Other members of the family in attendance included Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, the Prince of Wales and the Duchess of Cornwall, the Duke of York, the Princess Royal, the Countess of Wessex, the Duchess of Gloucester and Princess Alexandra.
William and Kate arrived with Harry and Meghan.
The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, Prince Harry and Ms. Meghan Markle arrive at @Wabbey for The Commonwealth Service. #CommonwealthDay pic.twitter.com/sIkCMFxCq5— The Royal Family (@RoyalFamily) March 12, 2018
It takes place in the presence of some 2,000 participants including High Commissioners and dignitaries from around the Commonwealth, in addition to 1,000 young people from schools across the UK. The Commonwealth represents a global network of 2.4 billion people, of whom 60 per cent are under 30 years old. As head of the Commonwealth, the Queen has reinforced links and seen the association of nations grow from seven to fifty-three members during her reign.
There's an additional significance to this year's Commonwealth Day; it precedes the 2018 Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (April 16-20), when the leaders of 53 independent member countries will meet in London and Windsor to address key global challenges and agree how to work together for the welfare and common good of its 2.4 billion citizens. It is slated to be the biggest summit ever held in Britain. Politically, the event has added significance because of Brexit and the government are eager to deploy the Royal family throughout the week.
The foursome inside the Abbey.
The Queen and The Prince of Wales at the start of the service.
The Royals take their seats.
Ahead of the service, the Queen shared the following message:
"We all have reason to give thanks for the numerous ways in which our lives are enriched when we learn from others. Through exchanging ideas, and seeing life from other perspectives, we grow in understanding and work more collaboratively towards a common future.
There is a very special value in the insights we gain through the Commonwealth connection; shared inheritances help us overcome difference so that diversity is a cause for celebration rather than division. We shall see this in action at the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting which takes place in the United Kingdom next month, bringing together young people, business and civil society from across the Commonwealth.
These gatherings are themselves fine examples of how consensus and commitment can help to create a future that is fairer, more secure, more prosperous and sustainable. Having enjoyed the warm hospitality of so many Commonwealth countries over the years, I look forward to the pleasure of welcoming the leaders of our family of 53 nations to my homes in London and Windsor.
Sport also contributes to building peace and development. The excitement and positive potential of friendly rivalry will be on display next month as we enjoy the Commonwealth Games on the Gold Coast, Australia. Contributing to the success of the Games, alongside athletes and officials, will be thousands of volunteers.
Voluntary effort, by people working as individuals, in groups or through larger
associations, is so often what shapes the Commonwealth and all our communities. By pledging to serve the common good in new ways, we can ensure that the Commonwealth continues to grow in scope and stature, to have an even greater impact on people's lives, today, and for future generations.”
Each year a specific theme is chosen to help guide plans and activities for Commonwealth organisations. The theme for 2018 is 'Towards a Common Future' emphasises how the Commonwealth can address global challenges and work to create a better future for all citizens through sub-themes of sustainability, safety, prosperity and fairness. The theme links to the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) which will be held in London in April, with leaders from 53 countries expected to attend.
These beautiful floral arrangements around the Abbey were made specially for today's service. They feature flowers from countries all over the Commonwealth.
Guests included the Prime Minister, the Prime Minister of Malta, the Hon Dr Joseph Muscat MP, the Commonwealth Secretary-General, Rt Hon Patricia Scotland QC, alongside High Commissioners, Ambassadors and dignitaries, senior politicians from across the UK and Commonwealth.
The British National Anthem is sung by the congregation in the presence of The Queen.
The British National Anthem is sung by the congregation in the presence of The Queen. #CommonwealthDay pic.twitter.com/qc2cf3osF8— The Royal Family (@RoyalFamily) March 12, 2018
'As we give thanks for our rich diversity and for our common humanity, let us pray together for peace and unity' – Dr John Hall, Dean of Westminster, gives the bidding during The Commonwealth Service at @Wabbey. #CommonwealthDay pic.twitter.com/5dXcc9IQI2— The Royal Family (@RoyalFamily) March 12, 2018
.@LiamPayne sings John Mayer's 'Waiting on the World to Change' during the #CommonwealthDay service. pic.twitter.com/XEDziNjx9F— The Royal Family (@RoyalFamily) March 12, 2018
Eye surgeon and Co-Founder of @peekteam, Dr Andrew Bastawrous provides a reflection on his work to bring better vision to people around the world through the latest technology and health intelligence. #CommonwealthDay pic.twitter.com/rntnmjpj8y— The Royal Family (@RoyalFamily) March 12, 2018
You can view the full Order of Service here.
During the Commonwealth Service, The @PortGospelChoir sing Paul Simon's Bridge Over Troubled Water. #CommonwealthDay pic.twitter.com/uhOr8Fc1cW— The Royal Family (@RoyalFamily) March 12, 2018
The Duchess met performers.
Following the service, the royals met a group of children.
Kate was given a beautiful posy by a little princess wearing her tiara :)
Her Majesty leaving with the Duchess of Cornwall and Princess Anne.
William, Kate, Harry and Meghan walked through Dean's Yard to attend a reception.
The Duchess met school children.
They travelled from Belfast, Fyfe, Aberystwyth, Stoke-on-Trent, Alnmouth, Berwick-upon-tweed and York to attend.
A very nice shot of a smiling Prince William.
To view the full service click here. You can view a video from the reception below.
The Duchess brought back the elegant Beulah London Chiara coat she first wore for a service of commemoration to mark the end of combat operations in Afghanistan at St Paul's Cathedral, when she was expecting Princess Charlotte.
The Chiara trapeze coat was described as "This piece is cut in a fit-and-flare silhouette and is makes layering easy and comfortable. Concealed buttons to keep the design clean and elegant." The piece is available for pre-order on the Beulah London website.
 |
| Beulah London |
Kate teamed the coat with her Lock & Co Tiffany hat.
More form the product description:
'Crafted from 100% rabbit fur felt, this 'Breakfast at Tiffany's' hat is a style saviour. The stunning, lipped drop-brim and wide Petersham band make this hat a real classic which is perfect for dressier social engagements.'
Kate wore her Rupert Sanderson Malory heels.
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| Rupert Sanderson |
And carried the Jimmy Choo Celeste clutch in navy.
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| Jimmy Choo |
The style is fast becoming a staple in Kate's collection. In Oslo Kate carried the Celeste in soft pink and burgundy.
Kate also wore the earrings at the Royal Foundation Forum. I asked jewellery experts Ella Kay and Order of Splendor about the set and neither recognise them as part of the Queen's collection. Hopefully more information will come to light on their provenance.
In light of the comments since the Royal Foundation Forum, it feels important to share the note I wrote when Harry and Meghan got engaged again. I had hoped the issue of comparing both women and using one to bash the other would subside. Sadly, that's evidently not been the case. I appreciate the time and effort which goes into writing comments, and I hate to delete them, however if this issue isn't dealt with it can only serve to derail enjoyable conversation time and time again. We're getting to a stage where events attended by both Kate and Meghan are a free for all. It has to stop. It is my sincere hope today's service will mark the beginning of a change in comments. Thank you for your understanding and support.
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 William and Kate on Saturday for the St. Patrick's Day Parade at Cavalry Barracks.
The Beulah! And a brooch!
ReplyDeleteBeulah and a brooch, a great combination Katie CH! cc
DeleteYes it’s nixs but...no more coat dresses! PLEASE! I
DeleteFiona
Love The Beulah Too! I was so hoping she'd wear it today! I also love the brooch & didn't we read speculation that the ufo earrings from The Forum could have been part of a brooch set of The Queen? Could this be the set Kate is wearing today?
DeleteSuch a happy feeling around this service, but only watching the arrivals this time! Love watching the video. You can see the interations between the royals and the royals and people much better than in pictures. I loved how William and Kate waited up and made sure to have an eye on Meghan! Love seeing them have eachothers back!
ReplyDeleteSooo happy to see this coat again on Kate. It's so pretty! Very nice that she is in repeats today! Very elegant look! And while I'm not one of those always yelling for a brooch it's nice seeing her switch it up with a brooch once in a while!
Also, I know this blog is not about her but I LOVE the colour the queen is wearing today! And how happy she seemed!
I agree Rebecca - I think that the brooch is a lovely addition to a gorgeous coat like this one. The last time Kate wore this coat, she complimented it with some striking topaz jewellery. The addition of the brooch and those new earrings gives this thjs coat a whole new look for me. Love it!
DeleteJust a short side-bar but did anyone else applaud the ladies for navigating that cobbled-stone surface in pencil heels? :)
Rebecca, I totally agree - I thought the Queen's outfit was absolutely beautiful today. It's not a colour I can remember her wearing before, but I thought she looked stunning. I particularly liked the contrast of the flowers on the hat against the burgundy - just gorgeous.
DeleteEveryone looks lovely. It appears this pregnancy is really taking a toll on Kate, though. She looks tired most of the time, and is suffering from some swelling in the ankles and feet, which is quite common for mere mortals. Yet she continues to smile and look beautiful.
ReplyDeleteShe looked lovely and I did not notice any ankle swelling despite the heels. Not really a relevant comment as it should be about her outfit.
DeleteIt’s not your call as to what people choose to comment on, anonymous.
DeleteI hoped that Kate would repeat this lovely coat at some point during her pregnancy, yay! Meghan looks so polished and right on point with the navy and white, her coat is very smart and those colours are so elegant.
ReplyDeleteThe Commomwealth service is always a great one and reminds us of its importance. I always enjoy seeing the diversity that is represented throughout the Commonwealth. On a slightly different note, I'm still curious as to why William and Kate did not attend last year but I hope that this will be a fixture on their calendars in future.
Love Avee in SA
Just a thought on why all RF are not in attendance - perhaps they purposely leave one or two higher ranking out of ceremonies due to security concerns? Don't see Edward or Andrew's girls this year.
DeleteOMG! First Look: They Look Amazing!! All 4 Of Them!! Now This Is A Royal Foursome!! Yay!! :) Wow! Can't Wait for more pics! :) Love All The Coordinating Blue & White, & it's not too much! The Ladies look So Chic! The Guys So Handsome! They All Look So Regal! Their Ensembles & Their Carriage! What looked lopsided when it was just 3, looks Solid with 2 Glorious Couples! Diana Has To Be Beaming!! :)
ReplyDeleteAll repeats except the clutch which looks like the celest by jimmy choo
ReplyDeletehttp://www.jimmychoo.com/en/women/bags/evening-bags-and-clutches/celeste%2Fs/navy-suede-clutch-bag-with-cube-clasp-CELESTESCUA040014.html?cgid=women-handbags-clutch#gclid=CjwKCAjwypjVBRANEiwAJAxlIgn3o7dUJHi5dAVd3TaJaQQpJUv9Zq2cuKlCaiN-VImdGtWVjeDdRxoC128QAvD_BwE&start=1
And the clutch is a nearly repeat since she wore it in different colors twice. ;-)
DeleteI enjoy to see my favourite navy coat from Belulah.Kate looks lovely and charming and her baby doesn 't let to forget about him.She need to go for maternity leave.
ReplyDeleteThe 4some even "Look" like The Future of The Royal Family!! :) So Thrilled for them!! :) I imagine The Queen feels very comforted by the 4!! :) Diana did good, raising such Men, who went on to fall in love with & choose such True Loving & Working Partners! :) xo Like Harry said in the engagement interview "I know she'll be really good at the work part of the role too" The same is true for Kate with William, as she is as a Mother, Working Duchess & Visionary Partner! :)
ReplyDeleteHat and hair of the first wearing a better than today. Other than that - lovely outfit.
ReplyDeleteVery nice- love the outfits and colors.
ReplyDeleteXOXOXOXOXO
I watched it live and as everyone was leaving just now, Kate accepted a bouquet from a darling little girl who promptly stuck her hand out to be shook. It was adorable, lol!
ReplyDeleteEveryone looks so nice today but I had to chuckle at the Windsor's preference for blue, William, Kate, Harry, Charles, Camilla, Andrew and Sophie all worn dark blue.
ReplyDeleteI must say that I really like this hat on Kate. I wear hats pretty frequently and recently purchased on in this blue color but in a bit different shape. And how lovely that she wore a brooch today, I can't wait to see a closer of it.
I would imagine that a navy and cream coordination, with the Queen in a bright colour, is not an accident.
DeleteI know & I originally thought it was just that group. Upon further looking, it appears Anne is possibly wearing Navy & White/Cream & both Princess Alexandra & The Duchess of Glouster are wearing lighter shades of Blue too?
DeleteSince the Princess Royal, Sophie Wessex, and the Duchess of Cornwall are in the same shades of navy and cream, I wonder if a professional family portrait was planned earlier in the day.
DeleteOh Anon, that's an interesting thought! :)
DeleteAfter seeing the photo of Camilla and Anne behind HM, I don't think the color scheme is an accident. Patriotic colors, IMO. Definitely a phone call or two behind it all. :-)
DeleteI agree, rf. They all got the memo. :)
DeleteThe ladies are lovely in their blue (and white). Has the future prince or princess perhaps "dropped"? Maybe it's just the flattering wrap look of the coat. The Queen outshines them all. Adore her hat.
ReplyDeleteGreybird K, the Queen really does look fabulous. Love the hat, love the color, love the Queen!! cc
DeleteShe is remarkable. They all look like a beautiful backdrop to her regal appearance.
DeleteShe is so radiant & that smile gets me every time! :)
Delete+1, Greybird K, CeCe and Becca! :) HM is fantastic! Hip hip hooray!
DeleteI totally agree, Greybird K, Cece, Becca, and Zora. The burgundy is a fantastic color on HM--it complements her coloring like a pink color would, but has the gravitas and elegance of a long-reigning monarch. I hope she wears that color again soon!!
DeleteAll hail the matching navy pumps! :)
ReplyDeleteI know! My Feelings Exactly! :) I loved the navy pumps matched to the outfits & between both ladies! :) Once I saw Kate's clutch was Jimmy Choo, I thought what a cute hoot it'd be if they wore same shoes?:) Alas not, just similar. They all looked wonderful! :)
DeleteWow! Ms Markle and the Duchess of Cambridge look lovely today. Ms Markle’s style is my style; in style, but nothing too complicated. I enjoyed very much the program highlights. The queen’s speech really summed up for me the purpose for the Commonwealth involvement. Thank you very much, Charlotte. Fantastic piece of work!
ReplyDeleteGorgeous as usual. I had a hunch she was going to wear this coat. I think it's perfect, nothing more to say.
ReplyDeleteJust looked at the Daily Fail and it seems that Maxima was wearing what looks like a piece of hay around her throat today. Did any of you see? I guess we should remember that when we complain about Kate and her outfits !
It's feathers not hay and it's certainly interesting that beneath a post of Charlotte asking people not to bash Meghan or Kate to make the other look better, someone bashes another royal lady to make Kate look good. Well, that's so much better.
DeleteMaxima and Kate have very different styles, befitting their different personalities, roles and countries. There is no need to make one woman look bad in order for another to shine. Happy belated women's day!
Anon 18:06
DeleteI am not "bashing" Maxima !! I just found it funny. It was a comment on her style, which is unconventional. I am a great fan of Maxima and I adore her quirky style and her exuberant personality. But her style does not always hit the mark, IMO. Some work and some don't, like everyone else. And this one just strikes me as funny - that's all. It was a good-natured comment on her choice - I did not mean to make her look bad, at all.
Maybe you should relax a bit and read what I wrote before "bashing" me .. LOL. It's all in fun - really. This is supposed to be a fun place, not one where we get all worked up and start attacking each other.
Rosman is quite capable of defending herself, but criticizing an outfit is not woman bashing. Giving our opinion on royal fashion is what we do here. I hopped over to the DM to check out Max's dress, and it's awful. It might be the worst dress she has ever worn.
DeleteThanks KimK - appreciate the back up :)
DeleteIt made my neck itch just looking at it! LOL
DeleteI don't think Rosman was bashing Maxima in order to make Kate look good. IMO the comparison was simply an innocuous reality check. :-)
DeleteI like Maxima's style 90% of the time. Today's outfit was in the 10% category. ;-)
oh my! I just had to go check out maxima after this thread, still laughing, that was quite a fashion risk!! what in the world is that thing?? somehow she seems to almost pull that off! lol
DeleteMaxima obviously has a sense of humor. Queen Margrethe has a moth-eaten looking mystery fur she has worn for years, even to palace white tie events. She must have a sentimental attachment or maybe a sense of humor to liven up those occasions.
DeleteI think that even HMTQ likes a little comic relief from time to time. Pomp and pageantry must get old.
O how I wish someone would brush the suede of Kate's shoes. Just endless scuffed up shoes from day one. Would Diana have EVER worn such scuffed heels, or boots or belts or clutches?? never i say
ReplyDeleteTotally agree with you Milo. This to me makes a huge impact on the overall effect of an outfit. Love her style but its the details that make an impact as well.
DeleteIt's funny, I have just the opposite reactions to her shoes. I'm always wondering how her collection is kept so fresh, after so many repeats worn during less than ideal conditions & during walkabouts. I was thinking that's quite a job for someone keeping her shoes in such top notch shape! No matter how many outings a pair has, the soles are not trashed & can you imagine how scuffed her shoes would be after even 1 walkabout? Let alone multiple ones? When I see scuff on a suede shoe, I note that it's exactly in locations & to a degree that anyone would get walking in them during the day's conditions & on the cobblestones or whatever street conditions exist. One simply can't walk outside in suede pumps or shoes & expect them to look pristine after the first hour or less. If her suede or any of her pumps & shoes were not fully tended to post appearance, we would be seeing her showing up for events in some pretty trashed shoes, considering how often she wears her favs. Just some things I've been thinking about. :)
DeleteAlso, I think one has to take into account the materials. As one knows, suede has a nap like velvet. Depending on how it's been reacting, the nap can have been rubbed or have had movement (i.e. the shoes rubbing against each other when sitting or crossing ankles etc) also, suede can look different in different light, even have a sheen. Sometimes what looks like scuffs are just changes in the light on the shoe. Today I looked very carefully on any pics I could see (here & elsewhere) I zoomed in & the only scuff I could see was some dirt on the bottom 1/4 on her heals. Also, to compare (which we shouldn't do) Diana's shoe's & belt & their condition with Kate's, it would have to be material to material & conditions to conditions. It's only fair.
DeleteI don't think the shoes are in bad shape either, to be honest. Suede is tricky. Just brushing them against the back seat of the car could make them look in need of TLC.
DeleteI know from my experience that suede shoes/boots are tricky especially in inclement weather. I do think the Duchess may or certainly has the option to buy multiples of the same shoes. It makes sense because of the wear and public position. I think that would be reasonable to protect the comfort of her feet and the shoe's appearance.
DeleteAlways loved the flair of the Duchess's coat. I like the model's coat length better, especially with the cold breezy weather. I loved Kate's hat the first time she wore it. This time it seemed to overwhelm her face. The broach was a lovely touch.
As always, Kate looks lovely. Bless her in those heels!
ReplyDeleteDitto on the heels! Curageous Kate!
DeleteI can hardly believe that Catherine even manages to walk in heels like that while she's pregnant. I think it must be a super power!!
DeleteShe certainly does make the third trimester look chic and elegant! I, too, am amazed at her ability to wear these heels...and in Westminster Abbey! That's a long walk; even longer without carpeting!
DeleteKate looks beautiful. This outfit looks wonderful on her. Interested to find out about the brooch and earrings.
ReplyDeleteEveryone looked lovely.
It's sad that you have to re-post the reminder. Thank you for all you do on this and MadaboutMeghan.
ReplyDeleteDuchess is beautiful today. Love the blue theme for the family today!
ReplyDeleteThese ear rings are the ones she wore during the Royal Foundation QA session a couple of days ago.
ReplyDeleteThat's what I thought about the earrings also.
DeleteThought Kate looked lovely and elegant today. It must be very hard to choose something when this far into a pregnancy but I thought she nailed it. Love this hat. Tailored to perfection.
ReplyDeleteOh, she looks beautiful. I love how her faces lights up when she is greeting children. Fantastic.
ReplyDelete(And yes. The heels! I’m nervous for her walking on that stone path in those shows with that belly..)
Annie
NY, USA
Where was Prince Edward and the Duke of Gloucester?
ReplyDeleteAttending other Commonwealth Events.
DeletePrince Edward was in Chester and the Duke of Gloucester is in Malawi.
Deletešø Becca. “Mother. Working Duchess & VISIONARY Partner”. Good description Becca.
ReplyDeleteAdd “Fun-Best-Friend” and voila’.
Hello There SG & Thx :) I was concerned, as during my first several go rounds here I didn't see you posting. :( Always love to see your pretty flower. :) Did you see I went a tad "Caps Crazy"? Ha! :) lol lol lol
DeleteBut Hey, I got all Enthused!!! :)
šø Becca. Caps are part of who you are.❤️ It’s all good. :)
Deletešø Kate really comes to life around children. By leaps and bounds. :)
ReplyDeleteI agree! It's a marked difference in her demeanor when she spots children.
DeleteDefinitely, SG. :-)
DeleteKate looked lovely today. She looks so elegant in big hats. Is this the first time she has worn a brooch on her coat? It looks charming!
ReplyDeleteNot at all! Mostly they are loaned for a purpose.
DeleteBy the Queen, for a visit:
https://i.pinimg.com/originals/f5/06/a0/f506a0899beaa31d620fb0d51644a523.jpg
https://images-production.global.ssl.fastly.net/uploads/photos/file/147938/kate-middleton-april-2014.jpg
Or the brooch loaned by the regiment for St Patricks day:
http://news.images.itv.com/image/file/6734/967296566ccb9682_1331990571_9j-4aaqsk.jpeg
But sometimes she uses them more for decoration:
http://i67.tinypic.com/6dc4.jpg
She doesn't do it all that often, not like the queen that has one basically every day. But she's worn them from time to time :)
Beautiful!!! And I'm sorry Charlotte if my bad English sometimes could create misunderstanding you're doing a wonderful job with both your blogs. Thank you as usual.
ReplyDeleteSilvia.
The service was beautiful, and The Queen looked happy and lovely. Our duchess was just glowing and gorgeous as ever. Love the outfit. The video of the 4 arriving was so nice.
ReplyDeleteI agree, Tedi!
DeleteAnd, Zora I loved that picture of the young Queen. Wasn't she a beauty? She still is. :)
DeleteAbsolutely, Tedi. She was and still is really beautiful!! Her young beauty transformed into a beauty of a gracefully aging, then gracefully aged, lady.
DeleteI was expecting Kate to wear this ensemble. She looks fantastic! I watched most of the service on YouTube. It's lovely. Hopefully this event will make it onto everyone's calendar in the future.
ReplyDeleteI would love more details on Kate's brooch and earrings and would someone please let me know which brooch HRH is wearing? It's not the Williamson Diamond but which brooch is this? I would like to look at it close up.
I have to say - she looks splendid. Was it known that Prince Phillip would not be in attendance?
Elle...there's a wonderful blog, two actually, that I follow, that are written by the same blogger. The one that's dedicated to the Queen and her jewels is queensjewelvault.blogspot.com. Her other blog, which is dedicated to all the royal ladies is orderofsplendor.blogspot.com. This one is awesome since not only does she provide brief posts on their engagements, the site has sections dedicated to just tiaras. She does extensive research on their provenance, and from time to time, does polls to get readers input on their favorites. Hope this helps!
DeleteThe Belulah Chiara Navy Coat is available for pre-order: https://www.beulahlondon.com/product/chiara-navy-coat/.
ReplyDeleteAre these the same earrings she wore to the Royal Foundation Forum?
Hello,
DeleteThank you very much for the coat update and yes the earrings are the same :)
What a lovely service! The Queen looked beautiful. With each passing year I realize what a special blessing it is that she is still here and faithfully serving. Her smile and presence definitely brighten a room! Kate and Meghan both looked beautiful too! I love that Kate brought back the Beulah coat. It’s sophisticated and classy. :)
ReplyDeleteIt’s wonderful seeing the family all together! Everyone seems so relaxed and joyful. I especially love seeing the Fab Four together. HM must be delighted that the future of the monarchy looks bright and beautiful at this time! Lovely day and service!
The Duchess always looks beautiful.
ReplyDeleteI would like to support our comment about the comparisons between Meghan and the Duchess of Cambridge. Well said. Each are beautiful, unique women with their own strengthens and personalities. I admire and respect both women's dedication to be of service.
Catherine
Great show of unity and power on the part of the RF. Who is the lady sitting between Anne and Sophie?
ReplyDeleteI love that hat the Duchess of Cambridge is wearing. The coat is perfect at this stage of her pregnancy too. Very flattering. But those heels! How does she do it? She has iron where I have mere muscles, apparently . . .
The lady between Anne and Sophie is Princess Alexandra. And the lady on Sophie's right (left, in fact) is the Duchess of Gloucester.
DeleteMarci, the lady between Anne and Sophie is Princess Alexandra - the Queen's cousin and the sister of the Duke of Kent and Prince Michael of Kent.
DeleteAnd those heels are higher than pretty much anything Kate's worn for most of the pregnancy aren't they? Serious respect to the woman! She has iron where I'm not sure I even have muscles any more to be honest!
Princess Alexandra
DeleteThank you all for helping me with identities! As soon as you wrote "Alexandra" I thought, Now why didn't I see that for myself? Apparently my eyes are also failing along with my leg muscles. Helen H, LOL about the muscles! Me too.
DeleteIt's interesting to see the women of the royal family sitting in the second row in the order of their precedence at court: Anne, Alexandra, Sophie, Birgitte. If the Duchess of Kent were active, she would be next.
DeleteI love this coat (with the pin) and hat! I'm glad she didn't wear a fascinator. She can carry off a hat with a large brim! I also love that we got a good look at her bump! Most likely this will be one of our last looks at pregnant Kate! I think this baby is coming at the beginning of April. I secretly hope it is born on April 1, which is my birthday! Charlotte was born on my best friend's birthday, and I never hear the end of it! Meghan looks beautiful as well. The coordination of the navy/cream, whether or not planned, makes for beautiful pictures. Especially with the Queen in red.
ReplyDeleteHope from USA
My youngest grandson was born on Princess Charlotte's 1st birthday. Such a special day!
DeleteAre those the same earrings she wore to the Foundation Forum event?
ReplyDeleteThank you for the wonderful coverage Charlotte. Without your blog, I would probably not have known about it as the U.S. news agencies haven't picked it (perhaps yet.) But how powerful it is to see so many representatives of nations coming together for a time of peace and reflection.
ReplyDeleteAnother tidbit from today re Kate's Breakfast at Tiffany's hat, Hubert de Givenchy, who dressed Audrey Hepburn in the move, died today at age 91. For years and years I wished I could have looked like Audrey Hepburn In BAT. She was so elegant!
I really love this outfit! I wonder if the new brooch and earrings were Mother’s Day gifts? But the earrings look similar to a pair Kate wore to the Royal Foundation event recently...
ReplyDeleteI remember someone posting pictures of HM wearing that brooch so I'm assuming the earrings are part of the same set. Meghan looked lovely today,very elegant and royal.Kate's hat is not my favorite,like someone else commented it does look like a lampshade.HM looked lovely in the wine colored coat. It looked like a lovely service,Thank You Charlotte!xoxo
DeleteNot my favorite of Kate’s coats, but great to see a repeat and I love the hat.
ReplyDeleteI believe chances of the brown coat being repeated on Saturday have just gone up.
Kate looks lovely, as well as the Queen and the other ladies. She must have been tired after the service though - I remember how my back ached at this stage of pregnancy after sitting in the church for an hour or more, plus the high heels...
ReplyDeleteCould the brooch be something she wore because she learns from the Queen, and HM loves brooches and always wears them on special occasions?
I love the matching shoes of Kate and Meghan.
Thank you for the post, Charlotte, and thank you for the paragraph at the end. Hope it helps.
Zora, I believe the Queen loaned or gave Kate the earrings and brooch. Kate does favor vintage pieces, but this goes a step beyond that, IMO.
DeleteKate looks fantastic! I am amazed she can walk in her heels this far into her pregnancy. I could barely fit in my shoes at that stage. I really like this style of hat as well.
ReplyDeleteSomething seems to have happened to my first comment so hope this isn't a repeat. I loved Meghan's white coat and beret - I thought she looked very elegant. I liked Kate's hat very much - and thought her coat an excellent repeat - she truly is glowing. I'm very interested in the brooch. Sophie looked lovely in her blue coat and good hat - and Camilla very nice - also a repeat. With the queen in burgundy, a nice royal showing all the way around.
ReplyDeleteGood to see Kate and William attending this year, along with Harry and Meghan! I love the royals' color coordination -- navy and cream is such a classic, chic combination.
ReplyDeleteI usually love Kate's navy coats -- and this one is no exception -- but I can't stand this hat (what I call one of her "lampshade" hats). Broad-brimmed hats can be such chic statement pieces, but this one just bugs me to no end. I also feel like she'd have a hard time seeing out from underneath it.
Love that Kate and Meghan are essentially wearing the same shoes. Princess Anne's coat was so sharp! I also loved her hat.
Thank you, Charlotte for your initial comments. I totally agree with you. To paraphrase the Queen’s speech, as with the Commonwealth, we should appreciate the differences in Ms Markle and the Duchess of Cambridge, and as a result, celebrate the diversity rather than participate in causing any division. Btw, the Queen, at her age, was the epitome of style.
ReplyDeleteHear, hear!! Both the original posting and subsequent one by Charlotte were spot on and you have reiterated them beautifully.
DeleteAs I posted on the MAM blog, I am sad that Charlotte felt she had to post the warning regarding vicious comments. The hate out there is most disheartening, but comes from the lowest denominator of society, and as women, we should be supportive of one another, not tearing each other to shreds.
ReplyDeleteGood point.....
DeleteCharlotte are you sure the earrings and brooch are matching set? Also I just saw the photo of Princess Anne, what a great look she has on. She looks fantastic.
ReplyDeleteHello Ali,
DeleteYes, I think they are likely part of the same set. I asked experts Order of Splendor and Ella Kay and neither recognise the jewellery as part of the Queen's collection. Hopefully more information will come to light.
A note for Sonja: Thank you for your very kind and understanding comment :)
My "gut" says that the set is probably loaned from the queen but have not been seen since she was younger. She wore a lot of floral brooches as a princess, from what I've heard/seen, so it wouldn't surprise me if these were a set that has been gather dust in a vault for half a century or so :P Hope we get confirmation in the future :)
DeleteI recall Anne wearing this dress years ago at a ww2 event with princess Diana!
DeleteCharlotte, thanks, in the photos they just look so different to me in style, but you have waded through many more photos. Andrea, how fun, it looks great for being that old. I loved all the cream and navy, then the two lighter blues, and the Queen in her plum/burgundy.
DeleteOh my Andrea! How cool! It looks so great today! That would be one amazing "recycle"! :)
DeleteAndrea, you have a great memory. And i'm not a bit surprised! Anne is the Queen of recycling because years (decades!) can go by before she reaches for it again.
DeleteThe royal hat blog has photos of Anne in this coat from 1980.
DeleteAnne is incredible! I love that she works so hard for the monarchy.
DeleteTwitter had some fun with Anne's recycle yesterday. Richard Palmer tweeted that Anne recycled and implied that Kate/Meghan were not as thrifty. Several people pointed out that 1. Kate did recycle. 2. If either of them recycled something from the 80's, it would end up going terribly wrong. All that to say, maybe Kate will take a page from Anne and recycle well into the future(maybe Meghan too. Not sure how often she will repeat).
DeleteI love this hat on Catherine and always have. I wish she would wear more of these larger styles as she looks awesome in them. Her look today is very regal.
ReplyDeleteSMH
Anon, I completely agree! :)
DeleteI totally agree too, she looks great in this style hat! I always wonder how you see with some of those facinators, some are so slanted I wonder if you can see in only one direction?!
DeleteThe Church of England does know how to do ceremonial beautifully. And all the royal ladies looked wonderful. The Duchess has to be tired at this stage of pregnancy, but she continues to carry herself well.
ReplyDeleteHmm i love the duchess looks lovely. And great hmm as ever i love the cost and everytging my. Question is the earings and the brooch are the gift from the queen or its apart of the queen collection hmm. These pregnancy looks good on het hmm i love she glows and she shine well
ReplyDeleteI thought the royal ladies == Queen Elizabeth II, Camilla, Catherine, Megan and Sophie and Anne looked very lovely. All were very well turned out.
ReplyDeleteAnon 22:50, agree, the men also.
DeleteYes, The Women of The House of Windsor Did Shine! :)
DeleteMy favorite look was actually the Queen's. I thought she looked so nice. I liked Princess Anne's outfit as well. Kate's coat and brooch are so pretty, and I loved that she wore blue shoes. For some reason I'm not a big fan of that particular hat. I wasn't a fan of the one she wore to the Grenfell service either. I'm not sure if it's the same one. There's nothing exactly wrong with it so to speak, but I think it has to do with the shape of her face.
ReplyDeleteI hope someone can shed light on the jewelry. The earrings and brooch remind of styles from the mid to late 1940s.
ReplyDeleteI am keeping my fingers crossed that the jewelry is vintage Cartier!
ReplyDeleteIt looks almost Victorian. I wonder if it's a Windsor/SCGotha Family Heirloom?
DeleteDearest Charlotte
ReplyDeleteThanks for all your hard work on these blogs. You have created a really loving (most times) community here and I want to take this opportunity to give you a BIG THANK YOU. It's unfortunate that you have to repeat the statement about comparisons and unkind comments. I am in complete agreement with you. Please know that we really appreciate all your hard work and your vast amount of information that we wouldn't otherwise know if not for you.
Thank you very much and please know that your efforts are greatly appreciated.
+1 Rose! Charlotte you are so cherished by us! :) xoxo
DeleteTotally agree with Rose, thank you Charlotte!!!
DeleteFederica
I'd also like to add my sentiments to those well said by Rose. I appreciate the work you do on behalf of your blogs and for us, as readers. I can only imagine the hours you spend to bring us updated, accurate information. Thank you!
DeleteThank you, Rose. Everything you've said is so true. And I add in my great thanks and appreciation too, to you Charlotte, for the rich and interesting blog community you have created and work so hard to carefully maintain.
DeleteI just knew the Duchess would repeat this coat today!! And I do like the hat with it as well! I believe we will see the brown Catherine Walker coat on St.Patrick's day too. She looks great, and she doesn't have long now!!! In regards to your remarks regarding the rivalry between the two women, William and Harry are two different characters, so it would be quite appropriate for them to pick two different women. It just gives me double the pleasure to watch these women in their work and their fashion. Let's now forget that Diana and Fergie were pitted in the media against each other too. It did neither women any favors, and probably contributed to both of their angst with their husbands and within the Royal Family. Let us enjoy this year with the Queen with smiles- how lucky we are to have two babies and two weddings to watch!!!
ReplyDeleteBoth ladies look lovely.
ReplyDeleteThey both look lovely. I look forward to seeing the Fab Four out together.
ReplyDeletePrincess Anne looked fantastic today; Theresa May not so much. She went a little overboard with matchy matchy red...
ReplyDeleteThis is also Kate's first official appearance with the Queen this year. Much is made about Meghan's attendance but I don't think folks realize how rare it is for Kate to be with the Queen publicly. It's worth noting.
ReplyDeleteMeghan's appearance is a big because they are not married yet. This is not about numbers. :-)
DeleteCharlotte, I am a long time reader but first time commenting. Thank you for putting the breaks on the unkind and unnecessary comparisons between the Duchess and Ms Markle among the comments. That kind of attitude really takes away from the joy I feel in following the BRF and being inspired by the good works of its members. I would ask that you continue to be firm in your defense of these good women who are trying to use their positions to affect positive change in the UK, the Commonwealth and the World. Thank you, too, for the excellence of the two blogs. ACH
ReplyDeleteI have been following your blog for many years now but it is not often that I comment. I think both of the blog you have set up to follow these two beautiful and intelligent women who have accepted very public roles under the microscopic lens of the media in order to live their lives with the men they have fallen in love with. It is sad that we as women attempt to compare them like objects instead of seeing them for who they are and what they represent. Personally I can't help but see something entirely different. When I first saw the pictures of the four of them standing inside the abbey near the unknown soldier marker I couldn't help but feel a huge sense of love and how proud Diana might feel to see that scene. Both of her boys have grown into remarkable young men who are highly respected, admired and loved by multi-millions of people all over the world. I have never met or been in the presence of them and all I have encountered are pictures and videos of them but I cannot help but see their mother in both of them. Her kindness, love, compassion and empathy for others can be seen in both of them so clearly. William was truly blessed to have found Catherine and they were allowed time to develop the relationship that is going to be required for the future sovereign. Even after years of being photographed in public and having to deal with the media Kate still had some adjustments after she joined the family. I am sure that all of the changes that Meghan faces in her transition into the family are ones that Catherine has now traversed and according to Meghan herself Kate has been a huge help to her. It seems to me that they will make a fantastic team who are supportive of one another and each will have their own focus that will benefit the whole of humanity. These are things we should be celebrating! To have this team of people who have such an influence to do good and they are doing it in a way that will truly positively impact all of us. Diana's legacy lives on as does the work she initiated and the ripple effect may very well be taking place as we live and breathe right now. What a blessing to be able to watch it all unfold. I look forward to the new fabulous four continuing to make such great strides in mental health and all that their foundation support. No tearing down just building up; relationships that is.
ReplyDeleteAnon, how beautiful! I'm speechless, you said it all! :) xo
DeleteAnon, I agree with Becca, very touching. Your comment "no tearing down just building up is also is in line with the Queen's speech and the Bible verse read by Teresa May, Romans 12:3-13. The very last sentence states "Practice hospitality". We could all do with a lot more hospitality and tolerance worldwide!! cc
DeleteI wonder if Kate's new brooch represents her now theth children? Since there are three blooms in the bouquet?
ReplyDeleteI can’t see beneath her coat BUT, it looks like Kate has dropped a little. Hope it’s getting close!!! By the way: my guess is another boy.
ReplyDeleteBoth the Duchess and the future Duchess looked just lovely and are wonderful representatives of the Crown. I am sure Meghan will work just as hard as Catherine has over the past few years.
ReplyDeleteI am sorry, Charlotte, that you had to post a warning to those that insist on negative comments. There is no need for that kind of nastiness - and that is what it is. These two women are under constant scrutiny for every move they make. Why can't we support other women? That is how is should be - no room for nasty people here!
I think Kate looks splendid and beautiful. I'm sorry you had to write that note and I hope we can just focus on the nice things and beautiful clothing!
ReplyDeleteI love Catherine’s look today her hat was spot on. The Queen as always was spectacular perfect color and cut of her coat. I also thought Camilla looked wonderful today the cut of her coat was perfect. Princess Anne looked perfect in the cream/navy coast she wore. Sadly I wasn’t a fan of Sophie’s and Megs looks. Normally I love Sophie’s outfits but today was an off day for me with her look. I haven’t been a big fan of Megs style so far I think she needs a more polished look and not the big over sized coats she has been wearing. It’s intresting I noticed for the first time Harry was seated in the second row in church. Today’s seating showed the present (Queen) eventually (Charles) and the future (William and Kate). I can’t wait for George and Charlotte to take their place in these events.
ReplyDeleteCan anyone confirm if Kate even knows whether she's having a boy or girl? I heard one time that Kate knows, but William doesn't, and another time I heard that Kate chose not to find out for any of the three. I have a hard time believing most of the rumors, and those couldn't both be true. Does anyone have an idea?
ReplyDeleteDuring her pregnancy with Prince George, Kate told someone in a walkabout crowd, “No, we don’t know!” I haven’t heard that she has ever changed her mind about that.
DeleteOkay, thanks. Do you remember about how far along she was when that happened?
DeleteI loved this coat on it´s first outing in 2015. Such as the hat earlier. But somehow the 2 does not work together. The hat makes this coat look dull...However I still like both pieces, funny as it is :)
ReplyDeleteI liked her hat from the first time she wore this, but both times I’ve been struck by how regal she looks in it. One of my favorites. I really dislike this hat though.
ReplyDeleteI wonder if this Saturday will be her last engagement, or if she is going to work as long as she can up to the due date. Questions, questions....
ReplyDeleteThe Duchess looks lovely, and maybe she had some sunshine in the country over the weekend. She is glowing and looks a bit tan.
ReplyDeleteRemember, when the number of comments reaches 200, to click the Load More button at the bottom of the page. You'll need to hit it again each time the number increases by 50.
Charlotte, I have enjoyed your blog for a long time however this is my first post. Sincere thanks to you for your standing in appreciation of all women in all of our shapes, sizes, dress styles, talents, and also including appreciation and acceptance of our human wobbliness from time to time.
ReplyDeleteJust saw Kate had a meeting today about tennis initiatives. Looks like she was wearing her cream coat again. It still looks great!
ReplyDeleteI love this entire outfit! she looks so beautiful. really curious about the jewels, they look very very old. love the idea of them sitting in the vault just waiting for someone to wear them again, I hope we find out more. am hoping for the brown coat on st. pats day, fingers crossed:) everyone should have a sister so I almost hope the babys a girl but I think it will be a boy, love albert "bertie" cant wait for the polls! thanks charlotte for all you do!!
ReplyDeleteCharlotte, this is not necessarily to post, I wonder if it has reached the point that the unpleasant posters know you will delete them but they are enjoying upsetting you, because they just want to upset someone. There are so many horrible hateful things that people write but to know that someone will read them and be disturbed is a gift to them!
ReplyDeleteI was 100% sure she's gonna wear this coatdress :D
ReplyDeleteI like the style of Kate's outfit, I recognised it from previously. However, the fabric looks a bit cheap, hangs rather limply. The style of the hat is reminiscent of a hat that Diana wore.
ReplyDeleteI really enjoy these events when many of the Royal Family are gathered together. I love seeing how they interact, and we don't often get to see the Prince of Wales, The Queen, The Duchess of Cornwall, and all the other members together. These occasions are a wonderful opportunity to see them. I think Kate looks so happy and comfortable. She getting to be very pregnant! I love that hat, she always looks fabulous in it. Thanks for another excellent, informative post.
ReplyDeleteWell said, Charlotte, thank you for so eloquently standing up to those who delight in being cruel. I have never posted anything before, and you truly do not need to post this. I couldn't find any other way to get a message to you and just want to let you know that I've read your blog for many years with great enjoyment, as apparently have many others, and hope the ugliness of a few won't spoil it for you. Thank you for providing such a first-rate place to go for those of us who admire and respect the new generation of the royal family.
ReplyDelete