past my bed-time) but those kids just get cuter and cuter!!! They are both growing up so fast! Charlotte's dress is so sweet!
I love her hat! I don't love he dress. I actually prefer it in its original sleeveless design, I get why she changed it. Usually I like custom pieces but the sleeves make this dress look heavy. Maybe three quarter sleeves with slight roughing to match the neckline would have been nicer. I love the color though!! Would be nice to see her shoes just because I'm a shoe lover :p hoping for pink heels but probably her ferns or gianvito rossi lol.
ReplyDeleteOh my god this is a complete and utter KNOCK OUT!!! This is the Kate I've been missing so much - this gorgeous look is drop dead perfect - love the McQueen architecture and immaculate fit. The rich fabric, clean lines, AMAZING color - and lovely hemline, not too long thank god!!! The hat is pure confectionary delight. Her skin, eyes, and those earrings, omg! And don't even get me started on the children. What a picture the family makes together all dressed up! Hooray for Kate!!! xoxox
ReplyDeleteTrooping was wonderful this year! Kate looked lovely in pink and the Queen was simply beautiful! The weather was bright and sunny, but hot for London. You could tell a noticeably smaller crowd than years past, I suppose due to the recent attacks. George and Charlotte did so well on the balcony. They are getting so big! It was a splendid day to celebrate Her Majesty! So happy to be here in London!
ReplyDeleteThanks for the post Charlotte!
Katie. SO good to hear from you.x
DeleteHappy you got to be in London for that. Thanks for the on the spot reporting. :)
That's great that you're there!! :)
DeleteNice to hear from you Kate - the crowds looked smaller to me too.
DeleteI really like this dress a lot, although think 3/4 sleeves would have been better than full length. I am confused as it seemed like a warm day in London today, but Kate has long sleeves on and some of the others have short or sleeveless. Little Charlotte is gorgeous and looks just like Carol Middleton; George seems a little more reserved than his sister.
ReplyDeleteWith everything going on in the UK, I kind of forgot about the Trooping. When I first saw the pictures, I didn't get quite as excited because of the terrible events that have happened. It seems a bit frivolous, but it is part of the British history and culture, and its a good way to bring people together. As the saying goes, "Keep calm and carry on."
ReplyDeleteI have mixed feelings about the dress. I love how she had her hair up and the earrings are really pretty. But I feel like there's too much pink (its actually not my favorite color, so I'm probably a bit bias there). And with the ruffles and everything, it makes the out look heavy, which is weird because today was suppose to be really hot. And I kind of wish she didn't wear a new outfit just because of what has been happening in the past few days with the protests and the anger of the Grenfell tragedy. Its almost like the time she wore a $2000 (or something like that) McQueen outfit when she visited the place where the 2011 riots took place.
I just thought that the Queens message struck the right tone. I imagine that there were people who might have wanted this event not to be held for security reasons. Bravo for them to do it. I am sure security was high. I love the Duchess in bright colors and this pink is no Exception. She looked lovely as did Charlotte in her pink dress.
ReplyDeleteAs this was her birthday parade, may I say that, I am so happy and impressed with the Queen and Prince Philip, once again. I love what they wore, especially when you take into account Prince Philip's retreat into private live and the current events in the UK.
ReplyDeleteA REPEAT for the Queen and what a repeat. From her latest Garden Party at Buckingham Palace where she colour-coordinated with Prince Philip. And Prince Philip: In light colours at BP on 1 June, sombre colours today. I don't think this is coincidential but sartorial diplomacy at its best.
Obviously, I may not "read" this correctly and don't know what influenced the sartorial choices made for both engagements. Interestingly, Bethan Holt, digital fashion editor from the Daily Telegraph, noted that the Queen first wore the
"pale blue jacquard silk duster coat with matching shift dress by Stewart Parvin, with the Guards brooch pinned to her left shoulder" and "a bow embellished matching pale blue hat by Phillip Somerville" :)
12 years ago when visiting Malta for the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting 2005 and on Ladies' Day at Royal Ascot in 2008. The latter, is anyone surprised? :), will this year take place on Thu 22 June, one day after the State Opening of Parliament. I love these coincidences, with and without inverted commas.
Holt also said "By recycling her outfit instead of wearing something new, The Queen demonstrated sensitivity to recent events.", "proving her ability to judge the nation's mood perfectly". - And all this after last year's #Neonat90 which apparently caused sales of neon products to rise 137%. :)
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/fashion/people/queen-wears-outfit-first-wore-2005-trooping-colour/
Charlotte, could you perhaps add a picture of the Queen and Prince Philip at the 1 June Garden Party to this post so that anyone interested could see their attires on both occasions?
What a couple. Here's to many, many more very happy and healthy years!
Agree with Philly. Charlotte simply an amazing effort on your part. You have managed to delicately keep us up to date with everything so quickly all the while in a sincere and understanding way. Thank you for steering the blog so well at this difficult time.
ReplyDeleteThe Queen looked rested and lovely today.
ReplyDeleteShe wore her "Brigade of the Guards" brooch. The brooch, not surprisingly, is an interesting brooch as are all of her brooches, in my opinion. :)
Her brooch today "combines the badges of five Household Regiments, the Grenadier, Coldstream, Scots, Irish and Welsh Guards. Rendered in diamonds and topped by a crown, the five symbols are enclosed in an oval frame bearing the words, QUINOQUE JUNCTA IN UNO, meaning "five joined as one".
The amazing thing is. "Trooping the Color" has been done annually since 1748. yep, 1748, according to "The Royal Order of Sartorial Splendor", "The Brigade of the Guards Brooch", my reference for all this information.
The Queen has worn the brooch annually since around 1986, after she stopped riding horseback and in uniform in the parade. The brooch was designed for her grandmother, Queen Mary.
"The "Trooping the Color" ceremony stems from the tradition of carrying (or trooping) the color (or flag) of
a battalion down the ranks of it's troops so that it could be seen and later recognized on the battlefield by the soldiers. It is performed the fully trained and operational Household Division."
Kate has her "Kate things" and the Queen has her brooches. :)
Surfer girl, I really love your little side research! Interesting information. Love your comment and completely agree about the Queen and her brooches and Kate and her"Kate things". Charlotte posted something from the Telegraph in the last article about Kate having a penchant for "literal dressing" for events. Her own signature style..."Kate things"! cc
DeleteThanks, CeCe, :). Nice to know that "Kate things" have their own term now, "literal dressing". :)
DeleteI love the dress. I am a fan of the more unique looks Kate pulls out and this is one of them. The color is certainly bright but it works.
ReplyDeleteI am moved by the ceremony today. First with the Queen's words which I think are very well worded and marks the sentiment and somberness of what has happened recently. Very well said, indeed and strikes the right chord. Prince Phillip in morning dress, to me, is quite significant, like a silent nod to the passing of the military posts to the next set of royals. As always, I am amazed at the resilience of the British people and even though these are somber and tenuous times, the need for the tradition and for events to continue is extremely important.
ReplyDeleteKate is absolutely beautiful. Everything, her hair, the hat, the color of pink on her, and the earrings are very elegant. The dress is very clean in its cut and while not a fan of the paper bag waist in general, Kate's height and slenderness help her carry it off well. She looks every bit a royal lady, and feel we are watching her mature before our eyes. Love the care she takes in dressing the children as well. As for George and Charlotte they are absolutely adorable. Charlotte is growing and seems a little more animated than George, its nice to see their personalities develop.
The overall tone today is somewhat more sedate; Harry's in the background and there doesn't seem to be all the big happy smiles as in the past. It is an appropriate mood for the unsettling recent events. But it is a lovely picture of a family that is carrying on the tradition of unity for the British people. cc
I enjoyed it all and loved seeing Prince George and his sister Princess Charlotte. Duchess Catherine's bright choice of color for her ensemble inspired me to think of HOPE for the world. Thanks, Charlotte.
ReplyDeleteFirst I want to say how much I appreciated the Queen's statement issued before the parade, this shows her great sense of duty , the text is so well balanced and says all to everyone !
ReplyDeleteAnd now ... the "real" Kate is back ! A lovely dress, at first I did not really like the pleats at the neck, but having seen the whole look, it works quite well, design and color, bright color, she looks so god in bright colors ! Lovely hat on a lovely chignon, some blings , yes, diamonds ! The only miss being (to me ) the clutch ..... looks nothing but an old thing taken from a cupboard at the last second ... colour, size, not a penny for that !
The more I see Charlotte the more I like her ! She seems always ready to enjoy the moment, while her brother quite often looks reluctant and not knowing what to think, she looks very self confident !
Thank you Charlotte as always for a wonderful post! I love this color on Kate. I love seeing a different hat, and those earrings....gorgeous. I really like the dress as it was meant to be....sleeveless and shorter (really cute on the model.) It's not bad on Kate....I think it just changes the original look a lot, but fitting for the day. I'm not sure the waistline is my favorite, but I like the back detail (the pic when Kate and family are walking inside), and I like the pleats on the front of the dress by the neckline. I agree...maybe a 3/4 sleeve would have looked better. How fun it must be to take a dress and customize to your liking!
ReplyDeleteThe moment of silence was a nice tribute and the Queen's letter was very sweet and thoughtful.
ReplyDeleteIt is different not having Prince Phillip in his uniform but I am happy he is relaxing more. That uniform has to be warm and the hat heavy. He is still as handsome as ever.
Thank you Charlotte for all the very sweet photos. Some amazing photos. And thank you for all the background information. I hadn't realized the scope of the event and necessary preparation efforts until I read the numbers. Quite impressive.
The family moments were amazing. Charlotte is getting taller and has lost most of her baby fat. She looks like she might be tall, lean and lanky like her mom. Glad they thought to get a step up for George.
Glad Peter and Autumn's children were there today.
NOW, if only Meghan had been there by that handsome man in uniform Prince Harry. :)
(I know that only family is allowed on the balcony though.) Hint. Hint. Harry. 💍
I think pink was a good choice for Kate. Cheerful, encouraging. Loved Charlotte's dress (what they showed of it anyway). I am not fond of the earrings. (sorry). Not a real fan of the design of the dress but it was different, sort of, so that counts. I like that she and Catherine both wore pink again.
Did anyone see Eugenie or Beatrice?
And, do not get angry with me for saying this please, but is Camilla looking younger or what? What has she had done?
Surfer girl, I agree that Camille does look great. She seems to be very content and her smile appears to be sincere. I hope I look that good when I get her age. I'm probably the minority, but I have always liked her. Enjoyed reading your comments.
DeleteThanks. :)
DeleteI don't think she looks that good without some high-end, first-class beauty regimes and perhaps procedures. But apparently she has been making the effort.
I agree with you, Annette - Camilla seems to have made Prince Charles very happy (and vice versa!). There are quite a few articles around that suggest she is really warm and funny, and easy to talk to. I think she will make a good consort when the time comes - she’s certainly getting a lot of practice!
DeleteI'm happy to find here a small group of Camilla's followers, I have always appreciated her personality and I think she has been really underestimated.
DeleteI also like Camilla. Do I think she's perfect and without faults? Obviously not. Do I think she has made mistakes? Absolutely! But she seems fun, caring and just a general good sport all around. And I am very impressed by her work with rape and domestic victims.
DeleteYes, both York girls were there and looking good. But no Wessex kids or Sophie.
DeleteI am glad I am not the only one who doesn't hate Camilla. Regardless of the antics/shenanigans/manipulations of the past, she does work steadily and cheerfully. I feel like I see her out and about more than any other royal. And I don't think it's just because she 'cultivated the press'. She very well might but I feel like Charles has moved into some more serious roles and so Camilla is just more visible.
I also like Camillla. More than Charles to be honest.
DeleteLike you, Rebecca, I appreciate her charity work for victims of rape and domestic victims and, as someone who loves literature, her work in that area as well.
I never disliked her (probably because I'm too young to have been a fan of Diana's) but now I do like her. When she & Charles visited here on their Brexit tour, I got to shake her hand and she seemed genuinely nice and (this was a surprise to me) a little bit nervous.
Looking at the entire balcony photo, I don't see Sophie or Louise Wessex and am not sure if I spot James or not. I see Prince Edward but he seems to be on his own??
ReplyDeleteYeah, Sophie and the kids were not there. No clue why.
DeleteI noticed that too. Wonder where they are?
DeleteSophie just attended a memorial for those lost in the Borough Market attack so she is around.
DeleteIn Italian, "rosa" is both the name of the flower, rose, and of the colour, pink. Kate in this dress looks really as a marvelous "rosa".
ReplyDeleteBeautiful show, beautiful recurrence, but this moment is so sad that the only thing I can look at with sympathy is the somber face of the Queen and the minute of silence.
Also the nice picture of the toddlers behind the window resonates with other images of children behind windows, among smoke and fire, crying desperately for help. Nothing seems to have sense anymore.
And I think of the young Italian in the tower calling her mother and her friends for the last time to say that she was going in heaven, that she will help them from above... so heartbreaking.
Paola, your words break my heart. I hadn't made the connection to children and windows. Now I will never forget it. The past weeks have been unusually full of heartbreak.
DeleteI love it. All of it! The love the neckline on Kate. I have a shirt just like it and love it for work. It has visual interest without being fussy or high. I don't adore the bag waist but I also don't hate it. It looks better standing up than sitting down. But the color is terrific and she looks great in it. The hair, the make up, the hat, the earrings!! They look terrific on their own and all together it's a knock out.
ReplyDeleteThose kids!! I am so annoyed I can't find a clip of the kids getting the stool! I will have to do some google searching. I love the interactions of the family. Charlotte looks so grown up. Two is such a funny age-one day, they are little and then they suddenly switch and become full people, just pint-sized.
Sometimes I just want to sigh when I read twitter. I understand that people are frustrated that there is the huge opulent ceremony on the midst of turmoil. But at the same time, it is a tradition that has existed for 200+ years, and really, the money is probably already spent. Cancelling now is just throwing money away.
Beautiful! I don't think we've seen Kate in exactly this shade of pink before. I love the interesting design elements of this dress, and the multiple shades of pink in the hat. The earrings are a perfect accessory. I hope we get to see a re-wear of this ensemble, so we can see the whole thing.
ReplyDeleteEugenie and Beatrice are there. I was so focused on the children that I didn't notice them.
ReplyDeleteNot to stir the pot, truly, but in the video at the bottom of Charlotte's narrative, when Kate, Harry and Camilla have bowed their heads, Kate looks over at Camilla (who is looking elsewhere) and then Kate gives Harry such a sweet look. Not trying to read anything into it. It was just something I noticed.
Did Kate and Camilla or Harry interact at all? I saw what you meant but it was just a glance - I wouldn't read anything into it.
Deletewasn't. :)
DeleteI didn't find anything wear they were interacting either.
I did notice the glare toward Camilla, but I cant fault Kate for that look, for obvious reasons. The pictures were lovely and all in all a superbly coordinated spectacular event!!XOXO
DeleteI wasn't faulting her in any way, lol. I don't think it was a glare. More like a quizzical look.
DeleteAfter seeing Kate in the video, I like the outfit much better and the earrings. They do sparkle and have nice movement. Isla and Savannah look so natural and unaffected by royalty. They have more freedom, no doubt.
ReplyDeleteHas anyone checked the DM? (I admit I like them for pics) Is it me or have they had no trooping coverage on their home page? Usually the kids are worth it, i found that really weird.
ReplyDeleteAccording to Maria Mercedes, People, 6/17/17, Kate seems to have done another "Kate thing" in putting George in an outfit like Harry wore to Trooping the Color in 1988. Given her history of "Kate things", I don't think the similarity is a coincidence.
ReplyDeleteYes, the little green shorts and suspenders outfit that matched Diana's green and white dress. I remember that day so vividly. Harry was sticking his tongue out and being naughty. Diana was so gorgeous.
Deletesweet memories, BethNY. :)
DeleteI have not been up to date on all the turmoil surrounding events in the UK, so thanks to commenters for explaining a bit. And thank you, Charlotte, as always, for the historical context! I agree, it must be a difficult time for so much pomp and circumstance, but what a thoughtful message from the Queen. And I was shocked to see so much sun in London! It must be very nice for a change.
ReplyDeleteKate looked gorgeous in this cotton-candy pink! Her outfit yesterday and this dress today are a return to the fashion years I've been missing from her. I like the paper bag waist and think she wears it well. The updo is also clean and chic. I usually don't really care much for earrings in general, but these are a great finishing touch to the whole outfit. Charlottes dress was super cute, too. I wish I could get it in my size lol!
Anyone else think William looked a little solemn/angry? I didn't catch the broadcast, as I'm in America, so maybe it was just photos I've seen and maybe it's just because of all the terrible events that have happened.
It's so nice getting to see the Cambridges more...I know I say this a lot, but after a handful of years, it's fun having more appearances to look forward to. I hope it continues to increase as they make their official move to London.
This was a carefully thought out and coordinated look for Kate and the kids. George's suspenders (?) matched Charlotte's bow and shoes, which matched one of the accent colors in Kate's fascinator.
ReplyDeleteI think Kate looked lovely, and the color of her dress was fresh and summery. I'm not a fan of the paper bag waist, but it usually takes me awhile to latch on to new styles (about the time they're at their expiration date).
I haven't commented lately, but have been actively reading and enjoying the various opinions being expressed. This knowledgeable, diverse community of commenters greatly adds to the interest of Charlotte's wonderful blog.
Nice to see you again Kim, I always enjoy your comments :)
DeleteKim. Good points. The outfit that George wore is just like the one Harry wore to the Trooping of the Color in 1988. Harry's was green with white and had long sleeves, but was otherwise like George's. So, yes, their outfits were definitely "thought out and coordinated". Another "Kate thing".
Delete:)
Kate looked beautiful today. I love the Trooping the Colour, it's great occasion to see the whole royal family and I really enjoy lovely photos of Cambridges today. Charlotte is so sweet!
ReplyDeleteGreetings from Poland
Trooping the Colour has always been one of my favorite annual royal events even more so now that George and Charlotte are making regular appearances. It's nice to get the chance to see the whole family together across the generations. Kate's white McQueen coat and black hat for her first appearance remains one of my all-time favorite Duchess fashion looks (the white McQueen coat dress from Princess Charlotte's Christening with the Philip Treacy floral hat is a close runner up as my favorite Trooping the Colour look). This year I am surprised to have to disagree with other readers. Unfortunately, I'm not a fan of the look today. I liked this shade of pink on Kate when she wore her Issa dress before her engagement, but I feel the color today would have looked more flattering on her Majesty the Queen. I loved the serious bling, but am just not feeling the McQueen today or the hat. It's a rare Trooping the Colour miss for me (maybe because my expectations are always so high).
ReplyDeleteYou're not alone. This is my least favorite Kate Trooping outfit so far as well.
DeleteI join you in those feelings too.
DeleteI don't like the shade nor the model of the dress and I prefer white tones on Kate at this event.
I do appreciate the matching colors in Charlottes dress.
Oooh I have to disagree:) Love the color, love the fashion. My only quibble would be with the earrings, gorgeous but maybe a bit too much. Would love to have seen her shoes. I thought she looked spectacular and finally in a bespoke piece that was a bit more "avant grade" while still being spot on for the occasion and tailored wonderfully to her frame.
DeleteAnne, her first Trooping appearance remains one of my all-time favourite looks also. And last year's outfit/hat was stellar, too. Her worst Trooping looks, IMO, was the Catherine Walker coatdress she wore after Charlotte's birth with the awful white hat - the coatdress looked like it was made out of upholstery fabric. & the grey Erdem dress with the embroidered flowers was a miss, too. I wonder if we'll see the silvery/ice blue McQueen suit with the skulls on it again, I liked the style of that suit.
DeleteI think I've only ever commented twice on this blog (although a diehard fan!) but today it's worth a big shout out! Everything was absolutely SPOT ON in the U.K. today. The Queen's message was so poignant and thoughtful, the children in the same color scheme as Kate, Charlotte tenderly touching Kate's face on the balcony, George's crazy little teeth coming in all screwy!, and that DASHING PW in his military dress. (I don't normally view PW as such so let's just say the man was looking gooood today!🤣) I rarely see Camilla as a fashion plate, but I'll also add that I really liked her dress today. So happy Rebecca Priestly was acknowledged today as well. What a difficult job that must be with all the behind the scenes stuff to worry about that we never see. Her loyalty to William and Harry then Kate really should be rewarded.
ReplyDeleteWhat a sight to see the entire BRF on that balcony. You can tell the Queen has done one amazing job at keeping the family tight knit over the years. Kudos to them for making our Saturday a bit brighter!
While I'm at it - Charlotte, you are bar none the best blogger on Earth! If I commented as often as I think it, there'd be no more room for others to post. Brilliant commentary, historical facts, and mediation!👏👏👏
I agree 100%
DeleteDoes anybody know anything about the horses the HRHs were riding? Are they personal horses of the HRHs?
DeleteLyn, this is what I have found out so far. :)
DeleteThe Queen used to ride her own horse. But now the army seems to provide and care for the horses. There is a horse named "Cinderella" who is part of the team of horses that pulls Kate's carriage. Prince Charles ride a three-year old horse named "George". Prince William rides a horse named "Wellesley". Princess Anne rode a horse named "Elizabeth". "Elizabeth" retired last year so I don't know the name of the horse Anne rode this year.
Simon Perry, People, 7/10/16, "Cinderella Meets Kate".
Lynn, I'd like to know, too. The horses are very beautiful, especially the white one William is riding.
DeleteKiwi Gal, the horse info is @ 15:13, above. :)
DeleteThanks for that, surfer girl :)
DeleteRe: the balcony crowd: I'm curious about the identity of the attractive young blonde woman in the large white hat to Autumn Phillips' left. (Phillips is the woman in green and the rose-topped fuchsia fascinator.) I don't recognize her, and I thought I knew most members of the extended royal family. Just a guest, perhaps? Any ideas anyone?
ReplyDeleteFlora Ogilvy
DeleteGabriella Windsor?
DeleteLady Amelia Windsor?
DeleteLady Gabriella was on the other side of the balcony with her parents and brother and his wife.
DeleteLady Amelia Windsor
DeleteNot Gabriella Windsor - she's on the other side (also in a big white hat.) I think Anon is right - it's Flora Ogilvy - daughter of James Ogilvy - Princess Alexandra's son. The D.M. has this girl identified as Lady Amelia Windsor (daughter of Earl of St. Andrews) but I believe she's the one with lank hair standing over by her mother.
DeleteFlora Ogilvy (source of information Royal Hats blog). For the people who want identification for the people on the balcony Royal Hats blog has high res photos of all 21 hats and who they belong to. The blogist deals with each family group. Kate's hat in the photos there is outstanding. There is a close up of the hat from the rear and as well her updo,which I also liked.
DeleteThanks you guys. It is definitely Flora Oglivy.
DeleteAmelia is wearing a navy and white hat and is off to the side.
Simon Holmes of the Daily Mail, "Charlotte and George Steal the Show", 6/18/17, had the photo with some of the people on the balcony numbered and identified. He had Flora (#17) mis-identified as Amelia Windsor.
Simon Holmes also had Eugenie listed as Beatrice.
DeleteI must agree that this blog is very high class and the best. It is always very interesting and informative reading. There should be awards given out especially a royal one for Charlotte. Thank you for your excellence and loyalty to your monarch family.
ReplyDeleteThe comment section is awesome too. You all are so fascinating to read with your diverse opinions and the many extras you add to the blog.
Harry seemed so serious today but perhaps with all that has been going on is weighing heavy. I know the horrible fire sure has gotten to me..such a senseless tragedy. I wish could have seen more of Harry in the balcony. I am glad this celebration was not cancelled.
Congratulations to Rebecca Priestley. She sure did deserve the honor from the Queen.
Kate looked radiant and so beautiful. That color was perfect for her. I didn't care for the waist either but that was the only hiccup. They have such a beautiful family. The photos chosen were lovely.
I don't think I have ever seen such long hair on a 13 month old girl. Princess Charlotte looked so cute today. Prince George had some good smiles today. His Mum sure likes his hair without any problems...I hope they haven't eliminated those curls. He had quite the hair cut.
I was surprised to see Prince Charles riding in the parade at 3 yrs old. Nice photo from long ago.
I wish all the people on the balcony could have been identified. I had no idea that many came out on the royal balcony.
Thank you for opportunity for me to share some thoughts.
Charlotte is not 13 months. She is two yrs now.
DeleteOh thank you Anonymous...for correcting me. I have no idea why I was thinking one year old today..duh. I was reading What Kate Wore and looking at photos when it hit me that Charlotte was 2 and I raced back here to at least add a correction. I do think though that her hair is so thick and long for 2 ...she looks more a 3 yr old maybe as it is noted she is going to be tall like her Mum. She and George were so adorable and well behaved today. Their parents must be so proud. Thanks again.
DeleteThat photo of Prince Charles, aged 3, reminds me of George at that age. Such a nice photo of him with his grandmother and aunt.
DeleteIs it just me, but does this look like a pink version of James Middleton's girlfriend's outfit at Pippa's wedding?
ReplyDeleteKate's dress bears absolutely no resemblance to what Donna Air wore to Pippa's wedding. They are both lovely dresses but I see no similarities.
DeleteNope. Neither do I BethNY. Inez, are you talking about that long off-white dress that Donna Airs wore?
DeleteYeah, well I see it really clearly, besides the waist and the pouffy sleeves, it seems so similar to me. It might just be me imagining it since the styles are both very similar, a little bit softer and a more rounded hat perhaps?
DeleteWell..I have not had time to comment much as of late...but I have been reading and following all the comments...sometimes more then once and greatly enjoying seeing everyone's views written in such a respectful and constructive way.
ReplyDeleteIt has been hard times in London as of late and my heart goes out to all effected. But I too believe that this needed to go on and in fact, in uncertain times, continuing with these traditions in some small way adds stability to our lives.
Moving to the fashion, I have to say I thought the Duchess looked quite stunning today despite the fact that I did not like a couple of the elements. The paper bag waistline (which I had not heard of until today...but I love being updated on a latest trend in fashions...)would not be my pick. And I love the chignon from the front and absolutely think an updo like this is what is needed to make most hats/fascinators work. (Please take note Princess Bea and Princess Eugenie) but was not crazy about it from the back. Too fussy.
Having said all that...I still was wowed when I saw the first pictures. The detailing at the neck is interesting without being too much. The brand The Fold does alot of this type of neckline detailing...which I very much like. The color is fantastic on Kate, the hat is stunning and smart and the overall impact chic and elegant.
PC and PG are too cute and PG looks more and more like Micheal Middelton to me every day.
My best to everyone who follows this blog...and special shout out to Charlotte for her amazing work.
Lovely family photos :)
ReplyDeleteHas the Duchess worn such a hue before?
0nly powder pink dress and coat come to my mind. I like this fresh look :)
There was the pink in New York which was quite divisive. Many objected to the bright colour at a site which was a memorial.
DeleteGoogle not letting me comment above. I haven't read other than Rebecca's first comment. Right now, I will just say what a beautiful color on Catherine and she looks lovely.
ReplyDeleteI appreciate the wide lens balcony view. I would like to see a copy with each royal labeled. (where are Sophie and her children?)It looks as though the cousins and their grandchildren were out in force. The youngest generation was in prominent view up front. I think that in itself may be a statement from the Queen. That sort of thing does not just happen on its own.
This is such an attractive post about an event that has endured through some pretty rough times in British history. I hope the comments reflect the graciousness and good will of Charlotte's post. There are certainly plenty of forums where the beauty and historical significance of the day will be overcome by partisanship and pessimism. Let this blog not turn into one of them. Let's for once enjoy the beauty of the moment. Abagail
The youngest generation is also the shortest generation :)
DeleteHAHA! Maggie. True. :) but have you ever seen so many of the little ones on the balcony at Trooping before? That was my point.Abagail
DeleteIt's not a statement, they always put the children at the front so that they can see what's going on.
DeleteAbagail, an updated article said that when asked, BP said that Sophie had a private engagement. I hope that no one in her own family is ill.
ReplyDeleteAnd I agree about the Trooping of the Colour's found ahead--it has importance not just to the RF but to the military. I watched the replay of the ceremony tonight on BBC and the focus was on how hard the soldiers had worked for this special event. Many are veterans of the Iraq conflict. It means a lot to them and to their families. And many of them have also served with the police on the streets of London after the terror attacks. So, yes, it is pomp and ceremony but it also is more representative than just the RF. I felt that the way that the Queen handled it was very appropriate.
I've seen it speculated that the kids had some "end of term" thing at school. Seems plausible since the kids were not there either.
DeleteThank-you, Jo and Rebecca. Abagail
DeleteI think from the waist up Kate looks beautiful and the rest of the family looked lovely. However, Kate's dress from the waist down is tragic which throws off the look completely.
ReplyDeleteAnd, of course, it's always great to see the Queen looking so well.
According to the Daily Mail, the colors being trooped this year are the colors of the Irish Guard.
ReplyDeleteApparently five of the soldiers fainted due to the heat.
Those uniforms must be warm and the bearskin hats heavy and warm. I am glad Prince Phillip sat this one out so to speak.
Has anyone had trouble getting this page to scroll?
ReplyDeleteYes.
DeleteYes. I thought it was just my phone! Glad it's not just me.
DeleteYesterday, I had trouble making comments to individual remarks - today I notice that Abagail said the same thing - wonder if we're having some technical issues. I can scroll though.
DeleteCharlotte, there does seem to be some technical problem with the blog as indicate don't above.
DeleteAny suggestions? :)
I will certainly look into it :)
DeleteThanks. ❤️
DeleteWhy did they have to move the footstool?
ReplyDeleteIf you watch "The Royal Family Attends The Trooping" by Diana and the Royal Family, on You Tube, you will find out.
The video clearly shows that William, Kate and the children were supposed to stand by the Queen. That is where George's footstool had been placed. But when William and Kate head to their spot beside the Queen, Charles makes sure they can't get in there. He has shouldered his way there first. Literally. I couldn't believe it but there it is, on video. Prince Phillip noticed and made sure George's footstool was available to him. And since the Queen had to assist in getting the stool scooted over to George she was then aware of the situation about who was supposed to be standing by her. Interesting expressions and dynamics but you will have to watch it more than once as it all happened quickly.
OMG, you're right! I must have watched it half a dozen times. Charles blocks William by extending his arm until he sees Camilla, then allows her through. William and family have to move to the other side. Prince Phillip appears to notice quickly that George's stool is now in front of Charles. Too bad he didn't make Charles stand on it as a punishment. Fortunately, Charles is beloved by the people who can't wait for him to become King. Oh wait.
DeleteI see what you mean,surfer girl and it does happen fast in the clip. I'm not sure, could it be that Charles went to the wrong side of the Queen instead of where he was meant to go? It just seems a little strange as at last year's Trooping ceremony Charles was standing close to William and Kate and seemed to be interacting with his grand-children. Not sure.
DeleteI couldn't tell whether Prince Charles took the Cambridges' spot or not, but think it's so cute that the Queen helped to kick the stool over to Prince George!
DeleteI'm sorry but I didn't see that at all. Charles didn't push his way in. And Camilla was the one to notice the stool first not Philip. William looked like he just went the wrong way at first. I don't know why people want to create drama where there isn't any. The footstool was probably put in the wrong place by an aide. Nothing sinister. Everyone looked happy
DeleteIt really does seem that way. It's obviously hard to tell from just a short video but that's what it looks like.
DeleteThey've stood to the left of the Queen ever since they've attended with one of the children (2015 with George), so obviously whoever put the footstool there thought that's where they would be standing. And William was headed there but then Charles got there first and told Camilla to go there as well. Then William changed course and went to Philip's right. Philip noticed that George's footstool was elsewhere and started talking about it to the Queen and Camilla while Charles looked the other way even though he stood between the Queen and Camilla. Then Charles finally paid attention to what they were saying and pushed the stool toward the Queen, she then pushed it toward Philip and he toward George.
However, once again it's hard to tell from just a video, so I hesitate to say that that's what happened for certain.
Watch the video from last year SG. There are different ways to interpret what you see (just as there are different ways to interpret this year's video) but some suggest the video shows Kate elbowing Charles out of the way last year. I don't know that the stool placement meant anything one way or the other about the Queen's preference. With all that's been going on in the UK I don't know that she is micro-managing photo ops to that extent. Regardless, I thought this year's "line up" worked fine with the 1st and 2nd in line for the throne flanking HM & PP on each side. To me that seemed more natural than having Charles and Will on the same side. And with conspiracy theorists popping up with new theories at the drop of a hat, Will's position next to the Queen last year (with Charles standing farther away and almost in the 2nd row) suggested to those theorists this was proof the Queen intended to pass the crown directly to Will. As we all know, that's ridiculous and its not her choice anyway.
DeleteIf you watch the video, as soon as Kate comes up beside Phillip he points to the stool and seems to be asking her if she wants that for George.
DeleteKim and Caroline, you definitely saw what I saw.
DeleteAm I trying to read a lot into it? Not really. lol
But I did see what you saw. And seeing everyone scoot the stool over to George was such a special, family thing, especially the Queen scooting that stool. So cute. So classic. :)
And George's expressions? The icing on the cake. :)
SG, I see it too! This video only showed a few seconds but I watched a longer video and totally agree with you. I remember last year that Charles and Camilla came out first, leaving the Cambridges closest to the queen, and Camilla seemed so bothered by it. There was room for her and Charles to move a little farther down from the center but she wouldn't move any more from the middle. If C&C were supposed to be right next to the queen, they wouldn't be sent out onto the balcony so soon for others to pass behind them.
DeleteThis year, I definitely think C&C were supposed to be in the same spot since because of where they placed the stool for the kids, but Charles stopped and the Cambridges had go to the other side. I think where the Cambridges ended up was supposed to be where the Yorks and Prince Anne were supposed to be. She would have then been next to her son and granddaughters. With all the planning that goes into these things, I really don't think they just throw the stool out there and leave everyone to fend for themselves for a spot, so it really does seem like they went against the plan.
Reading too much into it? Good thing I LOVE reading too much into everything lol :)
I happen to agree with you, N. :)
DeleteNice to know that Nanny Maria is still with them. :)
ReplyDeleteI think Kate looked fantastic today. The color absolutely fit her very well. The kids looked great and adorable as always!
ReplyDeleteI really enjoy this pink color on Kate! She's taken a page from the Queen's rule book- wear something bright and cheerful so you can be seen in the crowd! Although HM went more neutral today! I love the hat but it looks like some one took a pastrybag and piped a ribbon of pink frosting all over it! The paper bag waist could only suit someone as slender as Kate and I love the neck detail but would rather it be plain with that waist- like in the model picture. I think Kate could definitely repeat this for a state visit or Buckingham Palace garden party. One of my favorite looks as senior royal lady. Ranks up there with her blue Jenny Packham for the Canada visit. Lovely day with the Family. My thoughts are with London today as they cope with the stress of the latest tragedy. Her Majesty's statement was just right- very thoughtful and very empathetic. Keep calm and carry on- this is precisely what the Royal Family do well. Can't wait to see more of the Cambridges this summer.
ReplyDeleteI liked the whole look too, but this day was not about standing out and I would have prefered a more subdued colour on her.
DeleteShe gets enough attention by fussing over the kids all the time, I think.
Also, it was interesting to see KP posted photos of William with George but no Charlotte for Father's Day. Peculiar.
HoosierLori, I agree that the plain neckline should've have been kept like the original - it clashes with the waist detail. I can definitely see Kate repeat this outfit for events such as a garden party. The overall look is up there with the Canada blue JP for me, too.
DeleteJust glad the queen got Julia's memo on her bright yellow and chose a quiet repeat.
Deletesurfer girl can you provide a better descriptive link to the You Tube video? I can not find a link for 2017.
ReplyDeleteI found the video as I searched for title + uploader. So: "The Royal Family Attends The Trooping" + Diana and the Royal Family
Deleteali, what I have listed at 01:35 is the best I know how to do. :) Except, the video was put on there by "Princess Diana and the Royal Family". I had left off "Princess" at 01:35.
DeleteIf you go to You Tube and just type in "The Royal Family Attends the Trooping", that should come up.
Ali, here is the link.
Deletehttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O-dnQAaB48g
Charles rests his hand on the column, which blocks royal family members from entering this part of the balcony and positioning themselves next to the Queen. Then he lets Camilla in and places his hand on the column again. It's an oh-so-subtle move, but the power play was real in my opinion. More charitable interpretations can be made, of course, but I think it was a deliberate act.
Another tragic fire. My thoughts and prayers with those affected in Portugal
ReplyDeleteWill we possibly see Kate + the kids at the Fathers day polo match 2day?
ReplyDeleteOn Friday, I was saying that Kate wouldn't be able to top last year's trooping outfit, but in my opinion, she smashed it out of the park with this one! Her outfit reminds me of raspberry sherbet, but the most fashionable raspberry sherbet you've ever had! What a great color for her! The kids are adorable as well, it's always great to see the whole family together!
ReplyDeleteWith 5 soldiers fainting yesterday and William looking like he was about to during the rehearsal, perhaps they should make sure the troops receive extra hydration and electrolytes like they do for football teams. Maybe a snap ice pack in their kit for the back of their neck if they feel warm.
ReplyDeleteor, better yet, summer uniforms. :)
DeleteSuch a sad image of William embracing the woman who lost her husband in the Grenfell Tower fire. Truly heartbreaking.
ReplyDeleteYes. I second all the Congratulations to Rebecca Deacon Priestly. She certainly did deserve the honor and being allowed to marry in a royal chapel. Like Jamie Pinkerton, she will be missed.
ReplyDelete💐👑 Congratulation Rebecca Priestly 👑💐
Someone may need it, so:
ReplyDelete"Is everyone aware of the Load More button below the comments? You need to keep clicking it until it disappears, in order to see all of the messages. It appears when there are 200 comments, and continues in 50 message increments until the current number is reached."
You are lovely with this reminder :)
Deletelove the colour! Hate the style/design!
ReplyDeleteNow Portugal is burning. What a terrible moment in Europe. No words anymore, just thinking and praying.
ReplyDelete