The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge attended the glittering EE British Academy Film Awards ceremony at the Royal Albert Hall tonight.
The couple made their debut at the event last year for the 70th awards ceremony. Prince William has been President of the Academy since 2010, and both he and the Duchess have supported BAFTA’s charitable activities by attending events across the charity’s learning programme, including Young Game Designers and BAFTA Kids events, as well as others related to building cross-cultural collaborations with the creative industries in China.
William and Kate walked the red carpet.
The scene at the Royal Albert Hall.
Ahead of the ceremony Kensington Palace said: "While BAFTA is well known for celebrating excellence and championing creativity through its awards, it is a charity committed to identifying talented individuals, and making sure they receive the encouragement, professional support and advice that will enable them to succeed, regardless of their background or other circumstances. In addition to its awards ceremonies, BAFTA has a year-round learning and new talent programme, including a campaign to support young people from all backgrounds entering the film, games and television industries, which the Duke helped relaunch in 2013, and a scholarships programme, which features the 'Prince William Scholarships in Film, Games and Television'."
The scene at the Royal Albert Hall.
Ahead of the ceremony Kensington Palace said: "While BAFTA is well known for celebrating excellence and championing creativity through its awards, it is a charity committed to identifying talented individuals, and making sure they receive the encouragement, professional support and advice that will enable them to succeed, regardless of their background or other circumstances. In addition to its awards ceremonies, BAFTA has a year-round learning and new talent programme, including a campaign to support young people from all backgrounds entering the film, games and television industries, which the Duke helped relaunch in 2013, and a scholarships programme, which features the 'Prince William Scholarships in Film, Games and Television'."
The glittering BAFTA Awards is a star-studded celebration of achievements in film, commending the finest performances and movies of the year. It is considered one of the biggest nights on the entertainment calendar. Contenders for Best Film this year include Dunkirk, Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri, Darkest Hour, Call Me By Your Name and The Shape of Water.
More from Variety:
Nominated in the lead actress category are Annette Bening for “Film Stars Don’t Die in Liverpool,” Frances McDormand for “Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri,” Margot Robbie for “I, Tonya,” Sally Hawkins for “The Shape of Water,” and Saoirse Ronan for “Lady Bird.”
Competing for the lead actor title are Daniel Day-Lewis for “Phantom Thread,” Daniel Kaluuya for “Get Out,” Gary Oldman for “Darkest Hour,” Jamie Bell for “Film Stars Don’t Die in Liverpool,” and Timothée Chalamet for “Call Me by Your Name.”
Before the ceremony, William and Kate met BAFTA nominees.
The BAFTA award trophy is a mask designed by American sculptor, Mitzi Cunliffe. When the Guild merged with the British Film Academy to become the Society of Film and Television Arts, later the British Academy of Film and Television Arts, the first 'BAFTA award' was presented to Sir Charles Chaplin on his Academy Fellowship that year.
The BAFTA award trophy is a mask designed by American sculptor, Mitzi Cunliffe. When the Guild merged with the British Film Academy to become the Society of Film and Television Arts, later the British Academy of Film and Television Arts, the first 'BAFTA award' was presented to Sir Charles Chaplin on his Academy Fellowship that year.
A video of William and Kate arriving.
The Duke and Duchess take their seats.
The show began with a breathtaking performance inspired by The Shape of Water.
Three Billboards was the big winner taking home five awards including Best Film, Best Actress and Best Supporting Actor.
Prince William presented the Fellowship Award. It is awarded annually at the ceremony, and is the highest accolade bestowed by the Academy to an individual in recognition of an outstanding and exceptional contribution to film, television or games. The recipient of this year’s Fellowship was British filmmaker, Sir Ridley Scott.
William's speech:
Inside the Albert Hall. pic.twitter.com/2LTNr5WpUf— Richard Palmer (@RoyalReporter) February 18, 2018
The show began with a breathtaking performance inspired by The Shape of Water.
What a breathtaking performance.— BBC (@BBC) February 18, 2018
This is @Cirque du Soleil's OVO inspired by The Shape of Water. #BAFTAs pic.twitter.com/VBmgKf6sD2
Three Billboards was the big winner taking home five awards including Best Film, Best Actress and Best Supporting Actor.
Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri wins Best Film 🎬 #EEBAFTAs pic.twitter.com/8rua4VETlh— BAFTA (@BAFTA) February 18, 2018
William's speech:
Catherine and I are extremely pleased to be here amongst you all this evening.
The Film Awards are just one part of BAFTA's activity. I have been privileged over the years to experience first-hand the impact of its work in the United Kingdom, in Los Angeles, New York and Asia - work ranging from scholarships and supporting new talent, through to masterclasses with the very best in the industry - many of whom are here this evening.
Your support of BAFTA - sharing skills, expertise and time - means we can ensure the growth of creative talent in the UK and internationally. It ensures that we can do much, much more to help talented people from all backgrounds to be given the opportunity to succeed.
The recipient of this year's Fellowship - the highest honour the Academy can bestow - is a true cinema great. His films are amongst my own personal favourites! A director and producer whose work has engaged audiences for 40 years and whose creativity continues to inspire the vital next generation of talent...
Please welcome to the stage, Sir Ridley Scott.
William and Kate met nominees and winners after the show.
More from The Telegraph:
Whilst this is a night of glamour and entertainment, there was another significance to the ceremony tonight and indeed the 2018 awards season thus far. Several weeks ago, a number of leading Hollywood actresses decided to wear black for the event in solidarity with the Time's Up movement. Actors and activists have collaborated to support the UK Justice and Equality Fund. This is a new body that will provide a network of expert advice, support and advocacy organizations across the UK. Emma Watson has already donated £1M. The fund has already raised over £1.5 million. Below, Angelina Jolie, Salma Hayek and Lily James tonight.
More from The Telegraph:
The Duchess told Lee Unkrich, the director of Coco which won best animated film, that her husband and son could now bond over watching films. “I'm desperate to see it,” she said of Coco, a Pixar animation about a boy who wants to be a musician helped by his great-great-grandfather from the land of the dead. “Lots of girlfriends have been to see it with their kiddies and been really impressed with it.
“They [Prince George and Princess Charlotte] are just getting into films now, George is four-and-a-half. Paddington is definitely up there and now Coco. “It's great obviously because of William's interest in film, it's great to have that father-son thing.”
The Duke, in conversation on stage after most Bafta guests had left for the formal dinner, said he had “loved” Baby Driver, adding: “I love the music as well and he drives like a legend.”
Whilst this is a night of glamour and entertainment, there was another significance to the ceremony tonight and indeed the 2018 awards season thus far. Several weeks ago, a number of leading Hollywood actresses decided to wear black for the event in solidarity with the Time's Up movement. Actors and activists have collaborated to support the UK Justice and Equality Fund. This is a new body that will provide a network of expert advice, support and advocacy organizations across the UK. Emma Watson has already donated £1M. The fund has already raised over £1.5 million. Below, Angelina Jolie, Salma Hayek and Lily James tonight.
A host of stars including Watson, Keira Knightley, Kate Winslet, Claire Foy, Rosamund Pike, Saoirse Ronan, Tessa Thompson and Naomie Harris released a letter, Sisters, this is our moment to say Time's Up. Below, a portion of the piece:
Dear Sisters,
A little over a month ago Time’s Up was launched. You might have read a public letter in the New York Times. You may have noticed women wearing black on the red carpet. You might have seen women coming forward to share their stories of harassment. Maybe you identified with some of the stories these women shared.
Maybe you found yourself nodding as you recalled similar moments in your own life.
Here in the UK, this movement is at a critical juncture. The gender pay gap for women in their 20s is now five times greater than it was six years ago. Research in the UK has found that more than half of all women said they have experienced sexual harassment at work. A growing reliance on freelance work forces creates power relationships which are conducive to harassment and abuse. Those engaged in insecure contract work are especially vulnerable to exploitation. While we know women are disproportionately affected by this abuse, we also know there are men in our industry and others that have been subjected to harassment and abuse as part of this system of patriarchal power. And they too have been silenced.
So, what is our industry’s role in promoting a vision of an equal society? We believe it is huge. We believe we need to use our power as communicators and connectors to shift the way society sees and treats us. We need to examine the kind of womanhood our industry promotes and sells to the world.
There is no question that Time’s Up should be and will be a global movement. A movement that is defined and led by those affected by the problem, not by those in power. As we approach the Baftas – our industry’s time for celebration and acknowledgment, we hope we can celebrate this tremendous moment of solidarity and unity across borders by coming together and making this movement international. Perhaps Time’s Up seems a million miles away to you – started by a group of women with privilege. The truth is, we are all workers, and whether we’re in the limelight or in the shadows, our voices matter. With our collective power, we can galvanize others.
In a foreword for the programme William referenced the movement:
Reporters described Kate's sartorial choice for the night as a "diplomatic minefield". The Royal family has a strict policy of avoiding anything which could be construed as a political statement. Whatever Kate chose to wear tonight it was going to be the topic of headlines and conversation. I would have loved to see Kate in black tonight; any woman who has experienced sexual harassment or knows someone who has is acutely aware it's a systemic problem across all industries; it's certainly not limited to Hollywood. Wearing black through the awards season will not change the deeply rooted problems; I do hope it's a step in the right direction though, and a show of solidarity from the future queen would have been appreciated. Perhaps in time it will be remembered as a missed opportunity for Kate. Equally, I am uncomfortable with the vilification of women who don't conform to certain expectations and perhaps it was felt wearing black tonight would create those expectations for future movements and campaigns. Ultimately, feminism is all about choice and given her position I can understand her choice tonight. It's not a decision which would have been made lightly or without the advice of aides. I imagine it was felt the subdued green with black accessories was the best compromise. The dark green Jenny Packham gown features a deep v neckline and a black sash, which has been seen as a subtle nod to the movement.
More from the Telegraph:
'As president, I am proud of the leadership BAFTA has shown; in a year which rocked the industry as many brave people spoke up about bullying, harassment and abuse despite the risk to their professional careers and reputations.'
Reporters described Kate's sartorial choice for the night as a "diplomatic minefield". The Royal family has a strict policy of avoiding anything which could be construed as a political statement. Whatever Kate chose to wear tonight it was going to be the topic of headlines and conversation. I would have loved to see Kate in black tonight; any woman who has experienced sexual harassment or knows someone who has is acutely aware it's a systemic problem across all industries; it's certainly not limited to Hollywood. Wearing black through the awards season will not change the deeply rooted problems; I do hope it's a step in the right direction though, and a show of solidarity from the future queen would have been appreciated. Perhaps in time it will be remembered as a missed opportunity for Kate. Equally, I am uncomfortable with the vilification of women who don't conform to certain expectations and perhaps it was felt wearing black tonight would create those expectations for future movements and campaigns. Ultimately, feminism is all about choice and given her position I can understand her choice tonight. It's not a decision which would have been made lightly or without the advice of aides. I imagine it was felt the subdued green with black accessories was the best compromise. The dark green Jenny Packham gown features a deep v neckline and a black sash, which has been seen as a subtle nod to the movement.
More from the Telegraph:
'The Duchess of Cambridge has given just a nod to the Time’s Up movement in a sombre dark green dress with black sash, as she eschews an unofficial all-black dress code for this year’s Bafta ceremony.
The Duchess has been presented with a difficult dilemma ahead of the awards, after actresses and industry leaders circulated a letter asking attendees to wear black. Members of the Royal Family are supposed to avoid all political statements, leaving the Duchess with a stark choice between being accused of overstepping her position or being the only woman wearing colour.
In the event, she took the middle ground, wearing a dark green Jenny Packham gown with a black sash to blend in with the dark dress code. Neither the Duke or the Duchess appeared to be wearing the Time’s Up lapel pin, which many others had donned to walk the the red carpet. A spokesman for Kensington Palace did not comment on the choice.'
There are multiple similarities between the gown and her much-loved ink blue Packham dress.
You may recall Kate wore dazzling emerald and diamond jewellery in New York in 2014.
Kate's sparkling emerald and diamond jewellery worn tonight are part of the suite. The earrings appear to be convertible, Kate also wore the bracelet again tonight.
It has been speculated the jewels were a wedding gift, and I think you'll agree, they are absolutely beautiful.
More from Harper's Bazaar:
Kate carried her black Mascaro clutch.
And wore her Prada Suede Cutout Wavy pumps. The $750 pumps are described as "feminine suede pumps with cutout detail". Made in Italy, they feature a pointed toe and self-covered heel.
Kate's make up looked lovely tonight - she was glowing!
The Duchess wore a emerald-and-diamond necklace, and matching bracelet. Emeralds are thought to represent compassion, harmony, hope and mercy.
Kate carried her black Mascaro clutch.
And wore her Prada Suede Cutout Wavy pumps. The $750 pumps are described as "feminine suede pumps with cutout detail". Made in Italy, they feature a pointed toe and self-covered heel.
Kate's make up looked lovely tonight - she was glowing!
Tomorrow, The Duchess and The Countess of Wessex will attend the Commonwealth Fashion Exchange at Buckingham Palace.
Great choice of gown. Dark, but not pitch black! And STUNNING! Perfect maternity gown. Elegant and royal, a traditionally good looking gown! Such an elegant couple! So fun to have seen her in gowns later on in this pregnancy! Mildly "disappointed" on her hair being down, but not surprised. She's still very pretty but I'm personally very fond of a good updo!
ReplyDeleteThe JEWELS! Are these a part of her previous set? Kind of looks like it! Maybe the earrings are changeable and the "studs" are the bottom dangle the last time we saw it. So happy to see that this seems to be a full and versitile set! A good thing to have in a royal jewelry box!
Looking forward to some more pictures coming in :)
I was watching Live & Kate literally floated up the stairs of The Red Carpet! I took screenshots as her Dress which almost looked longer in the back, just floated behind her as she ascended the stairs! Her hair looked Amazing as she moved gracefully along! No One Could Hold a Candle To Her on The Red Carpet! I was listening to & watching all the coverage, but The Minute Kate Entered, There was a Soft Gasp! She Literally Lit Up The Carpet & One Could Not Take There Eyes Off of Her! She Just Radiates! :) xoxo
DeleteGoing in deeper on my thoughts on the colour. I think this very dark, but not black, colour was a perfect walk down the tightrope. If I was present at the event I would certainly wear black. I think the #TimesUp and #MeToo movements are a fabolous shift in what is acceptable and I think it's a wonderful thing to be brought into the forefront of conversation. However I would have loved it if she did wear black but not surprised nor mad that she didn't. I'm somewhere between disappointed and neutral. Not mad, not surprised. Just... it is what it is, kind of. I would be mad at Kate if she showed up in red or pastel or something because that would have been a full on statement against the cause.
DeleteI think that royals are very careful what causes they back & metoo is a great grassroot cause but is almost starting to become political in some cases even though the idea is a humanitarian one. I think the dark gown reads as: "I support the statement but not aligning with the cause" which might be wise since we don't know what directions this cause will grow.
I would have choosen a gown more like last year with a black background and patterns to not give the headlines the "Kate wears green" ammunition, and this WILL be a big deal in the media! As I think it should. I think this was a case where Kate would be damned whatever she did and I think she managed to keep walking on that tight rope but I personally would have choosen a black based gown with pattern or different coloured beading to not seem to be against the cause.
Sooo... to sum up. I'm not mad or surprised, but this will not go down well and it would have been smarter to wear a more black dress. Because being against sexual assault and harassment should hardly be classified as political. No more so than enviroment, mental health or military.
Rebecca - well said!!! I could not agree more.
DeleteThe one thing I'll say is that if she was afraid of being damned if she does, damned if she doesn't, then why not go ahead and decide if she's going to be criticized anyways, then she might as well be supporting an incredibly important cause while facing the inevitable criticism. But I agree with everything you said really.
Rebecca- I am fully with your comment but there is one thing that really bugs me about the whole thing (not your comment though). I think it is horrible superficial to chain the support of a cause to colour. In my eyes it is a weak
Deletestatement like those easy written internet posts everyone does these days. It divides people over nothing. It doesn’t matter what you wear, if you think that cause is worthy you actually have to DO something. Speak up, help others, support charities but wearing black means nothing.
So Kate will receive backlash and it could have been easily prevented. But in my eyes this will be ridiculous.
The gown is drop dead gorgeous and I love the look!
@Rebecca: Thank you, these were my thoughts almost exactly. Not mad or surprised, a tad disappointed. I understand the incredibly tough position Kate's in...but doesn't this say she's even more limited by her role than we thought? And yes a dress like the black dress with a pattern from last year would have been appropriate. I just feel terrible for her when she's skewered by the media...
DeleteRebecca I have been thinking these exact thoughts (although you put it better). Grenfell is political, funding for HIV and mental health is political, this is no different. I’m afraid she has invited criticism when it would be very hard to think of any reasonable criticism for actually just wearing black. I love the dress though. But the media are really going to have a field day with this.
DeleteThis is a perfect choice to avoid the Royal dilemma on a thorny human rights issue. It's a gorgeous look for her, though the emeralds photograph a bit off. A fine way to give subtle respect,without crossing into activist territory.
DeleteI believe she made the right choice. It is true to her future role and true for what she stands for. The media will make a story out of it either way. Wear colour and she's defying the campaign. Wear black and she's taking sides with the many public spats that have and are still happening in connection with Times Up. So she took the middle ground and wore a dark, muted gown with a hint of black. It's the safest place.
DeletePeople have been wearing emeralds for Time's Up, too, to signify "hope, renewal and growth". And her emerald game *serious*!!! :)
Deletehttps://www.wmagazine.com/story/emerald-jewelry-golden-globes-2018-red-carpet
-flora
Boom! Way to rock those jewels!
ReplyDeleteShe Dropped The Mic! :) lol
DeleteYep, Becca. Kate’s back. 🎉
DeleteYes! Emeralds are also a part of Time's Up! :)
Deletehttps://www.wmagazine.com/story/emerald-jewelry-golden-globes-2018-red-carpet
-flora
So glad to see that she has not gone down the Black Dress route. Although I am very sure she will be criticised. She looks fantastic.
ReplyDeleteBut The Dress was Very Dark & had a Black Belted Trim as well as a Black Clutch! Having To Be A-Political, I Wonder If She Will?
DeleteLOVE it! Perfect colour! The green looks very deep that it looks black. Strikes the perfect balance between the political boundary and supporting the movement!
ReplyDeleteOMG ! Stunning ! I have no words to describe my reactions and thoughts. It is simply beautiful princess and radiant mother.Perfect !!!
ReplyDeletePerfection!
Delete🌸 Karolina. You summed it up perfectly. “simply beautiful princess and radiant
Delete(and proudly pregnant/not hiding it) mother”. Yay.
I was concerned that we would never see Kate in a beautiful (not monstrosity) gown again. Whew. No offense to anyone.
I am so happy to see her in a gown that looks beautiful on her. It may resemble one she has already, but hey. It is politically correct to boot.
Kate’s back. Yay.
Aside from the tones of the dress and stones arguing a little (that just may be the camera)
the jewelry ensemble makes sense this time. It is beautiful in individual design, design compatibility between the pieces and placement. She is wearing it. It isn’t wearing her. The set is so pretty. I like these earrings so much better than the dangly ones. So cool that she is bringing out the ensembles and “owning it”. NOW. I wonder who gifted her with that substantial bling. Or is it on loan from the Queen?
Anyone know?
Excellent gown choice! Catherine stayed true to her style; the media may try to read as much or as little as they like into it. It is 100% Catherine. Only wish her hair were up to showcase the beautiful jewels.
ReplyDeleteHer makeup looks fabulous! Not too sure about the dress at the moment.
ReplyDeleteBtw, is Kate wearing nail polish? Love it!!!
Nail polish+++++
DeleteRacoon eyes-----
Looks like Esse Ballet Slippers, the Queen's colour of choice! :)
DeleteOh I didn't know that? I love that one & wear it all the time! :) xo
DeleteBeautiful!!!
ReplyDeleteAgreed! :)
DeleteShe Nailed It!!! I was watching live & got some screenshots, but the real photos are so much better! She looks Fabulous! The Dress, The Jewels, Her Hair & Best of All is Her Smile!! :) xo
ReplyDeleteWow! Just perfect in every way!I know some will not care for her curls, but I think they're great as part of the total look...the jewels are to die for! The fit of the gown, it's color and drape are wonderful.
ReplyDeleteAbsolutely Agree! It's Perfection! :)
DeleteGood choice of gown to negotiate the minefield. Dark enough to fit in but not making an outright political statement. Difficult situation and she did well.
ReplyDeleteYes! Well Done Kate! :)
DeleteI agree, alimai. I think Kate made a wise choice. Not a fan of the shade myself but the cut is perfect and she looks very pretty in it. The jewels are stunning! Looking forward to more pictures.
DeleteOMG what a bling, it is absolutely perfect! Nice gown very similar to the blue but I give her a pass since the bump. I don't like her hair though, this gown shrieks for an updo or some sophistication, her hair is all over the place.
ReplyDeleteAnd I was right, prediciting she is not the person from the royal family who steps out of any line, so no surprise from me about her not wearing black.
I like how her hair flows, just like her dress. :)
DeleteWasn't there an old time fashion "rule" or convention that if one was too young to wear black (or too unmarried) to an evening engagement then the next best thing was a deep bottle green? Or was that just some bizarre fiction I've picked up along the way? Ah well. A brilliant choice nonetheless and with black accessories I think she makes the point while demonstrating the necessary neutrality. Moreover, those EMERALDS great googly-moogly - I'm half tempted to guess a reworking of some of the older and unworn jewels of HMQ (like perhaps the greville emerald necklace, for the earrings anyway- those are big emeralds) - but there are other sources I might imagine. DofCornwall seems to like springing out some giant necklaces every now and then-perhaps a little friendly cooperation. Oh dear , I really shouldn't let most of these musings outside my head...
Delete19:26. I think that deep bottle green custom might actually have existed. I will google that and see if I can find anything about that. That would be very clever of Kate if it was actually a custom.
Delete🌸 Dark bottle green with black for mourning? Yep. Bingo, 19:26. Who knew? The Queen and Kate, apparently.
DeleteDark bottle green was a common color to where as a first level of coming out of mourning after the two-and-a-half years of wearing black. PARTICULARLY, are you ready for this?,
when you kept pieces of black on the outfit of the dark bottle green outfit. Then the black pieces would eventually be shed and the dark bottle green worn for awhile until mourning was over. Clever Kate. Another “Kate thing”? The Queen may have advised her as the dark bottle green with black thing was still going on even in the fifties.
Fashion-era.com
"Great Googly-Moogly" +1 :) lol
Delete"Hello" calls it olive green. Not all sources agree on bottle green.
DeleteWow! Kate looks splendid! I love her make-up and don't even get me started on those gorgeous jewels. (Cue the drooling) I did a double take when I saw the dress because I almost mistook it for the other (very similar) Jenny Packham dress.
ReplyDeleteI heard that many attendees would be wearing black in support of the #MeToo movement so I'm just going to be brief on this. I support it and I support women in every way that I can. I am also a proud South African and for those who may not know, in the last week, we have had the resignation of a sitting president, the swearing in of a new president, fugitives on the run and prosections of ministers. So tonight, I shall not be wading into any politics, I will simply be indulging myself and all the beautiful outfits which will grace the carpet... and perhaps drooling at those jewels a little more :)
Hope everyone enjoys :)
Love Avee in SA
You Enjoy Too Avee! :) xoxo
DeleteI agree with you Avee on the support. This is a movement where one can stick the balance to somewhere else, people should stand up and say it is wrong and do everything to support it. It is not about politics tonight, not for me at least.
DeleteShe looks stunning! I am in emerald envy!!
ReplyDelete"Emerald Envy"! I love it Jaime :)
Delete🌸 Jaime. Congrats, lol. You had the guts to admit it. She’s bringing out the bling. I am SO happy about that. :)
DeleteWow, she looks absolutely stunning! I think she hit the nail in the head here. A green/black outfit with black accessories. She was placed between a rock and a hard place with this social movement that royals should steer away from, and this dress is perfect to me. The jewels are to die for.
ReplyDeleteI bet that the gown would have had the black sash without the #Metoo movement.
Delete🌸 I agree Jaime. Kate often wears high belts.
DeleteRegarding “politically correct” dressing, the Queen can advise her on those sticky wickets, yeh? However she decided about tonight she got it perfectly right.
THIS IS THE WAY To DRESS a BUMP! BRAVA KATE!
ReplyDeleteAmen, HoosierLori. :)
DeleteWhy is her jewelry always matchy matchy, she wears emeralds with green and sapphires with blue and her Kiki earrings in so many colors of the same style. Also all her earrings with bigger stones are surrounded by diamonds. I mean all of them, I really feel she could use variety or a better stylist to pick things out.
ReplyDeleteShe looks beautiful and is graceful. Her gown today is very pretty and flows well and she has great hair. I think an updo would have looked too stuffy with the ethereal feels of the gown.
Last time she wore this emerald set it was a blue gown :P
DeleteTo me she looks like a Traditional Royal Duchess & Future Queen with regards to the way she wears her jewelry. Especially for Formal Occasions.
DeleteLove this the most! So beautiful in every regard and so much more flattering than ANY of the evening events dresses worn on the Norway/ Sweden tour. Kate is glowing and looks gorgeous and comfortable in her choice. Fabulous!
ReplyDeleteHer makeup looks amazing, and different, for her! I love the look. She's glowing.
ReplyDeleteMe Too! I Love It! :)
DeleteShe knew and we all knew she was damned if she do and damned if she don’t. While I personally wouldn’t have minded if she decided to wear black, #metoo is an important cause, I respect her decision and think she found a good midway. If she wore the McQueen from Norway she would have made a statement against. Dark green is as neutral as she could go.
ReplyDeletePretty much sums up my views as well.
DeleteAgreed
DeleteTotally agree. Plus, she looks gorgeous.
DeleteI have been reading some of the comments on twitter and I feel strongly we as women need to be careful not to bully each other. All the stars wearing black may or may not
ReplyDeletesupport or feel strongly about the movement but wear black they have because their careers would be destroyed if they did not comply. Abuse of women is wrong on all levels we as women make up 50% of the population so with that block vote it should be easy to get legislation changed. It is a sad indictment that that does not happen.
We women can complain all we want about men, for whatever reason (not being fair, holding us back, being mean, being abusive) however what progress can we make, if we women continue to not be fair, hold one another back, are mean to one another & are sometimes even verbally & psychologically petty & abusive to one another! We won't need any men to hold us back if we are doing the job of tearing one another down ourselves! So illogical & Breaks My Heart! We need to Build One Another Up or We Really Don't Stand A Chance At Progress! This whole movement is supposed to Lift Women Up, However much time is being spent Tearing Each Other Down! :(
DeleteBecca - well said! And concerning her fashion choices, I wonder if she doesn't step too far 'outside the box' out of love and respect for Her Majesty the Queen. She is simply breathtaking tonight, imho.
DeleteTotally agree with you here! All actresses careers tonight are bound by this dictact of total black, isn't the same as mobbing ? I'm glad Catherine had some black but I am also glad that she was true to her position
DeleteShe is beautiful! And what a set of bling!
Silvia
I'm eagerly awaiting the BAFTAs to start, so that I can see her arrive, and see the the whole look in motion :-) But, from the photos, she looks absolutely stunning ! We won't know, if she took into account the dress code tonight, but, the dark green, and what looks like a black wrap she's carrying is a nice touch. As for jewels, simply breath taking. Would have preferred her hair in an updo, giving the earrings more of a chance to shine, but other than that, she looks beautiful. Well done Kate !
ReplyDeleteAbsolutely fabulous. This is the style she should have worn on the Scandanavian tour.
ReplyDeleteThat was my first thought, too. But then I thought, this shows too much cleavage and perhaps not so appropriate for a royal tour.
DeleteI wan't going to go there, but actually this type of look is exactly what I had thought we were going to see on The Scandinavian Tour?
DeleteEverything about her look is perfection, IMO. And the jewels are to die for! This is how you dress a baby bump on the red carpet!
ReplyDeleteKate looks lovely and this is a win in book. Doesn't look like the necklace and earrings belong to the Queen - waiting for one of you sleuths to figure that out - and they do suit her so well. I'm not sure why Kate matches her jewelry to her dress color but the color of her dress is perfect for the occasion. I watched the arrivals on live stream and when I saw her wasn't sure if it was black with a nude underlay. She remained as neutral as possible and yet lovely and elegant. Many want an updo but I like the swing of her hair with the open neckline and flow of this dress. The whole looks says, "I'm a princess embracing my motherhood and going to be comfortable."
ReplyDeleteLooking forward to additional details. Amazing job Charlotte! Sure didn't take you long.
Well Said Elle! :)
DeleteLove the dress, love the whole look.
ReplyDeleteAnd I knew that emerald set had a necklace! I feel ridiculously pleased, lol.
Gemma, I love your comment! That's how feel, Ridiculously pleased.
DeleteNot ridiculous at all, Gemma :)!
DeleteMy goodness, Kate looks absolutely radiant. Her makeup is exceptionally good tonight, as is her hair. I'm glad she didn't wear black. The dark green is a safe choice and as one previous commenter said, the media can make of it what they wish. I have to say that Kate looks gorgeous when pregnant!
ReplyDeleteI was expecting the ink blue Jenny Packham dress and thought this was that dress until I read that it was dark green. It is so similar! The joolz are to die for!
ReplyDeleteI thought it was that dress as well at first. That gown probably doesn't fit now though. She bought it non-pregnant and wore it way earlier when pregnant with Charlotte so doubt it would fit this late in her pregnancy.
DeleteReally a perfect outfit. The dress is very dark and looks gorgeous. The green emeralds are amazing and are brighter than the dress. She just looks perfect.
ReplyDeleteIt is possible to defend Kate's choice to not wear black without misrepresenting feminism or the Times Up movement. It bothers me that people feel the need to do the latter just to defend their favorite.
ReplyDeleteFirst, feminism is NOT about women getting to make any choice they want. Yes, it thinks men should not get to make choices FOR women, and that patriarchal norms should not pressure towards certain choices either. But lol, women cannot do something incredibly sexist (not saying that's what Kate did) and defend it as "but feminism means we can choose whatever we want!" Similarly, feminists would not be okay with Prince William telling Kate not to wear black. But Kate deciding on her own? Yeah it's not anti-feminist to criticize that decision. I'm sorry if I sound rude, but the butchering of an important cause is killing me.
On that note - the Times Up movement does not have to be political. I find it ironic that people here have been criticizing or questioning the use of "only" using clothes to make a point, when so many of the same people often lavish praise on Kate's sartorial diplomacy. On a blog following a woman who rarely uses her voice but according to ppl here often uses her clothes to send a message, can we at least find it in us to not be so hypocritical as to question the sartorial tactics of another movement?
Again, defend Kate's choice not to wear black, but at least be fair and find a way to do it that doesn't involve unjustifiably denigrating some incredibly important causes.
I agree very much! Being a feminist means defending peoples right to choose not agreeing with all their choices because they're women.
DeleteP.S. To clarify. some of this is in response to things people said in the comments of the last post when discussing the issue hypothetically/meant to be preemptive in case similar arguments are attempted here.
DeleteMaggie, I think it's been shown time and again that Kate is a hard-core traditionalist in every sense of the word. I think the public is having a hard time accepting this, but Kate's demeanor, choices, lifestyle, fashion, all point to someone who believes in extremely conservative, traditional roles for men and women. I don't think Kate would be comfortable making a #metoo or #timesup statement even if she was given the greenlight by Queen Elizabeth herself.
DeleteAs for the dress I think she looks amazing -- wonderfully elegant way to celebrate the baby bump. Her jewelry, hair, even nail polish look wonderful.
I defend Kate's appropriate choice. She managed a tricky situation perfectly. I think the cause is a worthy cause, but there are other worthy causes that never reach that level of publicity. I do not think it is useful to divide people in good or bad depending on their perceived support of the movement. There is a definite risk of witch's hunting.
DeleteOMG finally someone said what needed to be said!
DeleteBut what would have happened if an actress did choice not to wear black tonight? Did they really had the choice? Honestly I don't think so, they didn't as much as Catherine
DeleteThank you! You said exactly what I wanted to say since the last post.
DeleteYou might be right, Ivy Lin but many of us are certainly having a hard time accepting that (and I'm not talking about #timesup here) because while the role of Queen is innately a traditional one, this is the 21st century and I think most people want a (future) Queen, a princess that is not just traditional but also a modern woman. What I will always fail to understand is how the daughter of a self-made woman who built a successful business while raising 3 children turned out to have 19th century ideas of what men and women should do and be.
DeleteSecondly, #metoo has nothing to do with traditional roles for women, it is about sexual harassment and I doubt that Kate or any other conservative/ traditional woman would say 'Yes, men should sexually harass women, that is their role.'
Stunning. I thought she would never wear all black and this is a great compromise, as expected. If the Queen were attending she would probably rock up in something colourful so good for you Catherine.
ReplyDeleteAnd those jewels? Breathtaking - I’ve had a quick look online and they don’t seem to be anything out of the Vault - so would be lovely to hear of their providence. When you think how many necklaces DoC has we’ve only seen once - I’m sure she’s been storing these beauties up to wow us all.
Yes, those emeralds are amazing! They are much brighter than the dress and perhaps would look better with all black, but I'd love to see them close up. Those earrings look quite substantial. And a bracelet. Very very pretty!
Delete& Wow Us She Did! :)
DeleteWhy is standing up against sexual assault political and Kate is therefore expected to be neutral?
ReplyDeleteIf anything, this would go well with her mental health crusade.
I do however want to emphasize that that gown is gorgeous and she looks absolutely stunning. I really do love her in that gown.
DeleteCompletely agree.
DeleteIsn't she just beautiful tonight? I have been wondering how she'd stay neutral in this, but I think she definitely did it right. The dress is very dark that it looks black from television, so while she is not completely getting behind this movement (and I don't think she should - it is a very tricky socioliberal debate), she is showing it respect. The jewellery make her shine!
ReplyDeleteYou said it all perfectly! Kate is so beautiful tonight.
DeleteWell Said Renny! :)
DeleteAnother thing - many people on here have been insulting celebrity movements as though there's something wrong with famous people using their positions to do good - oh hey, just like Kate does! In fact, the royals often enlist celebrities to help bring attention to their own causes. Not to mention this whole event is William's patronage. So denigrating celebrity movements is to insult the royals as well.
ReplyDeleteI agree. Everyone can try to make the world a better place!
DeleteI don't happen to care what causes celebrities support. (I am here for the fashion. 😉) But these issues bubbled up from celebrity culture, and it's clear that a lot of them, male and female, knew about this stuff and did nothing. So I will express my consternation about the hypocrisy; if that's insulting, then okay. #sheknew
DeleteWhat was it that Harry & Meghan brought up in their Engagement Interview? (paraphrasing) If you have a bigger platform then you have a bigger opportunity & responsibility to use it for good!
DeletePeople aren't insulting celebrity movements to do good, they are upset about the fact that these women let these acts happen 20 years ago to get what they want (something completely un-noble by their own liberal standards, by the way), riches and fame. Then 20 years later, when a truly courageous person stands up against it, they all jump on the bandwagon, although, they themselves have given not one penny to fight anything in regards to that cause. They give not one penny back to the industry to support other actresses who want to get a job without having to sell their bodies or dignity. Many of these women are now producers who hire other actresses and they STILL said NOTHING. It's completely hypocritical, as I find most of the acting world is. They will say and do anything to be "popular".
DeleteSo now we are blaming victims? Most people who are assaulted don,t report because of they feel ashamed, doesn't want to be judged or r don,t feel about opening up about their trama. Its not just actresses. Most of them were afraid of the repercussions. Those who dared to talk were blacklisted.
DeleteTammy - This is the issue I have with the current movements. It seems opportunistic almost. Didn't say anything, even after they rose to fame and became household names because it suited their wants. When someone did say something and it caught traction it all changed. I just have a really hard time believing they are being altruistic or That they have any moral high ground to stand on.
DeleteLooks a lot like the Packham she wore in NY. I like the jewellery. I dislike the eye make up.Imke
ReplyDeleteYEs it reminded me of the Jenny Packham too, the jewels are simply stunning!!
Delete& here I think her eyes look particularly exquisite tonight. :)
DeleteOne thought regarding the color of Kate's gown: perhaps the gown was already being made before the all black directive was made. considering all the critisim she's received for how expensive her clothes can be (and for wearing so many new items) & that this is probably going to be her last pregnancy (so not exactly like the dress could be worn for a different event), it would have been very wasteful for her to have a different dress made
ReplyDeleteThat is such a good point! This dress may have been planned weeks ago. The dress is a great pregnancy gown but not so good otherwise. It is as dark as it can be and still have a color, and she did add a black belt and black clutch and probably black shoes.
DeleteShe looks amazing. Can anyone ID the jewels? Looks to be a parure but can't quite tell. Magnificent in any event!
ReplyDeleteTotally beautiful - lovely Kate
ReplyDelete“Drop the mic”, the Duchess of Cambridge is on the red carpet. The Duchess of Cambridge, I’m sure, stands positioned AGAINST sexual harassment and abuse of women. Wearing the black waist sass is a subtle nod to the cause. To me, she supported the cause, and remained committed to royal protocol against making “political statements”. Unfortunately, there is no win/win for the Duchess of Cambridge. If she had won all black, she would face criticism and by wearing deep green, she still has critics. But for me, she SLAYED!!! VERY WELL DONE!!! Thanks, Charlotte.
ReplyDeleteYes Marcia, She Totally Slayed!!!! :)
DeleteI was sure she would wear a Jenny packham gown tonight! :-) she looks absolutely stunning 💕
ReplyDeleteAnd she is carrying something black with her clutch. A scarf??
ReplyDeleteI love her jewels tonight. Completely speculating, but I am wondering if the drop earrings that go with this set can actually be attached to the necklace as additional pendants. Thoughts?
ReplyDeleteKate looks smashing tonight. Count me in as one who thinks she made the right choice. It is a beautiful green gown with subdued hues and black undertones. While some here might point out that #TimesUp is not a political movement, it is definitely entangled in a lot of social and legal disputes. Best to keep it neutral, and Kate did just that.
ReplyDelete20:15. She has had Packham use the same pattern before so that is plausible.
ReplyDeleteA wonderful and most tactful gown and a very graceful look for late pregnancy. The dark green is a sedate choice without making a direct statement. Whilst it has been said here that Kate is damned if she does and damned if she doesn't - I don't believe that is the case for long time royalists especially in Britain. Anyone who has observed the queen for decades knows how scrupulously she has avoided becoming involved in political or controversial issues, regardless of merits - no one tells the queen what to wear - and Kate is a future queen. The papers may make an issue of it, but royalists understand.
ReplyDeleteAt the same time, choosing a quiet colour shows respect for the cause - and the look is of course set off by those magnificent emeralds - which I believe are Kate's, not a loan from the queen, possibly a wedding present. Kate looks beautiful - this necklace truly suits her.
(However dark green is not a traditional substitute for black - that would be grey or lavender - but these days, that hardly matters.)
So eloquently put Julia. I am with you 100%.
Delete"no one tells the queen what to wear - and Kate is a future queen."
DeleteAgree. And thank you because I'm akways glad to read your comments, you always help me to see things in perspective.
Silvia
Yep. Kate DID though choose to wear a suffragette green and black outfit and emeralds, also a symbol of English and Irish suffragette movements.
DeleteO M G!!! HER MAKEUP IS PERFECTION!!!! THE JEWELS!!!!
ReplyDeleteAnd one last favorite: the color of the dress. I am sure I am in the minority here when I say, that women being sexually harassed, letting it happen to get a job, becoming famous and then saying something 20 years later is NOT OKAY to me. Feminism starts WITHIN. We are told at a very young age that no one is allowed to touch us in a way that makes us uncomfortable. Because you want to be famous and make a lot of money, does not mean you put up with this behavior to get what you want. I have a real problem with this, therefore I would not have agreed with Kate wearing black. I think her dress was a smart move and one that offended NO ONE whereas wearing black would have offended some. Smart, elegant, beautiful and non political. I LOVE it.
This is the definition of victim blaming. First, women are not taught from a young age that we should not let people touch us. In fact, much of society implicitly condones the opposite. Saying that it's the fault of the women who had to choose between their careers and calling out their harrassers is the problem. Maybe we should instead have a problem with those who forced that unfair choice in the first place.
DeleteI agree this comment is victim blaming. And i agree women esp are taught (perhaps subtly) to please those who pressure us. I think the me too movement speaks specifically to something even more basic than that though. Those in power positions in ANY workplace should not be harassing, sexually or otherwise, those not in power positions. This has been allowed to go on for far too long. And I vehemently disagree about victims waiting until 20 years later. Many tried to speak up. Rose McGowan has been telling her story for years. And was effectively blacklisted in Hollywood. There is a huge amount of pressure to keep quiet to maintain your career and not face abuse of your own. This situation is far more complicated than your comment makes it out to be. I don’t care about people wearing black and I don’t actually Think duchess Kate is all that relevant to the conversation. But it’s important that we talk about it and talk about it truthfully and without victim blaming. Only the harassers are to blame here.
DeleteI have to agree with Maggie. Older women were not taught at a very young age that no one was allowed to touch them. In fact, many were told that was the price for having a professional life. I was sexually assaulted by my boss on a ride from dinner to my car, and when I talked to human resources they refused to do anything. That was not unusual.
DeleteOn a lighter note, the Duchess looks beautiful and happy, and I love the dress and jewelry.
I'm afraid you don't understand very much about power structures in Hollywood or any other workplace. The reality for many young women (and some young men) is that they cannot say no, they cannot speak out, simply because the harasser,the abuser in many cases, is the one in control, the one who holds all the cards.
DeleteI can't speak for the US but until very recently young girls were expected to have physical contact that they didn't want. Hello or goodbye hugs and kisses for relatives and family friends condition young girls into thinking the polite thing to do is let someone hug them or kiss them, Or more, even when it's not what they want.
Thank You Maggie! I Can't Even......
DeleteI agree with many points you made, Tammy. And no, I do not think it is considered victim blaming to point out that in some cases, things have come out a little shady. It's a very complicated and important issue in today's society, but I also think there are some women who are using the campaign for their personal gain. Of course I am referring to a small minority. But there, I said it.
DeleteExactly Maggie this is victim blaming, if you have been reading articles about this stuff then you would know that most of the woman did complain when it happened but were told that they couldn’t do anything about it because the men were too powerful, especially in the film industry. So no this movement is not hypocritical , this movement is not only about preventing sexual abuse but also about making sure that companies hold the abuser accountable for their actions instead of silencing woman. Also, why should a woman leave her successful job just because she is being harassed? , it’s the abuser who should leave not the woman. And Kate wearing black would not have offended the victims , just the abusers and the companies who silence woman.
DeleteSorry. I'm with Tammy. I wouldn't hold anyone new in Hollywood and not saying anything responsible for not saying anything. Who would believe them? My issue is household name actresses, with a platform, enough money and security kept acting in his movies and cosying up to him, allowing new actresses to be abused. At the same time their very silence while acting in his movies, going on talk shows, allowed him to continue. Only when someone, truly courageous, stood up and the public took notice did they say anything. Once the issue gains public notice and traction then, only then, did they jump on the bandwagon. That and the judgement of others not wearing black makes it very, very hard for me to take the black dress part seriously.
DeleteExactly Courtney. There is a lot of hypocrisy but that does not mean that we should victim blame. If people could get even half as worked up about the actual abusers as they do over a woman wearing/not wearing black or working on a movie we would come a long way fast!
DeleteLOVE it, Kate looks great in green and the dress looks wonderful with the jewels. I think she did the perfect thing by wearing a dark color but not black.
ReplyDelete"Pregnant Kate Middleton Defies Times UP Campaign" Courtesy of The Daily Mail, but in an Astonishing Way... The Article progressively gets More & More Complimentary about how well Kate Navigated The Issue & How Her Dress Choice Was So Dark It Was Almost Black & How Her Black Accessories Were Likely A Nod To The Cause! It Also Eventually Explained How The Royals Need To Remain A-Political! :O So If you were to read the whole article it'd be ok & favorable, but if you only saw the headline & start of the piece, You'd be left with a Totally Different Impression? I can understand if some news source had an opinion to express either way. However, This was a Total Bait & Switch! I thought this was particularly manipulative & nasty! Trying to play both sides of the fence with a Misleading Headline. Yuk!
ReplyDelete🌸 Becca. Makes one appreciate DKB even more, yeh? :)
DeleteYou Betcha SG!!! :) xoxo
DeleteKate looks beautiful. I think the deep green with iridescence to almost black flashes plus the velvet waist/bow and accessories, diplomatically and stylishly tow the line.
ReplyDeleteMy only complaint is that atrocious center seam down the skirt. I know this is a popular effect on tops and skirts but here, a classic dress. I dislike it. I also dislike the construction. It's puckered. It looks rushed. I would think from a high-end fashion house who specializes in delicate fabrics could avoid this hiccup. Otherwise I think it's a gorgeous dress.
Absolutely stunning and i love those emeralds - they're my birthstone, and id love to see those stones up close!!! I dont see why she, or anyone, should have worn black, you can wear a colour and be supportive. I think Kate was in a tricky situation for someone in her position who is meant to be neutral and she carried the moment beautifully. Black is for sombre occasions and this was a night to celebrate great talent - and gorgeous emeralds��
ReplyDeleteAlso, I think if Kate had worn black tonight all the attention would have been on that and would take away from the reason for the event and those it is honoring. It’s okay for the women in the film industry to wear black as the attention should, rightly, be on them. But tonight is not about Kate.
ReplyDeleteActually, I think her wearing black would have been way less headline grabbing than her not wearing it.
DeleteI completely agree, Rebecca! Also ironically (and very sadly), the front page of the Express fortomorrow has a picture of Kate headlined "kate wears black ribbon as gesture towards baftas times up movement".
DeleteBut realistically, not wearing black still makes a statement. And kate did not have to attend tonight. She announced attendance after the push to wear all black already started, and she usually doesn't attend, so if she wanted to avoid making a statement either way, then she could have easily stayed home.
I generally think it's better for royals to show up but this time I actually think her not going would have been the smoothest. As you said, it's not her patronage and she doesn't always accompany so it would be nothing odd with it and William would be in a standard tux. But in a way, I respect her for going even thought it might be tough.
DeleteJust a point regarding your last sentence, Maggie : if Kate had stayed at home it would have most definitely been read as a statement, too. Which is a good example of the fact that whatever she does, whatever she wears, she will always be criticised because people will read their own thoughts, expectations and experience into it and there are always multiple ways of interpreting one thing.
DeleteI think Julia has it right, the statement here is that no one tells the queen what to wear and she is a future queen. And I am with her tbh
DeleteJust a few observations. Kate looks radiant. I would have liked Kate to wear Black but the more hyperbole I read the less I care. I understand and respect feminists and their legitimate criticism of Kates decision tonight. Never the less, I'm of the opinion that Kate KNEW there would be this kind of reaction yet she still chose to refrain from wearing black. From this I conclude 1) Kate doesn't want to be seen to follow Hollywood/American trends no matter how worthy the cause may be because 2) Kate feels secure about her support for women and 3) her public life transcends and will outlast most protest movements anyway. I actually think there's something a little feminist about a woman making a decision which she knows will draw the ire of Twitter but still going through with said decision.
ReplyDeleteBravo Alex! Very Well Said! I 100% Agree! :) Big Picture All The Way for The Future Queen!
DeleteHi Alex; Thank-you for that insightful summation. I particularly agree with point number 2. Earlier in this thread, there was also a comment about the superficiality of linking such a serious cause to a dress code or colour. And - the hyberbole surrounding the decision not to wear black is unhelpful in changing attitudes. I'm not in any doubt that Kate supports the principles of that cause; her work and behaviours are living proof of her long-term commitment.
DeleteHaving said all that, I loved her whole ensemble tonight. I do enjoy seeing her mix up her make-up a little, particularly for gala events such as this. The colour is both beautiful and respectful. The jewellery would have been the envy of most of the celebs.
🌸 Ya’ll. As mentioned by 19:26 above, and moi, lol, Kate wasn’t out of the wearing black realm by much. Particularly when viewed with the rules about wearing black and causes, so to speak, for the Royal family. Particularly, particularly..... dark bottle green with black accents. Just what Kate wore tonight. Kate knew what she was doing. I agree with Charlotte and others who said she made the right choice but now, knowing about the dark bottle green with black accents and Royal historical protocol, I know she got it right.
ReplyDeleteFashion-era. com. A very interesting history site. Very interesting article.
I think the colour of Kate's dress hits the perfect note, and that fabulous suite of emeralds meets all expectations of how a princess should be adorned. She looks absolutely stunning, and her pregnancy gives her a beautiful glow.
ReplyDelete& She doesn't have to have a security guard from a Jewelry Co follow her around & then return them at the end of the evening, like many of The Stars! :) lol
DeleteHOME RUN Duchess Kate!! I totally am in "emerald envy." Gorgeous, absolutely breath taking. I hope she and the Prince enjoy the evening and not pay too much (or any) attention to the media, especially if they are bashing her color choice of her dress. She looks amazing and very much the Princess. WOO! :)
ReplyDelete🌸 Rebecca. I think you are right about the post or clip earrings she wore tonight being the same as the bottom part of the dangling earrings she wore in NY.
ReplyDeleteIn the photos of the two gowns side by side above I think it is really clear that they are the same.
I was literally thinking the same thing when I first saw the close up photo of the dangle pair she wore in NYC!
DeleteCHARLOTTE, thank you for sharing your thoughts on this movement and Kates choice tonight. It's always insightful to hear. Many thanks for all you do!
ReplyDeleteYes Charlotte, Thank you for your signature Amazing Coverage, as well as sharing your own personal thoughts on this occasion. :)
DeleteBravo Kate! Now this is how a future queen should dress! Beautiful gown, apolitical but sensitive to the event and cause. Now, I consider myself very much a feminist. I'm all for the prevention of sexual harassment and fair treatment of women. However it will be naive of me to think that Times Up is an innocuous campaign. It is very politically, ethically and legally heated that I think it's wise for the royals not to get involved. As for Kate's looks, she looks like she's about to pop! I don't think I've seen her this pregnant!
ReplyDeleteExactly!
DeleteIt's insane that anyone would think Time's Up is a political movement. It's a social movement, and one that the Royal Family would do well to support.
ReplyDeleteIt is most definitely political.
DeleteHow is speaking out against sexual harassment political? I fail to see how it’s any different than speaking out about mental health. They aren’t encouraging votes or candidates or political movements.
DeleteSorry Charlotte, but I would have been disappointed if she’d worn black. If you want to be sympathetic to or supportive of a movement, celebrities (and royalty alike) should get off their butts and DO something about it, rather than wear a black dress that the average person will never be able to afford.
ReplyDeleteCatherine looked glorious.
Many in Hollywood have recently formed The Times Up fund; which is literally putting their money where there mouths are as a legal fund for those harassed in the workplace. In fact at the golden globes they all wore Times Up pins not me too pins. The Black was a way to draw attention what actually IS being done. Not just black for blacks sake.
DeleteI was so excited to see what Kate would wear tonight. I didn't think she would go with black but I couldn't imagine what she might choose that would lie somewhere in the acceptable balance. Well, she pulled it off, IMO. She looks fabulous. Had she walked in with a bright colored floral dress...that may have been a different story. I think she struck just the right note here with a deep green and black accessories. Classy, classy, classy.
ReplyDeleteEven more disappointed by William not mentioning Times Up in his speech at BAFTA's. As a man, and even more importantly as patron, he did a great disservice. He should be championing the idea that sexual harassment and assault by those in power, esp in an industry he gives his patronage to, is unacceptable. Or for those concerned about the same political issues, even though I don't agree with them, a speech has the perfect opportunity to do what a dress cannot - have nuance and be specific in its support,i.e. Even if kate wearing black could be seen as supporting not just the good parts of timesup but also the bad, a speech could clearly support the less controversial parts. But as patron and wife today, the Cambridges failed. How disappointing.
ReplyDeleteOn the other hand, Queen Silvia and Crown Princess Victoria of Sweden who also aren't supposed to be political have both shown explicit support of the campaign, so kudos to them.
People have also been wearing emeralds for Time's Up as a sign of "hope, renewal and growth".
Deletehttps://www.wmagazine.com/story/emerald-jewelry-golden-globes-2018-red-carpet
-flora
I love Kate’s look and would have been stunned had she worn black. The gown is lovely and graceful and the emeralds and diamonds are the bomb! I do find myself wishing (hopelessly, apparently) that William will learn to keep his coat buttoned. He looks a bit unkempt, particularly next to his wife.
ReplyDeleteAmazing and stunning a fabulous dress and wow wow jewellery. I think the Duchess choice of dresss colour was a diplomatic tour de force !! Bravo Kate
ReplyDeleteThe green of the dress is linked to the suffragette movement in England and Ireland, where it was supposed to stand for hope. That, and the black ribbon, are a subtle, very diplomatic nod to the cause without going all political. I am glad she didn't wear black. She is not "of" Hollywood and that directive should not be interpreted as applying to her. Yet her outfit was gorgeous and respectful. I think it's important for her to maintain sartorial independence, given their constitutional position. This is a good compromise and she looked great.
ReplyDeleteYes! People have been wearing emeralds as well for Time's Up!
Deletehttps://www.wmagazine.com/story/emerald-jewelry-golden-globes-2018-red-carpet
-flora
Kate was smart to wear that gorgeous dark-green gown and those amazing jewels. She needs to show that the Royal Family is not jumping on the bandwagon right away. It IS a worthy cause, so far as I can see, but that's the point. None of us can see very far into the future and nobody knows what direction this movement will eventually take. The Royal Family has to remain conservative and politically neutral, and if this movement is and stays apolitical, they may be able to get behind it. But if it goes in a direction that the RF can't support, they'd look pretty bad to join and then back out. The latter scenario doesn't seem likely to me, but you never know, do you? They can't be in the front of the line (queue) unless it's something they control themselves. I think Catherine made a good choice. Besides, she looked great.
ReplyDeleteIn regards to the time it takes to prepare a gown for something like this, I think it must often be done in a relatively short time period. The announcement about wearing black wasn't long enough ago for ALL those women to have ordered black gowns well in advance!
Another misrepresentation of Times Up that seems to be popular in the effort to defend Kate is that it is just a shallow effort that doesn't involve real push for change. I'm not sure why people think that when it's clearly not true...the recent line of men in hollywood to lose power for their horrendous acts is one example. Of course more needs to be done, but not a single person in support of times up has suggested that simply wearing black is enough. It is misleading and wrong to act as though they have.
ReplyDeleteMore examples of things being done,action being taken -
Here's a quote from telegraph (maybe some other ppl should do some research too before misleading about times up)-
"Last month, Bafta chair Jane Lush used the usually dry and uneventful nominations ceremony to condemn "the grave revelations of the troubling, unacceptable practices that have recently been revealed within our industry."
Since then, it's been clear that the Baftas would confront the film industry's recent spate of sexual harassment scandals head-on. News that the awards would follow the Golden Globes in adopting an all-black dress code as a protest soon followed.
But this weekend has seen a number of British put their money where there mouths are, donating to the Justice and Equality Fund's campaign to stamp out sexual harassment in the workplace – in a fundraising effort timed to coincide with tonight's awards.
Emma Watson has donated a million pounds to the UK charity, while Tom Hiddleston and Keira Knightley are listed on the campaign's crowdfunding webpage as having donated £10,000 each. Gugu Mbatha-Raw, a guest at tonight's ceremony, has matched Noomi Rapace and Doctor Who's Jodie Whittaker in giving a £1,000 to the Go Fund Me page."
In regards to my last post about fundraising - actually, you don't even have to do research, but just read this current blog post to see that action is being taken by those pushing the sartorial statement of wearing black. Which imo makes it even worse to portray the movement as lacking real action!
ReplyDeleteShe looks fabulous. I am so relieved that Kate didn’t wear black. I regard such pressure as authoritarian and unpleasant. I have always been for equal rights and proper behaviour in the workplace but I find the pressure to wear colours, ribbons, bracelets etc verges towards fascism. Kate struck the perfect balance.
ReplyDeleteI'm appalled by some of the comments I'm reading. Victim-blaming is not okay. Then the same people doing this wonder why they wait years before coming forward?
ReplyDeleteThank you!!
DeleteI agree! I love this blog but I’ve been fairly shocked the past few days. Kate has worn black plenty of times to black tie events. I think her not wearing it is headline grabbing in all the wrong ways. She could have worn black and still not said anything. She rarely speaks at these kinds of events anyway. There is article upon article about modernising the monarchy. If she wants To be the modern face of the monarchy one day she should recognize this is an incrediblely timely issue. That in my opinion still could have been handled tactfully and without controversy. Plus from a simple PR stanpoint this is not going to play well at all. Fair or not. And I do believe The royals ARE concerned with their image. This was a misstep.
DeleteI think (and this is just a "Kate thing", like it or not) that for her she rejects any kind of statement that doesn't conform with her extremely traditional views on how men and women should be in the world. I feel like her expectations for women are "they are better off raising kids in the home anyway." I'm not drawing this out of thin air. Everything about Kate screams "extreme traditionalist" to the point where she refuses to wear tailored trousers. I think England wanted a wonderful wife and mother and she is that to the nth degree. But she's never going to be supportive of anything that even smacks of being progressive. It's just not in her DNA.
DeleteThis is not a political movement in the same way her father-in-laws extensive work on climate change is not political. I think she was ill advised in her wearing a color. I think she could have done black with a pattern and at least been closer to the mark. It is a stunning dress but that is, sadly, the whole point on wearing black.
ReplyDeleteEven more disappointed by William not mentioning Times Up in his speech at BAFTA's. As a man, and even more importantly as patron, he did a great disservice. He should be championing the idea that sexual harassment and assault by those in power, esp in an industry he gives his patronage to, is unacceptable. Or for those concerned about the same political issues, even though I don't agree with them, a speech has the perfect opportunity to do what a dress cannot - have nuance and be specific in its support,i.e. Even if kate wearing black could be seen as supporting not just the good parts of timesup but also the bad, a speech could clearly support the less controversial parts. But as patron and wife today, the Cambridges failed. How disappointing.
ReplyDeleteOn the other hand, Queen Silvia and Crown Princess Victoria of Sweden who also aren't supposed to be political have both shown explicit support of the campaign, so kudos to them.
Apparently William did vaguely reference the movement in a separate foreword he wrote for the official program so that's nice at least. Though it bothers me bc he talks about "people" speaking up when it's been women, and given the cause, it seems even more important to acknowledge women specifically in this case. But still, he did say a little something in a written bit.
DeleteSorry I should amend - it's been mostly women, and sexual harassment targets women most, but I should not discount the harassment of men by people like Kevin Spacey of course. Just think women should have been explicitly acknowledged by William, but not the sole group per say.
DeleteTo be fair, it has been both men and women speaking up and I do not believe in excluding these brave men.
DeleteTerry Crews has been assaulted by à Hollywood exec. Its not just women or Kevin Spacey's victims.
DeleteRebecca and anonymous at 23:21 - I absolutely agree and I'm not proud of my original phrasing there. This is what happens when I try to post quickly in between getting ready for dinner, although that's no excuse of course. The "amendment" I made above (right below my original post) hopefully addresses what you have rightfully pointed out. And to clarify further, I certainly don't think Kevin Spacey's victims are the only male victims of harassment in the film industry. That would be why I said "harassment of men by people LIKE Kevin Spacey", instead of saying Kevin Spacey was the only guilty one.
DeleteWhether or not you agree with green, I think we can all say that Kate looked exceptionally beautiful tonight. Soft curls, elegant jewels. Every inch a princess.
ReplyDeletePersonally I agree with what Charlotte said that this was the perfect compromise. It was a very difficult situation but I think Kate made the best possible decision. I'm very happy for it.
While I do understand that the choice of dress today really was a "diplomatic minefield" I really feel very disappointed by the choice. I think that the issue really isn't so much a political one as humanitarian one. In Sweden both Queen Silvia and Crown princess Victoria have attended manifestations in support of the metoo movement even though they normally avoid political issues. Also, I really can't see who would have criticised her for wearing black and I feel like wearing green will attract more attention than wearing black would have.
ReplyDeleteI agree. I don’t think it’s that radical. Camilla regularly supports victims of sexual violence, and Harry has spoken openly and directly about feminism and violence and harassment against women. She should have worn black. There’s no minefield to navigate and I think that whole notion is overblown. She wears black all the time and isn’t under any obligation to say anything, but the black dress would have been the appropriate and correct thing to to do, from both a social, and perhaps more cynically, a PR standpoint:
DeleteThe thing is, while MeToo and TimesUp both tackle sexual abuse and harassment (which most people can agree is terrible and non-political), TimesUp has also been used and is also used to tackle the wider issues women face in professional industries. Discrimination, pay gap etc. And it is there it is starting to veer a bit political, and we do not know in which direction the cause will continue so aligning themselves with it in this fairly "innocent" stage might come back to haunt them if the cause ends up more radical.
DeleteIt's true that she frequently wears black, I think that something similar to what she wore last year at the Baftas (a dress with a print on black bottom) would have been a better choice if she for some reason felt she couldn't wear all black. Green just feel like a rejection of the movement all together and I don't think the black sash is enough to deflect from that feeling.
DeletePeople have also been wearing emeralds for Time's Up as a sign of "hope, renewal and growth".
ReplyDeletehttps://www.wmagazine.com/story/emerald-jewelry-golden-globes-2018-red-carpet
-flora
🌸 What?? 😳
DeleteOh my. 22:46 you are right. The women at the Golden Globe did wear emeralds. They apparently got the idea from the British suffragettes who wore emeralds as symbols of their cause.
Kate wearing a Queenly suite of emeralds was very bold of her. I am surprised at her boldness.
I think Kate looked lovely. Beautiful gown and nice to confirm that her diamond and emerald set is a demi-parure.
ReplyDeleteAs to the TimesUp movement, let's see if it lasts. I tend to think it will be forgotten by the next awards season.
But, that's the problem with a lot of online social movements. They don't last. Talk and texts and wearing black or purple ribbons are cheap.
To make real change, these same actors and actresses would have to work with those in power-the studios and financiers-and set-up long lasting and real change involving education, safeguards, and a zero tolerance atmosphere. And, quite frankly, I don't think any of them will.
Oh, some of them absolutely will. Most people are probably just wearing black because they have to or because "oh I agree, that is bad" but some of them are true activists.
DeleteThe back of the Duchess of Cambridge’s gown is as lovely as the front. The flowing angled length, to the back of the gown, is gorgeous and the black sash, hanging down at the back of the gown, to me, sends a profound message of support to the cause. I recently read the Duke of Cambridge’s foreword to the BAFTA’s and his statement clearly sends a message of understanding and support for the cause. Thanks, Charlotte.
ReplyDeleteCould someone please enlighten me as to what constitutes a "political" issue or cause? It has to go beyond just being controversial, right? Because if so, then Heads Together is either also political or actually not a big deal that deserves any praise. Also if anything controversial is political and something the royals cannot get involved with then it also seems to beg the question of what use the royals and the wealth they have acquired from "regular people" are in this day and age.
ReplyDeleteAnd THAT is one of the big questions surrounding monarchy! Not one I have an answer to!
DeleteKate looked absolutely stunning tonight... putting aside the discussion in terms of Time's Up, she looked glowing and very content. Really one of my favorite looks of hers in many years, what stunning jewelry!
ReplyDeleteIn terms of the movement I didn't really know what I wanted to see her wear tonight, I was a little disappointing she didn't choose to embrace the black more, as I think it could have been the start along with Meghan to demonstrate a modernization of the royal family and their support for this issue. However it is important to note Kate has unlike many of the celebrities supporting this movement actually done work to help improve the lives of women around mental health and addictions. Interesting to know through a previous commenter that emeralds were another symbol of the movement, and she certainly pulled those off tonight! Perhaps thats something Charlotte.. or even the media.. should mention as to recognize her support.
All in all a difficult decision for her, but at the end of the day she looks stunning and she will continue to advocate for women and that's the important part of her work as a royal.
That performance inspired by The Shape of Water, was just magical, and oh so moving. I watched it three times, thanks for including t Charlotte.
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ReplyDeleteI believe this is my new all time favorite look for Kate. She is just perfection tonight! Smash hit, grand slam home run!!! {{{{{SIGH}}}}}}}
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