The 'Before the Announcement' Appearance
With each of Kate's pregnancies, we tend to remember her last appearance before the big announcement was made. On St Andrews Day's in 2012, the Duchess visited her old preparatory school in Pangbourne, Berkshire where she participated in a game of hockey. Wearing a tartan McQueen coat dress and Aquatalia boots, Kate cut a stylish figure. Fast forward to August 2014 when Kate joined William and Harry at the Tower of London for the official unveiling of 'Blood Swept Lands and Seas of Red', an installation of poppies in the Tower's moat. Kate chose her striking blue L.K. Bennett Detroit dress for the outing. Last August, William, Kate and Harry returned from summer break to pay tribute to Diana ahead of the 20th anniversary of her death. A smiling Kate chose a poppy print Prada number with smocking at the waist.
The First 'Post-Announcement' Appearances
Sadly the joy of each pregnancy announcement has been accompanied with Hyperemesis gravidarum for Kate. We first discovered the Duchess was suffering from the illness when it was announced she was expecting her first baby and she had to spend four days at King Edward VII Hospital. Kate looked incredibly frail as she left, wearing a DVF coat and a purple scarf. When Kate was expecting Charlotte she spent much of the first two months following the announcement in Bucklebury quite unwell. She carried out her first duty in late October 2014 to welcome President Tony Tan Keng Yam of Singapore and his wife Mary Chee Bee Kiang at the start of a four-day state visit to Britain. Kate wore a bespoke McQueen coatdress and a Jane Taylor hat. For her third pregnancy, Kate returned to engagements for a World Mental Health Day reception. She chose the pretty blue Temperley London Eclipse dress.
Christmas Day Appearances
William and Kate elected to spend Christmas 2012 with the Middletons in Bucklebury. Kate still looked quite under the weather as she was photographed departing church. She wore her Hobbs Celeste coat with red accessories. In 2014, The Cambridges celebrated Christmas at Anmer Hall with the Middletons and the group made the walk to St Mary Magdalene Church with the royals, ensuring time was spent with both families. Kate chose British labels for the day: a Moloh coat and a scarf by Really Wild. Dressed in an appropriately festive Miu Miu coat, Kate was in great spirits as she made the walk to church with the Royal family in 2017.
St Patrick's Day
The St Patrick's Day appearance is undoubtedly a readers favourite; Kate attended in each year she's been expecting. In 2013, the Duchess opted for Emilia Wickstead; in 2015 she surprised us in a chestnut brown Catherine Walker design; and it was Walker again this year.
Royal Family Events with the Queen
A radiant Kate joined the rest of the Royal family for the Queen's Coronation Service at Westminster Abbey in a bespoke Jenny Packham outfit. The Duchess was very much blooming at the service and enjoyed a chat with Zara Tindall afterwards. We also saw Kate in pink McQueen for the 2015 Commonwealth Observance, and in navy Beulah London for Commonwealth Day in 2018. Her Majesty and a number of BRF members were out in force for all three events.
A Touch of Blue
Blue is undeniably one of Kate's favourite colours and a tried and trusted go-to for the evening events. When Kate was expecting George she sported an Emilia Wickstead dress for a reception at the National Portrait Gallery. The empire line piece very much had a 1960s feel to it; it remains one of Wickstead's most-loved creations. When Kate was expecting Charlotte, she opted for a fabulous Packham gown with a split. She teamed the gown with a pair of pink L.K. Bennett Agata sandals. And for the Royal Variety Performance last year, it was a sparkling blue 'Elsa' Jenny Packham design.
Casual Kate
When thinking of 'Casual Kate' appearances over the years, I instantly thought of the day she volunteered with the Scouts in the snow at Great Tower Scout Camp. Kate wrapped up in a Barbour jacket and her trusty La Chameau wellies. In 2014, Kate, appropriately attired in a Scouts jacket, scarf and woggle, enjoyed a pre-Christmas engagement with a group of Beavers. And in January of this year the Duchess was back in the snow during the Scandinavian tour. Kate's first casual look of the tour was a real winner for me; she wore a black Burberry trench, Sorel Boots and a beanie.
Kate's Working Wardrobe
During Kate's first pregnancy, we very much saw her sticking to her personal style with a selection of high street pieces from Topshop and Hobbs. It was really only when expecting Charlotte we saw a larger number of pieces coming from maternity brands such as Séraphine and Madderson London. This time around, we've seen a marked increase in bespoke pieces from designers such as Catherine Walker and Dolce & Gabbana, in addition to a significant number of repeats. There are several reasons for this: William and Kate are carrying out many more engagements now than they were in 2013 and for the Scandinavian tour Kate opted to order several coats from Walker. We tend to see the Duchess in fewer high street brands than when she first married. The hemlines are also longer with Kate favouring midi length dresses quite a bit recently. I suppose one could say we've seen the evolution of Kate Middleton's wardrobe to the Duchess of Cambridge's in the past five years or so. The graphic below offers six looks from each of Kate's pregnancies.
The Final Appearance Before Maternity Leave
Before Kate's maternity leave in 2013, we saw William and Kate at Trooping the Colour. Kate looked elegant in a pink coat with a heavy collar, three-quarter length sleeve and pearl buttons (you may recall the appearance prompted rumours Kate was expecting a girl). A day of engagements in South London in March marked Kate's final public appearances before Charlotte's arrival. The Duchess wore her much-loved cerise Mulberry coat. And Kate's last royal appearance this time was Easter Sunday service with the Royal family, when she brought back her brown Catherine Walker coat for the day.
It was fun to look back on Kate's maternity wardrobe milestones throughout the years. It's hard to believe George will soon be 5, and Charlotte almost 3!
With George back at Thomas's tomorrow, and a very busy week ahead for William with CHOGM events, and of course a very important impending arrival - the Cambridges are now back at KP where they will remain until the baby arrives. The Mail on Sunday reports Kate was out with her brother James in Hungerford, near Anmer Hall shopping for his new country home. I imagine the sighting may be from before Easter when the Cambridges were staying with the Middletons. Hungerford is about a twenty minute drive from the Middleton home.
At first I gasp when seeing the date on your post, thinking Catherine had gone into labor. This was a lovely post I really love seeing the pink McQueen coat and I wonder why she didn't wear it on Easter Sunday. That brown Walker is well, brown. Thank you Charlotte!
ReplyDeletehaha..a lady on Facebook just messaged me to say she thought Kate was in labour :)
DeleteThank you for reading Mel. Not too long now until Baby Cambridge arrives.
I agree about the pink coat. Since the timeline for Charlotte and baby 3 are similar, I wonder why she didn't wear it for Easter, unless it was colder this year.
DeleteThank you for making this post Charlotte. It was fun to see the comparisons. It's exciting that they're back at KP. It's another step closer to getting to the big day.
I didn't really start following the family until 2016, so this is my first official royal baby watch, and it's been really fun and exciting.
I thought she was going into labour as well! :)
DeleteHey I’m another Mel in so cal!
DeleteMaybe she didn't wear the pink coat on Easter Sunday because the Queen was in pink.
DeleteThank you for this post, Charlotte.
Chris
With all three pregnancies, the Duchess of Cambridge has been glowingly beautiful, and her maternity clothes are so fashion forward. Thank you, Charlotte. I enjoyed the opportunity to reflect on the Duchess of Cambridge’s maternity styles and repeats.
ReplyDeleteWhat a wonderful post! I really liked the way you formatted this post :) Very nice! I cannot wait for the baby to arrive :)
ReplyDeleteI loved the format, too! Really good post & very excited for the impending birth :)
DeleteSo glad to see you back on the board!
DeleteAgreed - the side-by-side comparisons were so effective.
DeleteVery nice post and a pleasant surprise to help us bide the "Great Kate wait"!! Charlotte, I agree with Rebecca and others, excellent format!! cc
DeleteI agree. Thank you for a wonderful post and so well organized. She seems like such a happy person. I love to see all of her smiles (and beautiful clothes).
DeleteOh how I miss her longer hair! Outside of that, it is fun to see how her style has matured!
ReplyDeleteOhhhh, how I agree with you, Suzanne! HER. HAIR. IT WAS MAGNIFICENT!!! Never have I seen such beautiful hair on a person...
DeleteI agree about her longer locks, but what a stunning women pregnant or not. She is perfection. Charlotte I don't often post, but am an avid reader from the beginning, you do such a wonderful job with your posts which are always well thought out and informative. Thank you
DeleteWithout a doubt, her hair looked fantastic but I think it overwhelmed her. At this stage of the game, I do believe it was time for a trim.
DeleteAgreed, Royalfan. Kate’s current hairstyle balances her look and still allows beautiful versions that display her luxuriant hair. I wish she would give up the long back extensions.
DeleteI totally agree with the beauty of Kate's long hair and I still hope she grows it again. For official purposes an elegant ponytail or updo would be perfect. Otherwise she should show off that wonderful hair.
DeleteTotally agree, royalfan. I've always loved Kate's long hair (especially the 2011-2013 era), but it wasn't always being styled correctly in later years and began to look weighed down. Her shorter cut has restored some health and bounce to it and has worked for Kate with where she is in life. I won't be mad, though, if she grows it back out for a little while longer. ;) She wears it so well.
DeleteI love that her style has evolved but I sure loved the shorter hemlines like the grey wrap dress in the first of the 6 “George” pictures.
DeleteAbsolutely agree, Patricia I. Balance is a good description of it. And Becca H, it definitely looks healthy and bouncy again.
DeleteI like the longer hair but the current length looks really good. I do not like it as well when shorter. It is also amazing how much time you save with drying and styling with just those extra 3-5 inches cut off.
DeleteI loved that gray wrap dress! And the yellow Wickstead garden party outfit...and-and-and...
Deleteanon 19:56
Charlotte, such a wonderful blog today! Fun to see the outfits again. My favorite is the Miu Miu tartan coat and black accessories last Christmas. And Mel, you are so cute in your comment about Kate being in labour. I was thinking the same thing!
ReplyDeleteProbably my all-time favorite look during Kate’s pregnancies was the blue split-front Packham she wore with the pink LKB sandals. A bit of a fashion risk for her, IMO, but one that worked very well. Second fave was the Walker brown coat we saw on St. Patrick’s Day ‘15 and this year on Easter Sunday. I love the neckline of that coat. 😍
ReplyDeleteAnxiously looking forward to the arrival of baby #3 and checking Twitter multiple times a day!!
The blue split front Packham was indeed beautiful. You have great taste, US READER.
DeleteI agree! The Jenny Packham split front was gorgeous and Catherine looked absolutely stunning!
DeleteNo doubt - that gown/dress was one for the records (i.e.: didn't typically follow any rules). Would be great for her to pull that back out of her closet. :-)
DeleteI agree, the blue split-front Packham dress was unexpected and very beautiful. I feel like her very conservative (dare I say frumpy sometimes?) pregnancy wardrobe this time is my least favourite. Geroge's was very youthful and while it is by far my favoutite, but I can see why she choose to get a bit less short and playful in her second pregnancy.
DeleteC.
That dress was beautiful when the slit was closed. Open, it revealed the strange short skirt or shorts, an awkward addition that could have been avoided by simply constructing a shorter slit. That much bare leg on a formal occasion seems unattractive, too. It is my least favorite of Kate’s gowns.
DeleteIt's called a high-low style and was popular at the time. Very beautiful on Kate with her gorgeous legs.
DeleteIt wasn't a Cathedral appearance. It was an evening-wear occasion, as I remember. Daring, but not inappropriate, in my opinion.
One of those occasions when the "frumpy" label definitely did not apply. Perhaps we should offer a toast to Kate.
I especially liked the Asos and pink McQueen as well as the white boucle dress she wore on the last tour- Norway, I believe. I also liked the POW plaid gray coat- dress and hat, but she looked so ill then. I think she generally looked a little unwell with Charlotte for longer than with the other two babies.
Weeks ago I had written both here (not sure it was published, though) and the same day on another blog my wish for a side-by-side comparison of maternity looks for all three pregnancies. You came through, Charlotte. It takes time to collate and review so many outfits. Considering you are dealing with multiple forums to write and keeping up to date with both wedding and birth news, it must have been a challenge to find time. I imagine pots of hot tea and a very supportive Mr. C. factored into the process. :)
It's the coffee for me at the moment. Mr C is the tea man, he drinks pots (and pots) of it :)
DeleteBy the way, I really do appreciate the post suggestions. You have all come up with the best ideas over the years. Once Baby Cambridge is born, I want to focus on the Patronage series we chatted about for a bit. I keep all suggestions in a notepad, so please keep them coming :)
I hope you both treat yourself to the best sort of coffee and tea you can get, Charlotte! :)
DeleteI wonder if it would be possible to make a post about various interactions that Kate has had with other members of the Royal family. I mean, we've seen her relatively often with Sophie, Countess of Wessex, but it might be nice to put together different occasions when she was somewhere with HM, Prince Philip, Zara Tindall etc. so we could see her with the other royals. A lot of people have said over the years they love it when more royals get together, e.g. at Christmas time, Trooping the Colour etc. - perhaps because it offers a glimpse at them as a family, as a living organism. I believe it would also be interesting from the sartorial point of view. So something like "Kate amongst the members of BRF" ...? :)
🌸 Sweet Idea, Zara. Not everyone could have been so seamlessly integrated into William’s family as Kate is. Everyone seems to genuinely love AND like her.
DeleteThis waiting time is so exciting! I remember when we were waiting for George, I became paralysed (c4 down). The first thing the nurses and doctors would say to me when they came into my room was ‘no baby news. Still waiting!’ Catherine looked lovely in all pregnancies. It is really nice to see how she is gracefully maturing.
ReplyDeleteIt's nice to have something fun to think about when you're going through a hard time. Thank you for sharing Mary as I'm sure that was not an easy period of time and that there continue to be challenges.
DeleteI hope that everything worked out for the best for you!
DeleteI hope all is as best for you now as it can possibly be and that royal news continues to bring you cheer.
DeleteThank you. After three months in hospital, my sweat and quite a few tears I left hospital walking. Every day is a challenge now. But I have two beautiful children (they were two at the time). I am blessed. And reading this blog is one of my great enjoyments! Thank you Charlotte!
DeleteMary, I was so relieved to read your reply today! I was reading comments in bed last night and could not reply. So glad to read that you have some mobility back!! take care of yourself, slow and steady wins the race:) - Caroline
DeleteThank you for your concern. I am very lucky to have magnificent parents and beautiful eleven year old twins!
Delete🌸 Prayers going up for you for complete recovery, Mary. 💐
DeleteThe blue split front Jenny Packham dress is my favorite look for Kate ever, pregnant or not. It was daring and different, and with her lovely hair and shoes, I thought she was a knockout.
ReplyDeleteI also loved the animal print dress. So unusual for a maternity dress, but it worked.
Yes, that Dalmatian coat is one of my all time favourites. I loved when she styled it with the ponytail.
DeleteCharlotte - what a wonderful post. You are amazing - I absolutely loved the comparisons with the 3 pregnancies. You did a great job! Cannot wait until the little one arrives. Maybe on the 18th (my son's bday)- haha I'm sure he would be thrilled :)
ReplyDeleteGreat post! I love how you defined each pregnancy regarding her position in the Royal Family.
ReplyDeleteI think that with George she was still casual Kate.
With Charlotte she was half way through casual and formal.
Now with Baby 3 she is very formal.
I personally liked the Charlotte's wardrobe better than the rest.
She looked great though with the rest! :D
It is so interesting to see how her style has evolved over time as she has grown into her role with the royal family. I do miss the more casual looks sometimes, because they seemed to be more like how she might be if she didn’t marry a prince. Yet, I recognize the need for people’s clothing style to change, especially when you’re in an institution like the royal family.
ReplyDeleteI actually feel that time has stood still since we saw her last,on Easter. But we have only 2 weeks to go! Thank You Charlotte for this post on her previous fashion choices! XOXO
ReplyDeleteThank you for the fun fashion recap. I keep checking the blog for baby watch updates.
ReplyDeleteMy favorite maternity look remains the Emilia Wickstead dress Kate wore to a reception at the National Portrait Gallery. I'm so disappointed we only got to see it for the one outing. Who knows maybe Kate will have four children like the Queen and I'll get to see it again (but I'm getting ahead of myself)!
Ooh how exciting!! I think there will be a fourth too!
DeleteThank you Charlotte! I keep checking your blog to see if Kate is in labor. I really feel for her! It must be stressful to know the whole world is waiting for you to go into labor-not to mention irritating. Mostly because she is very private.(I’m the same way!)
ReplyDeleteMy 3rd is due in July. Waiting that last week/couple of days drives you and everyone else crazy. I’m always so relieved and EXCITED when contractions start.
Charlotte dear, is there anything else that you can write and publish this week for us? Lol I’m sure you have a list! But it’s for all of us that are anxious and can’t wait!
Thank you for being wonderful! Rachel Chavez Washington State, USA
I am currently pregnant with twins and suffering from hg. My hats off to Kate for doing this 3 times. I am beyond miserable. Never again!! I am super excited for the baby to arrive. So happy for her. With my first I had a c-section and it makes me wonder how this protocol would change if, god-forbid, Kate needed a c-section. I am sure she would have a longer stay at the hospital. And carrying the baby out to wave to the press would be very difficult.
ReplyDeleteWishing you best of luck that the misery passes as soon as possible - I've heard HG is unfortunately more common with twins. (Although I don't believe Kate is having twins!) What excitement and chaos there will be when they are born.
DeleteOur present queen was born by caesarean section and at least one of the York girls was too so it is not unheard of in royal circles and I believe Sarah did 'the wave'. They just wait until Mum is strong enough. The Monaco twins were also born by caesarean as I recall. Kate gets the best possible medical care in the nation.
OMGoodness! Katie, I will keep you in my thoughts & prayers & do hope you feel better soon! Your babies are very blessed to have such a strong devoted Mother! xoxo
DeleteHi Katie,
DeleteI too am currently pregnant with HG, although it's only a singleton pregnancy. It is really awful isn't it? If it at all helps, I found I began to tolerate more foods around the 26 week mark and have started to feel a lot more like myself with less vomiting and hospital days since 30 weeks (I'm now almost 34.) I really wish you the best and hope that you start to feel better very soon.
🌸 Katie, Chrystal. Prayers to you and hugs. 💐
DeleteI haven't been able to sit and read comments lately but I am enjoying doing so this morning. Just had to check in in hopes that there was some new news! But, I think we're in the final stretch ladies and gents! (Sure hope so!)
DeleteI sure am enjoying all of your comments and thoughts! I feel like I've just visited with a great group of people!
And Charlotte, completely needless to say, you are amazing and I so appreciate you and all you do! (big hug!)
Have a great day all wherever you are😊🦋🌈💕🕊
alexandra
florida
Oh boy, I meant to mention that I am thinking of you Katie and Crystal and so hoping you both are back to yourselves very soon and feeling great like Kate did when the HG subsided. God bless you and best of luck with your new little ones and take care of yourselves! And although perhaps not so appropriate to say in your current state,enjoy your pregnancy and the precious gifts you are carrying! I am always envious of the gals that are carrying little lives. My sweet son just turned 16 and some days I wish I could go back and have another but too late for that. I think often that if someone showed up on my doorstep with a baby or any child for that matter, I would be ecstatic!
Deletealexandra
florida
Well alexandra, you have.... just had a great visit with a great group of ladies & gents! lol :) I loved reading your posts & I can totally relate to missing having babies! Luckily I can get my "fix" with my grandchildren, including a new one on the way!! But that said..... they too grow Way Too Quickly!!! :( lol :)
DeleteI thought I would never recover from wanting a baby of my own, but I have. My new little grandson reminds me of how great it is to hold a tiny, warm bundle in my lap. All I have to do is sit there, enjoy him, smile and have our picture taken. Granparenting is fine! And yes, the harried parents can't believe how soon they'll be sending their sons off to college. :-) For them, the days and nights are long, but time flies when one is looking back.
DeleteI enjoyed the look back and agree that Kate has positively glowed throughout each pregnancy.
ReplyDeleteLooking forward to "meeting" the newest Cambridge. 😊
I agree royalfan, she has absolutely glowed each time. Loved the fashion look back but think that of all the "looks" Kate wears motherhood the best!! cc
DeleteI couldn't agree more. Kate looks healthy, happy and just radiant when pregnant.
DeleteWhat a great way of saying it, CeCe.
DeleteVery nicely said, CeCe, and I agree!! :)
Delete🌸 Yes. She does. 🏆
DeleteLove all the comparisons and how she has matured. She does look much “ more pregnant” now compared to the same time with Charlotte. Hmmm
ReplyDeleteLike most of us....I am checking the blog every morning. This is THE WEEK! Come on Kate - let's have that baby!
ReplyDeleteCharlotte, what a great post. It is great to reminisce over her style and and it unique, every changing and just the look of Kate is quite a metamorphosis. So hat's off to Kate!
Styles I would love to see again include bespoke McQueen coatdress worn in October 2014 and the fabulous Packham gown in light blue and the gray Max Mara dress.
I loved all of the St. Patricks styles. And there are quite a few styles we've only seen once.
Bets on which day she delivers? I've voting for Friday...
Monday's child is fair of face
Tuesday's child is full of grace
Wednesday's child is full of woe
Thursday's child has far to go,
Friday's child is loving and giving,
Saturday's child works hard for a living,
And the child that is born on the Sabbath day
Is bonny and blithe, and good and gay
My husband and I and two of our children were born on Tuesday. I vote for Tuesday, April 17. :-)
DeleteMe too, Patricia! My wedding anniversary and today would be great! Of course it's only 3 pm here.
DeleteCharlotte , this is going to be one of my very favorite posts. You did a great job putting all the looks together. Thank you so much.
ReplyDeleteLOVED this post Charlotte! Fun to watch her throughout the years and I agree: it's really hard to believe George will be 5! Charlotte seems more like almost 3 but 5!
ReplyDeleteI also wanted to post what a fan I am of Kate's longer, lighter locks. I hope to see them again.
great post charlotte hmm i love how you defined and simplified the duchess pregnancy wardrobe hmm all her Three Pregnancy she looks great and gloeing and she healthier hmm in all her maternity dreses i hope boy or girl the duchess will be safe and sound in her delivery hmm i guess will see peince george and princess charlotte in the lindo wing on thr time her mothef delivery
ReplyDeleteThank you for your very kind comments! I have other posts planned and should any news become available I'll post as soon as possible :)
ReplyDeleteYou are the best Charlotte <3
DeleteI refresh the page all the time!
That’s great news, Charlotte! Thanks for all the fantastic work that you do...these posts tide us over while we’re waiting during this exciting time :)
DeleteI am so looking forward to your live blog, Charlotte. That will be great fun. Thank you.
DeleteThank you Charlotte for the lovely Post! I was one of the many who felt the jolt, when I saw your page & thought Kate was in labor! lol :) You are so gracious with your time & creativity! :) xo
Delete🌸 Charlotte. Thank You. 😊
DeleteI was 14 when Kate and will got marries. At first i use to follow this blog like crazy. Check the news 3 to 4 times a day. I remember george's birth, i stayed up so late. However, ove the years i've had less time to follow kate as study pressure took over. But royal baby births are still so exciting. I remember i had an exam on the day charlotte was born so i missed out following live. But for baby 3 i'm going to follow every minute here on the blog! And there is still some hope it'll be born on the 28th so we can share a bday!
ReplyDeleteHello R, same here I was 16 when Kate got married and used to follow her a lot until the pressure of school got to me. I also had my final exams when Charlotte was born.
DeleteA lovely post as always with great comparisons - thank you Charlotte.
ReplyDeleteI agree with all the others - a great post. Thank you, Charlotte.
ReplyDeleteKathy from NJ.
ReplyDeleteWhat a lovely post to read on this rain soaked Monday morning! Charlotte, your blog sure brought the sunshine inside!! Thank you!
It is almost sad that some of these maternity outfits may not be seen again. My favorite is the brown coat and hat worn again at Easter, one of Kate’s most elegant looks ever. The cerise coat and the navy blue coat and dress are also beautiful, classic garments. Of her additions to her maternity wardrobe during this pregnancy, I especially like the flowered dress, the mint green ensemble, and the sparkly blue evening gown. I was sorry she did not wear the empire waisted blue dress from the museum visit again, but the season was wrong for it.
ReplyDeletePatricia, another vote for the brown st. Patrick's day outfit and the sparkly blue evening gown. Ironically, both received mixed reviews but I loved both!
DeleteWhat a fun post! I love seeing all the side-by-side comparisons. I often google articles on Kate's style evolution through the years, so this was a great read! I'm happy with all the repeats Kate wore with this 3rd pregnancy and enjoyed some of the new pieces that must've been made to help her last through her final working days, since she seemed to work closer to her due date this time. It's officially mid-April, so we must be getting close!
ReplyDeleteGreat post Charlotte, I really like looking back at Kate’s previous outfits. I really hope Kate has the baby by Saturday because after Saturday she will have less than 4 weeks to recover for the wedding
ReplyDelete"When Kate was expecting George she sported an Emilia Wickstead dress for a reception at the National Portrait Gallery. The empire line piece very much had a 1960s feel to it; it remains one of Wickstead's most-loved creations."
ReplyDeleteI am still in love with this bespoke creation! as well as the brown coat she re-wore for easter!! thanks for showing all of those pictures, that looks like a lot of work went into it, so thank you charlotte!! every day we are a little closer to finding out who the royal baby will be!1 exciting. -caroline
An exceptional post, Charlotte. Thank you so much for your splendid work on this site. I always read it with great pleasure.
ReplyDeleteThank you for a lovely post, Charlotte! I agree with all who say it's so well structured and fun! I liked many of Kate's looks in each pregnancy. The one which stands out for me, funnily, is the casual one when she had the engagement with the scouts while expecting George. I don't know why but I just loved it and love it still. Another look which I loved was the Christmas one from last December - the Miu Miu coat.
ReplyDeleteToday, my 13year old pupil (a private one - not from school), a wonderful girl and also a Kate fan and follower, has told me she believes Kate is expecting a boy. We went through the photos on DKB together and she kept saying: "I think it's a boy." We'll soon find out! :)
Zora, I loved the Miu Miu coat. It was classic, cheerful, tailored... it checked so many boxes.
DeleteAnd it will be interesting to see if your pupil is correct. Personally, I think a baby boy would level the playing field for George. Me thanks that Charlotte is more than capable of handling two brothers.😉
🌸 Yep, rf. Her kingdom would just be expanded.
Delete👑
That's true, royalfan, Charlotte seems to be very capable of that! 😀 In any case, it will be so interesting to see the family dynamics change and evolve...
DeleteAs for the coat, you are absolutely right. Plus, I loved how the flowers in the bouquet Kate received matched the coat's colours!
Wonderful retrospective, Charlotte. Thank you for your hard work; and the perfect summary of the transition from Kate Middleton's wardrobe to that of the Duchess of Cambridge. I am hoping for April 18, in honor of the Midnight Ride of Paul Revere. ;-)
ReplyDeleteLovely, lovely post Charlotte. Like everyone else, I appreciate everything you do to keep us DKB readers up-to-date on everything Kate!! You are simply the best. Am very excited for Baby Cambridge. I also think that she is having a boy. Time will tell!!!
ReplyDeleteI've always been obsessed with the light blue Jenny Packam long slit dress!! oo! lala! Have always hoped she'd wear it again not Pg? Her hair was insanely lovely that night!! Then I'm newly obsessed with the steel blue glittery Jenny Packam Elsa gown & really do hope we see a repeat of that when she's not Pg! :)
ReplyDeleteI love the Elsa gown and the Catherine Walker green and brown coats for baby #3. One of my favorite earlier looks was the Tara Jarmon (?) peach coat and dress and wish she had worn that for one of her last engagements.
ReplyDeleteWell, it's official..... The "Team EAB" has been dismantled :( lol Oh well, c'est la vie :)
ReplyDelete🌸 😟
DeleteI think I missed something becca, what does "Team EAB" mean?
DeleteI forget who thought of it?? It's back in the Posts.... It may have been Avee or Allison? But for those of us who were thinking that Baby #3 would arrive in Early April, would claim we were on "Team EAB" for Early April Baby. Nothing exclusive, just being silly! lol :) I totally thought she was going to have the Baby the first week in April or early 2nd week, at the latest! So much for my Baby #3 vibes! lol :)
DeleteI was team EAB (or at least early to mid April), really mostly because I'd suspected last summer when Kate said to William that they'd have to have more babies, that she was already pregnant. It's just not something I would say outloud and publicly if I'd been trying but not pregnant yet, thinking I'd jinx it. But that's just me. I've been proven wrong now I believe, unless she's just incredibly late.
DeleteRandom question (to which I’ve tired of Googling): who do we know were hospital visitors in the past? Was it just Charles, Camilla and the Middletons for George’s birth? And just George for Charlotte’s birth? Thank you in advance! And I thank you, too, for this wonderful post, Charlotte! -flora
ReplyDeleteThe Middleton's and Charles and Camilla went to the hospital when George was born.
DeleteGeorge was the only "visitor", LOL, when Charlotte was born.
It will be interesting to see if George and Charlotte visit their new brother or sister...
If she is in and out as quickly as last time they may skip having anyone come by:). Small children are pretty anxious to see Mom and make sure she is OK and the new baby. So they might come by.
DeleteThis comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDeleteCharlotte, do you think there could be any truth in this article? :)
ReplyDeletehttp://www.dailymail.co.uk/femail/article-5620967/Duchess-Cambridge-packed-onyx-beads-hospital-bag.html
I think it's possible Kate has some of the items mentioned, however I would be astonished if a source revealed the contents of her hospital bag given how few would know. My gut tells me it's guesswork :)
DeleteI saw that article as well and doubted the truth of it...who would know what's in her bag except an assistant who may have helped her pack, and I doubt that person would talk publicly about it. Although I do have to say, I hoped the part about watching old Bette Davis movies is true, as I'm a huge fan of them myself.
DeleteStill in London, leaving tomorrow. I hope the baby now waits until my return home, so at least I can watch the live coverage when it happens. Ideally on Sunday the 22nd or next weekend, so I won't be at work!
Thank you Charlotte for such a lovely post! It is such fun to look back, isn't it? Echoing another fan's comments, this post took some time for you to put together- thank you, thank you, thank you! Kate looks so lovely throughout. I am so glad she feels so much better at the end of her pregnancy. She may have such fun seeing Harry and Meghan start a family that she may cajole William into having another one! I think 2017 was her best fashion year yet- sophisticated, classic, and so Kate- both pre and during pregnancy. Here's to another speedy and safe delivery to Baby Cambridge #3 ( I think it's a boy and will be named Phillip as a tribute to Grandpa!)
ReplyDeleteThank you Charlotte- I live the Downton coat.
ReplyDeleteThe light blue Packham gown with the split is gorgeous on her!
ReplyDeleteWhat I always have found amazing, about how great she looked in that dress & in general, is that she looked so pale & peaked in that grey coat dress earlier in the day. Earlier in the day, she & William were a part of welcoming the President of Singapore! If you look at both pics (which Charlotte has featured in this Post) you'd hardly imagine they where from the same day!
DeleteA lot of people are talking about the light blue dress with the split. I don't remember seeing that one before. It's so stunning! Also, she doesn't look very far along in that picture, so couldn't she wear it again when she's not pregnant?
ReplyDeleteAnother thing is, since the 19th is approaching, wouldn't the baby have to come soon? Because wouldn't they give her a month's rest and time with the baby before the wedding? You'd think they would have taken that into account when they made the date and possibly even accommodated for her usual late deliveries? I don't know, maybe I'm wrong.
Yes AmyA, when the wedding was set for 19th May I thought the baby must be due in very early April to allow the usual 6 weeks recovery time. I do hope that Kate won't feel under pressure to get back into shape in what looks like being less than a month.....
DeleteSarah UK
She is a guest at the wedding, not in it. Women are capable of attending events within a month after a birth.
DeleteThe wedding is not about Kate losing the baby weight in time.
I wonder if a lot of the pressure to "recover" and lose the baby weight is coming from her own fans. That's too bad.
I believe the wedding date was chosen more for immigration requirements, and the requirements of royal scheduling - June was most unlikely as it is a very busy royal month - than for anything to do with Kate's pregnancy.
DeleteIt seemed the due date must be fairly close to Charlotte's birthday given the announcement time and the way engagements were scheduled then cancelled. Babies can come early of course, but I never thought early April likely. However, any day now...
I dont think she can do anything wrong. If she has still some baby weight left, people will acknowledge that she is withstanding the pressure to loose everything that quickly. If she is slim, it will also be precieved mostly positively.
DeleteIt will be a win anyway (although im hoping for the first possibility), and if she is conscious of that she should not feel to much pressure to be slim at the 19th.
Tidefi
I agree Stephanie most of the pressure for Kate to lose baby weight is mainly by fans and the media, I just hope that those fashion critics on tv don’t criticize her for still having baby wait ( if she still has it) at the wedding.
DeleteYes Kate is a guest at the wedding but her 2 children will no doubt be in the wedding. Fortunately both children were in a wedding last year in May coupled with the fact she has such a good nanny along with Kate's Mum and sister. I think too that wedding was scheduled to accommodate the timing of everything but one can never do it perfectly for an expected baby. Hopefully baby won't be late as her two other children were. As of today less than one month a way for the wedding. Kate seems to handle everything in stride.
DeleteI agree with those that believe Kate's pregnancy and expected delivery date had nothing to do with the wedding date.
DeleteI think we have seen Kate become really comfortable in her own skin. She's an old hat at the New Mum thing & I believe she will take the whole Wedding in stride! I think her first priority will be her bonding with her new baby, not getting into a certain dress size! She, like many other Mums, is more mellow about all things, by the time baby #3 comes along! :)
DeleteI agree that the "weight" thing is from the fans. Kate will be fine and look great for the wedding, no matter what. Gosh after my babies i weighed 180 pounds and stayed in my house coat for a month! She should enjoy the new baby.
Delete🌸 It is reported that Kate is in London. Is that true?
ReplyDeleteWasn't it reported that the family would return to London this week, for the start of the children's schools after the Easter break?
DeleteThat's what has been the buzz by the reporter pool on twitter! The word is that they are back & we know William is here joining in on The Commonwealth Meetings!
DeleteBecca! You are right! But maybe she had a nap in between or ate something and then took an iron pill. Sometimes you nap and wake up feeling like a brand new human being! Kinda odd but your body switches drastically during and right after pregnancy. One second you’re as happy as pie, the next you’re as pissed as a hornet. The bad part is you have no idea Why! Not fun.....
ReplyDeleteRachel Chavez WA State USA
Perhaps even HG is at its worst in the morning. Kate was recovering, and she she definitely looked better in the evening.
DeletePatricia, I know! She was absolutely Radiant by that evening! :)
DeleteI’m echoing everyone else when I say this is a great post Charlotte. Very fun to have a look back at all the beautiful clothes she’s gotten to wear throughout her pregnancies. It’s hard to pick a favorite outfit, or even CATAGORY of outfits!
ReplyDeleteOh my goodness. The wait for this baby is driving me crazy!!
ReplyDeleteI Knoooow!!!! I keep checking in here multiple times a day!!!! Ugh! (I can't imagine how ready Kate is to meet her new little one! :) xo
DeleteLikewise 😊
DeleteMe too Mary and Becca! If we're this excited,can you imagine how Kate feels? Lol, but it is fun sharing the wait with all of you. Thanks again Charlotte.
DeleteThis was such a fun post!! It is hard to believe they are already on Baby #3....where does the time go! The Duchess is truly a style icon - she makes such smart choices and it extends to maternity wear. What a beautiful addition to the Royal Family.
ReplyDeleteI have a question that maybe someone could answer. I was listening to last week’s “On Heir” podcast and Emily Andrews said that Kate’s due date is the 23rd. Was that announced somewhere? Or is it just speculation? I can’t imagine that a due date is something that would be officially announced since babies so rarely are born on their actual due date. (Although my son did show up right after midnight on his due date!)
ReplyDeleteNatalie, I heard that too on the podcast. I believe I've heard Emily Andrews mention that before. Tho I haven't heard it from others & no source was referenced. While she's stood by that, we've all heard or read all sorts of dates having been thrown about. So I take it as speculation. :)
DeleteI always love these posts where we look back at Kate’s fashion choices. It was interesting to me that as I was looking, there was no one pregnancy where i liked all of her outfits - I definitely could pick a few from each and build my own version of a pregnancy wardrobe for Kate. Hopefully some of her clothes will be reworked so she can wear them after the baby. I don’t imagine they’ll go for a 4th baby and it would be nice to have some repeats that will also be new if they are altered to match her post pregnancy body.
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