To sparkle up your Monday, we can expect to see Tiaras and jewels galore on Wednesday night at the Spanish state banquet. Attendance for the dinner is not confirmed in advance, however, several very reliable royal reporters are quite certain the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge and Prince Harry will be there. Whilst William and Kate do not have a formal role during the visit, their presence at the banquet is expected "due to the closeness between the British and Spanish royal families".
Richard Palmer shares more on this with information on Harry's role - it will mark the first time he has participated in a state visit:
'Harry, 32, has joined his brother and sister-in-law, the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, in making himself available for such visits, the highest form of bilateral diplomacy between two nations, from now on. The Prince will accompany King Felipe VI and Queen Letizia on a visit to Westminster Abbey, where the King will lay a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown Warrior, a traditional fixture of state visits, on July 13.
He, William and Kate are also expected to take part in a glittering state banquet at Buckingham Palace the night before, although in keeping with tradition, palace officials have not confirmed their attendance yet.'
If you have been reading this blog for a while, you will know I simply love a tiara appearance. Once reports emerged of Kate's likely attendance, the first question I pondered was which tiara will Kate wear? There are very few white-tie royal occasions on the calendar which call for one to be worn. For William and Kate the annual Diplomatic Reception and state banquets are the ones to watch. Kate attended her first white-tie gala with William when the couple made their debut at the aforementioned Diplomatic Reception in 2013. Royal watchers were delighted to see Her Majesty lent Kate the Papyrus tiara, also known as the Lotus Flower tiara. The Duchess sparkled in the piece which was created from one of the Queen Mother's wedding gifts in 1923 - a necklace of a Greek key pattern with pendant diamonds and pearls given by her husband. It was teamed with a bespoke lavender McQueen gown and the Queen's Chandelier earrings.
In October 2015, the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge attended their first state banquet in honour of President Xi of China. The Duke and Duchess joined Her Majesty the Queen, the Duke of Edinburgh and around 170 guests in the palace ballroom, where they took their places at a beautifully laden horseshoe-shaped table. Kate was seated next to the President.
An overview of the ballroom. We can expect similar scenes Wednesday night.
Kate wore the Papyrus tiara once again which could be seen in its full glory at the banquet teamed with an elegant updo and a bespoke red Jenny Packham gown.
The glittering effect was amplified with the Queen's chandelier earrings and two bracelets from the royal vault. One was originally a choker Queen Mary wore circa 1920 and the other was a gift Prince Philip gave the Queen as a wedding present. It is encrusted with diamonds from a tiara which belonged to Philip's mother.
Two months later, Kate surprised us all when she arrived at the Diplomatic Reception wearing Diana's iconic Cambridge Lovers Knot tiara.
It was a huge surprise as royal experts had predicted Kate wouldn't wear it for years, if ever at all. There had been speculation it would remain in the royal vaults and perhaps be worn by Princess Charlotte down the line. The Cambridge Lovers Knot was the signature tiara of the Princess of Wales, and it seems only fitting to see Kate, a future Princess of Wales wearing it now. It will potentially become Kate's signature for many, many years of her royal life. Kate chose a simple updo, her lavender McQueen gown and once again the Queen's chandelier earrings to complete the look.
And last December, the Cambridge Lovers Knot was Kate's choice of tiara again for the Diplomatic Reception. This time teamed with her red Packham gown and the Queen's diamond pendant earrings.
Which tiara would you like to see Kate wear Wednesday night? I would love to see the Cambridge Lovers Knot as we haven't seen many photos of Kate wearing it thus far; the banquet offers far more photographic opportunities for the public than the Diplomatic Reception. Will Kate debut a new gown on the night? What jewels will she wear and will she debut the Royal Family Order? It will also be interesting to see jewels chosen by the other royal ladies present, and of course Queen Letizia.
This week, we look forward to hosting the King and Queen of Spain - the first #SpainStateVisit to the UK since 1986 🇪🇸 pic.twitter.com/Do092MMbWy— Foreign Office 🇬🇧 (@foreignoffice) July 9, 2017
You can view the full itinerary for the Spanish State Visit here.
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In fashion news, you may recall the Cambridges were photographed en route to Pippa's wedding from Kensington Palace. In the car photos we could see Kate wore a floral print blouse or dress. Following many fruitless searches, I asked the wonderful Kate's Closet - who discovered it is a past season maxi dress from ZARA within minutes. Elizabeth who runs Kate's Closet also writes Queen Letizia Style - a great resource for those following the state visit.
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| Kate's Closet Twitter Feed |
A closer look at Kate's ZARA dress. Hopefully we'll see it again in its entirety.
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| ZARA |
Also in news, Kate's red Marchesa Notte dress has been re-released. It's available in sizes 0-16 at FarFetch where it retails for £1,418. Kate wore the pretty dress in April for the opening night of 42nd Street.
The 1950s style tulle dress is detailed with tactile lattice and rosette motifs. Partially lined to create a sweetheart neckline, the fit-and-flare design has flexible boning and a defined bead and crystal-embellished waist.
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We are just one week away from the Cambridges' royal tour of Germany and Poland. We're all looking forward to the tour and Kate's sartorial choices during the five-day trip. We do tend to see the Duchess stick to tried and trusted labels with one look paying tribute to the host country she's visiting. Our reader Marta lives in Poland and emailed me with information Polish designer Sylwia Romaniuk revealed Kate's assistant contacted her before eventually ordering the designer's Diana coat. Described as: "A very effective, tailored coat with an extended back. Colour ecru. Pleated front. A very elegant and effective design that will make every woman look fabulous." One could certainly envisage the Duchess choosing such a piece, perhaps having the high-low effect altered, however, its a very 'Kate piece'. We have seen instances in the past where items were ordered for tours and later not worn. A possible reason for this has been the fact the brands revealed the news before Kate actually wore their pieces, so we'll wait until next week...
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| Sylvia Romaniuk |
Ahead of the tour, several pages on the blog have been updated over the past week including:
- The Royal Tour Poland/Germany page is live. For those following the tour next week all posts relating to engagements in Poland and Germany can be found there.
- A detailed tour itinerary has been added to the Kate's Calendar page.
- The Shop Kate's Style page had been updated to reflect pieces worn by Kate still available.
- The Repli-Kate page has been updated.
- And the Prince George and Princess Charlotte page is up to date.
We leave you with a look at the trailer for Diana, Our Mother: Her Life and Legacy. The documentary features William and Harry speaking openly about Diana as a mother for the first time. It airs on ITV later this month. In the trailer, William discusses how "informal" and "fun" she was. Harry adds: "She was our mum, she still is our mum, you know, and of course as her son I would say this, she was the best mum in the world. She smothered us with love, that's for sure."
We expect to see you Wednesday night for the state banquet. It's week two of Wimbledon; I imagine Kate will attend at least once this week.
I'm hoping for a repeat of the black strapless velvet Alexander Mcqueen. CLK tiara, hair up and one (or a few) of the Queen's diamond collet necklaces.
ReplyDeleteI love that dress. But I doubt Kate would go strapless and black for a tiara occation. I know royals can and do do both but I think that dress will be more of a black tie look for Kate :) But I'm very much with you wanting to see it again!
DeleteI agree Rebecca. While I love that black velvet, it wouldn't be appropriate for a summer event, more a fall or winter look. Maybe Kate will wear a tiara she hasn't worn before, but no matter, which ever she chooses will be gorgeous.
DeleteWhile I would absolutely love to see the black strapless Alexander McQueen repeated, I doubt we will see it for the State dinner. I was curious about the dress code for the State Dinner (could Kate even wear strapless?) and remembered reading an article by Rita Wilson about attending the 2011 State Dinner for President Obama and her struggles with the strict dress code. I found it again and copied the link below if anyone is interested. I'm always curious about protocol/dress codes. I think it is part of the fun of royal watching for me.
Deletehttp://www.harpersbazaar.com/culture/features/a740/rita-wilson-buckingham-palace-dinner/
Court, I would love to see the black strapless Alexander McQueen again. I will go to sleep tonight and dream of seeing Kate in it again in another iconic Diana piece (though with the CLK tiara it would be divine) - the famous pearl and sapphire necklace.
DeleteThanks Anne for posting the link to Rita Wilson's saga on the State Dinner. It was a fun read, and an eye opener!
DeleteYou're welcome, Tedi.
DeleteMy screen froze, so I apologize if I am publishing my comment twice, but you are very welcome Tedi.
DeleteYes, thank you Anne. Very interesting article. Rita Wilson, so "always be keepin' it real", and thankfully. So much humor. What would you do if you were seated next to the head of MI6 at the Queen's formal state dinner table???? Rita Wilson was the perfect choice. I myself would either have either stayed in the bathroom the whole time or have asked for too many wine refills. lol (do they even do wine refills?) lol Two glasses and I would have been under the table. Problem solved. :)
DeleteExciting post. The video will not open for me. It says "The uploader has not made it available in your country". I live in the US.
ReplyDeleteHi Joan! The video is on YouTube and the link with many newspaper articles. Google it and you can find it! :)
DeleteThank you, Kate. I did exactly that and found this ...
DeleteAnd, of course, I ended up watching related videos and thinking how unfair life can be.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ymZNamwLTMc
Joan,
DeleteI got the same result as the quote you posted. I will watch it in a designated time for YouTube ( may be off days) Once I go on YouTube, I sort of stay there longer than I should, on and on and on.
I wonder how William now and Harry in the future experience parenting, having lost one of their parents during their youth. I have empathy for them. William seems close to George.
Some people, who lose their parents early and hurt, either become too close, protective and smothering parents or deliberately distant to prevent hurt for their children.
For all the silence in all these years, now that they are opening up, people need to be tender, understanding and considerate. The whole world talked about their mother openly for two decades except the very owners of the critical experience of their mother's early death in their youth.
Lots of wonderful things to look forward to. The Zara dress is so pretty. I hope we get to see Kate in it again. In her personal life, her style is slightly bohemian, isn't it.
ReplyDeleteIt really is and has been back in her girlfriend days. I love it!
DeleteI love it too, Rebecca ☺
DeleteIt makes for a lovely Monday to read an update on the blog! It's a rainy day here, so we are watching Wimbledon in our pj's.
ReplyDeleteI would LOVE to see Kate in the Cambridge Lovers Knot tiara again....LOVE. As the future Princess of Wales (as Charlotte mentioned), it just seems right and fitting. It's also such a beautiful nod to Diana. It will be exciting to see what Kate wears, jewelry, and tiara!
Charlotte, do you have any information or insight on when the ITV/HBO program will be shown? I have tried to google and read, but can't seem to find a release date. I have watched the trailer several times and get teary eyed each time. It wonderful to see William and Harry open up so much about their mom and the struggles they have faced over the past 20 years, but my heart still aches for them. With all the struggles Diana faced in her personal life and marriage, she adored her boys. I'm thankful God brings beauty from ashes. William and Harry have grown into incredible young men and have done and will continue to do a brilliant job in their roles.
So much to look forward to over the next few days and weeks!
Hello Kate,
DeleteI don't believe ITV specified a date yet, I will let you know as soon as I see one. As for Wimbledon, what a day for Nadal and Muller, it was gripping tennis and likely one of the highlights of the 2017 tournament :)
Any idea if we will see William and Kate at Wimbledon this yr.
DeleteIt was an amazing match!!! 😍
DeleteHello Kate,
DeleteJust a quick update. The ITV documentary 'Diana, Our Mother: Her Life and Legacy' will air on ITV, Monday 24 July at 9 p.m. It will also be shown on HBO.
Pauline - I think there's a good possibility we'll see Kate at Wimbledon again this week :)
I don't think a coat is needed for a trip to continental Europe in July. The climate is like here in the Midwest. No coats needed. Maybe a light blazer if it's cool at night.
ReplyDeleteThat's what I thought. It's REALLY hot here right now, so I would have thought she'd go for light summery dresses. We'll see ;-)
DeleteI just hope we are right and they do attend the banquet. (It would seem strange after all this fuss if they didn't.)
ReplyDeleteI don't think Kate would wear black to a state banquet. Repeat possibilities were be the French blue gown, the white gown she wore to her reception or one of the gowns from tours - the blue in India or the white from Malaysia. But Letizia does have great style and flair - so dare I hope for something new from Kate. Any tiara would be a good tiara but I do think the Cambridge would be nice for the anniversary of Diana's death. Glad William and Harry are speaking out - such cruel things have been out there of late.
Im hoping for a new gown as well, Julia. For me, a new gown would show respect and appreciation for their guests- that the Spanish royals are worth the extra effort to look one's very best. Agree about the CLK tiara. This is the year to wear it!
DeleteI agree. If they attend, she will have a new gown. I am very much interested in Letizia's style though, as she has.
DeleteI also hope for seeing that white coat, as it is now in the picture, without any altercation from Kate.
Busy days ahead Charlotte, lovely update!!
I hope Kate does wear something glamourous tomorrow. Queen Letizia is an absolute stunner with such a good taste for classy and trendy fashion. It would be interesting to see how it faces off tomorrow since Kate's style is very much safe and the same. It's going to be good :)
DeleteYour English always amazes me but I think you mean alteration - probably a phone correction - happens to me quite often.
DeleteIt would be fascinating if she wore the coat - although that uneven length would not be easy to wear.
I had the same thought about the Diana coat, Anett. It's lovely as is and any alterations to make it more conservative will just take oomph out of it.
DeleteAnd personally I hope/think she doesn't wear it. No offence to the look, I quite like it. But to me, this reads like those earlier "Kate was supposed to wear X but didn't because they talked". Personally I think those cases were mostly never planned to be worn at all or just bought and tried but not choosen. Either way, this sounds the same to me. Either a brand lying to try and cash in on some of the media or a brand blabbing too early. Either way, not a good look and I hope we don't see the coat because of that.
DeleteOops, anonymous 16:02 is me.
DeleteErika I don't think Kate gets that, how her outfit sends a message. Letizia does and will want to be the star of the night IMO. I kinda think Kate will go repeat to make it seem like she wasn't even trying to compete, she didn't care about the fashion stakes, if you get my drift. I'm kinda with Sarah though I'm not sure they'll even be there
DeleteJulia
DeleteYes, I meant that:) Thank you!
I liked that white coat because there is something about it that stands out, and not the 10th same white coat she already has.
I like the Diana coat as well and also hope she doesn't alter it when she wears it.
DeleteThat being said, I truly wish Kate would step out from under her mother in law's shadow. I know it's not her fault the makers named the coat Diana, but Kate has her own legacy to think about, and I think she should put a lot more thought into that than honoring a woman who needs no honoring. Diana's achievements stand on their own. Kate wears her ring every day, is the mother of her grandchildren and wife of her son. Now she needs to be the Duchess of Cambridge and future queen, and write her own chapter rather than piggybacking off someone else's.
Actually, I think it's less important what Kate wears with regards to stepping away from Diana's shadow than what she DOES. If she forged an individual identity and interests - she could remember Diana by wearing her jewellery without serious comparison. At this point, other than the Head's Together work she shares with her husband and brother-in-law, and tennis, sailing and not-too-specifically art, we don't have a strong sense of what Kate is passionate about. So we end up talking about her clothes more than anything.
DeleteIf I implied it's all about the clothes I didn't not write that very well, Julia. It absolutely is about what she does rather than wears. I totally agree. As to what she's passionate about, it seems pretty obvious to me. Her family and not much else.
DeleteWhat has happened to the children's hospice charity work Kate used to do??
DeleteExcellent question, Milo. I believe that's been eclipsed by Heads Together. I wonder what their next project will be.
DeleteI actually love the Papyrus tiara and hope she wears it again. It strikes me as a bit more youthful than the Cambridge Lover's Knot, and I think it looks fabulous on Kate. A new gown would be amazing, or the inky-blue Jenny Packham off-the-shoulder gown. I know a lot of people feel she's worn that one quite enough, but I adore it and think it would look great with the full complement of jewels and tiara.
ReplyDeleteI also love the papyrus tiara on Kate. It's a perfect tiara+wearer match in my book. I would also love to see her in her wedding tiara again. I know it is smaller so maybe not to this event but I would love to see it and her wedding earrings again in the future!
DeleteI love the Papyrus tiara, too, and agree that it looks more youthful on Kate than the CLK tiara. The inky blue JP is one of my favourites of Kate's gowns...I'd love to see it worn with sapphires one day.
DeleteThe Cartier Halo tiara & her wedding earrings need to be reunited! :P
DeleteI love that Diana Coat, perhaps that is intended for some future event, when the weather is cooler. I certainly hope to see them at the State Banquet. The tour is just a week away, and that will be fun to watch together. I ordered the Kate Spade Tassel earrings from Nordstrom. Can't wait to wear them.
ReplyDeleteI love the Diana Coat too, Tedi! It has Kate's signature style with a little edge, and is named Diana! I hope we see the Cambridges at the State dinner and if so can't wait to see what Kate and Letizia wear! Congrats on the earrings, nice choice! cc
DeleteThanks CeCe.
DeleteTedi, I like the coat very much and it reminds me of the white McQueen coat that Kate wore for Trooping. And I agree that it may not be for this tour, but we shall see.
DeleteI'm so excited as I've now convinced my mom to make a trip to Hamburg and see the Cambridges with me - hooray!! We are actually planning a whole weekend in Hamburg around it :)
ReplyDeleteJane, do you know if there is / will be a more precise schedule for each of the days? Like when they are going to arrive and where the crowds are going to gather?
Oh, how fun!! I hope you get to see them!!
DeleteThat is so cool. :)
DeleteVery special family memories.
TIARA? Did someone say Tiara? lol That got my attention right away. I so hope they attend. I so hope Kate glams it up a bit and has a sexier, looser updo with her Tiara moved toward her forehead more. AND, I hope she wears a new gown and has some fun with it. AND, lol, I hope she wears a gown designed for a beautiful diamond necklace from the Queen's vault, with appropriately perfect matching diamond earrings viewable with that sexier, looser updo and complimenting Tiara. Oh Kate, break out and have some pre-marriage fashion fun again, pleease.
ReplyDeleteSince it is Diana's anniversary, and since that silly book came out, and since the boy's have done the documentary, I think the Cambridge Lover's Knot Tiara would be the very best choice, so as to further honor Diana, even though I would love to see other "new" ones from the Queen's collection.
Letiza will rock it, no doubt. Fun. Fun. :) Oh, and Rose Cholmondeley will probably be there, hopefully.
I am eager to see what she wears. Maybe some bling from her famous grandmother-in-law.
Great news, Charlotte. Thanks.
I'm looking forward to seeing what both Queen Letizia & Rose Cholmondeley will be wearing, in addition to Kate :)
DeleteI'm guessing Letizia will wear her favourite Felipe Varela, or perhaps Carolina Herrera. The Spanish queen is very thrifty, and so may repeat one of her ballgowns. If you google her in gowns, you'll find a couple stunners. I also think she'll wear the biggest Spanish tiara, the Fleur de Lys. I am hoping that Camilla will give the Delhi Durbar tiara another outing, given that it's even bigger than her Boucheron Honeycomb tiara and she is the queen-in-waiting. Any of the three tiaras that Kate has worn would work, in my opinion, as William is only heir to the heir and anything bigger might compete with Camilla and/or Letizia. As for the marchioness - something British, be it McQueen or Packham or Temperley or Erdem.
DeleteRose Cholmondeley should have some bling options for sure. Her husband's grandmother lived at Houghton Hall, the Marchoness (sp) of Cholmondeley, Sybil Sassoon, and was a member of the Sassoon and Rothschild families. Being next door neighbors to the Queen, I am sure the Queen was a friend of Sybil's.
DeleteRose's grandmother, Lady Elizabeth Longman, one of Queen Elizabeth's bridesmaids and close friend, and no doubt had at least one tiara and other substantial bling. Rose bears a resemblance to her grandmother Elizabeth.
I was sad to learn that Lady Elizabeth passed in 2016. At least she got to see Rose's children and Marina's children hopefully.
Sadly, Margaret Rhodes, such a icon of royal history, passed two months prior to Lady Elizabeth. Quite a loss to the Queen, no doubt. Only two of the Queen's bridesmaids remain, Lady Pamela Hicks and Princess Alexandra. I am sure the Queen is happy and thankful to still have them around.
I hope to see Kate with plenty of bling, or else the official photos will be "lopsided"! ;-)
DeleteI don't think the queen of Spain will wear its largest tiara, in deference to QEII. But she has some very beautiful choices. My favorite is the shell tiara. I also do not think the Delhi Durbar tiara will appear again, given its size and the political comments it provoked when Camilla wore it. She has stuck to the Greville tiara since then.
DeleteAs for the Strathmore rose tiara, the Queen Mother as Duchess of York wore it fairly often, but it has not been worn by any of her descendants. If, as has been said, this tiara is in delicate condition, it is not a good choice unless reset. It is a nineteenth century tiara. I wonder why the Queen has not worn at least one of the detachable brooches.
lol, RF. True, so true and we can't have "lopsided".
DeleteI think Kate will wear the Cambridge Lover's Knot again. It's a good one, carries her title and seems like the perfect tiara for the occasion. I however, LOVE the Greville tiara (aka: the honeycomb) but Camilla always wears that one, and I think it looks beautiful on her. I'd also like to see the Delhi Durbar on Kate. SO many beautiful choices.
ReplyDeleteWill Queen Letizia also wear a tiara?
I would love to see Kate in any tiara and the blue gown she wore in India.
ReplyDeleteThank you Charlotte for the surprise post today! I have been eagerly checking the blog daily to see if there would be a Wimbledon appearance. No Kate sighting today, but love any opportunity to discuss HRH Duchess Kate. As for the State Dinner, I would love to see the Papyrus tiara or the Cambridge Lover's Knot again (or - dare to dream - a new debut tiara. I'd be absolutely over the moon to see Kate in the Fringe Tiara that Queen Elizabeth and Princess Anne both wore for their weddings). Part of me wonders also if Kate will ever repeat her wedding tiara . I think it would very much be Kate's style to wear a more subdued tiara this week and not try to "compete" with the other royal ladies if so many will be in attendance because of the closeness between the two royal families.
ReplyDeleteI agree all around - that fringe tiara which the queen has not used in a long time would be a perfect choice for Kate. (Although I will be an old lady, even I even manage so long, I would love to see Charlotte wear that tiara on her wedding day, carrying on the link started by her great-grandmother and great-aunt - since she is a blood princess.)
DeleteBut I do think Kate, if she hopefully attends, will use one of the tiaras she has already worn. Little chance of outshining Letizia in the tiara department. Check the Court Jeweller for the amazing choices the Spanish queen has.
http://www.thecourtjeweller.com/2017/07/the-top-ten-spanish-royal-tiaras.html
I agree Letizia will come to play lol.
DeleteThank you, Julia. What a collection to choose from! My favorite has to be the Spanish Floral Tiara. It reminds me of one of my British favorites - the Strathmore Rose Tiara.
DeleteJulia, great thought about Charlotte wearing the fringe tiara - tradition and all. I instantly thought that she would wear the Spencer Tiara. However if Charles Spencer's daughter wears it for her wedding perhaps Charlotte does chose the fringe.
DeleteWearing the fringe tiara would be a sweet gesture and so would wearing the Spencer tiara. Now I'm conflicted about it. lol
DeleteI do think that if Wiiliam asked Charles Spencer to allow Charlotte to wear the tiara Diana wore I think Charles would happily allow that in honor of Diana and also because that would also put the tiara and the Spencer family name in the highlight of a prominent royal wedding and in the pages of history once again.
MaryM. That she will. :) Not shy, that one.
DeleteI hope she wears the tiara she wore for her wedding, and a new gown
ReplyDeleteHi! I think it's important to specify royals don't choose the jewels - more often than not is HM who decides which will be loaned. I also think it should be mentioned that many times there are jewels loaned as "lifetime" loans, as in I'll give you this piece and you can wear it as you wish, but it's still mine. I think the latter is the case with the drop earrings, choker and wedding gift bracelets, and the pearl and diamond earrings we recently saw (I think they were a gift from Bahrain but don't remember). Loved the post :) I'm not too sure they'll attend though, given that they aren't scheduled to attend any other event of the visit, and attending just the banquet seems a bit off - I hope to be wrong though! (While you are at it, I'll smoothly promotte my polyvore lol)
ReplyDeleteI'm going to go crazy here and hope for a new gown AND a new tiara...I keep hoping to see the Strathmore Rose tiara make a reappearance...
ReplyDeleteDeAnn
I was just thinking/said the same thing! :) It looked lovely on the Queen Mother.
DeleteThe Strathmore is the most beautiful tiara imo. I would love to see Kate wear it at some point.
DeletePresident Xi of China generally looks serious, and even if he smiles not that kind of which seems heartfelt delight. He looks to be in genuine delight toasting with Kate, and also looking at her.
ReplyDeleteCharlotte, the photos and images you select are amazingly purposeful, highlight subject matters and make statements on their own. I can imagine the archives you have accumulated in over six years, organized, filed, and the search when you need them, and decide which one to post. Each and every time, you nail it.
I'd love to see Kate debut both a new tiara (I'd like to see how The Strathmore Rose tiara would look on Kate) and gown for the state banquet. But I'd be glad to see the CLK tiara brought out again, as a tribute to Diana. And a repeat of either the ink blue Jenny Packham or the beaded JP from India would be nice, too.
ReplyDeleteIt would be lovely to see that tiara remade for Kate - I think it would be perfect for her.
DeleteI think the ink Packham has been worn a great deal - but if some of Diana's sapphires were added, I'd not complain. The India gown is a possibility too.
I would love to see the reception dress brought back - perhaps with a new formal bolero instead of the shrug - (hopefully material and diamante were saved.) It would also be nice to see the Malaysian gown - it could even have a new top piece - I see black lace over the white...
I'd love to see the black again at a premiere but not at a state banquet. But a new gown would be my dream. Something a bit sophisticated because Letizia is often sophisticated.
I agree with you Julia on all your points. The Strathmore Rose would be lovely but remade. The ink Packham is beautiful but has been worn three times, yes?? The India gown without the shawl would be good. But I most agree on the reception dress with a different bolero, or the Malaysian gown.....both are excellent options and deserve a repeat; but all are repeats. Most of all a new gown would be the best for these reasons: 1) The royals relationship with Spain is so much closer and certainly warrants a new gown, would not want anybody offended with "repeats" (wasn't some country offended Diana wore a repeat to an event, maybe Italy if my memory serves me?); and 2) while I personally don't want the two woman compared, there are sure to be comparisons between Kate and Letizia especially at an event they attend together, so would really, really want a new gown for Kate to stand out in next to Letizia, who as Julia says has a very sophisticated style. I am not talking beauty comparisons at all, just style comparisons. Am really hoping Kate is in a new gown, with a lovely tiara at the state banquet and that she just nails it!! cc
DeleteJulia, I love your idea about Kate wearing some of Diana's sapphires. It's about time, IMO.
DeleteCeCe. Right. There have already been comparisons made regarding Letiza's yellow outfit. The media picked up right away how like Kate's outfits that was.
DeleteJulia, I hope we do see either Kate's reception dress or the Malaysian McQueen again. The hibiscus dress was so 'princessy' and pretty. And I agree with royalfan, it definitely is about time to see Kate wearing Diana's sapphires :)
DeleteCharlotte I am glad you have faith that the Cambridges will attend the banquet because I sure don't. They have never attended anything they didn't absolutely have to. And since they aren't taking part in any other aspects of the visit (for god knows what reason) I won't hold my breath that they will attend the banquet
ReplyDeleteIt is funny that now that Kate is patron of Wimbledon she has only attended once. Maybe know that it is more of a duty for her to go and not one where she can just chill and watch tennis she will be more reluctant to attend lol
Anyone else notice how low Kate's engagement count is right now? At this rate she won't break 100 by the end of the year even with the tour
the decision to attend the State Banquet does NOT rest with the Cambridges. It is the decision of The Queen.
DeleteI don't know why either - the royal family seems to be determined to make themselves as irrelevant as possible, even amongst those who are still interested. It's time for all family politics - no matter how strong the feeling or who is behind what, and all outmoded restrictions and hierarchies , to be put aside and for the family to put its unified best foot forward. I do think they live in a glass bubble surrounded by flatterers and don't or won't see the falling off of interest - particularly amongst the young - who have no interest in an heir the age of their grandparents.
DeleteWith the attention given to the Wales' attendance at the banquet, not just here - it's going to start to look like an insult to the Spanish royals if they don't attend. With the unfortunate publicity about the palace this week - naturally Andrew can entertain guests privately and every little girl wants to be a princess - but he has no young children and a little girl's tea party for a flashy celebrity looks extremely bad - the palace needs an influx of favourable publicity as soon as possible.
Another Holyrood week with no sign of any young royals.
Kate's engagement count remains unfortunately low this year although I agree it's best not to go too often to Wimbledon. Home engagements are urgently needed. It's all very don't careish and perhaps they don't although when the wind changes, people can find out they care when it is too late. I won't sign this Cassandra for the sake of confusion but I should.
Rgarding Wimbledon attendance - Catherine is Patron, not President. In alll the years the Queen was Patron, she attended 3 times - that was it. The Duke of Kent, as President of the All England Club, and the Duchess of Gloucester as Pres of the Lawn tennis Association have had key roles at the tournament for many many years. Catherine just cant walk in an "take over". She is showing sensitivity IMO.
DeleteAnd its the Queen who decides attendees at the Banquet, not the Cambridges.
Julia and Sarah, I actually agree with your thoughts. Kate's engagement count is extremely questionable at this point. And in my honest opinion I can't think of a valid reason for this. Terrorist attacks and safety also cannot be the reason since the queen still stands strong with engagements. I think the carefree attitude that comes across from them definitely affects the future of the monarchy. Especially since the Cambridges have a direct influence on the heir.
DeleteAs I've said before - I don't believe the queen is some dictator saying you will or will not go - and sending out invites. I think these things are decided amongst the households. Earlier this year there was an indication that the households recognise there is a need for more communication and working together - making this happen is another matter. There are many possible issues at play here - Charles jealousy of the attention the younger royals get - William's apparent reluctance to step forward - and possibly his feelings about being around his father and step-mother except when necessary. But whilst some of these issues are understandable - there is no point about worrying about who is next in line if the whole institution is in danger of irrelevancy to future generations - and if royals are getting a reputation for being work-shy. It is time for all parties to put aside feelings and make the monarchy important to all with powerful representation by all generations.
DeleteAs for the queen - far from being too dictatorial - I suspect the opposite is true - she has given too much and demanded too little of all family members. That is her way - but she has worked so hard for the institution, surely she wants to leave it strong and meaningful - not prey to a possible change in government that will latch on to any perceived weakness.
It wouldn't be necessary for Kate to attend Wimbledon often if there were other things she was doing instead, as the Queen was when she was patron. But since she's so reluctant to do other engagements, I think she could at least appear there, as it's something she enjoys.
DeleteIt has often been said that the Queen doesn't micromanage the royal family, though perhaps she should as most of them are doing such a bad job of managing themselves.
Amazing the Cambridges are being criticized for an event that has yet to happen. Will and Kate have engagements on the days of the state visit. Considering the last minute rescheduling of the state visit, I would guess these engagements were on the calendar long before. Wimbledon is not over and she still could make an appearance. In previous years,Kate has only gone to Wimbledon once or twice a year anyway.
DeleteAnd if Kate attended Wimbledon more we would get complaint that "Oh, she only does the fun engagements" or "THIS patronage she bothers to visit".
DeleteDiscussing and complaining about her numbers is fair. But not when there is much likelyhood that even her following the suggestions would give the same amount of critique.
For some of you who are bashing Sarah from the US, about how the Queen only attended Wimbledon maybe 3 or 4 times altogether, so we should not judge Kate for not being present. Well, The Queen probably was busy every day during the years that she was patron of Wimbledon, and that is why people did not judge. Kate, on the other hand, seems to have it pretty easy when it comes to royal duties. She would not be critisized for not attending Wimbledon, IF she was partaking in another obligation. But she has pretty much had the summer off and no sightings of her. I think this is why some people get aggravated because it makes her look like she lacks work ethic in some aspects.
DeleteI am not on either side, but before people start bashing others, you need to see the other side. I really hope they start actually stepping up to the plate in the fall.
Thank you Charlotte for an interesting post.
DeleteJohanna Konta is into the semis at Wimbledon. And the timing is good. So maybe another appearance.
Looking forward to the tiara occassion. Canbridge Knot tiara and a repeat gown would be my pick.
This is Harry's first state visit so I will enjoy watching his handling of the step up in his duties.
Kate really can't win. She was criticised during the Olympics for going to too many events, she is slated for every sailing event she attends and now, apparently, she hasn't been to Wimbledon enough. I expect she will be there for one of the finals. Let's not forget the queen attended twice during her patronage. Let's also not forget that if her father hadn't died at such a young age the queen would have spent much more time living on Malta, or at another subsequent posting, rather than being a 'full time' royal.
DeleteThe queen has always been a full time royal. She also made a radio speech at 21 dedicating her life to her country. Kate took plenty of criticism for bailing out of the Olympics to prepare for her SE Asia tour. The preparation she did while naked by the pool.
DeleteActually, the queen spent relatively little time on Malta (the amount she spent has been often exaggerated) and it's unclear whether she would have continued to do so - she and Philip were on the beginning of a royal tour at the time of her father's death. The monarchy was also in a much stronger position then - today the concept remains popular but many young people are losing interest.
DeleteI do agree that it would not be good for Kate to visit Wimbledon too often at this point - re: the comments about the Olympics - however if she had a fuller work schedule this would matter far less.
Kate could 'win' quite easily by embracing a fuller schedule. She hasn't so she's starting to lose. She is a thirty-five year old woman, the time most women are rising to the peak of their careers, not a young girl anymore.
Was that during that time frame, bluhare? I had never connected the two within that time frame. (you meant naked on the balcony right? or (say it ain't so) was the balcony poolside?)
DeleteBluhare you crack me up lol
DeleteIt is amazing though that the media seems to be giving Kate a free pass when they attack William despite the fact he had another job and at this point has done 30 more engagements than Kate
Notice when the palace put out the statement about prince William shifting to full time duties in the fall they didn't mention Kate at all and with her kids in school what excuses will she have left for barely doing anything?
Just a thought that popped into my mind--maybe in Kate's mind, She feels that her "career" is giving birth to and properly raising the future king of England.
DeleteJulia, it's relative, isn't it? I mean, Charles is no longer a young man, yet he is still waiting to be king.
Delete(and keeping or trying to keep William in domestic bliss, not wayward.)
DeleteHa surfer girl; I don't know why but I thought there was a pool there! But yes, I mean the balcony.
DeleteKate may well feel that raising a future king is her job; however, the public may disagree. Plus if she's going to raise him to be king she might want to start acclimatising him to that. The Middletons may be loving and close knit, but they don't know much about life as a royal.
Barbara US. That is hardly unusual.
DeleteClose to 50% of the population of the world gives birth and raise children. That's just women. Men also raise children. Many of whom become heads of states, discover new elements, planets, cure diseases, lead nations, invent the internet, or self-driving vehicles.
There is nothing special about the future king of England. All the child has to be taught is to be a relatively decent person. A lesson that seems to have eluded many of their ancestors. Expectations are seriously low for royalty, don't you think?
You tell ME why raising a "king" (whatever that entails in today's world where the word king means nothing) should be a "career".
bluhare - are you referring to the incident where Kate was tanning herself top and bottomless when she skipped out of the paraolympics because she was "preparing" for the SE tour ?
DeleteUh-hum. bluhare. don't know life as a royal? Wouldst thou perhapest be forgettingeth Pippa?
Delete:)
But ya'll...... I see where you are coming from, and yes, obviously family is Kate's focus right now. But for someone new to following the RF you might make it seem to them that Kate does absolutely nothing but family focus. That isn't exactly true. She has done tours, state visits, a state dinner, visits to charities, hosted a presidential dinner, helped start Heads Together, was present at all the Royal protocol things including local and foreign memorial services, etc. She has done other things. Lots of other things.
DeleteYep, Rosman, that's the one! :)
DeleteOh surfer girl, you do have a sense of humor, don't you!! Pippa? HAHAHAHA I'm surprised she hasn't had James buy dear old dad out of Glen Affric so she can be Lady Glen Affric already.
For some reason I think that the Strathmore Rose tiara will be saved for Prince Harry's bride, when the time comes. I would love to see Kate wear her Halo Scroll wedding tiara, with the matching earrings and her bracelet from Prince Charles. If she wears a repeat gown, I think that a tiara would take the lilac McQueen from L.A to a whole new level. Or she could re-wear wear another gown from early on in her marriage - the silver one-shouldered Jenny Packham with the Mouawad bracelet and matching necklace in its tiara form (I'm hoping it's convertible). Either dress would look wonderful with any royal family orders or sashes that she may receive. I would also love to see the teal JP with lace again, eventually.
ReplyDeleteThat is possible - since there is a chance that he might be Duke of York someday - although given the longevity of Windsor men, he may be given another title. (The other choice would be to make him an earl-in-waiting like Edward but I think this is unlikely - more likely the York title will go to a second son of William and Kate should one appear - or, just possibly, given changes to gender rules - to Charlotte in her own right. (That change as yet to happen - for now Princess Royal seems her most likely title but you never know.) All this is quite speculative - change is happening so quickly that talking about the future seems a pipe dream. And of course, Andrew could still have a son - although that appears unlikely.
DeleteYes, pure speculation, but fun nonetheless. My thinking is the Strathmore Rose tiara will go to Harry's wife because even if her title probably won't be Duchess of York, she will eventually have the same status as the Queen Mum when she was Duchess of York - a royal duchess, married to the king's second son, who was never meant to be queen (even though that's what ended up happening). I also think that while it's theoretically possible the Queen will open the vault and lend Kate another tiara for the Spanish state visit, it won't be something like the Teck Circle tiara, or Marie Fyodorovna's Sapphire Bandeau that Princess Margaret used to wear (which would look lovely on Kate, especially with her sapphire engagement ring). I believe it's likely that these two will also be saved for Harry's future wife. That way she'll have three to choose from, similar to how Princess Anne, Countess Sophie, and now Duchess Kate have three each that they can wear. In time, when Prince Charles succeeds, Kate may move on to bigger tiaras, and the three that she has now would pass, I imagine, to Charlotte when she's old enough/married. Although I do agree with a previous comment hoping that Charlotte may wear the same tiara that the Queen and Anne wore for their respective weddings if/when she eventually gets married, but, like Anne, for that one occasion only. As for any other British royal tiaras that could be lent to Kate, they all seem to either belong to/are used regularly by someone else, or no longer exist.
DeleteThe Strathmore Rose is extremely fragile. I don't think it will be seen again. Not sure why it would be saved for the wife of the 5th in line. Sarah Ferguson got a new tiara rather than a royal heirloom. No tiara is probably most likely.
DeleteOh Louise, say it ain't so. No tiara? Really?
DeleteI think Harry's wife will certainly have occasion to wear tiaras. A new one designed for her would be fun but I also want to see all the Queen's tiaras seeing the light of day or candlelight of banquets and showing their stuff, and accruing even more royal provenance. :)
I would love for Kate to have a hand in designing a new one for herself but knowing Kate she would probably wear that to the exclusion of others. And just like William giving Kate Diana's ring so she "could (still) be part of it all, I think Kate should give ample airings to Diana's Cambridge Lover's Knot tiara to also help keep her "part of it all". I honestly thought at one time that because of everything that happened we might never see that tiara again, at least for a couple of generations. So, I think it's frequent airings is an excellent thing. I know I often am reminded of Diana when I notice Kate's ring. And same with the CLK tiara.
Speaking of bling. Perhaps if Kate doesn't want to wear brooches the conventional way (the brooches that will be available to her just can't go to waste or gather dust), she can wear them design into hats or chokers or on her purses. Just some thoughts. ;)
DeleteAlthough fragile, it could possibly be mended and made stronger. Sarah did get a new tiara (as did Sofia in Sweden) and this remains a possibility, although in these times of austerity, purchasing something very obviously new might not be the best course. I don't think the Strathmore would be gifted on a wife of Harry but it's possible it might be used by her - I don't believe any jewels belonging to the crown have been gifts in the last couple of decades - more long-term loans. (It was always unclear about the Cambridge Lover's Knot which was certainly put forth as a gift at the time of Diana's wedding but it did return.)
DeleteOk, I'm gonna answer this one in stages:
ReplyDelete"Charlotte I am glad you have faith that the Cambridges will attend the banquet because I sure don't. They have never attended anything they didn't absolutely have to. "
This is not a fact. It's a speculation/view and something that can be very much debated. Charlotte is not speculating much actually, she's reporting speculations from the reporters. And it is very likely that the Cambridges will go based on them having London based events during this time.
"And since they aren't taking part in any other aspects of the visit (for god knows what reason) I won't hold my breath that they will attend the banquet"
One reason might be the types of engagements. Spanish state visits are usually very heavy with speeches to government, buissness and economic focus. So because of that the kind of engagements choosen calls for very much Andrew involvement (since he's their go to buissness and technology guy). From what I can see it's very rare for more than a few of the royals to have a role in the state visits. In this case it's Andrew, Anne & Harry mainly (Outside of QEII&Phillip and C&C), No Glouchesters, no Cambridges, no Wessexes. And other state visits have other constalations. We have no idea how they choose who does what event. Why is Anne hosting the return dinner this time and the Glouchesters are not having a role? Will Sophie and Edward be at the banquet? We don't know these things, just that they seem to very very rarely have all the royals involved in a state visit.
"It is funny that now that Kate is patron of Wimbledon she has only attended once. Maybe know that it is more of a duty for her to go and not one where she can just chill and watch tennis she will be more reluctant to attend lol"
This is factually wrong. The first week has only gone and there is one full week left. So no full view review of her visits can be made. Second of all, prior years she has only been 1 or 2 times per year. So this is very much in line with her prior frequency. Which makes sense. Kate is the patron. As patron the Queen visited around 3-4 times during a few decades. The Duke of Kent is the president and is still the royal who will be the most present at this event.
"Anyone else notice how low Kate's engagement count is right now? At this rate she won't break 100 by the end of the year even with the tour"
This first half of the year is about in line with the growth from previous years. And since William is not stopping his ambulance job and the move is not until the fall, it makes very much sense that so far this year is on par with previous years. Add to that the lack of 90th birthday events this summer, and the fact that we have no clue of what is planned for the fall, we can in no way say what numbers she will end up on. I don't like critiquing people for things they haven't done (or haven't not done) yet. Let's save that for things they actually do/don't do.
This was supposed to be under Sarah Maryland USA's comment.
DeleteKate - Yes, it is on line for what she has done previously but she needs much more - and usually she and William do take the August break. I do think it's important to speak out, although if I'm proved wrong - no one would be happier than me. It's always worth remembering, I want to be proved wrong, not right!
DeleteI do think it's likely the Gloucesters and the Wessexes will attend the banquet - like you I'm not so sure about the Cambridges but the fact it's been out there in the press is going to make their absence awkward - but awkwardness has been a theme for the royal family of late - awkward books, awkward interviews, awkward publicity. How about trying for something less awkward and make this visit a turning point.
I so wonder if the hosting role normally played by the Gloucesters for the City banquet is being eased over to Anne - one might think as a stop for it being handed over to younger royals.
Just because the British family hasn't always appeared together in recent years (this was not true in the past) doesn't mean it shouldn't happen. The appearances of generations together has been hugely beneficial in Europe - as I've said, it's better to take the best of other places even if it is novel. The photograph of the generations together at the Diplomatic Reception was new and hugely welcome - I say - keep going - make the royals on the front of magazines and papers again - not just Hello! Make the news need to cover them. Make them not one big snooze.
And who thought it was a good idea to have Andrew feature prominently in a high profile state visit? Oh dear!
DeleteThat is a fair complaint that about her numbers.
DeleteYeah, it's been an "awkward" time as you say for the royals. The BP princess party just a small drop in a big bucket of questionable decisions for many of the royals.
I'm not sure if the Gloucesters are being phased out with that. Andrew did it for the Chinese visit. But someone said
I agree that it would be great if they were showing a more cohesive front. I was more debating against William and Kate being mostly blamed for it when I think alot of the things William and Kate get bashed for is more of a general trend within the royal family.
That was a really good analysis, Rebecca. I even agree with some of it.
DeleteThat was right on point, Rebecca. Good job girl. :) The debate will always be there, hopefully in a humane way. Even with all the work that the Queen and Phillip and Anne do there are still those who do not see their worth. The debate will always be there regardless.
DeleteThere should have been a :P after my comment, Rebecca. It sounds much too serious.
DeleteJulia, your remarks about Anne caught my attention. I've never paid any attention to the State Visit "duties" - but it does have a whiff of generational change. There are only two visits per year - however under a Charles monarchy, I don't see him relying on his mother's cousins to entertain foreign dignitaries. This may also be why we see Harry getting practice -- this State Visit is with their Spanish cousins. Perhaps the Gloucesters are in "retiring" phase much like Philip. Anne and Harry are also a little closer in age to the Spanish visitors. Just some observations.
DeleteOh, I think I read the ":P" in my mind Bluhare because I read it in your "usual" tone :P
DeleteWith all respect to your thoughts Rebecca, if you have to critique what Kate has done so far as a duty and public service..it does not feel like she has done enough thus far. I am a huge fan of hers but when it comes to engagement count..hers in undeniably low. And I am sorry to say that. With that in mind I do hope they show up tomorrow. If not..Queen Letizia will definitely wow us :D
ReplyDeleteAnd that IS a fair critique that can be debated and weighed from both sides (she has a duty, she might not be in charge of scheduling etc. Many arguments on different sides). But starting complaining about something we don't even know will or will not happen is a different thing.
DeleteI don't mind Sarah's speculation as long as it remains respectful. Since, they like living behind palace walls and share things when it is absolutely a must, what else we all have. Speculations.
DeleteYes, Andrew is one of the great royal disappointments to me and the sooner he retires, the better for the royal family.
DeleteI know people in business who admire his work - and he has done some valuable work there particularly for the young - but the scandals, the dodgy connections, the refusal to control his supposedly former wife, his questionable finances and his own ill judgements has made his role in the royal family virtually worthless.
Such a shame he was once so handsome and admired for his flying in the war - but he became arrogant and is an excellent lesson to his nephews in what arrogance can do to a royal who becomes blind to opinion. The queen loves her son - and refuses to see ill in him - and that's admirable in a way but also troublesome.
I'm not a believer in waiting until Charles becomes king - if he does - and then having massive changes with family members ousted. That can only create worse publicity. Far better to start a gradual easing now. I'm not speaking of the elder members like Alexandra and the Gloucesters who remain quietly popular amongst royalists or Anne who is still admired or Edward and Sophie especially who despite a rough start has earned her place - but, well we know what should be done. Andrew's daughters too should back away from royal life - there once might have been a role for them but that hour is long passed and they just add to the already too powerful feeling that the coming generation of royals are spoilt, work-shy do-nothings. They have a place on the balcony and perhaps at Ascot but that should be it.
I completely understand and admire your always positive hand toward Kate..but from what she HAS done thus far this year is definitely disappointing considering what Kate is capable of as well as her potential. So I completely understand why people debate over this because they can see the reluctance. I also feel that the frustration comes through from average citizens making ends meet while the royals they admire come across as work shy. Fact is they don't have the basic struggles average and lower class homes do so the complaints can come through there. After all they do consume some of the taxpayers money (correct me if I'm wrong in that part) therefore it is imperative they show they have good work ethic. I may come across as complaining but I do see high hopes for them IF they step up their game. I sure hope they do I would love to see Kate flourish and really make a mark in her role.
DeleteAs I said, Kerry. I do get all that. There is an argument to be made on the number of engagements that they have done. I just don't think it's productive to throw in stuff that hasn't even happened yet into the conversation.
DeleteI personally see both sides of the coin. They do have an issue with them being viewed as work shy and that is a problem I think they need to tackle. But I also think the monarchy has bigger and more deeply ingrained problems that might have an impact on it all. I might sound overly positive at times, but I'm not blinded by rose coloured glasses. The Cambridges (and the rest of the royals) do and say things I don't agree with and makes decisions I myself would not have made. But I can often see why they are made and try to make an argument for that since the bigger arguments are usually on the more critcal side and I like a more balanced conversation. Yes, I am genuinely a glass half full kind of gal. But that doesn't mean I can't see when a glass is starting to dry out.
And, the glass can always be refreshed. lol
DeleteIt doesn't always have to be a half full/half empty
scenario. Does that make sense? :)
I like your positive attitude, Rebecca. As a follower of Kate and the Royals mainly for fashion and fun, I am not qualified to comment on their duties to their country. I do enjoy reading the difference in opinions and have learned a lot about the British royal family. Of all the sites that report on Kate and her comings and goings, this is the best!
DeleteIs seems to be a given there is debate on the Cambridge’s numbers of engagement on this blog, Kate’s work ethics (work shy William etc.). It is curious to know how many engagements the Queen did while her father was a king, how many Diana did, and others in comparative status as Kate. The Cambridges are third in line to the throne, and in 21st century world. What they organized as a trio and their involvement with Heads Together had its own impact. Is it quantity, or practical life affecting, inspiring kinds of engagements? Are engagements by count only? What if Kate shows up once a week for local engagements for 30 minutes to make appearances and leave? Will that score the numbers? They might also have something in store in observance of Diana’s August anniversary.
DeleteAnon15 you can search for these numbers on google. Diana did an order of magnitude more engagements than Kate at her stage of life. By 35 she was working full time and had already accomplished a great deal and was a household name for her work with HIV and landmines.
DeleteYou can't fake engagement and true passion or caring.
Diana was Diana.
DeleteJust a quick heads up everybody - can you guess what arrived at our office yesterday?
ReplyDeleteAn envelope from the British embassy! My two bosses (the ladies who founded the magazine) are actually invited to the event at Clärchens Ballhaus on Thursday night. I work for an online magazine aimed at empowering young women, which was founded in 2015. And it looks like they have specifically invited (young) people from Berlin's start-up scene. Obviously, the interns (like me) are not invited, but you can bet, I will stand outside and hope to see them arrive!
DeleteThank you for the information Cristin, that is really interesting. It's generally quite difficult to hear a lot of info in advance of tour receptions.
I'm sure there's plenty of excitement in the office :)
Coooool! :D
DeleteWow! That's amazing! :)
DeleteThat is so exciting, Cristin. What an opportunity for your bosses also. I imagine they are beside themselves. Was one of the first comments out of their mouths, "But what are we going to wear???"
DeleteVery interesting, Cristin ! Hope you get a glimpse.
DeleteHow exciting!
DeleteI personally applaud the Cambridges if they intentionally devote time to raising their children instead of doing the 'family business' constantly. And, I would bet if Her Majesty says she would like them to attend a specific function, they adhere to her wishes. With that said, I too am hopeful they attend the State Dinner tomorrow!!
ReplyDeleteOh thank you Charlotte for this post it brought tears to my eyes to see Kate wearing Diana's tiara it suits her so well. I miss Diana so and i look forward to the new documentary where her beloved sons will talk about her.
ReplyDeleteHow I wish Diana was here still to meet her grandchildren and Kate.
I am eagerly awaiting your coverage of the tour and what she will wear.
Thanks
Mellie
I am really looking forward to Wednesday night and the tour. I have a question i hope someone could answer for me. Has kate received the royal family order? I dont believe so. Which makes me ask the question why? The pictures from the last state visit kate was the only one without. I wish she would receive it. Thanks for the amazing posts.
ReplyDeleteHello Patricia,
DeleteWe will find out tonight :)
Will Kate ever wear the Spencer tiara or is that limited to Spencer descendants?
ReplyDeleteKate is not a Spencer so she won't be wearing it. It's limited to the Spencer family from what I understand.
DeleteHas anyone else read the article in the DM about Andrew and Sarah using BP to host a birthday party for Harper Beckham? Yikes. Talk about giving big brother ammunition!!
ReplyDeleteI know right! Not a good look.
DeleteYep. The headlines were not friendly to that at all.
DeleteIt was remarkable that they did this. As if they own the place. Dickie Arbiter called it an amusement park. It's funny that the public who pay for BP's repairs and upkeep get no run of the place while the Yorks are out there renting it out in exchange for god knows what. They love quid pro quo !
DeleteEek!
DeleteThis is just a fun comment/question I would like answered just for fun!
ReplyDeleteDo you all ever wonder what Kate does with her time and with the children? Since we never see them out and about (which we have not with Charlotte, only George), I wonder what they do for fun. Are pap photos simply not allowed? Are they ever even taken? I am just wondering if the same question crosses any of your minds. :)
I just wanted to share a few thoughts – first, as always, Charlotte you are wonderful. Even though I don’t comment much – I check in often to see what’s going on because I do know that you have the best coverage.
ReplyDeleteSecond, I don’t believe the Queen does anything without clear thought. I feel as though she gave William the dukedom of Cambridge with the intention of Kate wearing the Cambridge Lover’s Knot. Hear me out…Diana was loved and respected around the world and the royal family got slammed time after time over their treatment of her. No one knows what the family dynamics were and I do believe that at some point, the Queen had respect for the fact that Diana would become Queen Consort. This obviously changed with the divorce but I would like to believe that the royal family still respected Diana’s time in the family and that she was the mother to the heir of the throne. With the tragic loss of Diana, her memory continued to surround much of their lives, especially in the early days after her death. By Prince William becoming the Duke of Cambridge and Kate, the Duchess of Cambridge, it gave a nice acknowledgement to Diana’s place within the family during her time married to Charles. A lot of people speculated we would never see the Lover’s Knot again because it was closely associated with Diana. It feels very appropriate that the Duchess of Cambridge wears the Cambridge Lover’s Knot, it fits, a Cambridge wearing the Cambridge.
Maybe I’m reading too much into it. That being said, third – I believe we will see the Lover’s Knot for another state dinner, which I am not disappointed in – it has to be my favorite. Though, I do have to say, the hair style that she wore to the first Diplomatic Reception felt much more natural with the tiara. Her hair being completely pulled back at the latest Diplomatic Reception drew attention to her forehead and it just felt more like a headband than a tiara. I would love to see Kate in a new tiara but I think that’s still a few years away. I think we’ll see a new gown from Kate, especially with how stylish and elegant Queen Letizia is, I think a new gown is appropriate. I don’t know to what degree it would be considered within dress code but I would love to see the dress from the BAFTA event during the US tour again.
Lastly, I know quite a few people have mentioned about a tiara for Charlotte’s wedding and personally, I would like to see the Spencer’s lend the Spencer family tiara to her. It would be a beautiful way of acknowledging Diana without taking away from a special day. Only time will tell.
Alaina, You are not reading too much into it. Your thoughts on Diana and the tiara and Kate have all been put forth here before and more than once. :)
DeleteI would love to see Charlotte marry in the Spencer tiara. Since the rededication at Althorp and the Fellowes at Ascot, it seems relations might be conducive to that should they remain the same or even improve over the years.
Umm... yeah Alaina I would say that you are indeed reading a tad too much into it.
DeleteLooking forward. Seeing the duchess In state. Visit ans looking forward too see William and. Harry talk about their lovely mother hmm and we will see. Hoping. We can see them in wimbledon
ReplyDeleteCarole and Michael were at Wimbledon again today.
ReplyDeleteyay. Michael looked very dapper. Loved his outfit. :)
I liked Carole's outfit also, especially her shoes. Her shoes were so pretty. The dress was very nice and perfect for Wimbledon. She and Michael looked like kids at Christmas. You could tell they were so excited for the day of tennis.
Queen Letiza was in all yellow. Shades of Kate's monocratic outfits. She looked very festive though.
The prime minister's hat was very pretty on her, a nice blue.
The gold of the Spanish flag..
DeleteCarole looked fab! I think that's the same dress Autumn Phillips wore to Ascot this year. It's so similar to the red/white McQueen Kate wore in Canada. Loved her clutch/shoes, also. That clutch is the one Kate wore with her blue Amanda Wakeley suit.
DeleteQueen Letizia looked lovely...she holds herself very well.
so sweet that they share their closets. :)
DeleteSaw some photos of King Felipe with Queen Elizabeth. He has impeccable manners, as well as appearing very kind. His bearing is gorgeous.
ReplyDeleteI think so too ali. He's the real deal.
DeleteHe's so handsome! & he does seem very kind...him & Queen Letizia make a gorgeous couple.
DeleteAnon @ 08:39, 7/10/17. Macri and Juliana Awada wed on June 16, 2010. Prior in her history Juliana lived out of wedlock for ten years with Belgium aristocrat, Bruno Laurent Barbier. During that time she and Bruno had a daughter, Valentina.
ReplyDeleteJust in case :)
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."
As a whole, I don't love Kate's dress. I actually like the plunging neckline...works great obviously with the bling! But I don't love the waist. So I like it in the pic of her sitting, but I don't love it when she is standing/walking!
ReplyDeleteI do love Letizia's gown thought! I do think sometimes that Kate should take note of Letizia's style. She tends to be slightly "edgier" than Kate but still "safe."
That red dress is one of my most favorite of Kate's dresses it worked so well for the theater.
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