Is there a more delightful sporting event than Wimbledon - the sporting occasion that heralds the height of summer? Next week, spectators from all over the world will descend upon the All England Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club for what promises to be another fortnight of unforgettable tennis. A parade of glamorous style will be on display, 320,000 glasses of Pimm's (naturally) and 140,000 portions of English strawberries will be consumed. Steeped in tradition, it is the tournament almost every player wants to win most, and it is also the only tennis major played on grass, with players donning white, precisely as they did a century ago. It is also the only Grand Slam tournament with a Royal Box and on Monday, with the first round underway, Wimbledon's new royal patron, the Duchess of Cambridge, will attend for the first time in her new role. Of course, Kate has been an avid tennis fan and keen player for years and years. Sightings of the Duchess in the Royal Box have become something of an annual tradition - a staple on the 'Kate calendar' which is guaranteed to continue growing thanks to the patronage.
When William and Kate graduated from St Andrews the media and fans alike were eager to 'get to know' Prince William's love. Sightings at Wimbledon provided some of the earliest photo opportunities.
A particularly memorable set of photos springs to mind, of Kate enjoying a dance with William and Harry's friend, Guy Pelly, at Richard Branson's pre-Wimbledon party at the Roof Gardens in 2006. Kate was clearly having a ball.
Kate chatting with Sir Richard Branson.
And enjoying the buffet...
Kate takes in the skills of Rafa Nadal and Robin Soderling with a friend in 2007.
A stylish Kate attending the 2008 Championships in her white Issa Lucky Dress (you may remember Kate had the dress in multiple colours and it was around this time the brand began to become her 'signature') and Patrick Mavros earrings. Zimbabwean jeweller and sculptor Mavros creates works inspired by the natural world of his native Matabeleand and the tribal customs which accompany his culture. She was photographed wearing his £150 Ndoro Dangle Silver Earrings several times pre-engagement. Ndoros are Southern Africa's most striking totems of prestige and beauty. They are originally a sea shell which has been ground flat into their distinctive whirl shape. The sterling silver earrings feature five small dangling ndoros. I seem to recall a number of reports around the time claiming they were a gift from William.
You'll notice the blonde lady beside Kate is Princess Charlotte's godmother Sophie Carter. Sophie and Kate are firm friends and she is a regular visitor to Anmer Hall along with the Meades. Described as "discreet and loyal", she was once in a relationship with another of Charlotte's godparents and one of William's closest friends - Thomas van Straubenzee. William and Kate have been said to engage in a spot of matchmaking, helping the former couple rekindle their flame by inviting them to the French Alps last year. Newly divorced Thomas was briefly married to Lady Melissa Percy.
During the 2007 break up, attention on Kate reached fever pitch and subsequently continued. Despite the level of interest, Kate was still able to spend the day at Wimbledon relatively undisturbed. She was grateful for this, and so much so she penned a letter to the All England Club in July 2008.
"My friend and I had such a fantastic time and it was great to be able to enjoy the day knowing we could have a little peace and quite (sic) if things got too hectic,” she wrote. It was a wonderfully relaxed day and we even spent part of it on the Henman/Murray Hill which was great fun. I really was not expecting to be looked after with such hospitality and I certainly was not expecting to see any of the Centre Court games.
Thank you so much for the wonderful seats. It was so special to see the end of Murray's game and Nadal's easy walk into the quarter finals. Thank you again for making it such a fun and enjoyable/easy visit.” The note, dated July 12, 2008 is signed "Best wishes, Catherine Middleton".
It is understood Kate granted officials permission to display the letter in a glass cabinet inside the All England Club's museum after the royal wedding.
Knowing Kate's love for the tournament, it was a certainty the newly-married Cambridges would spend at least one day at the Championships in 2011. The Royal couple gave Andy Murray a standing ovation after he stormed into the quarter finals with a straight-sets victory over Frenchman Richard Gasquet. It marked William's first visit to Wimbledon in 17 years. The couple even joined in a Mexican wave.
Kate opted for the fashion forward Temperley London Moriah dress, with classic waist-nipped shape, structured bodice, hand-embroidered straps and a tiered skirt. The white dress was the perfect choice for Kate's Wimbledon debut as Duchess of Cambridge. The dress was teamed with Kate's much-loved L.K. Bennett Sledge pumps.
The most talked about aspect of Kate's look was not her dress, however, it was her 'C' charm bracelet. The gold bracelet was a wedding gift from Kate's step-mother-in-law, the Duchess of Cornwall. The disc charm has Kate's monogram on one side, and Camilla's on the other. Both Cs are under a coronet, but Kate's C has an extra curl, while Camilla's is surrounded by a circle. If I'm not mistaken, Kate hasn't worn it publicly since.
In 2012, Kate selected her popular McQueen sailor dress from the 2011 Canada tour. Like many of the pieces the Duchess debuted during that tour it's a very versatile piece and has aged very well.
For the 2012 men's final between the 'Prince of Tennis' Roger Federer and Andy Murray, Kate was joined by her sister Pippa who is also an enormous fan of the sport (we now know she's actually good friends with Federer and he attended Pippa's wedding). Kate repeated a chic dress and jacket by Joseph.
Pippa wrote a column on Wimbledon for The Spectator:
'Ah, good old Wimbledon: a fortnight of rhythmic ball thumping, ooh-ing at Federer’s forehand, aah-ing at Djoko the elastic athlete, and praying against common sense for good weather and British success. Some foreigners can be sniffy about Wimbledon’s particular charms — all that Union Jack patriotism, excitement over strawberries and cream and English eccentricity. ‘Grass is for cows,’ said the Argentinian Guillermo Vilas, famously, a line still repeated by some Latin players who can’t handle the low bounce and quick pace of the green stuff. Well, moo to them. Wimbers is tennis at its best, the grandest of all slams, which is why I like to go every year, at least twice.'
Kate didn't attend in 2013 as she was in the final stage of her pregnancy with Prince George, but she made a stylish return in 2014 wearing her white Zimmerman 'Roamer Day' dress with a red scarf and Anya Hindmarch clutch.
The Duke and Duchess had a splendid afternoon - exchanging smiles and jokes throughout.
Kate's parents Michael and Carole Middleton were also there that day. They are both regular visitors to the tournament.
Days later William and Kate were back in the Royal Box as Roger Federer and Novak Djokovic squared off for the men's final. William and Kate congratulated Novak after the match. During the chat the tennis star asked Kate about playing. "I'm slightly out of practice since having George," she said. Kate also revealed the two enjoy "competitive games", and when asked who wins most she said: "It's even."
Kate opted to inject a serious pop of colour into her Wimbledon wardrobe wearing her Jonathan Saunders Evelyn dress. The forest green, aqua and white print gives the garment a summery feel. It's from the designer's Pre-Fall 2012 collection and originally retailed for £840.
The Cambridges were court-side for men's quarter-finals in 2015.
Kate selected the vibrant red L.K. Bennett Cayla dress for the outing. The cardinal red dress featured a full skirt which falls below the knee, artfully placed seams and elbow length sleeves. It was around that time we saw the Duchess begin to favour longer dresses, particularly the midi length.
Those expressions...
Kate was vibrant in her colour-block Roksanda dress (affectionately known as the 'Banana dress' thanks to William).
The visit was more 'official' than we had previously seen for Kate. Before matches began, HRH met tournament officials, service personnel, ball boys and girls.
The Duchess took her seat in the royal box beside Gill Brook, wife of the chairman of the AELTC. Sophie, Countess of Wessex, Bee Gees singer Barry Gibb and Dame Maggie Smith were also in attendance. It's always interesting to see the variety of well-known faces there.
One of my favourite Wimbledon looks on Kate was the fabulous obsession print Alexander McQueen dress she wore in 2016 for the men's final. The eye-catching piece featured a jewel neckline, A-line silhouette, straight hem and nips in at the waist for a flattering silhouette. I thought it a great choice - it instantly stood out in the photos.
It was a tense match.
Come on Andy!
An emotional Andy Murray was victorious as he took the title in three straight sets. The couple had watched him fall at the final hurdle before, so they were undoubtedly delighted to see the British number one victorious.
A congratulatory chat with Andy quickly turned to the subject of babies. More from the Telegraph: "'After expressing delight at the straight-sets victory, the royal couple exchanged thoughts with Murray on parenthood - and the difference a good night's sleep can make. William joked: "I don’t know how you managed that with no sleep....How’s your daughter doing is she alright?" Murray responded with a smile: "Yeah she’s great yeah, she’s really good at sleeping. The last three nights she slept through." William said it must have been "a good omen." However, when Murray politely asked about the royal children, Kate responded: "No, today is about you.... you played so well, well done. "She later added that Murray "can relax with your family now".
In December, a rumour which had been doing the rounds for years finally came to fruition. News the Duchess of Cambridge would take over as patron of the All England Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club, better known as Wimbledon was finally confirmed. The Queen has never been a lover of tennis and given Kate's history with the tournament, it's a patronage match made in heaven. At the time, the Telegraph reported:
'The Queen has been Patron of Wimbledon since 1952, the first year of her reign, though she is not a tennis fan and has only taken her place in the royal box a handful of times. Paying tribute to her years of service, Philip Brook, chairman of the AELTC said: "We would like to thank Her Majesty for her long and unwavering service to the Club and the Championships during her time as our Patron. We remain immensely proud of her role in the history of the Club and the Championships.
"We would like to welcome HRH the Duchess of Cambridge, who will take up the Queen’s former duties as our Patron, and also recognise with appreciation the ongoing contribution of HRH the Duke of Kent, who will continue his long-standing role as our President." The Duke of Kent is expected to continue presenting the singles trophies at Wimbledon, but the Duchess may be invited to present some of the trophies for doubles.'
On Monday, Kate will attend for the first time as Royal Patron. Compared to previous years, we'll see more official elements incorporated such as meeting those involved behind-the-scenes and of course the players and coaches. The tournament ends on 16 July and, as it isn't interfering with dates for the Germany/Poland tour, I anticipate we'll see Kate there at least twice. It promises to be another fortnight of spectacular tennis.
No doubt ardent tennis fan Kate will ace her new role! :)
Such an interesting post, thank you! I personally love tennis and I love to see the Duchess interested about it too. Can't wait to see her at Wimbledon! I'm curious, why did William not attend Wimbledon for 17 years before his marriage? Doesn't he like tennis as much as Kate? I guess he attends Wimbledon now to please his wife, this is so sweet!
ReplyDeleteShe attended polo and soccer all those years. It seems attending Wimbledon with Kate isn't asking that much. I think he likes to play. He said somewhere in an interview that Kate is better than he is at tennis and skiing, but he said he is better than her in everything else. Please don't ask me where I read that, lol. That was years ago.
DeleteDiana liked tennis. There are pictures of William attending with her when he was younger. Maybe it brought back memories and that's why he didn't attend until Kate came along.
DeleteCould it possibly have something to do with his Mother Diana Princess of Wales? She loved the sport and there are pictures of them together at Wimbledon before her death.
DeleteThank you for this lovely post. It was fun to look back at all the Wimbledon appearances. In your post, I noticed that it seems that Kate recycles a previously used tour item at the following Wimbledon. Has anyone else noticed this? I wonder why this is the case? Anyone have thoughts? Surely it can not be happenstance? And, I am wondering if there is something from Canada that might work nicely for this year or if she will opt for something new since she is officially the patron. So many thoughts. I am interested to hear what others think
ReplyDeleteThat is a very good point Amy. I loved the Canada tour wardrobe, perhaps we'll see another tour repeat next week?
DeleteI went to the year in review to look at your outfits. While I loved what she wore in Canada, she did wear a lot of pants on that tour. I can only see 3 options. I could see about the same from India & Bhutan as well. It will be interesting to see if your prediction come true.
DeleteMaybe she will wear the white dress she wear on the India tour... I do notice she tries to get a white dress in on all her tours :)
DeleteIf Kate attends more than once this summer, I'm predicting one new look to celebrate her new patronage and one (or more) repeats on other appearances. I'm selfishly hoping for a new look for at least one Wimbledon appearance this summer, but would also enjoy seeing some repeated tour outfits from India or Canada (or even earlier) again. When you brought up the recycling, Amy, for some reason I immediately thought of Kate's white Emilia Wickstead wool-crepe midi dress from the India tour. Even though it wasn't a favorite of mine at the time, I'd be willing to give it another chance. I like the length and the color - I thought it was clever of Kate to wear white at several Wimbledon appearances in reference to the players' dress code and her Temperley London Moriah dress from 2011 is one of my favorite looks (I also have to admit I've been missing the L.K. Bennett Sledges though I suspect a few of my fellow readers may respectfully disagree with me on that point).
DeleteI agree, Anne. I think she will wear one new look in honor of her new patronage.
DeleteAs an aside, it would be interesting to see if the numbers of Wimbledon increase since Kate is now Patron and if tennis gains in popularity in general nationwide because of that.
Wimbledon is always a sold out event. All the Tennis Majors are.
DeleteI'm not sure where you are from, surfer girl, but Wimbledon really couldn't get more popular than it already is. Most large public parks have tennis courts and they are usually busy - especially around Wimbledon fortnight - and most towns have a tennis club with many members.
DeleteThat's nice to hear. 20:27. I "love" tennis too.
DeleteThanks.
Thanks, Ali. :)
DeleteI'm with the queen I do not share Kate's love of tennis. Kate is almost the complete opposite of me in terms of interest. She likes non contact sports and I like hockey and football. She loves art and I could care less about a painting. She isn't fond of horses and I am annoyed she doesn't take advantage of the wonderful stables and horses the queen has. I'd be out riding everyday around Windsor castle. My sister always said she would marry Harry just to ride the horses lol
ReplyDeleteAnyway, I don't really understand how Kate can be a patron of something that isn't a charity? As someone pointed out on Twitter Wimbledon shouldn't take precedence over other work she could be doing
I do have to say those seats in the royal box look awfully comfy and those drinks look faboulous. Lol
Kate loves playing land hockey.
DeleteThat jug of Pimm's looks especially tempting! I'm so jealous that Kate gets to sit in those comfy seats in the royal box to watch Wimbledon.
DeleteI meant ice hockey anon
DeleteSo many comments in the last post Charlotte - I don't know if you noticed that someone suggested we might do another of those popular 'dress Kate' features next year for Ascot - and possibly including Wimbledon if people prefer. It always gives a chance for non-posters to get involved and is fun - although much work for you.
ReplyDeletePoor Kate - having her 'wrong word' memorialised for posterity. It will be nice to see what she wears this year.
Hello Julia,
DeleteThank you for reminding me. I love the Ascot idea (a big thank you to the lady who suggested it).
Would you all be interested in 'Styling Kate' again this summer? :)
Yes, absolutely!
DeleteThank you Charlotte! I would love to do another 'Styling Kate' again this summer, but know July at least could turn out to be a busy month. I'm very excited for the tour and even though there has been no confirmation am hoping for an appearance during the Spanish state visit (maybe even with a tiara...)
DeleteThe world news has been so unrelentingly bad and even royal news with Harry, that wretched Camilla book and now the huge emphasis on the cost of tours very worrisome that a Styling Kate would be a welcome distraction - at least to my eyes if you don't mind.
DeleteIt's really fun! I'm up for it!
DeleteYes, please :) Thank you, Charlotte.
DeleteI second that motion, no discussion, all in favor.....the ayes have it!! cc
DeleteYes, please! I would love to try styling again. It's fun, especially to see what everybody else does.
DeleteYes, I would love a styling Kate post this summer
DeleteCount me in. Thank you, Charlotte. :-)
DeleteYes, that was a lot of fun during a dearth of Kate sightings.
DeleteGreat post! One thing I noticed though is she hasn't changed her hair style over the years, at all. Not that that's a bad thing, she has beautiful hair and that style looks great on her, but it would drive me crazy I think. I guess she's found what works for her and is sticking with it.
ReplyDeleteHaha, I suppose I'm a "Kate" that way. My sister changes her hair all the time. Colour, length (even cropped!) all the time and she get's restless if having one style too long. Mine on the other hand has been the same basically all my life and I have no itch to change it :P
DeleteKate wore the gold bracelet from Camilla to an early marriage military function. She wore a navy dress and in the photograph she had the bracelet on.
ReplyDeleteKate wore the bracelet a lot as a newly wed. It was an Irish guards event that she attended with William a couple of months after their wedding. She wore a military inspired navy McQueen coat dress. Kate also wore the bracelet to the polo match during their north American tour with the hand painted Packham day dress.
DeleteThanks much for this post Charlotte! I love to see what Kate has worn over the years to the same event. Prior to Trooping the Colour I was able to remember them each in order. I loved the Pink McQueen this year and the hat was lovely.
ReplyDeleteOn to Wimbleton - I love the Temperley London Moriah dress she wore. I remember thinkging "wow" that's lovely. I also enjoy the repeats for this event. Yes, she has worn several repeats here, but I'm with you the obsession print Alexander McQueen dress is fabulous.
If I had to choose I would select the Emilia Wickstead white/ivory dress she wore at India Gate in New Delhi. Most remember that was the 'Marilyn Monroe' moment but perhaps it would stay in place walking down the stairs of the stadium to her seat. I know some didn't like the flaps in the front but IMHO it's a lovely dress.
I'm betting on seeing the white EW, too. I could forgive the flaps at an event like Wimbledon.
DeleteOh i love the wimbledon too. But i dont its better. To watch it with friendds hmm. The duchess is keen Tennis. Fan. She will Do better in her role
ReplyDeleteI enjoyed the look back and look forward to this year's coverage of Wimbledon.
ReplyDeleteI'm too exhausted to make a guess at what Kate may wear for her first appearance this year, but will think about it.... ;-)
I do understand Kate's interest in tennis. I love the game and who would not shake hands with handsome men like Federer or Nadal, right? :)
ReplyDeleteWhat I do not understand, seeing the bracelet, how that snake (LOL) Camilla manages her time so well: to do tons of engagements, writing a book on Diana, insinuating naked Meghan articles and God knows what else people suggested, she has been doing lately!
Instead of this, we could talk about why English taxpayers are not given any info on the cost of keeping W&K&H and why it is kept secret and private. I suppose their number of engagement compared to the cost would be too shocking to publish. One thing we know they love private jets that ofc ordinary people use every day. Also it perfectly fits their normal life agenda, but as Claudia PERFECTLY pointed out, they want normal aristocratic life, not a humble, menial 9 to 5 jobs. Silly me!!
Thank you Charlotte for bearing with us, and the lovely post on Wimbledon, which is my ofc favourite tournament of the year! Have you ever visited? Are you a fan too?
Get the attempted humour but obviously Penny Junor, a notorious Charles supporter wrote the book. Camilla and her family and friends cooperated with it. It is neither secret nor speculation that they did so. As Victoria Arbiter said (from Charlotte's Twitter)
Delete'Whoever thought publishing the Camilla bio 2 months before the 20th anniversary of Diana's death needs their head read'
Camilla has never been known for doing any vast number of engagements and is not perceived as a hard worker although Charles is.
Whether Camilla has made remarks about Meghan is uncertain but she is known to be a terrible snob in a very outdated sense.
The cost of all royals and especially all royal tours (including the recent one of Charles and Camilla's which included very few serious engagements for her but a lot of fun ones) is at issue. Should a certain gentlemen be asked to form a government in the future (shudder) it's possible royal tours might be curtailed. So it really does behove William and Kate whose work has a heavy focus on tours to turn their attention to home far more and to up their engagements. I doubt many people care what Camilla does - she is not at all popular - if she were to retire tomorrow - she is the age of pensioner after all, there would be general celebrating. Many people are extremely uneasy about the risk she will insist on being crowned - or make Charles - lifetime in her thrall, insist for her, and what that will do to the monarchy. She's not the future of the monarchy (unlike William and Kate) she is a past we wish but can't lose. If only the queen has held to her guns about Charles barring Camilla. He might have found a suitable second wife (royal supporters looking heavily towards women) and made something of being king. But when he slipped the ring on Camilla's finger, he ceased to matter.
Might the privacy be because a good chunk of the funds come from Charles's private income?This year's private jets belonged to private citizens (and are much more practical than commercial airlines which can't protect anyone from stalking photographers and so on. Pippa's hen do went completely under the radar thanks to a private jet, and only came out after some very bad dad-dancing).
DeleteI believe the other bits that the government funds such as renovations to KP and the like have been published. If private income were any of our business, what might be shocking is how much is paid out of their own pockets.
I'm wondering why "wealthism" isn't up there with some of the other isms--sexism, racism, ageism and other discriminatory predilections. Perhaps it should be. Fact: Wealthy people are normal. Even rich royals are normal human beings. Their circumstances and hence their opportunities are extra-ordinary. Often their problems are, too.
Lately, since the Harry interview and his revelations about the chaos ensuing after his mother's death (followed not long after by playing happy families with his father's marriage to Camilla which he has not talked about), I have stumbled upon numerous revelations in memoirs and the like from the more usual (i.e. not wealthy, A-listers, or royal) normal people about the long and continuous recovery process after the sudden death of a parent.
Those parents weren't Diana; their mother wasn't "replaced" by the woman their father really loved, and those children didn't need to serve the public or endure global scrutiny; however, in every case the road to acceptance and serenity was brutal. And--surprisingly--never really over. People cope with the shock, but it never disappears.
"Wealthism" just became part of my vocabulary, Philly.
DeleteThanks for that brilliant idea. Instead of bringing up that hated word jealousy (does that ever cause a stir or what, even when true), "wealthism", in joining the categories of ageism, sexism, etc., covers that and so much more and in a less antagonistic way. Kudos. :)
Philly, that is an interesting comment about "wealthism." There are comments galore about how much the Royals spend as if it is coming out of our personal pocketbooks--and many of us making the comments don't even live in the UK. Some of us do but it is interesting that someone like Julia doesn't harp on it. She mentions it in terms of the very real threat of republicanism. And we know that Julia isn't a republican ;) [Said in the most admiring of tones, Julia. Hope you know how much I admire you for the cogency of your posts.]
DeleteThe Royals inherited their wealth and their mode of life through centuries. Although England and Holland (interesting article about links with the Dutch royals' wealth and WW2 a few weeks ago) and, well, any of the European monarchs got their wealth from imperialism, most of us who live comfortable lives also have liberal laws to thank for it. Take a look over the Atlantic and see where the wealth came from and what the wealthy "do" for those who have in one way or another provided it. Inequalities in taxation and remuneration mean that I indirectly pay a great deal for the comfortable lifestyle politicians and CEOs have. I don't feel I have any right to moan about what the Royals cost the UK taxpayer. I don't live there. However, to address the question about transparency of costs, maybe this article could help: http://www.newstalk.com/How-much-does-the-monarchy-cost-Britain. Just one of many articles. For anyone who says that English taxpayers are not given any information on what it costs to keep the Royals (I realize the original statement was W&K&H but I see no reason to separate them from the Royal household), I would suggest you read the article or Google for others. The information is there.
Anett, it's amazing that Camilla has any time for Charles with the nefarious schedule she keeps. Sabotaging Meghan is brilliant strategy on her part. Meghan would obviously try to take the crown if left unchecked!
DeleteSeriously? So now if someone says something about the cost of Kate's clothes, we're guilty of wealthism? Do we have to prove we have Chanel jackets and Jimmy Choo shoes in our closets before we can comment so we aren't accused of that?
DeleteAnd surfer girl, wealthism says exactly the same thing as jealousy. If you dare criticise Kate's spending apparently you are jealous of all the money Kate has at her disposal.
Give me a break. And let me know if you need my CV so I may comment freely.
Julia
DeleteI agree it was not the ideal time to publish such a book. But it happened.It is unfortunate timing but she has her 70th birthday, while Diana is dead for 20 years.
If you have a look at her numbers last year, she did more than any of the 3 young ones, and she was ill a couple of times and she was 69. Also, I remember a royal reporter saying, her fave engagement is with the Duchess of Cornwall before Christmas. She has her merits too.
I find the suggestion that she has anything to do with Meghan's naked article petty.
And to be honest, the last thing that concerns me that she is gonna be called a queen or a queen consort one day. They have to live the day first.
Let's agree to disagree.
Jo
DeleteI am bit puzzled by your comment. You are not living in Britain either, but I have never dared to say to you, why are you harping on things regarding English matter? I can hardly wait to read similar comment of yours, for example to Rebecca from Sweden. Or you are writing this to me specifically, since you don't agree with what I say. Now, in this case, what does that say aboout you?
what is a CV?
DeleteShe found time to help on a book. And, she does have a history of manipulating the media. Harry's mum isn't off limits to her why should his girlfriend be?
DeleteAnett, I wasn't going to bother responding to your address to me as I am as puzzled about your comment as you are about mine. However, that may seem rude. So thank you for your response and I have no idea what my comment says about me. I thought we were free in this forum to muse about why we get interested in the things we do. I was also pointing out that an article exists that does outline what the Royals cost the UK taxpayer. If that is rude, well sorry about that. Chalk it up to cultural differences maybe. As far as I know, Rebecca in Sweden has never worried about what the Royals cost the UK taxpayer. So why you are pulling her into the discussion is beyond me. Let's just drop it at that, shall we? I obviously hit a nerve.
Delete1. Jo, perhaps Anett is referring to this: ..There are comments galore about how much the Royals spend as if it is coming out of our personal pocketbooks--and many of us making the comments don't even live in the UK. Some of us do but it is interesting that someone like Julia doesn't harp on it... which you did say in response to Anett's initial comment.
Delete2. surfer girl, CV is curriculum vitae or resume. You know so I can show I'm not jealous of wealthy people.
Happy to help you both.
lol, thank you Ms. Bluhare.x
DeleteActually, wealthism is a very fitting "ism" given the ire aroused by this subject whether we're talking about the RF or the Middleton's.
DeleteThank you bluhare helping out! AMAZING right?!😛
DeleteWhen members of the British royal; family visit New Zealand or other Commonwealth realms they are guests of our government and all expenses are paid while they are here. I should imagine the same applies to republics and territories but maybe the UK taxpayer does make some contribution in the latter case?
DeleteI like the concept of wealthism. Brilliant. It is not about jealousy, but about categorising people. Showing a CV would be like saying you are a woman so cannot make a sexist remark or showing your photograph to prove you are not racist. That's not the point. Thank you Philly, it is illuminating, you are really clever!
DeleteI can not see any good in categorising people, in Europe it sounds awful actually. Moreover, it has nothing to do with my original comment. Sadly, it turned into something totally different.
DeleteIre?? Hiányoztál, mint fejbe a szög!!🔨🔨
Actually, Natacha, that is exactly the point. If I can show that wealthism does not apply to me as I also have a lot of money then how can you discount my opinion? Hence posting my CV of wealth for your edification so my comments aren't immediately dismissed as "Wealthist jealous hater! ICK!!" I would hope for some actual critical thinking from people but that obviously is a pipe dream.
DeleteAnett is right; it's a way to label people so you don't have to actually address the point at hand. So much easier than to actually have a conversation, don't you think?
And actually that's how a lot of genocide starts to get overly serious for a minute. I find it a bit sad that some of you are reduced to that level of thinking.
And Anett, not only was the point missed, I think it's flying somewhere in the ozone.
exactly, Natacha. Just a brief mention of the word "jealously" has elicited fervor. Wealthism encompasses so much more than that and in a good way, in my opinion.
Delete"And actually that's how a lot of genocide starts to get overly serious for a minute. I find it a bit sad that some of you are reduced to that level of thinking."
Deletewow just wow. cant believe some of these comments get published.
Well Caroline, I didn't insult anyone, I didn't belittle the subject of the blog, and I gave my opinion. I even prefaced it to say I was being overly serious. And you think that should not have been published, as the rest of you get all excited about calling people wealthists. There have been studies published of what happens when you label a category of people, and my statement was not farfetched when looking at those.
DeleteHowever, I do have a question for you. If you think that comment shouldn't have been published, how do you feel about comments calling Camilla a whore, a trollop, wretched, is trying to undermine Meghan Markle, manipulates the press now, and deliberately set out to destroy Diana? And those are only the comments I remember. Some of those are almost slanderous, yet they were all published.
Caroline. I second your, "wow just wow.".
DeleteThe comments were verging in being libelous, not slanderous. Oops!
DeleteBluhare and Anett, I ment it the other way round, that wealthism means that you categorise people, put them in the wealthy category.Not that it allows you to categorise people as "wealthist". I think, like racism the problem is that you don't see people as individuals but as pertaining to the category of the rich. And again, the fact you can prove you are wealthy yourself doesn't mean you can never be "wealthist", like the fact you are a woman doesn't mean you could never be sexist. I think it is a clever word to describe a phenomena that is not that of jealousy but of attributing certain negative qualities to a group, the "rich", and generalising those attributes.
DeleteThe mention of genocide I though was strange until I reflected there have been times and places in history when people have been slaughtered because there were rich or/and aristocratic. In that sense it could be argued that wealthism could lead to genocide though it is not as simple as that.
DeleteBluhare
DeleteHypocrites! Just take a good look here!
Natasha
Thanks for explaining it. But probably you are the only one who meant and thought that.
What a splendid post, Charlotte. A welcome walk down memory lane. I was especially pleased to be reminded of the London Temperly Moriah dress. That is one of my favourites of all time. Has that je ne sais quoi. I wonder why we haven't seen that twice.
ReplyDeleteA very interesting post!! Looking forward to Monday, I'm sure she'll make a wonderful patron!
ReplyDeleteAs for the Camilla bracelet, she did wear it another time, although I believe it was before her first Wimbledon appearance as a duchess: it was barely a month after the wedding, when she attended the Irish guards medal parade (with that *beautiful* navy McQueen coat). I think that was the first time she's worn it publicly.
Will we ever see that fabulous navy coat again?? One of her best looks, IMO.
DeleteKiwi Gal, I pray every day for this to happen lol. No but seriously, I would be SO HAPPY if she recycles it, and even happier if I could buy it.
DeleteI keep hoping! One of my all time favorite looks too.
DeleteI, too, would love to see the navy coat again.
DeleteYippie! A Kate Loves post! These are always my favourite, they are always so well researched. And what a fitting theme.
ReplyDeleteWimbledon is to Kate what Ascot is to the Queen or polo to Harry, William and Charles. It's such a very fitting patronage. While having the Queen as patron is a big deal, it must be fun for them to have a genuinely interested patron now! Perfect patron to patronage fit.
These events are also always so fun for us to watch! All the famous sports faces! And a great place for fashion spotting as well! Look forward to this annual event to arrive.
Thank you so much for this post Charlotte and now on to read the other comments!
I wanted to write exactly the same: i love the Kate Loves post too.... thank you for putting so much effort in this post Charlotte!
DeleteOnce again you have written a lovely and interesting post. Thank you for reviewing Kate's love of tennis and her fashion choices these past few years. I think she will be a fabulous royal patron and has much to contribute to this prestigious sports event. She is a beautiful, graceful woman with such fashion finesse. Would you explain to me the significance, if there is any,in the design of the "C" on the charm bracelet given to Kate from her step mother-in-law and why she hasn't worn it publicly again? I apologize for the question, I mean no disrespect, I just want to understand if this is some type of a royal tradition, a private gift between the two ladies, etc. It seems like such a loving and welcoming gesture. I look forward to the upcoming tour and all Kate's fashion selections. Do you know if the adorable young Prince George and Princess Charlotte are accompanying their parents on this trip? Once again, thank you so much for your lovely, lovely articles. You are a favorite daily reading selection. The UK and all her citizens remain in my daily prayers. God bless you in all that you do....
ReplyDeleteThere is no such tradition - royal or otherwise - it was an attempt by Camilla to link herself to the much more popular Kate and a sly insinuation that they were both future queens - which most people don't want for Camilla.
DeleteIt was neither a loving or welcoming gesture - it was a pretentious and self-serving one by a woman's who initialed jewellery caused enormous pain to William's mother - as she was no doubt hinting at.
At the time, I observed what a peculiar one it was - I loved my mum in law dearly but would have been taken aback if she had given me a bracelet with her initial and mine - and she was my husband's mother - not an unwelcome step-mother. my husband's and mine initials - now that would have been a loving gesture.
Kate wore it a couple of times - no doubt to be polite - but given what that bio of Camilla says about Diana, I would be hugely surprised if it appears in the future any time soon.
And in a less biased view, the only facts we know is that it was a gift showing both their symbols from a stepmother-in-law to a step-daughter in law. Loving or sly is up for interpretation, but it's not a traditional kind of gift.
DeleteJulia, your summary of that bracelet was spot on.
DeleteNow I know more why her being given that bracelet left me less than enthusiastic about it. Such a silly and sad thing for Camilla to do.
God help her. Truly.
Agree Rebecca that we do not know the facts. However I was given a gold bracelet similar to this by my Mother-in-law. She had been given one by her Mother and when she passed it on to me, she had my initial inscribed. It is not a popular style bracelet anymore but it was years ago at least in the circle they both came from.
DeleteThank you Julia, Rebecca and surfer girl for your explanations on the bracelet. Based on what you are saying, I can see where it would be seen as a mean gesture and very hurtful. How truly tragic she chose to spend her life hurting others rather than using her influence and gifts to better life for those less fortunate and struggling. We can hope and pray her aspirations of becoming Queen never comes to pass. God help the UK if Camila became Queen which would mean something even worse...Charles was King! Wow!!! Thank you again!!!
DeleteJulia, that was my first thought upon reading here today for the first time about the bracelet......it reminded me instantly of the bracelet Camilla gave Charles that caused Diana so much pain and why on earth would she give such a similar item to Diana's son's wife!?!!?
DeleteShe could have given her inscribed as “Catherine” and not included the other C, if she wanted to make a direct and personal gift to her step daughter. To have added her name on the other side of the charm/ disc did not imply good intention especially as a wedding gift.
DeleteRebecca/ Sweden said, “It is not traditional, and it is up to interpretation”. I agree with the former, and most likely for any culture, it may not be traditional to inscribe a step mother’s initial as a wedding gift, and put the bride’s name on the opposite side. Is it about “the other side of the coin”? / Their future symbolic co-existence as spouses of BRF lineage? As far as interpretation, it is beyond that.
Kate obviously wears Diana’s ring may be for life, and Camilla’s intention consciously or otherwise, adds her name to the same hand. Is it a teaser? She didn’t want to be left out? This is a wedding gift; a union of two people. What has her name got to do on a wedding gift bracelet especially with all the background history of pain and aches to who would have been mother of the groom, present or absent.
The bracelet was a very territorial gesture on Camilla's part. Nothing more, nothing less. And consider the audacity factor for the woman who played such a toxic role in Diana's life to give her son's bride a gift that reminds the new bride of Camilla's status. How on earth is this tasteful or okay?
DeleteI believe that Kate reacted with grace, tact and diplomacy and wore it a handful of times, but I am not aware of it being seen again after this article appeared in December of 2012.
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/uknews/theroyalfamily/9769571/The-Duchess-of-Cornwall-and-the-gift-she-had-to-hide-from-Kate-Middleton.html
And let's not forget the "poor Charles doesn't get to see George" stories.
Camilla's (and Charles') tactics are well documented and to minimize or dismiss them is as productive as Camilla's biography has been in helping to rehabilitate her image. In other words, NOT happening.
RF. Also, does anyone remember the initialed cuff links that Camilla had given Charles as a wedding gift or a gift to remember her while on his honeymoon (yep, his honeymoon). Cuff links with two "C's" entwined, yes entwined. The two "C's" standing for Charles and Camilla of course. Perhaps those who think this stuff is all being made up will reconsider now.
Deletewhat bracelet did Camilla give Charles?
DeleteThat does seem territorial doesn't it, RF.
And you also brought up some good points, Anon 15.
God help Camilla. We very much need to include her in our prayers and hope that God helps her or keeps her from becoming Queen or both. I am astonished by her behaviors. I didn't believe it really for the longest time but I do now. I really dislike her because of her choices right now and it isn't a good feeling this feeling of not liking someone, especially when you thought that person had repented and changed.
If she really gave PC their initials engraved on a bracelet, she is most likely a woman most comfortable being wicked. According to different accounts, both she, and her ex-husband dated other people (in her case PC) during their marriage. If her marriage was genuinely happy, their might have been some refrain from her not dare giving such present as a wedding gift. When it comes to men, from the most powerful, to any status in between, can easily be led by women when it comes to somethings including instinct, malice and intuition. She gave him a lead of her presence on his wedding day. Awful!
DeleteSG, yes she did give Charles the cufflinks, just as he had given her the F&G bracelet (for their pet names). Nothing says "goodbye" like personalized jewelry. Ha!
DeleteAnon 15, I don't disagree with your observations. I believe Camilla did everything in her power to keep Charles on an emotional lead.
Yay! A new post :) I'm a HUGE fan of tennis & Wimbledon. I think it's great that she's going to finally attend this year's tournament in the capacity of patron. It's quite odd that the Queen was patron since the first year of her reign, but has never been a fan. I'm sure Kate will lap up this role :)
ReplyDeleteMy favourite look from Wimbledon would have to be the white Temperley dress from 2011. I love the tiered, pleated skirt and the straps. I have to agree with you, Charlotte, she definitely stood out in the Obsession print McQueen. I liked the cut, but I just couldn't get on board with the print.
I agree with Amy above, I think Kate will definitely recycle something from a recent tour...maybe the white Emilia Wickstead from India? White should be cool in the heat. Or the green D&G from Canada? She might blend in with the royal box seats, though.
As a side note: I just noticed Carole has fantastic taste in shoes! I really liked the shoes she wore to Ascot, too. I wish Kate would be more daring with her footwear, instead of playing it safe.
:-) We choose the same three dresses and I agree the D&G from Canada would be a lovely repeat. I commented on Carole's shoes at Ascot as well. Looking forward to seeing Kate step into this role.
DeleteOh i like her earring in 2016! What is the brand ? I like too Patrick mavros earring she wore 😁
ReplyDeleteI don't know which pair you mean but the pearl ones are Soru Jewellery ( https://www.sorujewellery.com/ ) and the gold ones are Brora ( https://www.brora.co.uk/ )
Deleteoh thank you ! it's when she wore obsession print mcqueen dress in 2016
DeleteThank you ALL for your comments!!! You always have so much fashion knowledge and positive comments to contribute....I learn so much from reading your comments. Have a blessed day!!!
ReplyDeleteKate has worn tour repeats but she has also chosen new dresses in the past, so we shall see. Lately, her taste has run to a more flowing and romantic look than before.
ReplyDeleteIf she does choose from Canada - the green Dolce seems the only real possibility, the red and white Macqueen would look rather heavy. From India, the white dress seems the only possibility. Or she could choose other dresses from the Pacific tour. That pretty floral one she wore the last day of the tour would seem a good choice.
So funny. Kate was looking a little "Pimmly" in the photos with Guy and Richard. Bet she just loooves those photos. Not. :)
ReplyDelete"Pimmly" LOL, surfer girl. I thought she looked rather tipsy, myself :) I have a few photos like that I wish would never see the light of day again.
DeleteI am sure you are not the only one, Kiwi Gal. 🥂
DeleteI enjoy your "Kate Loves" posts. I think a good idea for one would be Kate Love Kiki McDonough. I would love to see a post cataloging all her Kiki McDonough jewelry. That Alexander McQueen sailor dress is one of my all time favorites.
ReplyDeleteI second the "Kate Loves Kiki McDonough" - it would be interesting to explore Kate's relationships with other designers too - and agree that the McQueen sailor dress was absolutely wonderful!
DeleteI love that 2011 Temperley dress.
ReplyDeleteThanks Charlotte. Very nice post and I enjoyed it very much.
ReplyDeleteI really enjoy reading the "Kate loves" posts as much as I love watching tennis in general and Wimbledon in particular :)
ReplyDeleteThank you for a very interesting post :)
Thank you very much for your kind comments and for the feedback and future post suggestions :)
ReplyDeleteKensington Palace has announced that there will a private memorial service this Saturday at Diana's gravesite by Oval lake on the family estate of Althorp.
ReplyDeleteThe memorial service will be officiated by the Archbishop of Canterbury. William, Kate, George, Charlotte, Harry, Earl Spencer, and Diana's two sisters will be in attendance. Diana's memorial site has, in the past year, been renovated under the supervision of Earl's wife, Karen.
Hannah Furness, The Telegraph, 6/28/17, "Willam and Harry Rededicate....".
SG, I was very happy to read about this. And I hope they have every bit of privacy that the occasion calls for.
Deleteme, too. :)
DeleteThere. New documentary. Will show. Ahead of wimbledon the duchess. Talka her love tennis and her mom ulimate fan
ReplyDeleteDid anyone else ever notice that Carole Middleton wore those same yellow wedges to Wimbledon two years in a row? I always thought it was funny she wore such distinctive shoes in consecutive years!
ReplyDeleteI did notice that...I thought it was funny, too :) They are quite a distinctive pair!
DeleteHi Charlotte thanks for another great post she always looks so lovely in red. I have the same earrings as her. I am not a huge fan of Andy Murray though :P
ReplyDelete