The Duchess arriving.
Kate was all smiles upon arrival following what one imagines was an evening of celebrations at Kensington Palace after the engagement announcement of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle. Meghan and Harry are residing in Nottingham Cottage - William and Kate's first home. In the coming months I have no doubt the Duchess will be on hand to give Meghan advice with the royal wedding approaching. A statement from William and Kate read 'We are very excited for Harry and Meghan. It has been wonderful getting to know Meghan and to see how happy she and Harry are together.' During the engagement interview, Meghan added Kate has been "wonderful". It's a hugely exciting time for the family.
Of course the engagement was the immediate source of conversation. Kate was happy to share her delight at the news:
Very interestingly, Kate actually walked up to the press to share her message. Although it was pre-arranged, it was surprising and I believe a first for the Duchess.
Several of you on social media noted how nervous Kate appeared - a sentiment echoed by royal reporter Rebecca English.
Emily Andrews added:
The Foundling Museum explores the history of the Foundling Hospital, the UK’s first children’s charity and first public art gallery.
Kate has been deeply interested in art since her university days. Today's visit will have been a fascinating one for her.
"William and I are absolutely thrilled. It’s such exciting news. It’s a really happy time for any couple and we wish them all the best and hope they enjoy this happy moment.”
Very interestingly, Kate actually walked up to the press to share her message. Although it was pre-arranged, it was surprising and I believe a first for the Duchess.
VIDEO: Kate on Harry and Meghan’s wedding #RoyalEngagment pic.twitter.com/VBbqzZ8NGD— Victoria Murphy (@QueenVicMirror) November 28, 2017
Emily Andrews added:
The Foundling Museum explores the history of the Foundling Hospital, the UK’s first children’s charity and first public art gallery.
Kate has been deeply interested in art since her university days. Today's visit will have been a fascinating one for her.
The Foundling Hospital, which continues today as the children’s charity Coram, was established in 1739 by the philanthropist Thomas Coram to care for babies at risk of abandonment. After 17 years of tireless campaigning, Thomas Coram finally received a Royal Charter from King George II in 1739, enabling him to establish his Foundling Hospital. From 1741 when the first babies were admitted, to 1954 when the last pupil was placed in foster care, the Foundling Hospital cared for and educated around 25,000 children. Instrumental in helping Coram realise his vision was the artist William Hogarth, who encouraged leading artists of the day to donate work, and George Frideric Handel, who conducted annual benefit concerts in the Hospital’s chapel. Their creative generosity set the template for the ways in which the arts can support philanthropy.
Today artists continue to be central to the Foundling Museum’s work; through a dynamic programme of exhibitions and events the museum celebrates the ways in which the arts have helped improve children’s lives for over 275 years and aims to inspire everyone to make a positive contribution to society.
If you’re looking for unique things to do around King's Cross, the museum is a hidden London gem.
The Court Room of the Foundling Hospital was called "the most perfect room in London", with its grand rococo ceiling and artwork depicting the plight of children in biblical tales, including Hogarth's 'Moses before Pharaoh's Daughter'. When the original eighteenth-century Hospital was torn down in the 1920s, the Court Room was saved and painstakingly reconstructed. It can be seen in all its glory by visitors to the Museum today.
Exhibitions currently on display include Basic Instincts. Curated by Dr Jacqueline Riding, Basic Instincts explores Georgian attitudes to love, desire and female respectability through the radical paintings of Joseph Highmore. It is the first major Highmore exhibition for 50 years and explores this decade of disruptive social commentary in his art.
During her visit, Kate received a briefing on the history of the Hospital and how the museum continues to engage vulnerable and marginalised young people.
The Duchess viewed tokens which were left by mothers with their babies at The Foundling Hospital so they could identify them.
They are now on display in the museum.
The Duchess met families and children who have benefited from the museum's education and outreach programmes.
Kate met pre-school children from a local nursery who regularly visit the museum and young care leavers who are being trained to run their own creative workshops.
As always, Kate was in her element with the children.
Time for a spot of arts and crafts.
Kate with eleven-year-old Olivia who took part in art therapy sessions at Great Ormond St hospital.
Kate wore a pretty diamond print Kate Spade dress today. The shirt style dress features a long flowing skirt with stripe detail. The piece is not yet available, it's from the Resort 2018 Collection (amazing ID by Perth Fashion). Below, we show it in pink. Kate's dress will be available online from Friday.
A closer look at the band on the waist with a distinctive burgundy stripe.
Other Kate Spade pieces available in the same diamond print include the Diamond Jacquard Jacket, the Diamond Print Pleated Skirt (reduced from $298 to $208) and the Diamond Jacquard Cigarette Pants (reduced from $198 to $138). Thanks to Kate Middleton and Middleton Maven!
For those fond of the brand, they are offering 30% off full-priced items and 40% off sale items with code MOREJOY until tonight.
The Duchess teamed the dress with her burgundy Gianvito Rossi pumps.
And carried her burgundy Mulberry suede clutch.
For jewellery, Kate opted for her sapphire and diamond oval earrings.
Commenting Note: I want to conclude the post with an important note, which I'm posting both here and on Mad About Meghan, on comments moving forward. Whilst the very vast majority of comments on both blogs were fair, reasonable and enjoyable to read, I have observed an ongoing issue which (as my grandmother would say) needs to be swiftly nipped in the bud. I am referring to mainly unpublished comments. Kate is Kate. Meghan is Meghan. Both are entirely different women, with different strengths and weaknesses, in entirely different roles. In a society that pits women against each other, as a community we must strive to avoid the Kate v Meghan narrative. On 'both sides' of the fence, particularly cruel remarks have been left. The primary reason I started the separate blog was to avoid the negativity created by endless comparisons. This blog is not a venue for tearing Meghan Markle apart nor is the other blog a place to relentlessly bash the Duchess of Cambridge. I think people forget William, Kate, Harry and Meghan are all on the same team - the future of the monarchy - this sort of imagined rivalry is the very last thing they want. Moving forward, I hope we can enjoy following both women without a repeat of the unkind remarks left yesterday. Thank you very much for reading and for your understanding.
We'll see Kate tomorrow when she visits Robin Hood Primary School to celebrate their work with the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) Campaign for School Gardening.
The Court Room of the Foundling Hospital was called "the most perfect room in London", with its grand rococo ceiling and artwork depicting the plight of children in biblical tales, including Hogarth's 'Moses before Pharaoh's Daughter'. When the original eighteenth-century Hospital was torn down in the 1920s, the Court Room was saved and painstakingly reconstructed. It can be seen in all its glory by visitors to the Museum today.
Exhibitions currently on display include Basic Instincts. Curated by Dr Jacqueline Riding, Basic Instincts explores Georgian attitudes to love, desire and female respectability through the radical paintings of Joseph Highmore. It is the first major Highmore exhibition for 50 years and explores this decade of disruptive social commentary in his art.
During her visit, Kate received a briefing on the history of the Hospital and how the museum continues to engage vulnerable and marginalised young people.
The Duchess viewed tokens which were left by mothers with their babies at The Foundling Hospital so they could identify them.
They are now on display in the museum.
The Duchess met families and children who have benefited from the museum's education and outreach programmes.
Kate met pre-school children from a local nursery who regularly visit the museum and young care leavers who are being trained to run their own creative workshops.
As always, Kate was in her element with the children.
Time for a spot of arts and crafts.
Kate with eleven-year-old Olivia who took part in art therapy sessions at Great Ormond St hospital.
The Duchess meets little Louisa, aged 11, who took part in art therapy sessions at @GreatOrmondSt - The @FoundlingMuseum runs programmes there. pic.twitter.com/eZvU1W3vW5— Kensington Palace (@KensingtonRoyal) November 28, 2017
A closer look at the band on the waist with a distinctive burgundy stripe.
Other Kate Spade pieces available in the same diamond print include the Diamond Jacquard Jacket, the Diamond Print Pleated Skirt (reduced from $298 to $208) and the Diamond Jacquard Cigarette Pants (reduced from $198 to $138). Thanks to Kate Middleton and Middleton Maven!
 |
| Bloomingdales |
For those fond of the brand, they are offering 30% off full-priced items and 40% off sale items with code MOREJOY until tonight.
The Duchess teamed the dress with her burgundy Gianvito Rossi pumps.
 |
| Gianvito Rossi |
And carried her burgundy Mulberry suede clutch.
For jewellery, Kate opted for her sapphire and diamond oval earrings.
Commenting Note: I want to conclude the post with an important note, which I'm posting both here and on Mad About Meghan, on comments moving forward. Whilst the very vast majority of comments on both blogs were fair, reasonable and enjoyable to read, I have observed an ongoing issue which (as my grandmother would say) needs to be swiftly nipped in the bud. I am referring to mainly unpublished comments. Kate is Kate. Meghan is Meghan. Both are entirely different women, with different strengths and weaknesses, in entirely different roles. In a society that pits women against each other, as a community we must strive to avoid the Kate v Meghan narrative. On 'both sides' of the fence, particularly cruel remarks have been left. The primary reason I started the separate blog was to avoid the negativity created by endless comparisons. This blog is not a venue for tearing Meghan Markle apart nor is the other blog a place to relentlessly bash the Duchess of Cambridge. I think people forget William, Kate, Harry and Meghan are all on the same team - the future of the monarchy - this sort of imagined rivalry is the very last thing they want. Moving forward, I hope we can enjoy following both women without a repeat of the unkind remarks left yesterday. Thank you very much for reading and for your understanding.
We'll see Kate tomorrow when she visits Robin Hood Primary School to celebrate their work with the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) Campaign for School Gardening.
A great engagement with good tie ins to Kate's patronages! Lovely art and rooms, and a nice charity tied in to it!
ReplyDeleteNice to hear some remarks about the engagement. Comments along the lines of what the other royals have said, which makes very much sense. Nice news/Very happy/Hope they'll be happy is basically the only acceptable comments and the natural reaction :) I'm sure Kate is happy to have another woman to share this odd experience with!
I quite like the look. It's a bit mumsy, but in a cozy way that I like with the bump! I really like the pairing with the shoes and bag! Very nice. I like that she didn't button it all the way up. I'm not 100% sure on the hair down but an updo would have been a bit over the top with the mumsy-ness. Maybe a pony? She always has the best ponytails!
Great to see her looking happy and healthy! It will be a packed spring to come!
So Kate could wear a sack and still look like a beauty queen especially when pregnant.
DeleteBut I agree that this dress is frumpy looking. I think it would be vastly improved if it were several inches shorter. So if it grazed the knee it would look sporty and youngish.. that with strappy sandals, ponytail would take years off of anyone who wore it.
I don't think it's frumpy per se. I like that it's a bit "60s housewife". Don't know why, but the look feels comforting to me.
DeleteCute i think. I really cannot get passed her hair. I’ve been unsure whether or not I’m a fan and...nope. This sealed the deal. It seems so flat. Almost like it’s hair sprayed in place. It doesn’t have the free flowing vibrancy and suppleness it once seemed to have...:(
ReplyDeleteIs she still there or is the event over?
ReplyDeleteLike that she gave the outfit a burgundy touch with the shoes & clutch! It's a color I love in winter.
ReplyDeleteAnd nice she made a comment about the engagement 💍
Lovely dress. Don't like the hem rising due to her pregnancy.For sure no pregnancy cut. Middle part - still don't like it.
ReplyDeleteI agree it is *very* interesting she went up to the press- like she truly wanted to make a statement- she obviously knew what they would ask. I take this to show her coming in to her more formal role as a senior royal- making a statement on behalf of her branch of the family, and perhaps some coaching from Ms. Quinn?
ReplyDeleteI think both factors come into play - both a new responsibility and advice from Mrs Quinn. (Camilla's remarks came out easier but are also more open to interpretation - so Camilla!)
DeleteJulia, we're on the same page regarding interpretation. :-)
DeleteWhatever else she is, she can be very clever, can't she?
DeleteWhat a lovely words.Kate and William enjoy that Harry find her beloved.
ReplyDeleteShe looks beautiful.Polka dress has amazing design.Great choice with burgundy shoes.
I think that is my problem with this dress to, it would be so nice to see her embracing this pregnancy with some real maternity wear.
ReplyDeleteIt was a lovely comment on yesterday's announcement, but it would be equally lovely if she recognised the press more and give them something to talk about.
Thank you for the lovely detailed post on the Museum, it looks absolutely stunning.
I meant this under Imke's comment.
DeleteHas she got a new assistant?
ReplyDeleteYes. Catherine Quinn took over after Rebecca Priestley resigned to open her own business. (Goofy spelcheck thinks Rebecca has only one 'c'.)
DeleteI’m a bit behind on posts both here and on Mad About Meghan so I’m trying to catch up. (Definitely not behind on Harry and Meghan’s engagement though!)
ReplyDeleteI had an emergency appendectomy right before Thanksgiving! I’ve never had surgery before so I was a bit nervous (aka terrified). But I kept thinking “Man, if Kate can make it through HG THREE times, I can definitely make it through my surgery!” ...My husband thought that was a weird mantra, but I think you all might understand lol!
Anything that works! Glad to hear you got through it ok and hope you're recovering nicely!
DeleteFeel better soon Natalie.
DeleteKate is such a beauty, no matter what she wears. This is not my favorite look for her, but if she is comfortable then so be it. I thought it endearing that she spoke to the press, and I am not going down that road of comparing Kate and Meghan. Two different ladies, each with their strengths. Kate will always be a favorite for me. I look forward to learning more about Meghan, and how her new role in the firm plays out on the world stage.
DeleteI'm glad to hear it is behind you and wish you all the best. Hope you are doing well.
DeleteNatalie. Glad you made it through that and Kate would be so touched that she had inspired and strengthened you. :)
DeleteSo cute that upon medical clearance you rush back to DKB. A true DKB' er. :)
I hope every day is a better day for you, Natalie!
DeleteNatalie, you're a woman after my own heart--I would have done something similar in your shoes! Glad to hear you are on the mend.
DeleteI like her dress and her choice of burgundy heels and clutch to accent the burgundy stripe at the waist. I would have liked to see a different pair of earrings, perhaps the Vinnie Day leaf earrings.
ReplyDeleteAren't these the earrings that are said to be made from a pair of Diana's? If so, surely Kate wore them to emphasize her support for Harry and Meghan.
DeleteI don't like this dress it reminds me of the dresses ladies used to wear back in the day when they worked in a bank, would love to she her experiment more with fashion, even though she is now pregnant she could really do with a bit of a sprucing up. Such a beautiful woman
ReplyDeleteI don't see anything wrong with the way she spoke, I think it was quite endearing actually. Given the fact that she has never done anything like it before, it's sweet that she acknowledged the happy news rather than ignore it or pretend that people would not still be talking about it. I have no doubt that Kate is genuinely happy for Harry and Meghan.
ReplyDeleteI really like the burgundy shoes and bag with this dress. I'm not sure about the actual dress though, I think that I'm still longing for some fabulous repeats from her other pregnancies.
Love Avee in SA
I agree. I think the short statement was all that was needed and nicely delivered. Yes, it was not off the cuff, but who cares.
DeleteI think Kate spoke to the press in her usual gracious and ladylike manner, which by the way are some of the reasons I adore Kate. I agree Avee that Kate is genuinely happy for Harry; and agree Rebecca that the statement was all that was needed, nicely delivered, whether prepared or not...it was a nice gesture and a way to affirm that the Cambridges are in support of the engagement. cc
DeleteI was glad to see her venture towards the press voluntarily. I do wish she would relax and not be so scared of speaking. Kate's nervousness is a turnoff for people like me who are confident speakers but were shy kids. I don't understand why she is still this way at her age. I was watching videos of Autumn Phillips who had a very regular Canadian upbringing (bartending her way through college) but is so much more natural and gracious. Yet Autumn hardly speaks in public, ever. So practice is not always going to make it better. Unless Kate addresses the root of the problem - why she lacks assertiveness and confidence, she will always be scurrying around like a scared bunny deferring to William all the way.
DeleteAs someone who is an introvert, like Kate, and a Mental Health Advocate, it is grossly inappropriate for anyone on this blog to say that Kate needs therapy to improve her shyness and nervousness in public (aka...her introversion). Only a Mental Health professional who has examined and talked at length with Kate could have the knowledge necessary to suggest therapy. As someone who lives with severe depression, PTSD, and anxiety, I am a proponent of therapy and there is never any shame in seeking professional help that is needed. As an introvert who stands in support of Kate, there is nothing wrong with being shy and better with people one-on-one than with large groups and crowds. There is no shame in being introverted and it is not something that needs to be fixed with therapy. Kate is who she is and I'm proud of her. When I read comments like the one above, it angers me greatly. It also hurts deeply on a personal level, as Kate and I have very similar personalities. This kind of constant criticism in the comments is the reason I have refrained from commenting at all. But this time I couldn't ignore what was being said.
DeleteI love this dress, especially with the burgundy clutch and shoes. I love the pink version as well! I think that it is too early for her to be wearing real maternity wear as she is barely showing. I'm sure she was nervous making a statement to the press, but she did a fine job.
ReplyDeleteHope USA
So last night in my exhausted sleep I dreamt about weddings, weddings, weddings. I dreamt I arrived at a hotel to check in and everyone was dressed up like a bride and groom. Seriously.
ReplyDeleteAnyway, thank you Charlotte for those lovely photos and history of the Foundling Museum. I read History at University almost 40 years ago and one of my papers revolved around Hogarth and the treatment of women during that era. It was before Women's Studies was popular and so almost all of my resources were male centered, from a male point of view on women. I am kicking myself now that I didn't know about this museum whilst I was in Ireland, would have loved to have visited it! Next time!
I couldn't help but wonder whether, having watched the M & H interview last night, Kate made a quiet resolution to be a little friendlier, a little more open. But it isn't going to be easy for her, she really is a one-on-one type person. And I think that William has influenced her view of the Press whereas with Harry and Meghan, I think that her perspective on the Press might have softened him somewhat. I hope that more exposure to Meghan, womanish confidences exchanged over coffee and biscuits, will help her to relax. Maybe she and Meghan can do yoga together!!
It's not just the press. Kate is generally anxious around people. If I were her I would try to get some therapy to figure out why. I spent a ton of time yesterday watching Sophie and Autumn speak and they are worlds more natural and confident. It is astonishing to me that a woman of Kate's upbringing who went to the best schools and had a bunch of pretty posh friends growing up would be so lacking in assertiveness and confidence. It makes no sense and honestly I would go to a therapist for an issue like this.
DeleteSophie and Autumn aren't scrutinized like Kate. Everything she wears,says,does is analyzed,picked apart, and semonized on. A picture capturing a split second of her life is used to spin a narrative about her supposed thoughts and feelings. Who wouldn't be a little leary about public appearances. Eventually she'll get more used to it.
Delete"Therapy"?? That's quite an extreme opinion & criticsm. She is obviously a confident, content woman who keeps her priorities with her family and making a difference in her charities. Apparently the people in her charities and family like her just as she is so I think comments like this should be kept to yourself and not publicly criticize her in such a way. I'm not sure why people who want to criticize her keep reading about her and taking the effort to publicly criticize harshly. Let's keep this blog a pleasant place as Charlotte has asked.
DeleteRosman, would you send the Queen to therapy because she is reserved and dignified?
DeleteSusie there is nothing wrong with therapy. I am astounded after ALL this talk on mental health you are saying that therapy is bad ? And suggesting it is "criticism". Did you know that Queen Elizabeth's father worked through his own issues through speech therapy ? And I bet that there was a good amount of counselling that went in as well, given the fact that his stuttering stemmed from abuse from his nanny. This blog IS a pleasant place. I don't know when you started reading or commenting because I haven't ever seen your name but please don't lecture me and suggest that I not read it.
DeleteEveryone has failings. NOBODY is perfect. The mark of a strong person is to work through our failures and emerge better. To me Kate's difficulties seem exceptional. She is the most timid 34 or 35 year old I have ever seen in my life. Most women by her age are grasping life by the horns and flying ! There will be nothing wrong if she gets some help from professionals to work through her nervousness by figuring out the cause of the nervousness and eventually become strong confident and natural. Just go and watch some other members of the royal family (any royal family, not just the BRF) speak and you will see why she is an exception. Scrutiny is a part of life - you have NO idea how much scrutiny I am under as part of my job. We learn to still thrive despite it.
Susie, I think it may have been extreme for Rosman to suggest therapy, but I have to disagree firmly with you calling a suggestion of therapy a "criticism". Will and Kate and Harry have been working to reduce the stigma surrounding mental health and part of that is reducing stigma about seeking treatment. As someone some who copes with mental health issues with therapy, I don't like any hint of seeing seeking therapy as a negative thing. If Kate or anyone else sought therapy for any reason, I would not think anything less of her. Indeed, I would admire her more for getting the help she needs.
Delete@Rosman: Waow... quite the assumptions you are making there! Therapy? Well...allow me to take offense, in Kate's name. :-)
DeleteBelieve it or not, some people are natural introverts and that doesn't make them "in need of therapy". This is their personality, it's who they are and it sure doesn't need changing. These are private individuals by design. They thrive in the intimacy of small, relatively closed, trustworthy groups and ... crazy of all crazies, they even have an actual inner life! They lack the desire to be the center of attention, life-of-the-party or people-pleasers. Yes, they may even be slightly-less-than-comfortable in crowds...so what? This is super OK, because really, rarely are crowds anything to write home about. I don't mean anything offensive about the individuals who make up the crowds - I am talking about the actual crowd, as a concept, in and of itself. A rather creepy concept, if you ask me.
So I think Kate is one such person - an introvert. To me - and I am sure to others who can relate to this type of personality - this is what makes her interesting and more endearing. A little mystery and reserve won't hurt anyone in this age of blatant attention-seeking, popularity-mining behavior. She's super fine the way she is, quite fitting for a person in her role... and I do hope that the crowd-pleasing poses of her soon-to-be sister-in-law won't act as pressures for her to try to alter who she is.
5.52, I agree with every word you wrote. I continue to be amazed at how often natural introverts are underestimated and their confidence, etc is questioned.
DeleteBeing the squeakiest wheel does not necessarily translate into having confidence and being comfortable in ones skin. As a matter of fact, it's been my experience that **some** extroverts have far less confidence than they believe they portray. They *need* approval and validation on so many levels.
IMO people like Kate have the strength of character to follow their hearts and values, and make decisions that may not be the most popular. And in no way does that make them arrogant, but they simply don't need the validation and approval from the crowd.
Two points I want to make very quickly
Delete1. THERAPY IS NOT BAD. To the ladies who equate therapy with negativity or criticism please examine your biases and read up on mental health. If you purport to be Kate's fans the best thing you can do is understand what it does and what the initiative comprises of. You reveal your own biases and ignorance through your comments.
2. I am an introvert. Very very. I spent 24 years of my life getting degrees because my comfort level is to spend hours by myself in front of a computer. I spend 8-12 hours a day staring at numbers on the screen. Several days pass when I don't speak to people at work. But as part of my job I have to lecture 100 people twice a week every single week. Introversion has NOTHING to do with timidity. Or ability to speak well. NOTHING. Introverts are often the best speakers because they understand their material so well. They are often understated and are able to convey difficult concepts very thoroughly and succinctly because they are parsimonious with words.
I am one of the best speakers in my profession and can give lectures extempore any time any day. I am not saying this to brag, it is simply true. My father, who is also an introvert and spends pretty much all day in his study is one of the most fascinating lecturers I have ever listened to. He was a university professor and had such an impact on people that 40 years later I meet his students who tell me about his lectures.
Again, I have to respectfully say 5.52 you have no clue what introversion means. Nor do you understand what it takes to be a public speaker. They are orthogonal concepts that need orthogonal skills. Having one does not preclude the other. I firmly disagree on every single point you have made.
Rosman, I don't think Kate is timid. And even if she were, I think we are confusing two thing, moral character, that makes each of us an unique individual and mental health. I don't think one should change one's character, except by polishing it in the sense of becoming a kinder and better person. Mental health is another thing and simple shyness is not a pathology. I don't even think Kate is unusually shy. What she is IMO, is unassuming, and dislikes to be the centre of attention. I find those traits very endearing. In fact I almost regret they are not catching, the world could do with an epidemy of them.
DeleteI for one am more of a Maxima type, and could not be 1 hour, let alone 8 without speaking to someone. Curiously, that is why I admire Kate. The exuberant, warm attitude is something easy to do, from my point of view. Now the dignified, reserved, gentle and gracious is what I look up to. I will just add, given the opportunity, I'd like to brag about the fact that I am quite a good speaker myself!
Natacha, don't get me wrong. I find Kate endearing as well ! I think she is so sweet and kind and of course so so beautiful. That is why I follow her. At the same time I think her behavior around adults shows an unusual amount of timidity and reticence. She behaves like a young immature girl when she is a 34 o5 35 year old, I forget. She is exceptionally nervous compared to pretty much everyone in the family.
DeleteReserved people who don't like attention can still become good speakers and adopt a confident persona. Imagine what her children will think when they watch her videos later - their beautiful, warm engaging mother trembling like a leaf when having to read a speech from a paper. I just think it does not befit her status and where she comes from.
And frankly about timidity - I don't know what to think. She certainly appears timid when talking to people sometimes. However, when Kate was courting William she was quite bold. She wore underwear to a fashion show in front of hundreds of people - truly introverted and reserved people don't do that. She clubbed like crazy and was not shy in showing her beauty off to the press to signal to William what he was missing. These are not the actions of a women who is 1. Introverted or 2. Shy and timid.
So what is going on? Why is she so reserved now and incapable of speaking? In the new post Cecilia suggests her accent.. she clearly tries with her accent. More in the new thread.
...and, I will add, Rosman, you have great humility.
DeleteRosman, I think what's going on is that Kate is very aware that she is representing the Queen and, at some point, will be representing her Edwardian father-in-law. In every post, comparisons are made between Kate and business woman and other royal ladies who are similar in age. Frankly, it doesn't matter what goes on in corporate America, or what Mary, Victoria, or Maxima wear and do. Kate is no fool and she has an excellent grasp on the family she married into. Many of the suggestions that have been made on this blog over the years would have Kate end up on the Firm's ****-list if she actually acted on them. Fill in the blank. ;-)
DeleteRoyalfan - you say comparing Kate to others doesnt matter. But in your comment in this same thread above you agreed whole-heartedly with anon 05:52 who did just that - compared Kate with a slight to Meghan. In your reply you did so too albeit indirectly. I would not reference other outside blogs here in this space. Lets be fair in what we say and what we do
DeleteRosman I agree with every single word you have written on this topic, Kate and theraphy, even speech theraphy. Let's hope it won't fall on deaf ears.
DeleteIf I get it well, Kate is aware that she is representing the Queen and out of respect for her and her family and the institution, she deliberately speaks the way she does. Haha wonderful.
A print and colored shoes? You'll hear no complaints from me!
ReplyDeleteDitto from me!
DeleteI love the color of outfit i lovely comment about meghan markle and her bother in law im sure they will have a wonderful and blissful marriage
ReplyDeleteI love this look. I am noting though, that Kate is going to have to step up her game. Meghan has a passion to be a people person, and the drive to make the world better. She’s very independent, whereas Kate is not. I don’t think it’s going to be an easy road for Kate, but her new secretary was probably hired to help her step up her game, and become more independent.
ReplyDeleteKate doesn't have to step up her game. She is doing just fine. She is herself. Why should she change who she is because of meghan. Meghan is more outgoing and Kate is shy. So different women.
DeleteI was thinking the same watching the interview with Meghan and harry yesterday. Meghan is so natural in front of the camera. She comes off as so confident and pulled together. Kate needs to spend a little more time practicing. I think she is as passionate as Meghan and hopes she learns to express it as easily.
DeleteAnnie
NY, USA
Honestly, I *much* prefer Kate's composed, demure, poised manner. Especially for a future Queen Consort. She does not need to change who she is one bit- she and William have always been the more quiet couple, and that's what we've expected of them- think of all the fuss when William was dancing at the bars last winter. I love that with Kate, we know what we're going to get- her more introverted, restrained mannerisms are at the very least, genuine.
DeleteI think I like Meghan, but at the same time, I think some of her bold confidence in front of the camera stems from her ability to ACT. She is, indeed, an actress. Some of the interview yesterday, while darling, I felt was a bit over the top and a show.
Anon 14.00, you do realize that Meghan is a woman who choose the path for her profession to be red carpet camera focused. It's hardly surprising that a professional actress is good in front of the camera! Yes, Kate can and will improve, but it's hardly fair to compare a woman who had no plans that we know of to live a public life that has never made a claim on being a speaker or anything of the sort to a person who choose that as a career path and was talented enough to get roles. Apples and oranges people!
DeleteKate doesn't need to step up anything. Meghan is an actor and is at home in front of the camera - it's frankly unfair to say she should need to change anything about herself. Kate's role is different and she has never sought the spotlight. There is nothing wrong with either Kate or Meghan, they are different women with different interests and strengths. Comments like this are rude and unnecessary.
DeleteI disagree that Kate "needs" to change. She is who she is and Meghan is who she is. As a shy and reserved person myself, I have often looked at women like Meghan and envied them, wished I could be more outgoing and more confident. I thought it would make life easier and make me more successful - perhaps that is true. But that is simply not who I am and nothing can ever change that and I could no more "up my game" than I could change the color of my eyes or size of my feet.
DeleteI don't think comparison of Kate to Meghan does service to either of them. Their individual qualities have both positive and negative aspects. They may have different roles in the years to come: Kate is focussing on raising a future monarch and future senior royals, which is just as important as any work Meghan will do in the future.
Your comments make me feel bad for both of them, because I believe it's what is coming - from the media, etc...comparing them and pitting them against each other....it's what the media love to do with women in the spotlight. This is unfortunate because it will to take away from the positive work both of them will be trying to do in the future.
I posted my previous comments about how I felt about comparisons between Meghan and Kate before I fully read the blog. I had just scrolled through the photographs. Then I read what Charlotte wrote at the end. I'm so glad she said it, because not everyone will read through all of the comments. It was such an important thing to say!
DeleteAs Charlotte said, they are two very different women. I'd assume that Meghan is naturally chatty and warm and because of her background in the entertainment industry, she is more at ease with being interviewed. Kate has her own strengths and while she may not be as natural as her future sister-in-law, I'd like to think that she is able to offer something different to this table. Everyone's different and I hope we all respect that.
DeleteI love Kate's dress today. It reminds me of what I used to wear to work back when I used to have to dress nice for my job! So, very professional but not so dull as a suit or pantsuit (heaven forbid!)
DeleteSo it's started already. Kate versus Megan. They are both lovely different ladies and don't need to change st all.
DeleteCeeCee from KY, I completely agree with your comments! cc
Deletei wasn't trying to be down on Kate. i think she's fantastic. i'm sure she'll help meghan get acclimated, and i'm sure meghan can help her feel more at ease, that's all. obviously, they are different. meghan knew the media before she knew harry. Kate's start with the media was much different than that AND she saw things through william's point of view, first, which only boggles it up that much more. I think Kate is actually a very confident woman. being comfortable in front of a camera is NOT an indicator of confidence, but just comfort. i'd love to see Kate more comfortable in front of the camera because i think she's great and would love to see her relaxed. also, wouldn't it just make her role in this life that much easier? everyone has things about themselves to work on, and if this is Kate's biggest issue, she's WAY ahead of the game.
DeleteAnnie
NY, USA
I think Kate and Meghan are just different facets of the Royal Family. Like a diamond-it takes ALL the facets to make it shine.
DeleteI loved seeing Kate today, suddenly looking more pregnant as it often happens in the second trimester. I would also like to echo what many have said here. Kate is Kate - in my eyes her character perfectly befits a future Queen consort. A certain reserve, like the Queen, is important. Meghan has a very different destiny which she is quite suited to her personality as well. In private I am sure they help each other and perhaps admire each other. So let us leave it at that.
DeleteCharlotte, thank you for your words. Perhaps I am being an idealist, but I like to believe that Harry and William are unique individuals and each fell in love with a unique person that is beautiful inside and out in her own way and complimentary to his personality. It does not surprise me in the least that Meghan and Kate have different tastes in clothing and different ways of handling themselves in interviews and such. I cannot imagine William or Harry would want to be married to "Stepford Wives" nor would the public want that. They want to interact with genuine, real, people. There will always be those who are more fans of one lady or the other or just prefer one particular outfit more than another. But I try to always remember that, while the resources at their disposable may be enviable the constant public scrutiny certainly is not. Perhaps they should be granted a little leeway for the occasional outfit misstep or interview imperfection (whether that be perceived stiffness or excessive chattiness). Personally, I enjoy my anonymity :-P
DeleteTammy, I love your perspective! I agree that both are an asset to the Royal Family, and are aptly suited for their respective husbands.
DeleteCan we PLEASE not compare these two women till the end of time? I come here for Kate and i do mean that, just Kate. there is a separate blog for Meghan if you wish to discuss her elsewhere. also you can read charlotte's message above about this. thanks.
DeleteCould we just love them both for who they are and how well they fit and will fit into their royal roles. Kate, a future queen, who has grown up amongst the upper echelons of British life, and Meghan, a superstar actress who is used to the limelight and has that charismatic, outgoing personality that you often find in America, but not so often in Europe. They are both amazing!!!!
DeleteAs the saying goes: "No. Just no". :-)
DeleteWhat's everything thinking as far as boy/girl? I know it's still early, but I love hearing guesses. Her face and the way she's filled out there makes me think girl because it reminds me of when she was pregnant with Charlotte.
ReplyDeleteNot a huge fan of the dress and wish she'd introduce more color to her wardrobe, but her makeup looks lovely!
Yes, it's still early... about 4 to 5 months early. Any time between now and when the baby is born won't make any difference in our ability to guess. Visible clues are hogwash. We'll know when the child is born. I would imagine any guesses would result in a 50/50 result.
DeleteProbably true, Pam, except when my mother guessed gender. She was always right! I have never been able to do it, even though I heard her rules.
DeleteI just know that I carried each of my four differently and my face looked fuller with some than with others because my weight gain varied with each one, and mine are all girls! Guesses aside, we can have our hopes and I’m hoping for a girl, maybe I’m biased but they’re more adorable to me than boys, have prettier names, cuter clothes and I’d love for the baby to be a little girl with Diana’s looks!
DeleteI think her make up looks especially nice today and she has a pretty manicure! Very nice she commented on the engagement. She was visibly nervous but so sincere.
ReplyDeleteI finally got around to watching the video and thought it was quite sincere.
DeleteI love the fact that she still gets nervous speaking in front of the press. It shows she is still not entirely comfortable in her public role despite how long it's been, and proves what she has often said about herself, that she is by nature a shy person. (that endears her to me because I am the same). I
ReplyDeleteNot my favorite dress, but still a lovely look. I thought her comments seemed sweet and sincere-not understanding the "nervous" comments at all. Thanks, Charlotte, for your comments about comparisons. The world can do with more kindness and fewer comparisons.
ReplyDeleteI agree, KY Kate. More kindness indeed. Especially as (I’d be willing to bet) a majority of the commenters are women. Why do we feel it’s okay to bash our own gender and make statements that we wouldn’t dare say directly to Kate or Meghan? It’s really very sad.
DeleteThis dress is a huge miss for me, but I do love the shoes. She's suddenly looking so much more pregnant!
ReplyDeleteI hope Meghan's ease in front of the cameras and natural confidence will be an asset for Kate - it will be great to one day see them interacting at events like this together.
Why would K & M do events like this together? What a waste of royal time. Sometimes it sounds here like folks expect married Harry to keep appearing with the Cambridges and for them to pose, all four, like Charlie's Angels, decked out, "young", and strong royals. Harry will spend time on his issues and official duties and less with his brother's rather than more. Harry's position is different and his wife's will be different, and it will not involve schooling other royals. Every day aren't more duties being divided among family with the aging Queen and Charles? William and Harry will of course work together on some things, but Williams rank is going to show more and more in his work, as will Harry's. Harry marrying will accentuate this natural separation, not lessen it. Of course as a family they may stay close, but marriage does alter things.
DeleteA belt above the bump will do that to you! Tomorrow it might look tiny again depending on what she wears :P
DeleteAAW. :) I don't know that people expect the Four to appear together like that at all. What I think is more widely perceived is the Four creating and working to support charitable initiatives under the canopy of their Charitable Trust Foundation. And in undivided support of Royal duties with perhaps an eye to refining, enhancing some of those but still maintaining tradition. They may appear together in various combinations or all together when the event demands it but only as a small percentage of their appearances. And, I think it will be necessary to have at least bi-annual photo ops of all Four together representing their Trust Foundation as an image of strength and solidarity. For sure the future endeavors of the Four will be innovative, effective and fun. :) ❤️
DeleteP.S. And I do hope Kate and Meghan get to do some events together. Great fun. Great PR. Kind of like when the Queen took Kate and Camilla to Fortum and ... department store. Or when the Queen, Phillip and Kate made that visit together, etc.
DeleteAmerican Army Wife - no need to be unpleasant. It's a natural assumption that if Harry, Kate and William are doing a group engagement, like an event for Heads Together, that Meghan will be there as well. Meghan is joining their trust. It's a foursome.
DeleteI have never been comfortable with Harry tagging along with Kate and William. I don't like the idea of the four of them together at all. There will just be more comparisons and other nonsense. Best to do things separately.
DeleteOh yes, I agree, Rosman. I can't wait to see the 4 of them together!! What fun! I Love the friendship between William, Kate, & Harry. How much more wonderful will it be to add a partner for Harry to the mix. Not to mention cousins in the future. The press must be eating this up. Many photo ops ahead! I wonder when we will get to see the four of them together.
DeleteInitially, I believe we will see joint engagements with various members of the RF. But I don't believe it will be an ongoing theme. Haven't people complained about W&K (a married couple!) not doing more separate engagements? :-)
DeleteAs William is heir to the throne, his family will be featured more prominently as time goes on. The brothers may be close personally but as someone else pointed out, their roles are different. Harry alluded to this himsef in the past when he suggested that he will be supplanted by George when he is older.
DeleteSuzanne - you misunderstood me. I DON"T want the four of them to do engagements together. Let them shine in their own way.
DeleteI like the whole look today. I'm enjoying the new hairstyle, and I think this dress looks lovely on her, and am glad she wore colourful accessories instead of nude or black.
ReplyDeleteI love Kate and am excited there will be a new member of the family to keep up with. what fun!
ReplyDeleteMy thoughts exactly! Twice the fun!! Also, love the idea of them texting each other like normal friends/family.
DeleteI like this dress, the length and the style very much - I also like it in pink. I wonder if the waist is fixed or whether it can be used after her pregnancy. I also like her hair.
ReplyDeleteI've never been to the Foundling Museum and will put in on my list to go. It looks wonderful. Kate looked very happy with the children, and whilst more experience will always be good for her, acting experience is not a requirement for a royal.
Julia, that was a nice comment until you got to the last clause! Then it got a bit catty.
DeleteKate did the odd bit of singing and acting in school though. That wild fashion show when she caught William's eye wasn't a shrinking violet moment. Every member of the Royal family can play a role when needed. They all must, from time to time.
DeleteThe Foundling Museum has a fascinating history, thanks for sharing information about it, I was really interested in reading about it. I don't love the dress, it's a bit mumsy to me, but I do like the jacket in the same collection, and I think Kate looks very nice today. Also, thank you, thank you, thank you for your note. I agree that we are a society that pits women against each other for no reason and we should work hard to not do so on this blog and on Mad About Meghan. There's going to be too much of that going on in other spaces now that Meghan is officially joining the Royal Family and I appreciate your efforts to maintain a mostly positive, supportive environment here and on MAM. Thanks for all your hard work, Charlotte!
ReplyDeleteJennifer, thank you for saying it all for me :)
DeleteShe almost looks like she wasn't feeling her best at the beginning of the visit, but I love the way she absolutely lights up when it's time to interact with the children.
ReplyDeleteI can see her and Meaghan becoming great friends and wonderful support for each other in the coming years. I can imagine that it would have been very important to Harry to see how Meaghan and Kate got on together very early on. I very much picture the four of them as a team going forward.
🇬🇧 annmartina. Yes and Yes again. 🎉
DeleteWhat a powerhouse those Four will be. Nothing like it ever before in British Royal history, I dare say. :)
Particularly at the level of heir to the throne. Think about. Unprecedented. And, they are an avowed, organized and gifted force for good. Even more unprecedented. They are here now, able and willing. "For such a time as this". ❤️
I thought Kate's look today was quite pretty. I wouldn't have guessed it was a Kate Spade dress. It is through and through a Kate dress IMHO.
ReplyDeleteQuite appropriate for the event and she looked happy and comfortable.
Just like Pam from Boston, I am extremely shy and reserved. An all around introvert but nothing wrong with that. I've always too envied those who were outgoing and those who always are articulate and saying all the right things. But it's totally not fair to compare. We all have contributions to give to others.
ReplyDeleteKate has inner and outer beauty. She is doing excellent. Everyone always continues to grow in their life journeys.
I'm sorry Charlotte that there have been posts you had no choice but not to publish. Thank you for maintaining a classy blog. Constructive criticism is needed without destruction.
Extremely well said!
DeleteCharlotte, thank you so very much for your commenting notes. You so very adeptly stated what we all need to consciously strive to do, and that is appreciate these two very different women for who they are individually and what they each can bring to the royal house they represent and the charities and causes that they support. cc
ReplyDeleteThank you, Charlotte for your continued commitment to this blog, and your Mad About Meghan blog. One of the reasons I enjoy your blogs as my go-to for these Royal insights is because the information is always presented, factually, fairly and with added historical education to give further insight. By embracing your commitment to keep it "clean" from gossip and insult, you certainly keep me as a reader. It isn't always easy and I thank you.
ReplyDeleteOn the Duchess' wardrobe, I like how she found a piece with a hint of colour (burgundy stripe), then enhanced it with her clutch and shoes.
I can understand how careful the Duchess has to be with her word choices, when at times, the media can perhaps twist them. So I think it's understandable that she kept her wishes short but heartfelt.
Looking forward to what's next!
I can't help but feel bad for Kate. In the pictures where she is looking at various displays, she looks like she just doesn't feel well. UGH for her. I hope she starts to feel better soon. I wonder if she will choose to have anymore after this? I wondered that with Charlotte. She's a trooper, I couldn't do it.
ReplyDeleteI have grown to appreciate Kate’s reserve - to me it’s respectful of her role. People pick apart everything she says so she’s careful and doesn’t give away too much. It’s tasteful and refined. Meghan is going to be a hoot - it will be great fun to have such a lively personality in the royal family. Love it - as Harry said they are all a team working to shed light on important issues and make a positive difference. It’s a very happy time to be celebrated. I can’t wait to see Meghan and Harry all gussied up on the wedding day!
ReplyDeleteI'd love to see Meghan go along with Kate to an engagement like this . . . sort of show her the ropes. I know I'm dreaming, but my mom used to tell me that sometimes that is all we have!
ReplyDeleteAllyson from U.S.A.
It would be nice, kind of how Kate did some engagements with Charles, Camilla and the Queen in the beginning! It's nice to mix it up once in a while. Recently Camilla has done some engagements with the Duchess of Gloucester, I think it was.
DeleteKate looks wonderful!!! I did not take anything negative away from her remarks. She just seemed nervous to me and like she was reading a prepared statement. I agree, Charlotte, that people need to respect Kate and Meghan as individuals. Imagined rivalries are ridiculous and should be avoided. It saddens me to know, though, that this is the direction some of the tabloids will take just to get click bait. I believe both Kate and Meghan are mature enough women to not let that affect them and their relationship with each other, I hope both of them and their two Princes will just ignore any negative press. I love both Kate and Meghan and look so forward to following both of them on your blogs.
ReplyDeleteOkay I don’t know if my comments were taken as being Kate vs Meghan. If so, I was misunderstood. What I was saying is that if we are in a position that requires being in the public eye, meeting people, making public statements, it can be so wonderful to have someone in the same boat, whom you can trust, who can offer support. The Queen is shy, Philip brought her out a bit, supported her, perhaps inspired her. It doesn’t mean that being shy/introverted is bad. Lord I am an introvert and am so glad that in recent years there has been so much positive written on introversion. But because my career requires that I meet people, give speeches and speak seriously, I relied on public speaking groups and watched more outgoing friends to learn my own best practices. That’s all. Not a criticism. I was just commenting on something a little different that Kate did and musing on why she MIGHT have done that today.
ReplyDeleteTHANK YOU for this: "In a society that pits women against each other, as a community we must strive to avoid the Kate v Meghan narrative." Charlotte, not only are you providing wonderful coverage of royal fashion and lifestyle, but now you are striving to shape an important dialogue of the ways in which we view and discuss women! Cheers to you!
ReplyDeleteOn a fashion note, Kate's look today is gorgeous!
This is a great overall day for Kate. Her outfit is great. I love the the look overall of shirt waist dresses, so this definitely works for my taste. I like the print and am excited she picked accessories that complement the dress. It's about 2 inches too long for my taste, but it's still short enough to avoid the awkward mid calf length. The hair, it's whatever. Rebecca's right, a good ponytail would work here as well.
ReplyDeleteI love that this engagement combines three of Kate's loves- kids, art, and mental health/therapy. I think these engagements will start to become some of her core engagements. I know it's been discussed that things like hospital visits, cheering people up type of things are bread and butter visits. But people(kids) don't go to the hospital like they used to. Now it's for serious issues(cancer) or mental health(self harm, severe depression, eating disorder, other mental illnesses). I think these types of visits are great as a preventative tool to getting to the point of needing a hospital stay....if that all made sense.
And Charlotte, I love your last paragraph. Kate and Meghan are different people and quite honestly complement each other. We should think of them as a unit and stop putting them up against each other.
Longtime reader but have not commented often. I really like her outfit today especially the burgundy accessories. She is in that awkward phase of pregnancy ...normal clothes don't quite fit and not quite ready for maternity clothes. Regarding her brief press chat, she reminds me of the queen in her younger days, shy and reserved
ReplyDeleteTHANK YOU Charlotte for standing up for Kate and Meghan and kindness. The photo following your stance was quite illustrative. :)
ReplyDeleteNot a fan of the middle part. At all. She surely came to life with the children.
I wonder if Meghan, Harry celebrated after the big day yesterday with the Cambridges.
Thanks for the tourist tip and also for the rich reporting on the venues and events. You are a true Ambassador. :)
I also think Kate very much needs to go with maternity wear for proper fit. They have some awesome maternity wear available these days. It would boost that business for sure. And she can go bespoke when necessary also.
I just think Kate is adorable.
ReplyDeleteI think she is genuinely excited to add another female to the group. She’s carried this weight on her own for quite some time.
The unfortunate reality is these two ladies will be pitted against each other. Kate is quiet, a little less confident in public and reserved. Meghan is vivacious and trained in public relations. It’s going to be compared. My hope is in private these women lean on each other’s strength. Meghan has been professionally schooled on public life due to her career. Kate has grown up exposed to the royal institution and British ideas. I believe Meghan will help Kate learn to be at ease in the public eye and I believe Kate will help Meghan learn the quieter public image of a royal vs celebrity. Together they will be dynamic. And while William will be king...I’ve always felt him and harry will be more of a package deal. I think these two couples will be quite the rock for each other.
Charlotte, I think that your request to maintain a forum that respects the individuality of both women and to dissolve any rivalry between them is right on point!
ReplyDeleteI have never warmed to the idea that 2 or more women should see the need to compete with each other whether it's professionally, personally or sartorically. Both Kate and Meghan possess an individuality that should be respected. Yes, it's normal sometimes to identify both of them in the same bracket because they do share some similarities like marrying princes, being brunettes etc however, what we need to remember is that they both bring their own set of interests and accomplishments to the table. They are not the same person nor should they be ridiculed for having differences in any area.
My 2 cents comes from years of experience of having a sister with whom I share many similarities but also many differences. From who will be the first to graduate, to marry or buy their first car, I heard it all. So I get it. Those kinds of comments have the potential to drive a wedge between people so let us not do that. We all set our own pace and do what's right for us, they deserve the same degree of humanity as any 1 of us do.
I strongly believe that Meghan will make a positive contribution to the role that she will be undertaking, in which ever causes she chooses to champion. We have such a pleasant, kind, friendly and supportive international community on these forums so let's keep it that way :)
Love from Avee in SA
Both women are bright stars in the royal family. Both will do good things in different ways. Maghen has more experience in speaking in public. So you can’t compare Kate & Meghan. Kate is a very shy person where Meghan seems more out going. I really think William likes having Kate at home and doing some engagements.
DeleteI like this whole look. She is not far enough along to "need" maternity clothes and this dress works at her stage. Love the burgundy accessories.
ReplyDeleteCan never complain about her hair, it ALWAYS looks better than mine!
Does any know the connection between this museum and Coram Fields? It's not at Coram Fields, is it?
ReplyDeleteI believe it is next door. You can see it more clearly on Google maps.
DeleteYou have to love, the absolute joy, Catherine expresses during her engagements ! Have to say, she's glowing, which is good to see, after her being so poorly at the beginning of her pregnancy. Love the dress, the length and style looks comfortable and still stylish. Would love to see Catherine with her hair a little thinned out and straight or off her face.
ReplyDeleteBravo to you Charlotte!! Excellent post! I totally agree with you. I am afraid people will do to these two ladies what they did to Diana and Sarah and no we don't want to see that. I'm happy for all involved. I love your blog-reading it makes my day!!
ReplyDeleteAmy
Cherry Hill, NJ
USA
Kate's makeup is ON POINT. And I love the burgundy accessories. I am all too familiar with the phase of pregnancy Kate is now in, and I think she is pulling it off with aplomb.
ReplyDeleteThank you, Charlotte, for your usual brilliant post! I thought that Catherine looked lovely, albeit tired, and always enjoy seeing her interaction with children. The print of her dress reminded me of clothes in the 70s (man, I'm old! ;o), although we hemmed our skirts *much* shorter in those days...
ReplyDeleteAnd thank you SO much for the last paragraph of your post! There are already so many news and entertainment outlets doing meaningless comparisons (Kate and Meghan twinning! Kate vs. Meghan: who wore it better? blah, blah, blah) I wish we could celebrate each other's uniqueness without tearing someone else down in the process. I'm hoping that Catherine and Meghan become the closest of friends, and that each woman continues to shine in her own way. The Royal Family is blessed to have both of them!
Well said Dougie Girl. Even though Charlotte wrote that last paragraph people here are still posting things regarding Meghan. Things relating to Meghan should be on her blog set up for all things Meghan.
DeleteAnonymous you have it all wrong thats not what Charlotte wrote at all.she said to avoid comparing the two women. There is no curfew for posting about Meghan. Please dont start hatred in a place where there isnt one
DeleteJust watched the video of Kate talking to the press and i thought she did just great. She looked lovely but would like to see the middle parting go the side occasionally. Love those shoes.
ReplyDeleteThis dress is very pretty and I love the cute little pearl buttons.
ReplyDeleteKate Spade an American designer. New sister-in-law to be an American girl. Nicely done Kate. And the dress not yet released. Sweet nod to Meghan.
ReplyDeleteI don’t think Kate picked this dress as a nod to Meghan. Kate has worn this designer before.
DeleteI have truly enjoyed reading and keeping up with the Royal Family through your blog and i appreciated very much the response to criticisms of both women. it is easy to be a critic and very difficult to walk in their shoes.....GROW UP and celebrate differences not compare. We all make choices, and mistakes. But life is too short to cut others to pieces---
ReplyDeleteThank you for your last paragraph, dear Charlotte. So very well said !
ReplyDeleteOf course, Kate and Meghan are two totally different women, with two very different upbringings and experiences and ways of living their lives.
It will be fascinating to see Meghan work and act as a member of the Royal Family. She will probably be more forward than the Duchess, as her life experience is worlds away from Kate's.
Both can do wonderfully.
I'm sure Meghan will be very articulate and vocal and a force to be reckoned with.
Fascinating !
a "Kate thing" perhaps?
ReplyDelete"Comparison is the theif of joy." Theodore Roosevelt
ReplyDeleteThis quote helps me when I start going down the path of comparison with these two individuals or any time in my life.
Spelled "thief" wrong. Oh for an edit option! Lol
DeleteThank you for that quote, florida girl!
Deletesweet thought, florida girl. 🌸
DeleteOkay, now that I know our own fellow fan Ana B. was in that crowd behind Kate in the arrival video when Kate approached the press, I am scanning with a magnifying glass to see our friend! Where are you, Ana B.?! I think she must have been just outside the frame to the right. Anyway, I really enjoyed getting to "know" this little museum. I will definitely be visiting it next time I'm in London. I do love Hogarth and Handel.
ReplyDeleteKate's dress was very pretty, and she looked great. I thought that she did the "meet the press" moment very well, very smoothly.
Here here! Wonderful of you to say! I love this blog and I'm so happy and surprised that YOU are the creator of Mad about Meghan! <3 You are so wonderful! Thank you for your hard work!
ReplyDeleteHer dress today reminds me a lot (okay, fine maybe just a little) of the dress she wore back in February 2015, the one with the sailboat print. Loved that one, not a huge fan of this one, but she looks beautiful!!
ReplyDeleteI'm not sure about this dress. I think it boarders on being a little frumpy when dressed up with heels and all buttoned up. I do like it in the pink designer photo when it's looser and wore casually. I would have liked to have seen Kate and the lady in all black switch outfits! I'd like to see Kate wear this dress again when she is not pregnant and if much flatter chested, sans heels.
ReplyDeleteI really like this dress, and I love how she pulled the burgundy from the dress and paired it with the shoes and purse. Glad to see her looking better and feeling well. Thanks Charlotte for a lovely post. Looking forward to tomorrow's engagement...and on my birthday at that :)
ReplyDeleteRe the “COMMENT NOTE”, thank you, Charlotte. Very well said and needed. As TEAM players, I’m sure, the Duke of Cambridge, the Duchess of Cambridge, Prince Harry and Ms Meghan Markle will continue to evolve as individuals and use their strengths and gifts to complete the TEAM effect and NOT compete against it. As women, I suggest we do the same.
ReplyDeleteThanks Charlotte for another great post. First off people are WAY too critical!! Kate is pregnant and tired and gets asked this question it is daunting as you said it's not normal for her to get these awkward prepared questions the moment she gets out of the car. How can people expect her to just act natural.
ReplyDeleteAnyways getting back to Kate I adore her shoes just love them!
I noticed what looks like a diamond band on her ring finger. Does she have a new/additional ring? The gold one she got on her wedding day, as well as the engagement ring. Is there another one?
ReplyDeleteShe has worn a diamond eternity band since after George was born. She always wears the 3 stacked together. It's assumed to be a gift for the birth of George IIRC.
DeleteMay I ask...are the hrhduchesskate and madaboutmeghan blogs run by the same person(s)? Thank you.
ReplyDelete