Royal 'away days' tend to offer an interesting and varied itinerary and today was no exception. It also provides a nice opportunity for royalists in the area to see and meet members of the Royal family. Richard Palmer recently reported we would see the Duchess carrying out more engagements outside of the London area in the coming weeks; today's visit is reportedly the first of several we'll see. William and Kate first visited Birmingham months after the royal wedding in 2011 to visit riot-torn communities.
An arrival video from Victoria Murphy.
Another video of William and Kate at the @LandRover_UK manufacturing plant in Birmingham pic.twitter.com/9yQ18Ubynk— Victoria Murphy (@QueenVicMirror) November 22, 2017
William and Kate viewed footage from The Patron's Lunch where the royals travelled in open-topped Land Rover's.
The Duke and Duchess were given an overview of JLR and the Solihull site before heading to the Vehicle Assembly area, to view the assembly line and hear about the manufacturing process, meeting staff and apprentices along the way.
William and Kate check out vehicles on the assembly line pic.twitter.com/kRm7yPlOjj— Victoria Murphy (@QueenVicMirror) November 22, 2017
Kate was eager to get behind the wheel for a demonstration.
Kate behind the wheel of @LandRover_UK as she prepares to take on the off-road challenge! pic.twitter.com/R3KbY2WSHT— Victoria Murphy (@QueenVicMirror) November 22, 2017
And they're off.
William took a spin.
The Experience Centre offers a behind-the-scenes look at Solihull’s new state-of-the-art production facility demonstrating what it takes to bring to life some of the most technologically advanced cars in the world. A £1.5 billion investment has transformed the location into one of the most advanced car manufacturing facilities in the world. The all-new Aluminium-intensive architecture body shop and final assembly cover an area equivalent to twenty-two football pitches. It's interesting to see the design and development process from this...William took a spin.
....to a motor fit for James Bond. Fans of the franchise will recognise this beauty from Spectre.
Afterwards, the royals met some of JLR's volunteers, who support projects focusing on regeneration, education, young people, charity work and the environment, and they will meet schoolchildren from Topcliffe Primary School, Castle Vale – winners of the Jaguar Primary School Challenge which saw their wining model car race on a track.
Something tells me the itinerary for today was a dream come true for William. First, fast cars at Jaguar, then a visit to the Aston Villa Football Club. An avid fan since his teens, the Prince is a huge supporter of the club and has previously discussed taking George to a match in the future.
In 2015, William chatted to Gary Lineker recalling his memories of choosing which club to support:
"I got into football big time, and was looking around for clubs," he said. "All my school friends were either Manchester United or Chelsea fans, and I didn't want to follow the run-of-the-mill teams. I wanted to have a team that would give me more of an emotional rollercoaster, which looking back, was a bad idea! Aston Villa have always had a great history.
I’ve got friends of mine who support Aston Villa, and one of the first FA Cup games I went to was Bolton v Aston Villa, back in 2000. It was a semi-final, after which, sadly, Villa then went on to lose against Chelsea. But it was fantastic; I sat with all the fans, I had my red beanie on, and I was sat with all the Brummie fans and had a great time. It was just the atmosphere, the camaraderie, and I really felt that there was something I could connect with."
The royals have been heavily involved in supporting and seeing the progress of the Coach Core programme this year. It was designed by the Royal Foundation of the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge and Prince Harry to take young people aged 16 – 24 with limited opportunities, and train them to be sports coaches and positive role models and mentors in their communities.
The visit was planned around learning more about the progress of the programme in Birmingham.
William and Kate met with a group of employers to discuss the positive impact of Coach Core and hear about the progression of the apprentices. .
The Duke and Duchess then joined a training session underway on the pitch, with Coach Core apprentices and tutors working with local schoolchildren.
Kate was in her element chatting with a young tennis player.
Quotes from the Mail Online:
'As William chatted to the coaches, Kate, who is expecting her third child in April, spoke to youngsters including 10-year-old pupil Sidrah Batul.The schoolgirl said: 'She was asking me if I enjoyed it and I said I was having a lot of fun. She's so kind and pretty. The Duchess also spoke to coach Jevaughni Robinson, 20, who described her as a 'pleasure to meet'. He added: 'She called me a 'harsh coach' because I was blind-folding the kids, and then getting them to throw the beanbags at the targets.' Afterwards, 10-year-old Iman Shazad presented flowers to the Duchess. The youngster told Kate she had made her and daughter Charlotte, Princess of Cambridge, a card to take away. Iman said: 'It's amazing to meet her, I feel like she's special to me. Meeting her in real life - it's like my dream has come true.'
A brief video from Kensington Palace.
The Duke chats to children from Prince Albert school taking part in training sessions from @wearecoachcore apprentices. pic.twitter.com/ygH4dDGtL5— Kensington Palace (@KensingtonRoyal) November 22, 2017
Back to the Mail Online:
Keith Wyness, club chief executive, also spoke with the Duke and then turned to Kate to quip: 'Welcome back to the home of one of your husband's other passions. The Duchess, smiling, replied: 'Yes, he's been very excited by it. William, who is President of the Football Association, laughed and said: 'It'll be interesting to see if she's been listening to any of my conversations about football', causing Kate to joke 'I knew I should have.'
As yours truly knows nothing about football, I'm reliably informed by my other half the man in the photo with William is Aston Villa manager Steve Bruce.
William and Kate received a commemorative framed picture collage showing all royal visits to Villa Park down the years. We can safely assume William was delighted, take a look at his expression :)
"Brace yourselves please"
The Duke and Duchess hear about the 147 year history of Acme Whistles before touring the family-run business. pic.twitter.com/sFlM87Ur66— Kensington Palace (@KensingtonRoyal) November 22, 2017
Established in 1870, this family-owned business has developed and patented over forty whistle designs during its 147-year history and currently exports to 119 countries worldwide. Today, their modern whistles are used in major sporting events globally and by police forces, including the Metropolitan Police.
They toured the workshop seeing the production process, including the presswork, plating, moulding, welding and polishing of the 115,000 whistles that are made and tested every week.
The Express reports talk quickly turned to Lupo:
'During the tour the Duke and Duchess, who have a cocker spaniel called Lupo, were shown dog whistles, which cannot be heard by humans. Clearly knowledgable on the subject, Kate said: “There are different pitches for different dogs, aren’t there?” Chief executive Simon Topman, who runs the business with his wife Debbie, told William: “Yes, your grandmother would use something that is great for her labradors and retrievers but wouldn’t be for your spaniel. William, 35, who knows his whistles or had been checked before the visit, told him: "No, we use a 212."
William and Kate signed the visitors book.
Afterwards, the Duke and Duchess joined members of staff and apprentices at a short reception before unveiling a plaque to mark their visit.
The Duchess has been very much relying on GOAT as a go-to label for stylish and comfortable pieces for official duties during her third pregnancy. Today, we saw the return of the brand's Washington Coat, first worn in New York in 2014 when Kate was expecting Princess Charlotte. Today, Kate teamed the piece with a black turtleneck and jeans.
The heavy-weight, black crepe coat features a classic swing coat shape and contrast nude tabs on the cuff and back and decorative contrast enamel buttons.
 |
| GOAT |
Last week, we saw the return of Kate's GOAT Redgrave coat for a visit to Hornsey Road Children's Centre and earlier this month she debuted the brands plum Eloise Tunic Dress for Place2Be's School Leaders Forum.
A reader from Kate Middleton Style identified Kate's new boots as the Russell & Bromley Hi Ride Mid Heel Riding Boots. The £325 pair are described as "Having drawn inspiration from equestrian heritage and contemporary design, Hi Ride is a must-have. The supple black suede has been designed on a figure-hugging riding boot last and lifted with a mid block heel."
Kate accessorised with her Kiki McDonough Lauren Leaf earrings.
 |
| Kiki McDonough |
Kate accessorised with her black suede Mulberry clutch.
The second stop of the day required a change of clothes.
Kate changed into her Mini Duvet Quilted Down Ski Jacket by Perfect Moment. The $450 jacket is cut from mid-weight durable Airtastic EX shell, it's padded with insulating down, has a protective high neck and is finished with soft ribbed cuffs to lock in warmth. It features distinctive navy elbow patches. It's described as "Perfect Moment's vivid red quilted ski jacket is inspired by the energy of Greenland's Northern Lights - it will also make you easy to spot in whiteout conditions."
 |
| Perfect Moment |
And her £90 New Balance x SB Sneakers.
************
We also have news of an unannounced duty for Kate yesterday.
 |
| Gert's Royal Twitter Feed |
Yay! The return of one of my favourite coats of Kate's! I'm so happy to see it back :)
ReplyDeleteLove Avee in SA
Happy to see this coat too! I loved it in NYC.
DeleteI really like the fact that Kate seem to dress more for comfort during this pregnancy. Sky-high heels on a woman whose centre of gravity is changing, always makes me nervous. I think these boots are much saver and more comfortable.
ReplyDeleteI wonder if it is a case of Kate finding this pregnancy harder than the previous ones or if she is just more comfortable with her role, position and look, that she can give comfort precedence?
I hope she is dressing more for comfort because she is feeling more comfortable in her role and not that she is finding this pregnancy harder. Based on her schedule and the way she looks she seems to be feeling pretty good. During the second trimester of one of my pregnancies I mentioned that I didn't mind being pregnant. Then I thought about the first 12 weeks and the last 4 weeks of pregnancy and laughed at myself! I am glad Kate brought this coat back even though black is not my favorite color on her. It is a stylish coat on her and reminded me of gif when she rolled her eyes while she was wearing it last in NYC. I also thought it was genius to wear pants and a turtleneck and just change out the coat to her red jacket for the football engagement! Very well played, Kate and William!!
DeleteI don’t like when she wears all black. She should wear bright or solid colors so she stands out more to the people who want to see her! Plus her hair here really needs to be worn up or actually blown out properly because it just looks sloppy
ReplyDeleteI think this is a great outfit. I know several readers have an aversion to turtlenecks but I live them. I think this coat looks perfect with the black turtleneck underneath. It looks like Kate is all about keeping warm and cozy this pregnancy.
ReplyDeleteI like turtlenecks. Maybe because I can't pull them of myself (not literally! Although, that can be tough as well!). But it always look so warm and cozy while this thin black kind still looks sleek! I think it's a great go to for her when she has to be outside.
DeleteYAY. It is so encouraging that we are hearing more and more about things William, Kate and Harry are doing behind the scenes, lots of things, including significant event appearances. Us hearing about them? think this might be down to CQ. And it confirms for me that they have been doing these type of things all along. We just hadn't been privy to it until now. So the workshy duke and duchess titles do not apply to them after all. :)
ReplyDeleteI really doubt it's because of her new assistant. Also, these kind of meetings has been in the CC the whole time, just that they've been doing more of them recently.
Delete:), yes, and now they are getting more media coverage for those things. And that is helpful, in my opinion, as I don't know how many people actually read the CC.
DeleteMy first thought... Don't like the black skinny jeans with the boots and the coat:-/ she would have looked better with a skirt/dress under the coat. However, she looks very fine and seems to be doing well at that stage of pregnancy.
ReplyDeleteThe advantage of not wearing a dress was she could just swop the boots for trainers and the coat for a windbreaker before the more informal event. Away days are difficult to dress for because it is such a variety of events.
DeleteHaving said that For me the coat worked better with the jeans than with the dress she combined it with last time.
Exactly Queen of the South! And I think it worked well as well!
DeleteLydia, 💐. How are you doing?X
ReplyDeleteUgh. Really really dislike this with the turtleneck under it contrasting with the collar. It looks dowdy instead of young and fresh. But glad to see HRH looks healthy and happy.
ReplyDeleteI love a good turtleneck sweater, but I agree, not with this coat.
DeleteI really liked it. And the boots too. Not the jeans though.
DeleteI love Kate. She is amazing. But the coat is too dressy for jeans. The boots, the jeans, the coat. None of them go together. She looks like a busy, pregnant mom who perhaps just threw together quickly whatever was at hand. She still looks like Kate, beautiful as always, but the sweet lady needs help - a stylist. She certainly very much deserves one. 👒
ReplyDeleteAmazing how much a turtleneck and different shoes change up a coat! I really like this one on her, and it's nice to see her recycling classic pieces.
ReplyDeleteP.S. I say this as a woman who has worn more than my fair share of quickly thrown together outfits, lol.
ReplyDeleteEspecially when I was pregnant. :)
P.S.S. but then again, I am not the Duchess of Cambridge or the future Queen of England.
DeleteShe looks great! She looks healthy and happy! The coat looks much better with a pair of pants
ReplyDeleteSuch a pity that Land Rover no longer make real Land Rovers. I suppose the new generation of the royal family won't ever really know what the fuss was about.
ReplyDeleteBeing from the USA I don't know what you mean. Please explain.
DeleteVisualise the classic Land Rover (fairly recently renamed the Defender). It is no longer made. Nor is our nice little Freelender. They are concentrating on vulgar, showy Range Rovers, which have no room for a sheep, or an outboard motor, or a pair of oars. The classic British Rover marque has been degraded and diluted. It is no longer somethng to be proud of. Well, not in the way we used to be proud of it. I could go on about it; but that might not be appropriate here. I just wonder why the Cambridges are being trotted out to give their blessing.
DeleteCecilia, I cannot comment on the vehicles, but I see it as flying the flag.
DeleteIt is really hardly a British marque any more. Google Rover's history. I am an internationalist, I may say.
DeleteThey manufacture in UK right ? What makes a corporation British? Just because it's owned by an Indian group? Or where they incorporate and manufacture? I think JLR is as British as it gets.
Deletehmm i love the duchess its looks like she now the she recycle her clothes looking forward too hd pics
ReplyDeleteCharlotte I was on pinterest the other day and some candid pictures of Kate with George and Charlotte popped up. I have never seen them before..it comes up as a Danish blogger..it looks like the photos were taken in the summer maybe in the gardens of Kensington Palace..but I could be mistaken..I'm not sure if you or the readers are interested in seeing them. But if so, let me know and I'll try and get the link:)
ReplyDeleteI saw those this week too! I wondered if they were new or really, just recently published since it's clearly warm out.
DeleteI was also trying to figure it out but I couldn't spot a baby bump lol but she did look lovely..was great to see her style at home with the kids..and of course that fab blow out!
DeleteI just saw the pics. Aww so cute. It’s very rare to see candids like that and I really like how hands on and close she is with the kids .
DeletePlease post the link!!!
DeleteI couldn't copy the link from pinterest but if you type in Google "kate middleton danish blog" the pictures seem to come up
DeleteThose are fake I think.
DeleteI saw those too! There was one that looked photoshopped.
Deletehttps://www.pinterest.com/pin/238972323961573620/
https://www.pinterest.com/pin/AXPci3Z3Vc2Z-xa119Bu-nOqJId7tU6suWycRVSp27T2F21iQCZNlZ0/
Those photos look off to me
DeleteI feel disappointed to see Kate in black...again.
ReplyDeleteBeth in SF
Love this coat and love the boots but not loving the jeans with it wrinkling at the knees. That spoils the otherwise beautiful outfit for me.
ReplyDeleteI think that this ensemble is too heavy for a brown-headed with long wavy hair like Catherine.
ReplyDeleteIt would be a stellar choice on Princess Charlene, for instance, but not on Kate, despite the coat being great and her being beautiful.
Not flattering at all.
It is not the first time that I think that a stylist would be of real help.
yes. to the stylist. yes. yes. yes. :)
DeleteAdd HAIR STYLIST in there.
DeleteYes. Richard Ward, specifically. (And hopefully to lees severe, tight and matronly updos.)
DeleteWarning everyone - Julia is getting stroppy. On the positive side, William and Kate so rarely leave London for engagements, that I have to praise that - although it should be so routine as to not be worthy of mention for a royal
ReplyDelete- but first, I don't like Kate's outfit at all -it's not that I don't like the coat per se and I've made my peace with the saggy knees but it's girlish it's a - 'I'm here to have fun, fun, fun, outfit - nothing royal or professional about it.
But that does seem to be what this engagement is about - fun - playing with cars, football - William's favourite club of course - and just having a great time. Surely, they could schedule a care home, a hospice, a hospital, , but like that fashion model - I think Linda Evangelista but I could be wrong, who wouldn't get out of bed for less than some ridiculous sum, William and Kate don't seem willing to do many away engagements that don't have something fun included for them. At least the whistle factory is in there and Coach Core but there was just another engagement about Coach Core and there are so many other charities, so many other areas of need...
If they did hundreds of engagements, this wouldn't be an issue but outside of the mental health scheme, there are very few such engagements. William's recent visit in Merseyside shows how much cheer royals can bring to those suffering but it's notable for its rareness.
Even worse, I've heard hints Peter Phillips that gentleman at the bottom of a popularity poll for very good reason, has a link with Land Rover - who has sponsored the trials at Gatcombe. William and Peter are known to be friendly - I just hope there isn't a connection - and the Middleton connection and hint of discounts worries me too.
I hope this new secretary of Kate's starts to realise that urgent change is needed.
My apologies for this rant - I'm sure it will be well-balanced by praise from others but this is how I feel at this moment. Charlotte has done a lovely job as always but I just can't get in the spirit of this.
I do think their relationship (probably too strong a word right now) with Land Rover is getting close to a line....
DeleteI took pause at the donated land rovers for Pippa's wedding and now with the connection to Peter Phillips and Land Rover, hmmmmm. They might want to make today the last support they show to Land Rover for a long while. And I hope there is nothing more to the stories but the optics are becoming bad in my opinion.
Queen Elizabeth the Duke of Edinburgh and the Prince of Wales have given Royal Warrants to both Jaguar and Land Rover. See this link to The Royal Warrant Holders Association-https://www.royalwarrant.org/company/jaguar-land-rover-limited
DeleteJaguar and Land Rover have held Royal Warrants to the Royals since 1951. See this link at Jaguar News with a great photo of a young Queen Elizabeth and the Duke of Edinburgh in a Land Rover in the early 1950s https://www.jaguarusa.com/about-jaguar/news/anniversary.html
So, the person you want to chat with is Her Majesty, who currently owns and/or leases 30 +/- vehicles from these companies.
All sorts of firms have royal warrants down to Procter and Gamble who probably supply the royal loo paper and we don't see them getting a visit. It's all very well and fine to drive British cars but that doesn't mean that much of an away visit should be spent on what's mostly fun.
DeleteAs I said, if William and Kate were royals who did masses of hospital and factory visits like some of their older relatives, an occasional visit like this would be fine. But at this point, it's not. They need to be seen hands on involvement with far more boring and serious work - not just the mostly invisible royal foundation. They now have - I'm no longer saying 'getting' - a reputation for having little tolerance for boring engagements that mean so much to people involved and they need to fix that and soon.
So now that we have stepped in in engagements. We have to complain about them being too fun. No matter what you can’t please everyone .
DeleteTheir friendship with RR has raised several eyebrows in the past. I think it is valid to question. I am interested to hear what others think about this.
DeleteI have made a comment above about Land Rovers. I think the Cambridges are being used by Tata; and that is sad.
DeleteCecilia, it is debatable who is using whom. Apparently the Queen has use of 30+ RRs, probably provided for free or at huge discount.
DeleteYou didn't need the warning Julia, all your comments are the same anymore.
DeleteI think the Land Rover visit is quite simply part of the groundwork for post-Brexit export markets. Land Rover is seen as a very traditional British brand (regardless of who actually owns it) by overseas markets and the Royal connection helps sell that. If it secures UK jobs they are doing their job.
DeleteAs long as the factories are in the UK and employ British citizens I have no issue with royals visiting them.
DeleteJulia, if you consider their diary for the past week or so, I think it's a pretty good example of what royals do, no? If they had a bit of fun today, it does not take away from Remembrance Sunday, Festival of Remembrance, visits to charities, a 70th anniversary celebration at BP, etc.
DeleteJulia, I was thinking the very same things as I was reading as you wrote in your comment. This was essentially a fun tour of the company who makes their vehicles and, really, how much unearned media does JLR really need? Not much. I enjoyed the whistle tour, as I had little idea about British whistles, but the rest of the away day itinerary is another typical day for the Cambridges: fun stops and little that actually matters. Just look at the sharply reduced number of comments on Charlotte's blog posts; people have tired of digesting the same types of events in the same clothes time and time again. The Cambridges could have been one of the world's great power couples but, instead, they contribute almost nothing to anyone but themselves.
Delete@Anonymous 23:53 Indeed.
DeleteToday was visits to 2 factories though. First the Land Rover one (they went to the factory and met people and then they did the drive), and the whistle factory. This seems like a very standard away day for royals. Visiting british brands. I can absolutely see that the line is a bit blurry with Land Rover and how close they seem to be with the royals, and that is definatley something worth discussing and to have in mind when talking about how royals conduct buissness with companies. But I see no difference with todays factory visits (a bigger one and a more local-ish one) than all the other factory visits royals do.
DeleteOkay, warning, I am feeling grumpy on two fronts: one, I have a massive headache from taste testing the butter tarts. As it stands now, if I never see another butter tart in my life it will be too soon. And I was awoken at 5:00 a.m. by the dog wanting breakfast and a text from my former mechanic in Ireland who said that the car he had promised to sell for E8,000 went at auction for E4,200. (No it wasn't a Land Rover.) He says that Ireland is now in a recession because of new gov't and Brexit fears. Sigh, sigh, sigh. I am thankful I will see SOMEthing out of the car though. It's been two months since we left Ireland and I was beginning to think we would see nothing. Mind, the money transfer still hasn't gone through....
DeleteAnyway, since I am awake, I have looked at the comments and mulled them over. My take: I kind of agree with Rebecca and royal fan (yes, yes, I usually do) that they were pretty well doing what Royals do. And at home in England as compared to Sophie who is off on the other side of the world at what cost and why? Aren't there eye hospitals at home? I mean, yes, once upon a time England was an empire and it made sense that foundations and patronages were worldwide and the Royal stamp of approval was front and center even in Doha. And btw, I would think that the Qatari royals are quite capable of funding their own eye hospitals. But, seriously, Sophie, a minor royal, visiting hospitals in Bangladesh and Qatar? Is it really necessary? Does it mean anything at the end of the day in England? The sun has long set on the British Empire and I think it is quite sufficient to have Charles, his sons, and Princess Anne doing the worldwide work. Maybe that is what Charles has planned although if (when?) Edward gets the Duke of Edinburgh title he and Sophie may become (remain?) a force within the Firm. Who knows? Anyway, I confess that I only know about Sophie's visits because I was curious as to why she wasn't at the Anniversary dinner. I still wouldn't say about her that she contributes nothing to anyone but herself though. That's a kind of cruel comment IMO.
And I personally haven't commented as much on Charlotte's blog lately--though some may disagree but at one time I was commenting 4-5 times and now it is usually 2-3 times--because I got tired of responding to the negativity. I felt that I was becoming like my Auntie Nellie who always seemed to focus on the negative. I am actually still digesting the whole subject of cyber bullying that William's speech brought before me. I discussed it with my "real time" book club this week. They are all Americans who only peripherally follow the Royals but they were 100% behind the cyber bullying campaign and wished that America would have a visible champion like William. His speech was reported by most of the U.S. online news agencies. In that effort alone William has our vote for having contributed a great deal to a very important issue in modern day America, in modern day UK and anywhere really where cyberspace has become a "real" land for folks.
Seriously, if this blog was the only interaction I had with people today, I would be a happier person if there are as many positive comments as there are negative ones. Which in the main there usually are but only if us Pollyannas keep upbeat and posting ;) So, Sophie, if you are reading this, please know that I am not attacking YOU personally--I think you are lovely. Just musing on the sunset of the British royals in terms of Empire which has nothing to do with William and Kate but everything to do with the reality of the modern world....
Amen, rf. :)
DeleteI honestly think a few things here...
Delete1) I think in the future, not near future, far future, we will see this. I think Kate is finding her way and starting to get comfortable in it. I think there is such a heaviness about what happened to Diana, that there is more leniency now, because of that. Finding roles (which Kate is clearly finding her's in mental health and I would argue that's probably one of the most important issues on the planet.) that suit each person is a good thing because there is longevity and heart there. I think there are still royals above who take on many roles and have to, so that the public is accepting of change (meaning Charles and Camilla) when it has to come. This seems to be a new area for the royals because no one, two generations younger than a queen, has ever been so well liked in the RF. So I think they are probably trying to find their way and it takes time.
2) And this is a big one: One of the U.K.'s MOST popular exports right now, is the Landrover car. I can tell you in my tiny city how many new ones I see rolling in every month-and I mean TINY city- 9.4 square miles. This is a big deal for the U.K.: it adds to economic stability for the country as a whole. Don't believe in the power of exporting? Check out China. Landrover AND the RF are going to link the most well-liked people that helps sell as much of that export as possible. They are going to try to make it as popular as possible- and Kate/William are those people. For us in the U.S. we saw what almost happened to the brand Chevy, when they were in terrible trouble filing for bankruptcy. That would have left our country with one popular car export- Ford. It was a REAL problem for us-enough that the government stepped in. When it comes to the Landrover thing, I think it's actually good because the citizen in the middle benefits. A lot of attention is given to the high- because there is money to be given, and the low-people in need of things/money/medical, etc. But RARELY does anything benefit the middle, and this does in a trickle down effect. That product, brings in money for the whole country, which trickles down to EVERYONE. I give them a pass on this one.
Julia: Linda Evengelista "I don't get out of bed for less than $10,000 a day". Ha ha that you remember that!!
DeleteAmerica does have a visible champion working on cyberbullying: Melania Trump. Unfortunately, people prefer to cyberbully her than to support her work. (Yes, yes, she's married to a person who doesn't have much sense when he posts various stuff on the internet, but still--it's her platform.)
DeleteI agree with your thoughts, Jo.
DeleteJust a thought-you might have more positive comments to read if all the Kate-supportive comments were published. As it is, several often wordy commenters are free to spread their negative attitudes with remarks that sometimes don't even fit the current situation. I feel like I am hearing echoes of past experiences and at other times echoes of click-hungry tabloids and Kate-critical blogs. It becomes tiresome.
A slightly slanted or opinionated tone to a post is one thing; editorializing through selection and deletion of comments another.
One needs to maintain a certain credibility and a sense of fairness.
This comment just may get published. It isn't Kate supportive and is sure to cue up the sycophants, one after another. This blog has made me immune to shaming, however. I know there are a number of others who would agree with me if they could be sure of getting published and not getting a share of the shaming.
Really, the pretty pictures don't compensate for the ugly attitude allowed in the comment section. It amazes me that readers can praise the posts, dislike the tone of the comment section and not realize they are published by the same person.
Good night and good luck.
:-) SG
DeleteJo, I hope your headache is gone by now and that you were able to enjoy the holiday.
Tammy, I too am seeing more and more Land Rovers on the road these days.
@hrhdhd: Yes, I agree wholeheartedly. Melania Trump is taking on the role as cyber bully champion. I think because Trump's presidency is so upsetting to the people that don't like him, she will never get any credit. The media certainly will never give either of them any credit on anything. Only the negative. Sad to be an American right now, no matter what side of the coin you fall on. Our country is coming to civil war because it is so divided and there is nothing either side can do to change the mind of the other. Very sad state of affairs here.
DeleteThanks as always for your blog Charlotte! I like the collar detail on the coat--looks like a necklace and glams the coat up a bit. And I see why she wore black jeans with it as I look at their engagement at Aston Villa. Today is cooking day at the Jo household in prep for tomorrow's Thanksgiving potluck. I have been charged with making the all-important desserts. Apple crisp (not crumble--there's a difference as my Canadian mother taught me) and walnut brownies. Of course half of us are diabetic so the crisp will be low sugar....
ReplyDeleteHope you have a happy Thanksgiving and enjoy your desserts, Jo in Arizona.
DeleteJo, as a dedicated crisp maker, I have wondered about crumble. What is the difference?
DeleteLove the coat, not sure about the jeans. I wonder if the bumpy ride means Kate is completely done with HG now. Also, William's remarks on Aston Villa are hilarious with hindsight. There has not been much of a roller coaster given that Villa has been consistently mediocre the last seasons :)
ReplyDeleteFun day of engagements. Some variety, all fun. I think I prefer the coat with a lower neckline tip underneath but overall a good look and appropriate to the various engagements.
ReplyDeleteKate looks wonderful today. Love the whole outfit, young and refreshing. They both appeared to be enjoying the day of events immensely.
ReplyDeleteThank you Charotte for another comprehensive post! I learn so much with you at the helm of this blog.
ReplyDeleteI must, however comment on the black jeans, leggings, jeggings or whatever the term is used to describe what the Duchess wore at these events. They appear worn out and faded especially at the knee area. I know some commentators criticize the Duchess for purchasing wardrobe items in multiples of the same but in different colors. I am perplexed as to why she does not have an ample collection of these (J,L,J) on hand? I believe these are essential foundation pieces and relatively inexpensive items- compared to other wardrobe purchases. It boggles my mind! Surely I cannot be alone in these thoughts?
I would have had wide legged or straight legged trousers with this coat and pumps. The leggings tucked in boots look is so juvenile. She really does need a stylist to give her ideas.
DeleteNo this is mentioned every single time she wears them. We get it y'all don't like the jeans.
DeleteI don't mind the jeans, I think Kate looks well in them. I also don't mind her wearing black, black is elegant and it worked well with the red jacket.
DeleteI agree with you English Rose!
DeleteHas any other royal ever worn skinny jeans for an official engagement?
I don't always mind the jeans. They are too casual for this coat.
DeleteIn one photo here, the jeans appear to be faded in the knee area; in the one directly above it, they do not. I have looked at different photos and I honestly don't see how the jeans could be any more black than they are.
DeleteAllegraflora
DeleteI don’t think your argument holds water. Kate is the only female royal of her generation in the BRF at the moment, at least that is doing these kind of engagements. The peripheral royals of her generation are only seen on high days and holidays where nobody wears skinny jeans.
I don't think I would say that. Kate is the only relatively young royal woman at the minute but there are certainly others doing all kinds of engagements - the press just doesn't cover them and you have to look a bit - but they aren't just seen on holidays.
DeleteOver on the royal hat blog, were photos of Alexandra, aged 81, visiting a hospital. The queen was recently in Hull also opening a medical facility. As for 'action' engagements, they aren't a centre part of Anne or Sophie's engagements but both had done ones. Sophie drove a tank not long ago on one of her engagements and Anne has had similar ones. To my knowledge both wore trousers - and Sophie possibly a uniform. Neither have ever been seen in skinny jeans or jeans in their public life although both have been seen in classic jeans privately.
Anne rides a horse in the Trooping, in uniform of course. We won't see Kate doing that.
I think I did find a picture of Sophie at a private engagement at Burghley in skinny jeans - not her best look either but not so saggy.
DeleteJulia - I didn’t mean to imply that other royals don’t do engagements. Just that of all the active royal ladies, HM, D’ss of Cornwall, Cambridge, Gloucester and Kent, Princess Anne, Sophie Wessex and Princess Alexandra (I hope I dis not miss anybody) Sophie is closest to Kate in age and she is already in her fifties. Just as Sophie and Anne is of a different generation than HM, Kate is of a different generation to Sophie and Anne. So I don’t think that because none of the mentioned royal ladies choose to wear skinny jeans with boots and a coat, that it necessarily make it inappropriate on Kate.
DeleteI love this coat! In fact with the turtleneck, I didn't even recognize it from NYC!! The jeans do not bother me, as with the coat and boots not much of them shows. I also loved the video of her driving!! So fun!!
ReplyDeleteHope USA
I hate being all negative in a comment. I can usually find something nice to say...so I'll try.
ReplyDeleteOutfit? A no go for me. Jacket is too dressy for the jeans. Combined with the turtleneck it just looks very aging. Those jeans! I couldn't agree with English Rose's comment more, buy multiples! They look so worn. It's not so bad a look with the trainers and the puffer coat, but with the Goat jacket they just look out of place.
I'm happy to see her smiling so much and looking healthy and well.
I think this outfit would have looked better with pants that were styled as pants, not jeggings styled as tights, the baggy knees looked horrible and those boots just called attention to that. A pair of slim fitting, cigarette style pants would have looked great (perhaps paired with her JCrew heels for a spot of color) and would have been fine for the more active portion of the day.
ReplyDeleteI do have to ask, are we going to see her in nothing but black until she gives birth?
I'd really like to see someone take Kate under their fashion wing and help her find a style that she feels comfortable in and makes her look her best. This outfit certainly looks comfortable but doesn't make her look her best.
I'm sorry to sound so negative but after 6+ years in the Firm and access to the world's best designers and stylists, I'm disappointed that we're still having these conversations.
Happy Thanksgiving to all who will be celebrating it and Happy Thursday to those who don't!!
I thought some of their itinerary looked very fun! I think it would be very interesting to see how cars and whistles are made. As the mom of 2 young kids myself, i had to laugh at Williams comment about not giving George a whistle! They always do well with sports activities and kids, and that engagement seemed right in their wheelhouse.
ReplyDeleteI didn’t really understand her first look today, but it made more sense when she changed. I think her GOAT coat was a little too dressy for the pants and boots and the pieces look weird together. But perhaps she is focusing less on her attire and more on other important things. It must be hard to plan outfits too far in advance.
Happy Thanksgiving, US readers! May you have much to be thankful for this year.
ReplyDeleteHappy Thanksgiving to all our USA friends on this blog.
DeleteThank you, Patricia. A safe and happy Thanksgiving to all.
DeleteAw Tedi! Thank you! Happy Thanksgiving to you! Just finished watching "A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving" with my little guy and a pilgrim one that explained Thanksgiving the best I have ever seen! Happy Thanksgiving to USA friends too!
DeleteAmen, Patricia I. :)
ReplyDeleteBoots again, oh no, I don't think they befit a royal engagement.
ReplyDeleteOhhhhh, I really liked them!
DeleteShe has the general physique of most 'normal-sized' women in Britain now, probably wearing the average clothes size of most British women.
ReplyDeleteWell, it’s not the magenta coat I was hoping for, but it is a repeat from New York, so I’m still happy. I also love that she’s wearing lower heels lately.
ReplyDeleteAnd for all those thinking Kate’s hemlines are too short a photo from today:
https://pbs.twimg.com/media/DPQ5ptxXUAEYety?format=jpg
Thank you:-)
DeleteThat's a picture from a party - an award ceremony, no ?
DeleteOkay Gemma, that photo made me laugh out loud! Yes, that is definitely short!
DeleteI love the whole outfit. Hmm seems the duchess bringing back her recycle outfits really nice
ReplyDeleteI loved her wardrobe for the day. She looked wonderful and she wore smart outfits to easily change in and out of. I thought that she and William both looked wonderful. My only negative is her earrings...Ughhh have never liked those:) But who knows maybe a gift from William or another loved family member:).
ReplyDeleteGreat post as usual Charlotte thanks.
ReplyDeleteI'm on Kate's side usually and I don't want to be a "negative nelly" here, but I'm a little disappointed with this "away day" - on two counts.
One, while I appreciate we all need fun and some mixes of days - I will agree with others and say there was always going to be more focus on Land Rover and Aston Villa rather than Coach Core reported in the Press - maybe because they lended themselves more to some dynamic photos - and so in turn the feeling I get of the day was that it was a bit of a jolly for William - rightly or wrongly. The "Optics" (as to coin that American phrase) to me seems to pitch this at level rather than see a well rounded programme of youth incentives and business visits which was maybe the original plan. For their first away day outside of the capital for a while it was a little disappointing for that reason and left me with 'a funny taste in my mouth'.
Secondly - style. OK I get the skinny jeans argument now. I think this was a day where it was hard to plan for without 2 changes of clothes - BUT sorry Catherine, like it or not you're on front pages of Newspapers now. You're not a clothes' horse and I appreciate that - you're a woman with her own spirit and sense of understatement - but the media is popping you on it's front pages, not anyone else, and you need to at least acknowledge that and look appropriate for events. It was obvious that being on a football pitch at some point would require hair tied back and trainers and you achieved this eventually. I'm not sure a black coat over it all worked as well - and so my point is - a stylist would know what look would work best for you on these "varied away days". And sadly sometimes, and still after all this time, things just don't look right. Even I know that {Can I say that as a man? (lol)}
I know I shouldn't judge her by her clothes, but by her actions. And her activity with her patronages was starting to develop momentum again and she is making a real difference in the mental health arena. I don't want to make a sexist comment either - she shouldn't be seen as being just a clothes horse - But alas she's also (a reluctant) Cover Girl for the British RF like it or not, who will get the headlines for her patronages and work. A little help along the way - like a good stylist - would help her on theses difficult to dress for days at least.
So on a positive note then - good to see them out and about at least and getting around the country - I think they need to do more outside of London as much as they can.
I agree she can be judged by both her clothes and her actions. But I disagree she is a reluctant Cover Girl and not a clothes' horse - she has a huge wardrobe and she is always wearing new clothes. The problem, I think, is that she still is unable to combine her personal sense of style with a sense of occasion, so there is often something a bit 'off'.
DeleteJust in the past couple of days look how many people have said that they think Kate needs a stylist.
ReplyDeleteI hope someone on her team reads this and that Kate gets a real stylist.
Approximately the same number of people that really loved her looks/outfits.
DeleteIs she a royal or a Star?? Royals have never had a stylist, only a seamstress...
Delete".....only a seamstress" :-)
DeleteI think she looks great & thought the black outfit underneath worked beautifully with the 2 venues & jacket/ shoe changes & comfort while traveling. I think people are way too picky about pushing their fashion preferences on her. Everyone needs to take a step back & focus on the big picture. The goal is to make a difference in charities. She always dresses respectfully & appropriately. There's so much more to life than material things. If she's not offensive in her dress why do people think it's their business to criticize her. I'm really dumbfounded by all this criticism. This poor woman just got over being extremely I'll- vomiting round the clock. How wonderful it is that she is getting out so much now! If anyone has ever had a vomiting illness or been pregnant, you know how exhausted you are for a long time during & afterward. Thanks, Charlotte, for your great coverage!
DeleteWhy should she? She has a consistent, recognisable personal style : classical, tasteful, elegant yet youthful and femenine.She always is appropriately dressed, wears colours and shapes that suit her, she is always pretty and many times incredibly beautiful. As for this last outfit, I liked it a lot, particularly the boots.
DeleteNot in the past maybe (although they have had dressers, ladies maids and other people fulfilling that role) but most modern royals have a stylist. Crown Princess Victoria and Crown Princess Mary certainly does. I don't know if I think Kate "needs" a stylist as some think, but if she wanted/felt she needed one I have no problem with her having one as a duchess! I mean, Angela Kelly is basically the queens stylist, just with a title from another era.
Delete13:09. With all due respect, many Royals utilize the services of a professional stylist, even Kate, although hers a makeshift one, Natasha, originally hired as a general assistant. Kate has also worn many bespoke outfits/gowns from current design houses.
DeleteQoS. With all due respect, the media often comments that the Queen's dress or coat or gown was designed by Angela Kelly, or a man who often designs for her (I will list his name in a moment). And in her younger days she wore many outfits and gowns by then contemporary designers. She also had one favorite designer in those days that she often utilized and did until his passing. I think his name was Hartnell, but will list it also with the other gentleman's name.)
Diana was styled by Vogue for years. I just think Kate, who is always beautiful, could use the finishing polish of a professional stylist. Not an unusual perk for her position but a necessity in accordance with PR 101 and branding. And, the British Royal Family is a brand, among other things. Other high level executives often receive considerable clothing expenditure "allowances" with corporations knowing the value of image.
DeleteWe, for the most part, all love and appreciate Kate as a person, but she is also becoming the an integral part of the "face of the monarchy",
frontline Public Relations. She needs to dress the part.
Norman Hartnell and Stewart Previn are those names. Much has been written over the past decades about the Queen's wardrobe and the designers that she has used. "Largest Exhibition Ever of the Queen's Wardrobe for Her 90th Birthday", The Telegraph, Sophie Jamieson, Gordon Raynor, 10/29/15, is a good one.
DeleteThey said that she has had over 25,0000 royal engagements over the years and almost as many outfits although she has done repeats on some of the outfits (particularly in recent years I might add). (Seems they have kept many of those outfits if not all of them for historic preservation.)
"As the Queen herself has observed, 'I have to be seen to be believed'. Thus her clothes take on a special significance as her armour and uniform, conveying a powerful message, they can speak louder than words." This article was written as Justine, with a guided tour by the head curator, was about to view the historic display of a selection of the Queen's historic wardrobe. What did each obviously very special outfit say about the Queen? What did each outfit say about how she viewed the people she met with and also the outreach of each event she attended? I imagine her outfits were designed to show thoughtful planning and respect for both. Image is important. It does tell a story all on it's own, especially for royalty, as the Queen's investments of design time, money and effort confirm.
DeleteThe Telegraph, Justine Picardi, "Inside the Queen's Wardrobe ....", 7/26/16.
🎩 And.....let us not forget about our very dapper Prince Phillip. Someone was asking who helps him look so dapper and debonair, lol. The answer is John Kent of Kent, Hoodie and Latcher. Mr. Kent has been designing Prince Phillip's daily wear for years. Good job. It certainly works. Kudos to Mr. Kent.
DeleteThis was revealed in an article by Caroline Leaper in Tatler where she prefaced her article and a small list of some of the many design houses utilized by the Royal family by saying,
"Finding a signature look is a rite of passage for any royal. But for the designer's in their service,
the pressure is on, as they need to whip up photogenic yet protocol-friendly frocks - and fast -
for their most famous clients." (I like how they mention making sure the clothes are also "photogenically considered". smart. )
"The Designers the Royals Love", 10/3/16.
SG, Diana certainly had access to Vogue (not disputing that), but I don't know if I agree that she was styled by them on a regular basis. Early on, her wardrobe was a bit frilly (even frumpy) and it evolved over the years as she learned what worked for her AND as she evolved as a person.
DeleteThat's what I thought at first also, rf, but as I researched it, I found that Anna Harvey, from Vogue, and Diana had a very warm and close friendship and very fun design friendship from 1980 consistently until the time of Diana's passing. There's an article I think you would enjoy,
DeleteVogue, "Vogue Archive: Anna Harvey on Princess Diana", 8/31/17.
Catherine Walker and other designers worked with Diana intermittently, usually with some input from Anna even then. :)
DeleteThank you SG. I'll check out the article. For the record, I loved CW's designs on Diana, and now Kate. Elegant and feminine.
DeleteI think this away day needs to be taken in context with the fact that Kate was unable to accompany William to Merseyside and two other engagements while she was so ill with HG had she been able to I feel it would have put a better perspective on today's itinary. The Coach Core initiative is a very good charity it was unfortunate that it was held at Aston Villa as that press wise rather took away from coverage of the charity although Kate's presence has resulted in some photographic coverage with the young people in the papers. I was delighted with their visit to Acme Whistles so good for a very successful family run British Firm to receive recognition. regarding Land rover I might add that they are also major supporters of Ben Ainslie America's cup bid of which Kate is a patron of the charity arm. They are a major manufacturing firm in the U.K but once again the press highlight the fun element of the visit there was a serious side as well.
ReplyDeleteI thought Kate was appropriately dressed for the day. I notice that CQ was there on her own with Miguel Head there is a photograph of them standing together at the coach core event and one of CQ and Kate briefly together on the field I must say CQ looked as if she was rather cold. I wonder what she thought of the day.
On a different topic interesting engagement for Kate with the two medical people reminded me that about a week ago on the radio programme Today something I listen to when having breakfast they had an interview with a sufferer from HG and a psychiatrist on how HG can cause severe mental health problems both before and after birth. The HG sufferer who suffered throughout her pregnancy was saying how little help was available and how the isolation affected her she went on the internet and with another sufferer set up a web site and the tremendous response they had from fellow sufferers. Following the birth of their children both this mother and her friend suffered severe depression little help was available her friend eventually went into a clinic but sadly was allowed to go out to buy some cigarettes and committed suicide. The psychiatrist was saying that there are so few qualified people to deal with the maternal mental health issues involved and also research into HG is so short of money. My immediate thought was Kate should take this on board. I very much hope her staff might have heard this programme and maybe CQ might advise her to do so. She needs to widen her charities to include other things than just young children & like others I have been very disappointed at her apparent total lack of interest in the Hospice movement since Charlottes birth & the Mental Health campaign. I note Each have now started the building of the new Hospice in Norfolk but no word from their Patron on this significant moment.
About HG: one interesting thing I have noticed is that all articles on Kate mention "severe morning sickness" rather than HG.
DeleteI agree that it would have to take into account the days she was supposed to do (including the tour). Thankfully some missed engagements seems to have been rescheduled to fit during the time the tour should have been/the time William is in Finland.
DeleteWow, I guess I hit it on the head then: I just posted that I thought she looked a little like she wasn't feeling well today.
DeleteRosman, I've noticed that quite a bit as well. The reporters seem to use that version since it's clear what it means and noone knows what HG means. If I see HG used it's always with a (A form of severe morning sickness) thing after it. So I think it has alot more with readability to do than the journalists having some kind of inside source.
DeleteRebecca - after following Kate through 2 and a bit pregnancies I still can’t remember what HG stand for nor really pronounce it. So I can see why journalists might choose to rather refer to severe morning sickness.
DeleteI absolutely LOVE this outfit. I love when she wears nice coats with boots. This coat looks a little different with a high collar underneath. She looked wonderful clothes wise. Face-wise, with the exception of while at the soccer event, she looked like she may not feel tip-top. She seemed a tiny bit reserved and when she was at the whistle factory, the first time the man blew the whistle that wasn't supposed to be very loud, she winced like she wasn't feeling well. Probably me looking into it too much, but, there ya go.
ReplyDeleteWonderful to see the Duchess of Cambridge looking so relaxed, healthy and full of energy. I think the ‘team approach’ works very well with the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge. It is a joy to see them out and about together. Thanks, Charlotte.
ReplyDelete