Hornsey Road Children's Centre offers a welcoming environment for expectant and new mothers, and an outlet for children to play. It provides vital care and mental health support to parents, as well as offering antenatal and postnatal services, a nursery, play groups, and family support services.
The Duchess was greeted upon arrival.
There was a firm focus today on perinatal health services, delivered at the centre by the Queen's patronage, Family Action. It's an area of particular interest to Kate and one she is keen to learn more about during recent engagements. Kensington Palace said "The Duchess's visit to Hornsey Road comes as Her Royal Highness works to understand the challenges and issues surrounding maternal mental health." Perinatal mental health problems can occur during pregnancy or in the first year following the birth of a child, and can affect up to 20 per cent of women. If left untreated, it can have significant and long-lasting effects on the woman and her family.
A video from Victoria Murphy.
Kate chats to children at Hornsey Road children’s centre pic.twitter.com/PoYcBqAPdP— Victoria Murphy (@QueenVicMirror) November 14, 2017
The Queen agreed to become Royal Patron of the charity in 1953, upon the death of Queen Mary. If I were a betting woman, I would wager it's quite likely this is a patronage we'll see Kate taking over in the not too distant future. Not only has it strong links going back decades with the Royal family, but it's aims and ethos are very much in Kate's wheelhouse.
Below, the Queen and Princess Margaret arriving for a charity performance of Gigi in 1959 in aid of the organisation.
There is an excellent timeline of events charting the history of the organisation here. There's also a YouTube video available here, with experts and speakers chronicling the issues which brought about the organisation and its role today.
Most recently the organisation was chosen to disburse funds raised in an appeal for vicitms of the Grenfell Fire:
'Family Action is very honoured to have been chosen by Haley Yearwood to disburse the funds raised through her incredible crowdfunding appeal. We have established a new grants scheme in order to disburse £750,000 of the money generously donated by over 36,000 donors through Haley’s appeal. The rest of the money raised will fund a long term responsive service providing practical and emotional support to the Grenfell community.'
Kate toured the facilities which support local parents and young children, and had the opportunity to learn more about Family Action's perinatal mental health services which operate nationwide.
Kate described children's activities as "the best fun".
Kate describes children’s activities at Hornsey Road children’s centre as the “best fun” pic.twitter.com/SolIdMkoy5— Victoria Murphy (@QueenVicMirror) November 14, 2017
Whilst meeting single dad Billy, Kate revealed William initially found fatherhood difficult. Richard Palmer reports:
'Kate met father Billy, 39, during a visit to a care centre for expectant and new parents, after her own pregnancy led to a previous trip being delayed. Billy is raising his seven-month-old daughter Violet alone after taking custody from her mother and spoke about his experiences at Hornsey Road Children's Centre in north London.
The Duchess, who is currently four months pregnant with her third child, described how William had felt he did not know what exactly to do when he first became a father. Speaking after meeting Kate, Billy said: "She was saying William was sort of similar and I just wanted to let her know how Family Action have been there for me and I think they need more support." Billy said the mother of his daughter showed up on his doorstep out of the blue, saying she was pregnant and had already had two children taken away so could not care for a third. He said: "I was under mental health myself, I was suffering from severe depression and I thought I'm not going to let my daughter go into care, I'm going to step up and do this - I managed to turn myself around. "I've been doing it from day one at the hospital, fed her her first bottle."
Volunteer worker Maggie Sandy, said about Kate: “We just felt that she genuinely was interested. “And it’s so good because it really raises the profile of perinatal mental health. We always say that this goes across social class, we reach all sorts of parents and it is actually to do with being a parent and she can relate to that.” When asked about Kate’s comments about William, she added about dads: “We do offer support to dads. “I think it’s so important because dad’s sometimes get left out in the mix after the birth of a baby and they sometimes get sidelined.'
One little boy was feeling a tad shy :)
One little boy hiding from Kate today! pic.twitter.com/2nL820spk3— Victoria Murphy (@QueenVicMirror) November 14, 2017
Kate was given a beautiful posy of flowers.
Kate revealed Charlotte's favourite colour is pink. More from People:
'Kate, who is expecting her third child in April, shared a touching moment with 6-year-old Nevaeh Richardson-Natiko, who presented the royal with a bouquet of flowers.’
“She asked me what my favorite color is,” Nevaeh, who wore a pink party dress, told reporters after her chat with Princess Kate. “I said it was pink and she said that’s Charlotte’s favorite color too,” Nevaeh added.'
The Duchess brought back her £600 Goat Redgrave Coat today. Kate first wore the piece in 2013 when she was expecting Prince George for a visit to Child Bereavement UK. Kate sported a selection of gorgeous pieces during her first two pregnancies, it's great to see a couple of my personal favourites back again. The Redgrave remains a very stylish coat and last week we saw the return of Kate's DVF Zarita gown.
The nude A lined shaped coat features side seam diagonal welt pockets. It's described as "classic and sophisticated". It's available on the GOAT website in sizes 6-16.
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| GOAT |
The coat is available in a plethora of colours including black, cream, plum, marine blue and persian green at GOAT and Fatfetch. The green version is also available on The Outnet discounted to £295.
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| GOAT |
It very much looks like Kate teamed the coat with her Topshop Collar Contrast Dress once again. Below, Kate wearing it during the 2013 Child Bereavement UK engagement.
Kate didn't take her coat off today, but we can see the distinctive collar quite clearly.
Kate wore her Russell & Bromley Half N Half black suede boots. The £455 pair are described as "These beautiful block heeled boots from our collaboration with Stuart Weitzman offer a knee-high alternative to the iconic 50-50. In luxurious black suede with a low block heel these boots are detailed with trademark stretch panel at the back for a clean fit and elongated silhouette." For those in the U.S., the very similar Stuart Weitzman 50-50 style (which Kate's are described as an "alternative" for) are available here.
Kate carried her black suede Mulberry Clutch.
And accessorised with her Annoushka pearls and Kiki McDonough hoops.
At this point, there's nothing announced for Kate's Calendar. I expect that to change very soon. Thank you for reading as always :)
Very happy to see that Kate was able to reschedule this event so quick! This patronage is a perfect fit for her so it makes very much sense that it was handed down from the Queen.
ReplyDeleteA nice repeat today! And oddly refreshing to see her in flat shoes for a non-sporty engagement.
Hope to hear about some more engagements soon (but it might be a bit quiet for a while since the tour was supposed to be soon). Glad she's feeling better now!
Ooh, good point about the tour Rebecca. Hopefully, they are able to reschedule some
DeletePreviously missed(both announced and unannounced) engagements in that time.
Yeah, I hope so as well but it has to fit in time with the organisations as well so I will assume it will be a bit more quiet by default.
DeleteHi Rebecca, as you pointed out, this patronage is a great fit for Kate and the mental health campaign and I hope to see the queen hand over this patronage to Kate soon. It would be a fantastic addition to the Heads Together community and Kate looks like she enjoyed her visit immensely!
DeleteLove Avee in SA
Nice visit. She seemed happy to be there and everyone there happy to see her. The center must be a wonderful resource to families.
ReplyDeleteThis is a miss for me just because of the saggy baggy clunky boots. Due to the opaque monochromatic leg, from a diatance, it looks as if her tights are sagging. I am happy to see the Goat coat as I really liked her initial wear of it. I think it needs a more delicate shoe/boot with a high heel, kitten heel though or even a pretty flat. Just not these boots which are taking down her whole look even though I realize comfort may be a priorty for her right now. Dislike her hair today as well. There isn't any style to it although I know its been styled. I'm surprised further engagements havent been announced. I thought with the move that the need to bunch would no longer apply.
The boots! Yes!! They always look slouchy and therefore underwhelming and casual to me.
DeleteI totally agree. The coat is lovely - but the short skirt and awful boots are very 80's "Sloane Ranger" style - but not in a good way. With opaques and Mary-Janes, or some lovely block-heeled slim brogues, it would have looked so much better. She has such a lovely manner, engagement with people, and is so beautiful, but her wardrobe can often let her down. I know clothes shouldn't be that important - but this outfit is distracting. Would love to see her in some well-fitting pants. Princess Mary nails this look. It is professional, attractive and perfect for sitting, standing and meeting people - and so much more modern. I'm a monarchist and love Kate, but really wish she had a bit of help in the style department. Audrey M.
Delete:-) Erika, you took the words right out of my mouth! I like the coat and was hoping for another appearance, but it does need a "softer" heel, especially with the collar which makes the outfit even more feminine looking.
DeleteHonestly, these are my least favorite boots due to the chunky heel.
Yes I agree on the shoes. A slim heel with a pair of cigarette pants would have just made the outfit.
DeleteAgree with all of you. A different shoe would have made a huge difference.
DeleteShe looks so adorable and I'm happy to see her wearing more relaxed, fun outfits. She's ony in her 30s but I for a while there, I thought she was beginning to look a bit dowdy in clothes that all looked similar. I'm also glad she's doing this charity and drawing attention to maternal mental health because we're expecting out first grandchild and I'm hoping my daughter in law doesn't have any difficulty with post partum depression.
ReplyDeleteNot sure if its the length of hair that is the issue but I feel the styling is just awkward and not very pretty. Maybe layering would help. Otherwise she looks amazing.
ReplyDeleteI agree, it's like she's styling it the same way she did when it was longer. I'd like to see this cut styled a bit sleeker without the curls, more ala CP Mary, who has a similar cut
DeleteIs it me or her hair looks really long in the back?
DeleteErika, I see what you mean! There's one picture, where she is leaning over where it seems really obvious. I can't tell if it's just a piece that didn't get curled and is therefore longer and straighter than the others or if she has extensions and they are falling out. I am hoping for the first option.
DeleteThose are the extensions Erika. Different color from the front of her hair.
DeleteI reviewed the videos available regarding the event. The Duchess is constantly touching her hair. I, like many others, noticed this when her hair styles were longer. It's very distracting in my opinion, and makes me think this is a nervous habit. It would be lovely to see a style that prevents her from constantly adjusting her hair.
DeleteI don't understand why this concept eludes her?
I think the coat is a lovely color and texture. The dark stockings and chunky black heals are a disconnect with the more delicate and classic coat. I do not know how the shorter length can be comfortable for the Duchess. It seems to me that these lengths make her clothes look ill-fitting and too small in size. And comfortable and professional clothing are not mutually exclusive!
Yes, seeing that now, Rosman.
DeleteNo, no ,no this outfit just doesn't on several levels! First, the coat and dress are much too short for an engagement involving seating in tiny children's seats, secondly why bring a tiny clutch to an event involving children, her hands should be free to color, paint and have fun with the tots not worrying about a tiny clutch that's useless for this engagement, thirdly while I appreciate her wearing flat boots, they just don't go with this outfit. I think this coat would be perfect if paired with a nice pair of trousers and maybe a colorful scarf anything to add some fun colors for the kiddies. Sorry to sound so harsh but this outfit was, imho, a big old "no" for the Duchess today.
ReplyDeleteI think the coat would look great with a pair of skinny trousers/cigarette pants. But Kate never wears them(doing the skinny jeans instead) so rather than go with a weird look like that, I say stick with the dress.
DeleteShe wore those black/white printed pants in Canada, I believe, with a white blouse and jacket. Personally, I would love to see her expand her "engagement casual" wardrobe to include more skinny trousers/cigarette pants like you suggested, they are very appropriate and look more professional than the skin tight jeggings.
DeleteKatie, you reminded me of this outfit from NYC. I do hope to see a recycle!
Deletehttp://media.gettyimages.com/photos/catherine-duchess-of-cambridge-and-prince-william-duke-of-cambridge-picture-id460165556
Royal Fan-YES!!
DeleteBut, are those the dreaded skinny pants she wears, but back before they were worn out?
Katie, the NYC pants looked different to me...heavyier/thicker material, IMO.
DeleteI love the combo of short skirt/coat and tall boots! Very mod. Is she wearing a collared shirt under the coat or did she have the neckline of the coat changed to a Peter Pan collar?
ReplyDeleteI'm so glad that Kate made this visit today after having to cancel the last time, she must have been disappointed that her HG forced her to miss so many engagements but now that she's feeling better, she's probably happy to be 'catching up' :)
ReplyDeleteI'm also really happy that she brought back this look, the coat and I think she's wearing the same Topshop dress underneath, I could be wrong. It's good to see Kate opting for flat boots again, I like that she's going for comfort.
Love Avee in SA
Hurray, a side part!
ReplyDeleteThis is my guess for the black dress underneath: http://www.katesclothes.com/outfit/video-supporting-childrens-hospice-week/
Yes, Imke. Thankfully a side part. yay. :)
DeleteShe looks relaxed and attractive but I am on the side of it being a miss. The coat to me has a much lighter more refined feeling than the boots, would not have combined. The earrings go with the coat but not really with the boots and agree the clutch and boots do not work. I have never liked the peter pan color with the coat, regardless of if she had it added or wears a shirt. The coat with its original simple round collar I find much more attractive. I would have paired it with a simple black leather flat or elegant smooth leather heel.
ReplyDeleteI love this coat and even like it with the tights and boots. Not too short for the smaller children's tables as she has on tights.
ReplyDeleteI really like it styled like the photo of the coat in blue with the double-strapped shoes (something different and the shoes sweet and not too Mary Janeish)and of course it looks beautiful with a pretty pair of black pump too.
I think she looked beautiful and contemporary today and definitely excited to be there. The flowers were beautiful also. 💐
Nice that Kensington Palace said she enjoyed the visit. Do they usually do that?
I agree SG that this was a beautiful look for Kate. Gone are the days when pregnant ladies wore tent dresses and coverups. I'm glad to see the shorter lengths and boots on this still very young mother. Maybe this will set a trend for shorter hemlines again...for even this old lady at 65!
Delete65 is the new 30, Annette. You are NOT old. :)
Delete🍼 Lydia, how are you doing?
ReplyDeleteHave you delivered yet? 🌷
Other expectant moms (and grandmothers, lol) here, how is it going? :)
DeleteHello! No I haven’t delivered. Next Tuesday is my due date, but maybe she will come earlier!🤞🏼Or later... my second daughter came a week late. Thank you for asking!
DeleteI love the Duchess’ look today. Not my favorite but I really like it. Although she seems uncomfortable with her legs crossed in one of the photos.
Lydia, my prayers are with you all. :) ❤️ So exciting.
DeleteA very nice engagement - she seems to enjoy the children as they do her. I'm glad she was able to make-up the engagement and hope she catches up with others especially with the victims of Grenfell as appropriate - that was her most serious miss.
ReplyDeleteThis is a most worthwhile charity with a very long history of helping families - it would seem like an excellent patronage for Kate to take on and I hope that's what this visit is leading to.
I didn't like the length of the coat before and still don't - why she has this urge to show off her legs when pregnant baffles me - it seems insecure. To me a woman in her thirties is at the height of her professional life and should dress accordingly - youthful dressing is for your uni years - especially if you're a future queen not a shop girl in a boutique.
But it is a repeat and the important thing is Kate is catching up with her work and a nice visit was had by all.
Oh, I thought she already had gotten it as a patronage. I must have muddled it all up somehow. Seems pretty likely that it will become hers sooner or later, though :)
DeleteI actually very respectfully disagree! She's in her mid-30's for pete's sake! I don't think she needs to feel the need to cover up her legs more than she is here--I think what she is wearing is quite demure, but also stylish. If I see her in nude tights one more time I will scream! I do think, however, that she tends to dress more conservatively at most engagements so as not to distract from the cause itself, but that's no reason to dress dowdy.
DeleteI agree with Julia 100%. She is not a model so having wonderful, perfect legs interests only a few. I would very much like to know what is behind Kate's mask and in her head. After 6 years, we had enough of fashion moments, and she is as predictable as one can be, now it would be preferable to see what she meant when she said she had wanted to make a difference. *cough*
DeleteKate's emphasis on mental health is making a difference. Her attention to children, including her own, is making a difference. Her presence in the royal family is making a difference. As a role model for women everywhere, she is making a difference. As for styling, she looked wonderful on Saturday and Sunday, slightly bohemian on Tuesday. But her visit was making a difference. Let's not ignore what Kate really stands for - and sits for, sometimes on the floor with kids!
Deleteamen and amen Patricia I. 👏 Those are the amazing fundamentals. as part of that, just get a real stylist for her and that would make her amazing efforts easier for her for sure.
DeleteThanks, surfer girl. I wonder who styled Kate on Saturday and Sunday, when she looked so great. How quickly we forget success when we don't like what she is wearing! That's not intended for you, SG, it's a comment about this whole discussion. Kate seems to have made a distinction this week between important royal occasions and a quick visit to a children's center. Personally I would have liked a little different look on Tuesday. But I do think someone did an excellent job for Kate over the weekend. Do you think she has a good stylist but doesn't really consult that person for her more casual daytime excursions?
DeleteDon't think so. She needs someone to help her
Deleteconsistently. Every event is a photo op. And the better the photo op the better the PR and support. It is basic human nature. The interacting and involvement she provides is gold but the packaging counts also and consistency is important. It is about branding. Diana had it down to a T.
Diana had some ridiculous outfits, even when one takes into account the styles of that time. There was the polka dot phase, the drum majorette outfit,the elvis evening dress... Some of the later Catherine Walker suits didn't do her any favors either. Those "professional" suits didn't flatter her and looked pedestrian. I loved some of her clothes , but she did not always hit the mark.
DeleteThat's down to the era more than missing the mark in my opinion. Very costumey period of fashion. I like the Elvis evening gown. lol
DeleteWhat a great post, thank you, Charlotte! I love today's engagement and I like Kate's look. Frankly, I don't care so much what she's wearing for this kind of engagements as there are always so many other interesting things to focus on. It was apparent that the charity's work was very important for her and she got involved so well and naturally with the kids and their parents. The video about the Family Action and how it has evolved in time is fascinating. I love such videos that provide the watchers with historical background, photos of ordinary people from the past and various pieces of evidence of everyday life, at the same time offering the overview of today's state and the outlook for the future. One realises a lot, watching such material. So a huge thank you from me!
ReplyDeleteVery pretty choice of outfit. Love these shorter, swingier silhouettes with dark tights. Not 100% sold on those particular boots with it though...I dream of seeing her in an amazing pair of black patent brogues. I think a shoe like that would make this look total perfection. I also love the collared dress, reminds me of Wednesday Adams in the best possible way :)
ReplyDeleteYES! Wednesday Addams for sure! ❤️
DeleteI really wonder why Kate wears coat dresses to indoors events involving kids. Whether she's aware of it or not wearing a coat around little kids gives the impression that she's getting ready to leave. It's just poor optics. Events with kids are the times for chunky sweaters and practical indoors clothes.
ReplyDeleteWhat you say is true, Ivy. It distinctly give the impression that you are ready to leave even if you just got there. Kids don't miss much and I'm sure they, at one level or another, were left with that impression. I hope Kate's team begins to realize that.
DeleteI have never thought about it that way but I think you are exactly right. No one else wears a coat when they are inside unless they are about to leave. Children would certainly sense that. Good call, Ivy Lin.
DeleteAs much as I love this coat, you make a really good point. Also, the dress is nice on its own, so it would have been totally appropriate to remove the coat once inside. When you think about it, she does wear her coat indoors a lot. Maybe she runs cold, but if that's the case, she could wear something warm under the coat. Lovely event, that I'm happy was rescheduled, none the less.
DeleteIt's like she is confused about how coats tie into outfits. If the engagement is outdoors(Remembrace Sunday, St Patrick's Day, Military event, etc), the coat is the main outfit. If it's an indoor event, like today, the coat is an accessory, meant to compliment the outfit but doesn't stay on like a blazer would. I know she loves a good coat dress, so something like that, depending on the design could go either way.
DeleteReally Ivy, SG and Pam? I sometimes wear a light coat instead of a sweater when I substitute teach because temps vary in the classrooms and I don't like sweaters. I feel quite elegant in some of my coats, very professional, etc. And I teach all grades from kindergarten to grade 8. Sure beats a tatty sweater and jeans. I don't think the kids think anything about my coat except that maybe I feel cold. If you look at the photos, there is a photo of a woman in a green coat, a woman in a heavy sweater, kids in sweaters.... Geez if I have to worry that wearing a coat when I am in the classroom with kids might lead them to think I as getting ready to leave (they may WISH I weren't staying!)--as a teacher, it's actually quite laughable. Now if I don't have a coat on and I PUT my coat on and head toward the door, that's another story. Most kids and adults could pick that signal up.
DeleteI'm trying to get into a young child's mind (lol) and I'm wondering if they wouldn't think more about "ohh, she's wearing regular clothes" (vs. a ball gown) or they may be trying to absorb the fact that the lady from the magazine covers is in their classroom. At that age, I think children focus more on facial expressions, kindness, interest in a familiar topic, etc.
DeleteI am cold all the time. I wear full sleeves and blazers constantly when at work. I turn up the heating so much in my office that whenever colleagues come they complain and I have to leave the door wide open for them so they can breathe LOL.
DeleteI think that Kate needs to find some people to help her figure out a wardrobe that works for her profession. This coat is great but would have been stunning with cigarette pants. Why not try it, Kate ? Please. She needs to talk to Catherine Quinn for some advice on professional dressing that keeps her stylish and comfortable.
I agree, Katie. AND, sometimes she doesn't wear a coat outside at all when it is obviously cold, and sometimes very cold, and when others around her are wearing substantial coats, so I don't think she "runs cold" ❄️. This wearing of coats inside and then sometimes wearing no coat outside when it is cold has been a real curiosity to me over the years. I can't think of a logical explanation for it actually. Kinda like the repeated wind and no slip scenarios. But that's small potatoes compared to everything else she does that is good. :)
DeleteTell you what SG, you come to Arizona and look at the differences in people's coats/sweaters/spaghetti straps.... Some days I am hot, some days I am cold. Kinda like some days are diamonds, some days are stones. No logical explanation.
DeleteCatherine Quinn? I haven't seen much of her wardrobe. But from the glimpses seen at recent events I think her outfits are well put together but are so matronly. Perhaps as an older woman they are age appropriate for her. But for the Duchess, who is in her thirties Quinn's aesthetics or should I say taste in outfits should not apply. I love today's coat, dress boot combo.
DeleteHmm, if coldness were the issue you'd think she'd be more bundled up all over. Not just a heavy overcoat over a mini-dress and tights. I don't think that's it -- I think for whatever reason she really favors wearing coats indoors. I mean I remember once I saw her at an air show where it looked so windy and chilly that everyone was bundled up in big windbreakers and she was in a sleeveless dress and stilettos.
DeleteAs for how long she stayed, someone at WKW said that this was a very short engagement which makes the optics of this even weirder. And on a practical note, the heavy sleeves of the coat prevented her from participating in some of the kids arts and crafts activities that are in the videos. And the super-short skirt prevented her from interacting with the kids in a more open way -- she is constantly bent over in that tiny kids chair, legs crossed.
Yes, surfer girl, this has been a big curiosity for me as well! If she truly did get cold easily (personally, I do) she wouldn't have sometimes worn no coat at all when it was cold outside. The only explanation I can think of is that it's a styling problem. She wants to wear a dress and can't think of a coat that would work with it/ thinks that a coat wouldn't work at all, so she wears it without a coat. In instances such as this, on the other hand, the dress is something she just means to wear underneath because it works well that way but doesn't want to show it off on it's own. The dresses she wears beneath are often very simple ones - so there.
DeleteI understand this predicament but this is where a professional stylist could help tremendously. I also think it looks strange to wear your coat inside - I don't whether children would notice but I, as an adult, would notice and find it strange. Unless it's a coat dress, of course. I don't think it's a big deal this time because she's pregnant and should wear whatever feels comfortable to her but she has done this before and I think it looks strange.
Suzanne, I wasn't suggesting that Quinn should dress her. But she could help her find people who can help style her. Or can tell her what works and doesn't work in a semi-professional setting. CQ knows the elements of professional dressing and they can be adapted to Kate. For instance I am wearing exactly what Quinn was wearing one day- a navy dress and a black blazer, basic jewelry. But the looks are completely different. I am wearing a Brooks Brothers dark navy wool sheath dress with little sparkly threads (very subtle) and a black and blue cropped tweed blazer , sheer black tights, black pumps, Jennifer meyer good luck charm necklace, cheap akoya pearl studs (probably fake) I got from China ages ago. You can take the same elements and dress it up for individual tastes/age/position in life. Kate can get help with the basics of professional dressing from her. She can then tailor it to her own taste.
DeleteActually I just realized that according to some of you I sound like I dress older than my age !! huh - maybe I do !
Jo, lol, it is the same here in San Diego for sure. But when I lived in a cold weather climate, not unsimilar to London, the norms in outerwear when it was cold outside were more unified across the board. :)
DeleteCaroline, you do have a point. Vanity, lol. I would no doubt think about going coatless in the cold if my coat was going to clash with my outfit, especially with the world's watching, lol. But only if it was a quick jaunt from the car to the front door. Again, she certainly does need a gifted professional stylist, I agree. I feel very strongly about that and have for years now, lol.
DeleteIvy, she needs a real stylist, don't cha think? She's always lovely in every way but there are certain issues that shouldn't even be issues and if she had the proper stylist the issues would be gone.
DeleteJo! You're a Tom Petty fan:)
DeleteOh Please! This particular coat is obviously lightweight and drapes, and flows easier than a blazer. The sleeves easily fold and cascade as she bends her arms sitting with kids. She actually sat on the floor, people! LOOK at the pictures! It is a very lightweight wool fabric. Headlines: "Children Traumatized by Duchess Wearing Coat". By the way, I always like to look at the leader of the group she is visiting. A woman shown in many pictures with a brown suit, short skirt and pumps, kneels, bends and squats around the children, as well.
DeleteAnd what if she were to choose the wrong stylist? Wow, they certainly do exist, too.
And all of you expertly dressed professionals, do you want your awards, degrees, promotions, obituaries to include comments about your dress? Are you only considered competent because of your clothes?
She already has the wrong stylist! I don't mean to be mean towards Natasha but it's just not a good idea to have a stylist who doesn't have a background in fashion. You have to have one who knows their stuff. I'm interested in fashion, do think I've got a great eye for what works on a person and I would just love to style Kate but do I think I would be the right person to work as her stylist? No, absolutely not because I have neither an education nor work experience in the field of fashion and without that you just can't be on top of your game.
DeleteI'm also not saying she should get a stylist to dress her like a celebrity. No, not at all. She should get one who understands her position as a royal, who will take into account her personal likes, dislikes and needs (such as getting easily cold or not) and who will CONSULT with her. It's not about getting someone to dress her but about getting someone to work with her.
It's not an outrageous thing to suggest either. Other royal ladies such as Princess Victoria or Queen Letizia also have stylists and rather good ones I think.
American Army Wife, I don't think any of us are attacking Kate really. We are discussing an ongoing pattern that has people puzzled. Some people run consistently cold, others run hot. Kate seems to do both, but at odds with the environment around her. It's just a discussion. For all we know, she has an issue regulating her internal temperature and it's out of sync sometimes.
DeleteAnd she might hire the wrong stylist. Some would argue she already has! And while I doubt any of us would win fashion awards, we are not photographed and placed on covers of newspapers and magazines. Even though she is not a fashion icon, people around the world do look/study/discuss her style. I know plenty of people who do use things like StitchFix and personal shoppers because they want to look good in every day life. We are just debating why Kate doesn't always seem to do so as well.
So true, Caroline. Princess Victoria 👑,
DeleteQueen Letizia 👑, Sophie Trudeau 🏅🇨🇦 and another certain famous lady named Queen Elizabeth II 👑, all have professional stylists. There MUST be a reason.
And one of those reasons is to wear outfits that are cohesive, comprehensive -- fashionably compatible to the event, function and weather, knowing that they represent their respective countries and that their images are what help illustrate the pages of history. Like it or not, image is important.
Certainly not all professional stylists would be at the caliber that Kate's position requires but with a little effort the perfect one could be found.
And, as Caroline said, I don't think anyone wants Kate styled as a "celebrity", just as the most polished and appropriately dressed version of Kate there is. And that would be stunning. I personally believe that Kate loves fashion and would love to have a real stylist. Kate has a powerful and prestigious world position. If anyone should have a professional stylist she should. Diana totally knew that and was styled by Vogue for years.
+100
DeleteNot to be a downer. But where Meghan has her sister's media vacillation, etc., to consider, Kate and her family now have serious things to consider concerning her uncle. He has pleaded guilty to physically assaulting his wife. A "left hook" that floored her and made her momentarily unconscious. She was taken to the hospital by ambulance and the entire incident was witnessed by their cab driver. Hope his wife stays safe somehow. Once blows are struck it statistically does not go away but, sadly, increases. More prayers and miracles needed there for sure. I am sure this has had an effect on Kate and William.
ReplyDeleteWhat an awful thing to have witnessed. His poor wife. I hope Gary gets the help that he needs to deal with whatever issues he's having. Domestic violence is never OK.
DeleteI hope she doesn't stay around him until he is along on the way to recovery. I think the judge has her safety foremost in her mind also.
DeleteNo man should ever hit a woman…nor should a woman hit a man. This is deplorable behaviour and must be embarrassing to the Middleton family. Let's remember, however, that they are not at fault for any of this. The Middleton's are gracious, discreet and do things in good taste. They are not responsible for the actions of Uncle Gary.
DeleteLaura. Of course they are not responsible for his behavior. That was never even remotely implied.
DeleteBut I am sure that they are concerned about the welfare of Gary and his wife just as any family would be. That is what I meant, lol, and that is what I said. :)
Surfer Girl, I did not mean to imply that you felt the Middleton's were responsible for Gary's behaviour. I should have been clearer, that I was not directing my comment specifically to you. I was rather making a broad statement, by way of replying. I do understand your point, for sure. Sorry for the confusion. So many media headlines mention the celebrity, or known person, when a family member is exhibiting poor behaviour. Otherwise some of these incidents would not even be newsworthy. I always feel sorry for the person/family, that by association becomes linked to the misdeed. The Middleton's have certainly received some negative publicity, when I only see a very stellar and classy family.
Deletethanks, Laura. no problem. :)
DeleteI like Kate and I'm happy she is feeling better. But I do not like this outfit - the coat is too short and I don't like a peter pan collar on someone Kate's age. The outfit looks too girlish for a 35 year old professional woman. I wish she would let a stylist help her because she is a beautiful woman and could do so much more with clothes and accessories.
ReplyDeleteYes!! To all of it. She seemed really engaged and interested, talking with parents and kids, getting down on the floor and squeezing into tiny chairs. Lots of smiles and nods and laughs from her. I agree with Charlotte, I think Kate will take this patronage over from the Queen.
ReplyDeleteI also really like that the charity is connected with Grenfell. She caught so much flack for not going at the time, yet (intentionally or not) she's the one that is following up with groups that are providing support when most have forgotten or moved on.
I like the coat, a lot. I think the dress underneath is the right length and style to go with the coat(minus the Peter Pan collar). Tight, check. Boots-meh. Not the worst thing ever, but I always feel like they are bunched at the bottom, like the calf part is too big for her and is sliding down. At this stage, she should invest in some really nice leather boots, streamlined to complement skirts and drssses like this. I love the earrings, but not with this dress. It's too mod/60's and the earrings are too traditional. But, that is personal taste and they are perfectly appropriate. I also appreciate that after several new outfits, this whole look is recycled. Not so recently worn that it is old hat, but also using what you have.
I actually saw the Half and Halfs at Saks Off Fifth about two weekends ago. They fit very strangely and are actually rather tight around the ankle which I why I didn't like them and much prefer the 5050s. But if anyone is trying to hunt them down in the USA, I'm sure they're not that hard to find since it looks like they are part of the regular collection that is sold here.
ReplyDeleteWell, the coat is beautiful and I liked this dress before...but something feels off with the whole look today. I like the older picture when she was pregnant with Prince George and her hair blown out straight. I’m happy her part is on the side! I’d like to see it blown out straight again, and I’m ready to see a new outfit. :)
ReplyDeleteAnyone see CQ there in the background anywhere today?
ReplyDeleteA couple where she's very much in the background. And this one of her alone...
Deletehttp://www.gettyimages.com/photos/royal-family-quinn-november-14-2017?excludenudity=false&family=editorial&phrase=royal%20family%20quinn%20november%2014,%202017&sort=newest
thanks, rf. :)
Delete:-)
DeleteThanks so much for your great coverage (as always) Charlotte! Good on Kate for rescheduling this important visit.
ReplyDeleteShe looks so bloody beautiful in white! I adore this coat so much. Thank you charlotte for this great and prompt post. It's amazing how much work the Duchess is doing right now while pregnant.
ReplyDeleteI just wish the coat was longer! I loved how her hair looked back in 2013 when she wore that look
ReplyDeleteAnd as far as her calendar. I just wish she would stop thinking because she worked hard one week she should have a couple week break. She is pregnant not an invalid. It isn’t like I’m asking her to do 40 hour work weeks like most pregnant women do but even if she only does 5 engagments a week that is maybe 10 hours of work maybe 20 if count the prep time. I need some dedication. She is 35 years old and has never had a full time job!
Kate's job is not 9-5, M-F, with retirement at an age WE may be looking forward to. Ask HM... :-)
DeletePregnancy is not an illness, but HG is. Also, as I said above, since the tour should have been around now it might be a bit quieter.
DeleteShe is the mother of 3 children. She has a full time job. ;-)
DeleteShe is a mother of two children with a nanny and housekeeper. If she didn’t have either of those things I would agree with you.
DeleteBeing a mom of toddlers is a full time job. I wish people would stop belittling the role of a mother. We only get a few short years to not only raise our children, but do it right. Maybe William didn't like his childhood and this is his vision for his family? Maybe Kate loved hers and wants the same for her children.
DeleteShe is a senior member of the royal family and is expected to carry out duties on behalf of the queen, 3 children or 0 as a member of the royal family she has to do her share. I do agree that her princess job is nothing like the average 9-5 work schedule
DeleteAre a nanny and a housekeeper "things"?? (Sarah @15:19) Not being a native speaker, maybe I'm missing something.
DeleteJessica... Yes, maybe indeed!!
DeleteAgain, this is a lifelong commitment and at THIS stage of her LIFE, Kate wishes to focus on her young children as much as possible.
If Kate wanted the same kind of childhood for her children that she had, she could be working more. Kate did not have a stay-at-home mum, she had a mother who (very admirably) built a business and raised 3 children at the same time.
DeleteNow, if Kate was not a royal and future queen, no one would care if she chose to be a stay-at-home mum. There is nothing wrong with that. However, she cannot choose to be that AFTER she chose to marry a JOB. She gets paid by the British people for a job that she isn't really doing, so yes, people do have a right to be upset about that. And what people also don't seem to realize (perhaps Kate included), she may never become Queen if the British people perceive the royals as work-shy and not worth the money they pay them.
I'm not complaining about what she is and isn't doing while pregnant by the way but it has never been different with her, not even before she had any children at all.
I agree Caroline
Delete(Assuming the monarchy continues...) Just throwing this out there...Kate isn't just raising kids, she is raising a future king. Maybe she wants to ensure that he, who will spend his entire life in the spotlight, has a part of his early years out of the spotlight and in a place where he can start to grow up without a ton of prying(and judging) eyes. The Queen wasn't able to do it. Diana pushed it as far as she was able to and people adored her for it. Perhaps William and Kate felt that they were going to continue to push for a few years. Again, while it feels like they have been doing this forever, it's only been 7 years since they announced their engagement.
DeleteI feel like George is always out of the spotlight. He is hardly ever seen - around 3-4 times a year. Honestly he is more out of the spotlight than many of my friends kids who have thousands of pictures all over facebook ! I don't see how Kate doing 10 hours worth of work each week would mean him growing up without privacy.
DeleteI agree too Caroline.
DeleteI agree with Rosman and Caroline. Rosman was also very generous with that 10 hour work per week. I suppose it takes longer to choose an outfit and browse online than those 1 hour engagements she does. And average she had 2 per week. I wonder how the kids were able to handle that without being damaged.
DeleteWe've seen the children on tours and most recently had photos of George on his first day of school. I don't think we need to see them more than that at this point.
DeleteI loved this coat the first time & it didn't disappoint this time. I adore the cute peter pan collar on the Topshop dress. It's great to see her re-wearing some of her past maternity wardrobe. I don't like the boots with this outfit, though. As others have said, they bunch at the ankle & look too casual for this look. Some dressier ankle boots would've looked nice. I noticed her hair is growing quite quickly, it does look longer at the back than the front. Can't wait to see it grow back to its luscious best! This charity sounds like a really good fit for Kate to take on as a patronage. I look forward to seeing more visits from her in the future.
ReplyDeleteKate looks happy and healthy. For those of you who don't like the outfit, you can rest assured it won't be repeated if Kate has to sit in another small chair. I like the coat, but would prefer Kate not wear it (or any others) inside during the duration of her visit. It makes it appear more like a drop-in than a purposeful engagement.
ReplyDeleteShe looks fantastic, youthful, and yet appropriate for the occasion. Her beautiful legs should not be hidden. Plus the opaque tights prevent the look from being risque. I am continually surprised at all the unfavorable comments from those who apparently must be beautiful and always dressed impeccably.
ReplyDeleteI agree. :-)
DeleteI may not be beautiful except in the eyes of Leo and I may not always be dressed impeccably - although I did my best when working. But if I may say so, privately and socially I was known to have wonderful long legs - and I am boasting, better than Kate's at the same age. But I was a professional woman - I had worked hard for my position - and it was about my mind, not about my legs, no matter how good they were. There was no reason to look dowdy - I wore very attractive suits and dresses and nice brooches - but it was not about showing off my body either.
DeleteKate is not a beauty queen or a light-hearted uni girl and no more Miss Middleton working a bit in accessories and clubbing at night. She is a royal princess - who, possibly - if she and her husband are found to have sufficient gravitas, will be the most important woman in the nation one day. If she dresses with a bit of glamour at night - not Hollywood slit up to there - but showing off her beautiful neck and perhaps a flash of leg - that's fine. There is a place for a little dash.
But when she's on daytime engagements, her skirts should come to just above her knees or longer - because it's about being taken seriously - just as women in professions and diplomacy expect to be taken seriously. Kate in this outfit looks perhaps what she is - a girl who never had to hold down a job in a professional setting. I'm seen on other blogs comments that she has what we used to call more hair than wit. I don't believe this for a minute but the best way to stand against these claims is to dress with an awareness of your position and with clothes you don't have to think about. She can do it, we've seen it many times - and if it's a bit dull, so be it. But most of the European princesses (with a couple of exceptions like Maxima) manage to wear interesting clothes and look fabulous without revealing too much.
Although Julie I know many very very professional woman, attorneys, research scientists, business woman who do wear short skirts and dresses. They are taken seriously. The peter pan collar dress is not terribly professional but I have seen plenty of skirts and dresses not ending right at the knee:) that work and look great.
Deleteas usual i agree with all you say Julia, and couldn't have said it better.
DeleteJulia, this is a different generation and I don't see anything wrong with an occasional peek at royal knees. :-)
Deletehttp://i.dailymail.co.uk/i/pix/2015/10/11/12/2D3E1F1900000578-3266413-image-m-39_1444563343728.jpg
http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-O-hL8xwnPrs/TtRgop3129I/AAAAAAAAEnE/wvr48nK-YqY/s1600/2011-11-20-26.jpg
https://i.pinimg.com/236x/f3/aa/c9/f3aac91fb0d94496e21f653e69e8a024--kronprinzessin-mary-mary-elizabeth.jpg
I am a "very very professional woman" and I do wear skirts that are above my knee but not more than 1 inch. I will be 40 this year and over the past couple of years I have been buying things that hit right athe knee because I feel silly otherwise. Kate's skirts are too short.
DeleteI don't know if you are part of the workforce, ali.
But unless you are referring to work in a very specific kind of profession where short skirts are required as part of the job description I can tell you that this length that Kate is wearing won't be acceptable. It simply won't.
Feel free to poll your network of "professional women - attorneys, research scientists etc". Ask them what they think and get back to us.
I still follow blogs concerning working women and fashion, and it doesn't seem to me the standards support short skirts in most workplaces that aren't casual.
DeleteRoyalfan - those examples of other royal ladies are go from Letizia - bad but judging from her hair, not at all recent, Mary - worse - although it appears, as does Letzia's to be an evening engagement, not a daytime one sitting on the floor with children (which I thought very nice.) Victoria's outfit is just awful - like Kate, she seems to be pregnant in that photo.
I would love Kate's coat with smart trousers - and I should say if she wants to show off her legs privately, that's entirely her business - my only thought is for royal duties.
Ive said this before and recieved a bit of backlash but for me, a royal isn't a professional in the same conservative vein as a lawyer, banker, scienitst etc. There is an element of celebrity thrown into the mix with a working royal, so I feel that they can get away with more creative dress. Conservative professionals are not supposed to be noticed for their clothes but for royals, interesting and eye catching clothing is part of the job. This is not to say royals are not to be taken seriously and are not professionals but, imo, they can get not only get away with but are expected to dress in a less conservative way such as a a woman in the arts, publishing or advertising might do.
DeleteI think that the argument to be made here is that royals are not professionals in the true sense of the term and hence shorter dresses are fine. This seems a reasonable argument to me. In which case I will say that they still look silly. Very short skirts don't look good on anyone about the age of 21 - that is my personal opinion.
DeleteIn this particular case I think Kate's boots sort of make up for it, so it is acceptable but not a great look, I think.
Rossman, I did not say what length skirt or dress, I was responding to the right at the knee comment. I do have an MBA, am retired but worked in a large National Investment firm and a large non profit and in political campaigns. I have a large family of attorneys and MDs. Your last comment was uncalled for, my comment was not nasty or adversarial, simply a comment that I do and have interacted with women who wear skirts and dresses above the knee to work. I could have left off the 'very very' part of my comment, it was not meant to be snarky,but maybe it hit you that way, if yes, I apologize for that.
DeleteDitto, ali @23:32.
DeleteHi ali, I didn't mean to be snarky either - sorry if it came off that way. I just wanted to say that if you poll your network of professionals most will agree with me. I still stand by this. I have worked in many environments, and have interacted with thousands of people in my life. 5 inches above the knee length is not acceptable attire for a professional environment and I could bet that most of the women in your network would say the same.
DeleteI apologize if it came off as rude - that was not my intention, although on re-reading what I wrote I can see why you might take it that way. Sorry.
Erika, your and my posts crossed. I agree with what you are saying about celebrity and professionalism. Kate has enviable legs, simply enviable. But to me such short skirts still look out of place and immature given her stature and status in life. And also age. I think that if you have jowls and prominent wrinkles you want to start bringing up the 'distinguished and sophisticated' quotient, not the 'sexy young thing' one. But that's just me.
Delete31 year old attorney here who always tries to dress stylishly, with about the same build as Kate. I do the “black opaque tights with dresses” thing a lot in colder weather (today, in fact), but this is too short, especially when she’s seated and knows she will be photographed seated. Two inches longer and I wouldn’t have a problem with it. I do like the pale pink and black together. I like her hair this length but she doesn’t seem to get how to style it yet. A chic, straight or gently wavy “lob” would look great on her.
DeleteJulia, the photo of Letizia is from Oct 2015 (she was Queen at that point).
DeleteErika, no backlash from me. I agree with you 1000%. There IS a difference.
Lol! We had the same thought at the same time, Rosman. Does Kate have jowls yet though?
DeleteExactly Royalfan!:)
:-)
DeleteErika - not really - that was just to make my point.
DeleteI think Kate looks great in short skirts. It depends on ones figure,not on ones age. I've worked with children my whole life and I can assure you they don't mind if someone is wearing a coat!
DeleteThank goodness Kate doesn't restrict herself to "professional" style clothing- pencil skirts , sheaths, blazers, and anything from Brooks Brothers..
Kate generally gets her clothes from UK designers. She really can't wear much from Chanel, Dior, Valentino,etc. That being said, she is so beautiful she looks better than 99% of us no matter what she wears.
I'm going to chime in here and agree with the folks who think "Kate is not at work". Kate is visiting others who are working. There is a difference. She is not an expert in a field on a career path presenting at a conference. She is a rich mum getting information on the topic. She's wearing over $2,000 worth of clothing and jewels which no one in that profession can afford. So the question really should be: do you think she is dressed appropriately as a guest? If your argument is age-related - your answer will be the same. If you liked her outfit before - your answer will be the same. Does your opinion of her outfit change if you realize - oh! she's not actually at work. She's just visiting.
DeleteThen the Queen hasn't been "at work" for 60 plus years then, nor has her comadre lazy scamp Prince Phillips from what you say. lol
DeletePerhaps Kate might actually be inputting on initiatives within the charities she "visits". That seems logical and obvious to me.
Well in this case though she is not a "professional" in the strictest sense she is there in an official capacity representing the royal family and needs to be dressed to reflect that position. Also her picture is splashed in papers and social media all over the world. This is not just a matter of age or having great legs. This is more about the position she is in and appropriateness in my opinion.
Deleteamen, 17:11. Exactly. :)
DeleteHer hemlines are similar to those of other royal women in other countries. (See Royalfan's links.) Those are her peers.
DeleteEveryone seemed so happy to see Kate, which speaks volumes to me. She looked young and vital, a good choice for this visit with the children.
ReplyDeleteI really hope more engagements are announced soon. I also hope we'll see her (and Will) at the Royal Variety performance next week. Anyone have any idea when attendees will be announced? *fingers crossed*
ReplyDeleteI was expecting - at some point - to see this repeat. I liked it the first time but remember some comments about it being too short and am not surprised to see similar comments.
ReplyDeleteI only think a dress appears to be too short or inappropriate if there's one of two things: either, I'm worried when seeing it that I think she's going to share more than she should, or second, if it's tight or form-fitting - so that when sitting it rides up to much. Kate's dress and coat have ample room for her to be comfortable.
I do feel that she chose the flat - low heeled boots - because of the length. I wonder if the J Crew Avery heels in tweed might have worked better - keeping it slightly more dressy. Those are the only other shoes I can think of but would like to know what others think or suggest.
She definitely seemed to enjoy the event and would be a wonderful patron for the charity.
I NEED those shoes that are paired with the marine blue dress! Love, love, love!!
ReplyDeleteI love them, too!
Deleteditto, 23:22.
DeleteThese are simliar. I don't think they are the ones but I saw these in an advertisement and thought - "hey, those look similar."
Deletehttps://www.katespade.com/products/baneera-heels/S945504PA.html
Kate looks beautiful (though I also miss her longer hair), the visit looks successful as always, and Charlotte always puts together the best posts. Thank you!
ReplyDeleteI like her long hair best too.
DeleteI find it so hard to imagine that anyone could criticize this stunning amazing young woman. What she her husband and her brother-in-law are doing is changing the face of mental health profoundly. Well there are some outfits that she wears that are less attractive than others she is absolutely stunning and it is amazing how she has been able to return to duties after suffering so greatly for the past several months. I just don't think there's any room to criticize her over or about anything.
ReplyDeleteI like this coat with the Peter Pan Collar very much. I like the boots paired with the outfit very much! What a nice event to attend. All positive. Just what a pregnant gal needs ;)
ReplyDeleteShe looks adorable, fashionable & age-appropriate. What a perfect charity for her! She seems to truly enjoy meeting people & being an encouragement to them.
ReplyDeleteWonderful to see the Duchess of Cambridge looking so happy in another one of her elements: children and family. Thanks, Charlotte.
ReplyDeleteThe dress is way too short (something I know many were commenting on when Kate was still in the end of her wearing of too short hemlines back about 5 years ago). This coat would look good with some proper slacks. I find it odd that she would pick to keep her coat on during an indoor activity - esp. in white working with children and paints. I would like to see Kate update her style for these more casual events. This just does not work for me at all in 2017 I'm all for recycling clothing - but the dress could be saved for private events with friends or entertaining at home when she is not going to be photographed sitting on little chairs with children.
ReplyDeleteI half expected a pair of mary janes and a skipping rope, sorry, can't help it :-)
ReplyDeleteSlim fitted trousers and flats would've looked so clean and professional; why can't she listen :-D
Well, all inn a good cause, and this post is gorgeous as ever, Charlotte!!!
Heidi
Ha ! You took the words out of my mouth Heidi.
DeleteRather uncharitable 12:29.
DeleteKate is beautiful no matter what she wears; maybe that's why people criticise her fashion.
I am assuming that when she enters a building, somebody does offer to take her coat? Does she just say: No, thanks, I'll keep my coat on? So awkward!
ReplyDeleteNot to sound rude, but Sweden has a Princess who once was a reality star who posed without clothes for photograph, why on earth can't we accept The Duchess of Cambridge wearing an above her knee skirt with opaque tights?
ReplyDeleteBecause Sophia's job called for nude posing. She was a model. Also she was a private citizen, not a duchess subsidized by public funding with a $300K clothing budget.
DeleteThere are some of us here - who if we're allowed to comment on Sweden, didn't think Sofia should be a royal princess - that her husband should have relinquished his title to marry her. Her activities went beyond what most models, even glamour models, and actresses, do. She was basically a Page 3 girl. Its' not just nudity - the photos were crass and vulgar. I don't recall seeing her in short skirts since her marriage either, but I don't pay much attention to her so I could be wrong - some of her outfits have been tasteful, others have shown off her...er assets far much for my liking.
DeleteI do hold Kate to very different and higher standards. But it's not just length - I tend to agree with those here who commented that it looks immature - and I do like a level of professional dress - not pinstripes (although Diana looked brilliant in those) just dresses of just above knee length or lower, for daytime.
As part of her job? lol Some people have parameters of what they will or will not do for money. Many draw the line at nudity, particularly very suggestive nudity. And some draw the line at steamy sex scenes on television. To many it is a matter of character. Meghan says she would re-think those steamy sex scenes of hers on "Suits" given the opportunity and subsequently declined a risqué scene and had them change the scene.
DeleteAs for Sophia, I think she has had an epiphany
about self worth. I have read about women who once did a lot of things for money that they no longer do because they have, through receiving various charitable counseling and other help, like vocational training, etc. and opportunities for other gainful employment gained self-respect and self-esteem.
I have not seen the pictures and have no desire to see them. But obviously I have read that she did nude posing. And who knows why she did them? Maybe she enjoyed it ? Maybe she didn't think it was a huge deal? Whatever..
DeleteWhat do you think about our first lady's nude posing surfergirl? Those pictures I actually *have* seen because they have been plastered all over the media. Was this before or after she gained "self-respect and self-esteem". Do you think she has enough now? What else is she doing or has done for money ? LOL.
I so enjoy this blog and Charlotte’s balanced approach that highlights the issues, causes and charities that rightly deserve attention, with all of the fashion and lifestyle information about the Cambridge’s. And I appreciate commentators on this site who give their honest insight and opinion on both topics.
DeleteI am saddened when the subjects veer into the irrelevant political arena such as the comments by Roseman. The topic of social media bullying is a prevalent and complicated issue, and polite, respectful and relevant commentary sets a positive example for all people engaged in online communications.
Speaking as an American why would a non British citizen complain about the clothing allowances of British royals? It's a drop in the bucket compared to Maralago trips.
DeleteWe don't even know what the royals pay for clothes.They may get deep discounts.
You all have great suggestions to solve her pants and lack of fashion sense issues. Any of these would be fine options and still allow for a focus on her long legs instead of her expanding middle, which seems to be driving her short skirts in pregnancy habit.
ReplyDeleteThis is a bit of a miss for me on the fashion front. I'll preface by saying I have zero problem with above-the-knee hemlines, even for a royal. What I don't like or understand is why Kate continues to choose such *short* dresses, especially when a growing, pregnant stomach will cause the hemline to raise even further, and *especially* when she's at an active engagement that requires a lot of bending, sitting, squatting, etc. I agree with all of you who have been begging for a stylist. For some reason, Kate's style choices have seemed to go astray and aren't what they were when she was first married. There's no reason for her to be matronly or dowdy. I simply think that, at this point, she could use some help putting together both stylish *and* engagement-appropriate outfits.
ReplyDeleteI agree with you Becca H. This is a bit of a miss. I love this coat, and love the dress- though I agree with most that it is a little short. In general, the shorter hemline does not bother me- but in this case I don't know that it was a good choice. When she's sitting in the chair you can see how her skirt is riding up and she has her legs glued together. Plus, she was sitting on the floor with kids- perhaps pants or a longer skirt would have made more sense. In general though, the dress and coat are great, and there is no reason to have to avoid shorter skirts unless (for an occasion like this) it just isn't practical. I will say though- I hate this outfit with the boots. I know the boots make more sense for this engagement where she was sitting on the floor, but the way she styled this outfit last time was more successful for me.
ReplyDeleteI would LOOOOOVE to see her pair this coat with nice slim dress trousers (not skinny jeans, trousers!!) But-
despite all of that- she always looks gorgeous!
Thank you Anonymous 15:08 for providing evidence to prove my point that you replied to; this is a non political site curtesy of the graciousness and integrity of Charlotte. I have not pontificated on the financial aspect of the Duchess’s wardrobe but I am not offended that some commenters are curious and do, since it is one of the subjects reasonably related to this thoughtful blog. There are many different forums that you may utilize to vent your concerns and opinions on other matters. I am drawn to facts and am humble enough to avoid drawing conclusions without evidence to support my opinion.
ReplyDeleteI have no qualms about mentioning prices of outfits for the sake of people who are interested in purchasing them. I was referring to foreigners complaining about royals' clothing allowances. It's a recurrent theme. It would seem equally odd if, for example, a UK citizen expressed strong feelings about the cost of Mrs. Trump redecorating the White House.
ReplyDeleteWll i love the duchess looking ao healthy and good i love she happy and healthy I love the style i review some video its quitte a year
ReplyDelete