The Duchess arriving at Buckingham Palace this morning.
This year's parade is a particularly interesting one for fans of the Duchess of Cambridge; it marks her second public appearance since the birth of Prince Louis seven weeks ago. We saw Kate at Harry and Meghan's wedding and since then the Cambridges have been dividing their time between their country home Anmer Hall and back at London where William has been carrying out a number of duties. Today's appearance is expected to be one of just a handful of occasions on which we'll see Kate before the autumn when she resumes engagements. Rumour has it Louis' christening will be held later this month, and it is also thought the Duchess will make an appearance at Wimbledon next month.
As always, Kate travelled in a horse-drawn carriage with the Duchess of Cornwall.
As always, Kate travelled in a horse-drawn carriage with the Duchess of Cornwall.
The Duke and Duchess of Sussex.
The Countess of Wessex and Princess Eugenie.
Trooping the Colour is a military parade dating back to the 1700s. Although the Queen's birthday is 21 April, it has long been tradition to celebrate the sovereign's birthday publicly on a day in June, when good weather is more likely. Her Majesty has attended Trooping the Colour every year since 1947 except in 1955 when a national rail strike cancelled the event.
Over 1,400 officers and military personnel are on parade, together with two hundred horses; over four hundred musicians from ten bands and corps of drums march and play as one. Some 113 words of command are given by the Officer in Command of the Parade.
The Countess of Wessex and Princess Eugenie.
Trooping the Colour is a military parade dating back to the 1700s. Although the Queen's birthday is 21 April, it has long been tradition to celebrate the sovereign's birthday publicly on a day in June, when good weather is more likely. Her Majesty has attended Trooping the Colour every year since 1947 except in 1955 when a national rail strike cancelled the event.
Over 1,400 officers and military personnel are on parade, together with two hundred horses; over four hundred musicians from ten bands and corps of drums march and play as one. Some 113 words of command are given by the Officer in Command of the Parade.
The parade route extends from Buckingham Palace along the Mall to Horse Guards Parade, Whitehall and back again.
More from The Household Division:
'Regimental flags of the British Army were historically described as ‘Colours’ because they displayed the uniform Colours and insignia worn by the soldiers of different units. The name ‘Colour’ continues to be used to this day. The principal role of a regiment’s Colours was to provide a rallying point on the battlefield. This was important because, without modern communications, it was all too easy for troops to become disoriented and separated from their unit during conflict.
If Troops were to know what their Regiment’s Colours looked like, it was necessary to display them regularly. The way in which this was done was for young officers to march in between the ranks of troops formed up in lines with the Colours held high. This is the origin of the word ‘trooping’. So, what today is a great tradition began life as a vital and practical parade designed to aid unit recognition before a battle commenced.
The Guards are amongst the oldest regiments of the British Army and have served as the personal bodyguards of The Sovereign since the monarchy was restored after the English Civil War in 1660. The ceremony of Trooping the Colour is believed to have been performed first during the reign of King Charles II (1660 – 1685). In 1748, it was decided that this parade would be used to mark the official birthday of the Sovereign and it became an annual event after George III became King in 1760.
Today, this colourful spectacular remains a celebration of the Sovereign’s official birthday. Although Her Majesty The Queen’s actual birthday is the 21st April, her ‘official birthday’ is marked by the Trooping the Colour ceremony.'
Below, the Queen on her first Trooping as the Sovereign in 1952. People reports: "After retiring her favorite parade horse, a black mare named Burmese, in 1986, the Queen decided to abandon her rough-riding side-saddle days in favor of a horse-drawn carriage." Coincidentally, last Saturday marked the 65th Anniversary of the Coronation of Queen Elizabeth II at Westminster Abbey. It seems incredibly fitting to celebrate her 92nd birthday only days later.
It was revealed yesterday, Her Majesty underwent surgery last month to remove a cataract from her eye at King Edward VII hospital. She was spotted wearing sunglasses at several royal events, but was not forced to cancel or postpone any engagements. The monarch looked resplendent in blue today. Unfortunately, Prince Philip, who turns 97 tomorrow, wasn't present.
On horseback were Prince Charles, Colonel of the Welsh Guards; Prince William, who is Colonel of the Irish Guards; and the Princess Royal, Colonel of the Blues and Royals. Prince Andrew was a new addition to the group - succeeding his father as Colonel of the Grenadier Guards. Apparently he's never had a great love for horses or riding, so took lessons in recent months in preparation for today.
Kate and Meghan chatting on the balcony.
A curtsy for the Queen.
At precisely 12.52 pm, gun salutes were fired across the capital; the Honourable Artillery Company fired from the Tower of London and the Kings Troop Royal Horse Artillery fired from Green Park.
Afterwards, the Royal family gathered on the balcony of Buckingham Palace for the flypast, in what is a rare opportunity to see so many of its members together.
It's become a real treat to see George and Charlotte joining their parents in recent years. George turns five next month and three-year-old Charlotte is at the age where she's changing and growing with each appearance. Louis is too young to make an appearance just yet, but I expect we'll see him with his siblings next year.
A closer look at those adorable expressions.
Savannah Phillips and Prince George :)
Charlotte appeared to be momentarily upset when she fell...
...It wasn't long before she was back watching the flypast with a helping hand from Kate and Savannah.
The little royal trio certainly stole the show :)
The Red Arrows view of London - as the jets complete Her Majesty's Birthday Flypast.
The flypast.
An overview.
The full turnout on the balcony.
A brief video from the balcony.
It's the eight consecutive year Kate has attended the event.
A curtsy for the Queen.
Kate, Meghan and Harry curtsying to the Queen on balcony of Buckingham Palace #TroopingtheColour pic.twitter.com/I0Fs8R928O— Jason Ashby (@Jashalee) 9 June 2018
At precisely 12.52 pm, gun salutes were fired across the capital; the Honourable Artillery Company fired from the Tower of London and the Kings Troop Royal Horse Artillery fired from Green Park.
Afterwards, the Royal family gathered on the balcony of Buckingham Palace for the flypast, in what is a rare opportunity to see so many of its members together.
It's become a real treat to see George and Charlotte joining their parents in recent years. George turns five next month and three-year-old Charlotte is at the age where she's changing and growing with each appearance. Louis is too young to make an appearance just yet, but I expect we'll see him with his siblings next year.
A closer look at those adorable expressions.
Savannah Phillips and Prince George :)
Charlotte appeared to be momentarily upset when she fell...
...It wasn't long before she was back watching the flypast with a helping hand from Kate and Savannah.
The little royal trio certainly stole the show :)
The Red Arrows view of London - as the jets complete Her Majesty's Birthday Flypast.
The flypast.
An overview.
The full turnout on the balcony.
A brief video from the balcony.
It's the eight consecutive year Kate has attended the event.
The Duchess was elegant in a bespoke pale blue Alexander McQueen dress. The defined shoulders and fitted silhouette worked extremely well. Sarah Burton always does an exquisite job with tailoring and today was no exception. A perfect choice for the nature of the occasion.
Kate's bespoke statement hat is by Juliette Botterill. The milliner is a royal favourite; her designs are frequently worn by Princess Beatrice, Princess Eugenie and Zara Tindall. Carole Middleton wore one of Ms Botterill's hats for Pippa's wedding last year.
Kate accessorised with her blue topaz Kiki McDonough Eden earrings and necklace.
The £3,500 earrings are blue topaz oval and cushion cut stones surrounded by diamonds set in 18ct white gold.
We also see the £1400 Kiki Eden Blue Topaz and 18ct White Gold Flower Necklace.
It is thought Kate's clutch is by Alexander McQueen.
A lovely day for the royal family!
Kate's bespoke statement hat is by Juliette Botterill. The milliner is a royal favourite; her designs are frequently worn by Princess Beatrice, Princess Eugenie and Zara Tindall. Carole Middleton wore one of Ms Botterill's hats for Pippa's wedding last year.
Kate accessorised with her blue topaz Kiki McDonough Eden earrings and necklace.
The £3,500 earrings are blue topaz oval and cushion cut stones surrounded by diamonds set in 18ct white gold.
We also see the £1400 Kiki Eden Blue Topaz and 18ct White Gold Flower Necklace.
A lovely day for the royal family!
I'm not a fan of that hat!
ReplyDeleteMe either! I like the dress though.
DeleteI think her hat is fabulous, although I could never pull it off. 😉
DeleteThe duchess back in the track. Agaim
ReplyDeleteOooh, from this very small lookie, I see great potential :D
ReplyDeleteOk, WOW! I love the silouette of Kates dress. That square neckline is so pretty! And stunning jewelry as well! Love the necklace! The hat is rather pretty as well!! Wonderful look!
DeleteLooking forward to seeing the children on the balcony :)
How wonderful to see Kate! She & Camilla look so good together in similar shades! :) Can't wait to check back later for more coverage! I know it will be such a fun post! Thanks Charlotte! :)
ReplyDeleteSG, I'm off for a long day & night... (5am here) but I'm going to defer to you on this one........ We may be on the same page here today..... (puffed sleeves?) I'm just focusing on the dress, but I'm sensing it might not be as flattering a choice as could have been chosen? Color me confused? I'm hoping that when I check back we will have seen more of a relaxed smiley Duchess of Cambridge & that she chose a dress that is in a flattering style during this transitional time for her...... :)
ReplyDelete🌸 Becca. Hope your day goes nicely. 😊
DeleteI am glad that Camilla and Kate both wore the same shade of blue and that that was just a tad lighter than the same hue of blue that the Queen wore.
Quite a color statement and it worked.
How she does it that she looks always elegant,femine and so regal ? I love line of dress and regal size of hat.Earrings seems to be stunning
ReplyDeleteKarolina Joanna, I agree with you - Kate is always so elegant and the light / pale colours are splendid on her!
DeleteOn another note, here Kate is looking like she did not just have a baby almost 2 months ago but I'm still carrying a "bit" of Christmas weight... not fair! Lol :)
Love Avee in SA
It won't be two months until the 23d--two more weeks.
DeleteOh my god i love rge duchess of cambridge hmm i love the her a fan of dress
ReplyDeleteThe Duchess looks like the future Queen Consort that she is. This is a lesson in dressing for the position you want, and not that you have. By the way, I love that hat!
ReplyDeleteI completely agree
DeleteShe looks stunning. Can’t wait to see a better look- I wonder if PG and PC are going to be colour coordinated in ice blue too ❤️
ReplyDeleteShe looks so elegant. The simplicity of the dress is the perfect foil for the hat. Love her in ice blue - it is definitely one of her best colours.
ReplyDeleteoh my god i love thre duchess kate is so simply amazing she become A nayural from head to toe
ReplyDeleteShe is stunning. Looking forward to the full post later ☺️
ReplyDeleteShe has impecable taste and always looks classy and elegant. It is her. She was born to be the queen that she will be. ❤️❤️❤️
DeleteNothing less, nothing more and always stylish. Kate is perfect.
ReplyDeletePerfection! Regal, elegant and so so stylish. And omg leg of mutton sleeves are making a comeback? As a child of the 1970s I am so happy to see this!
ReplyDeleteBy the way, the flypast planes fly over our house too, about 30 seconds before they fly over Buckingham Palace. We watch and wave from down the bottom of the garden. No balcony here! And then we run into the house and watch them on TV flying over the palace.
ReplyDeleteHow cool! I hope you guys do a well-trained royal wave!!
DeleteWow, Andrea! How special to be able to watch the planes even before HM can see them! :) Hope you enjoyed it all! We were watching it online with my husband. Normally, it's only me but this time he wanted to see the flypast, being a fan of airplanes! :) Unfortunately for him, the cameras were on the royals, not on the planes 😉 but we are going to watch more videos with highlights later.
DeleteI love Kate's look, the hat, the dress and the jewellery - all about it! Also loved seeing the kids, the Susexess and everyone else. I was just sad about Prince Philip not being on the balcony and in the carriage with the Queen. His absence was very visible, although quite understandable. I suppose he can't stand for long periods of time after his recent hip operation and a car is probably a lot more comfortable (and faster) than a carriage. At least, he was at the Trooping itself.
DeleteThank you for the post, Charlotte!
🌸 Andrea.😊 Your family’s watching the flyby that way was the highlight of the day, in my opinion.
DeleteThat, and the innocence of the children on the balcony.
Now for every future Trooping of the Colors, I will automatically think of you and your family running out to see the flyby and then running inside to the telly. 😊
Totally cool, Andrea!!
DeleteZora from Prague - PP wasn't at the trooping. The Duke of Kent was sat on the podium with the Queen. He travelled in the carriage with Harry and Meghan.
DeleteKate looks so regal in the dress - perfect choice for her; not a fan of the hat; little George looks like he is repeating an outfit with the trim
DeleteOn the shirt; Charlotte is adorable, as always; cannot wait to see her grow into a beauty like her mother; great to see Queen smiling at her family on horses, cannot believe Andrew had to take riding lessons at his age - was he not a polo player like his father and brother?
Oh, was that the Duke of Kent? Thank you, Louise. I could see he had a stick and I thought: at last, they persuaded PP to carry a stick... Oh, well ... Just hope PP is OK (97 tomorrow...)
DeleteAhh thank you! I agree, surfer girl, the balcony antics were lovely!
DeleteAndrew, like all the queen's children, learned to ride as a child, but was never a fan and apparently hasn't been on a horse since 1992, so took lessons for a big event in full uniform.
DeleteI like her hat! Want to see the dress as she stands on the balcony for full effect - sitting may not show off the dress well. Curious if we think there is a reason Catherine has kept to the same 3 colors - cream, pink, and icy blue - for this event, or if these are just colors she prefers.
ReplyDeleteI think they are just colours she prefers that also fit within the "not too stand-outish" criteria and that feels rather summery :)
DeleteI love Kate's look! She's perfect as usual because she's so natural. The colour and cut of her dress are so elegant. And her hat matches perfectly. I'm looking forward further images later....
ReplyDeleteI absolutely love Kate’s look today. Can’t wait for the balcony with the children!
ReplyDeleteRoyal 👑 Watcher
A perfect, regal, look for the future queen. The hat works wonderfully with the very plain, elegant design of her dress. Camilla also looks very nice. Having had cataract surgery myself, I see the Queen squinting and wish she had on sunglasses. My eyes were sensitive for months.
ReplyDeleteCome to think of it, I really like how Kate and Camilla are presenting a united front today. Very clever.
ReplyDeleteRoyal 👑 Watcher
Indeed. It feels like a statement that the two women next to the throne wear a similar colour as the Queen while all other women went for different colours.
DeleteC.
I agree C. It is lovely!
DeleteRoyal 👑 Watcher
🌸 RW, C. definitely on purpose in my opinion. and it worked.
DeleteSorry if this is a repeat. Blogger is not being cooperative right now!
DeleteI do agree that the color coordination was not an accident. This, together with the positioning on the balcony, speaks volumes.
🌸 That it does, rf. 📣👑
DeleteThe children really were the best part as always! Loved their enthusiasm and the interactions between them all :)
ReplyDeletehmm the two future queens are so regal to we have too see prince george and princess Charlotte i love the bonding of the duchess Cambridge and duchess sussex
ReplyDeleteI’m loving the friendliness between Kate and Meghan!
ReplyDeleteRoyal 👑 Watcher
I thought the Duchess looked stunning, always elegant and beautifully turned out for these occasions. I love the shade of blue which is such a refreshing look and love the sleeve length, the hat is such a statement piece and complements the simple style of the dress. I am wondering which shoes she will have teamed it all up with?
ReplyDeleteIt was certainly a rare sight to witness that Camilla and Kate were the most senior Royals on the balcony before the return of the procession. As pointed out above, two very regal future queens, who make a pretty good team!
I really love this look. I am a fan of the color and I think this style looks fantastic on her. Those little kiddos definitely stole the show, though!!
ReplyDeleteCuteness overload!
ReplyDeleteRoyal 👑 Watcher
Kate looked very regal with the puffed sleeves and the squared neckline (although I have to admit it is not my favourite outfit...loved the pink one last year!). After I saw Kates dress I was sure Charlotte would wear a pale blue dress too ;-)
ReplyDeleteThe kids and their interactions were the best part as always! Little Charlotte took a tumble...so nice to see that cousin Savannah tried to calm her too. The four cousins seemed to be very familiar with each other...probably they spend often time toghether.
To me the flypast seemed very short this year. Remember a video I watched last year and to me it seemed much longer. Could this be possibile?
Yes,some years the flypast is longer than others. When there's a special event, such as the anniversary of the end of the war, they beef up the number of aeroplanes.
DeleteLove everything.
ReplyDeleteThis very pale blue is not my favorite on Kate, but I think she looks lovely today. I love the hat on her. She looks so regal.
ReplyDeleteKate with out doubt was the epitome of class and elegance today. Can't believe it's only seven weeks since she gave birth !
ReplyDeleteIt was lovely to see Kate turn and have a chat with Meghan. It must have been a lot to take in for Meghan, and Kate and Camilla were on hand to support her.
I never tire of saying how amazing HM is. An example to us all.
Than you Charlotte for the up to the minute post today. x
I like the dress but am not a fan of that hat. The simple square cut dress IMO calls for a simpler hat. As of now all you focus on is the hat.
ReplyDeleteI am a bit tired of seeing the same Sarah Burton dresses/coatdresses, today's is no exception, looks like the one from last year, except for that horrendous shoulder pads. The colour is pretty on her, some part of the hat is nice too (the top), but I think this hat would have looked better with her hair down. It looks a bit matronly to me with this updo, yet again.
ReplyDeleteMy favourite was Camilla and the Queen. They both looked fantastic. And Meghan too but that's for another blog.:)
I’m finding myself a bit confused about Kate’s outfit today, the neckline is a bit tweeny, the puffy shoulders say 80’s but the heavily embellished hat and updo are rather matronly. My favorite Trooping outfit was the Sarah Burton coat dress Kate wore for her first Trooping appearance, since then I haven’t really liked any of them.
DeleteTo me this year's outfit looks very different and I like it a lot. Last year the germolene pink left me cold. They have so many differences though: the setting of the sleeves, the neckline, the waist, the types of pleats in the skirt.
DeleteI agree with you Louise on the pink, while some elements were okay, it was too pink for my taste. What I meant being the same is you can tell it is a SB's make, too similar details gave it away.
DeleteAnd Lauri I so agree about her first appearance, but I must say I loved the second year's dress and the blue coat that she wore in 2015. I wish she would have recycled that this year.
Whom do you mean, Anett? Kate’s dress is quite different from the strange one she wore last year. I very much like this dress, though she owns better hats.
DeleteAt a time when the queen was dressing quietly for the tragedies that had just happened - I thought Kate's screaming pink last year a poor choice - and didn't like the fussy details - the waist particularly. This year's is much better.
DeleteI imagine there was a reason for the puffed sleeves and open neckline. I don't want to comment on her physique, but I'll say that in my case, my body was much softer and rounder for quite some time after having my children. The open neckline and puffed sleeves draw the eye up, and give the illusion of more of an hourglass shape. I imagine that is also the reason for a dramatic, embellished hat, and a simple dress. To keep the attention up, around her lovely face.
DeleteIt took some time for me to really feel Kate’s outfit, but I got there. It is a very proper choice for her position. My only criticism would be the necklace. It made the outfit „older“ but not more regal. A brooch might have been the better decision.
ReplyDeleteThe children are a delight. Even George was all smiles (god, I adore his cute serious face)!
C.
Hmm i love the duchess cambeidge being a mom. Hmm the bet part of these. They are Growing kid on the balcony Children are lively and cheerful
ReplyDeleteCan someone tell me who the two young ladies standing next to Prince William are?
ReplyDeleteKate is as lovely as ever. I am a huge fan of her hats with flowers under the brim.
I believe those are Lady Helen Taylor’s daughters, Eloise and Estella. They are the grandchildren of the Duke and Duchess of Kent.
DeleteKate looks marvelous - love her dress and hat:-) Thank you for this information, Lisa C. - I was asking the same question, until I found this article from 2015. It appears to show these two girls, along with the entire family tree. Scroll down for their photos - http://www.dailymail.co.uk/femail/article-3363376/Meet-little-Windsors-cousins-Prince-George-Princess-Charlotte.html - they have grown quite a bit.
Delete🌸 Lisa and bristomom. 😊 I thought that they seemed very natural and unaffected at being on the uber exclusive “Royal” balcony. It was refreshing to see that. Love authenticity. Or at least a momentary appearance of it, lol.
Deletei think the boys in the sailor suits are Albert and Leopold Windsor.
DeleteLisa C, I've only today looked to see if anyone replied to my question. Thank you for identifying who the young women were; specifically, for stating that they are daughters of Lady Helen Taylor. I'm an American, so cannot identify many of the family members beyond the Queen's immediate family.
DeleteThanks, Charlotte for a fantastic post. All the ladies look lovely and the Queen never misses. I would enjoy spending a day just talking to the Queen; she must have a lot of wisdom about a lot of things. Kinda like my Mom.
ReplyDeleteI am in good company! My first cataract surgery was this past week. I wonder if the Queen slept as much as I did for two days afterward.
ReplyDeleteI loved Kate's robin's egg blue - that neckline is lovely on her and the hat with the in-out effect is beautiful - it reminds me of Boyd started that style with Diana. (He died quite recently.) The high shoulders don't appeal to me so much (nor do these current seventies revivals) but Kate wears that look well. All in all, a very regal look indeed - no Hollywood slipping off shoulders or strange cut out back. (Oh Sophie!)
ReplyDeleteThe little ones are always a special treat to me - or not so little - it has been delightful to watch Louise grow up and Helen Taylor's daughters are beauties, (even if one did let a tongue slip out) - just like their mother. Charlotte had a little wobble after her stumble - but she is such a cheeky little girl - and George seemed happy - wondered what provoked Savannah to a bit of cousinly censorship! I lose track of who all those young men in sailor suits are but they look delightful.
Savannah was keeping George quiet during the playing of God Save the Queen. If you watch videos of the event, you can see that she had just been reprimanded (probably by her mother) for waving her arms during the anthem. Then when George started singing, she covered his mouth. All royals are supposed to stand stock still during the playing of God Save the Queen! But they were awfully cute :)
DeleteApparently George was talking during the National Anthem and Savannah told him to be quiet with a finger to her lips. When that didn't work she covered his mouth. William looked a little concerned but it was awfully cute.
DeleteI think Savannah was trying to deflect attention from the fact that she had been behaving badly and had had a rebuke (you can see her look over her shoulder in the video). To me it looked like poor George was just trying to sing the national anthem when Savannah clamped her hand over his face. It was such a shame because it seemed to me the first time he had appeared comfortable in public.
DeleteHe looked like he was having fun and she was goofing off with him. My take is they were both goofing around and he "was singing" but maybe in a typical little boy way, off tune or funny words or very loud etc. He looked like he thought it was very funny when she slapped her hand on his mouth.
DeleteShe didn't make him uncomfortable. He laughed as she had her hand on his mouth and afterwards when she put it away again. They're clearly all used to each other and were just having fun.
Delete🌸 (gotta interject some puppy hugs here to Pippin. 🐾❤️)
DeleteHollywood? Diana and Helen Taylor wore beautiful, nearly off the shoulder gowns.
DeleteI thought George was smiling when she covered his mouth. It looked like the children were having fun. Made me think back to William & Harry and Zara & Peter in their younger days. :-)
DeleteThe picture of Savannah with her ars up shows the adults behind her laughing and talking. Could she have one that twice?
DeleteNeither Diana nor Helen Taylor ever wore an off the shoulder gown to the Trooping or to a formal royal daytime event. Diana in face often wore repeats, even after her marriage was in trouble and she had some reason to be angry. She knew the day is to celebrate the queen's birthday and that the queen should be the centre of attention.
DeleteRoyal Ascot is a less formal event than the Trooping and far less serious but there are rules for what is worn to the Royal Enclosure. The rules have been liberalised in the last few years but off the shoulder dresses remain prohibited. It would seem odd to wear a dress to the Trooping that couldn't be worn properly to the Royal Enclosure at Ascot.
Pip says Hello and doggie kisses to you too Surfergirl.
Delete🌸 🤗
DeleteI was making the point that these were not Hollywood styles. Carolina Herrera is from South America, and her business is in New York. Diana's wonderful blue gown by Victor Edelstein and Lady Helen Taylor's splendid Catherine Walker wedding dress (one of my very favorites) were designed in Britain. The most well known Hollywood-designed attire worn by a royal lady was Princess Grace's very covered up wedding gown.
DeleteIt was sweet that Kate wore an off the shoulder dress the next day at polo. :-)
Correction to 4:05 - arms!
DeleteKate looks lovely today. The kids steal the show with their excited expressions.
ReplyDeleteKate looks beautiful. Love her look. I think that hat is fantastic. The dress is gorgeous, I really like the very stylized shoulders adds some designer oomph to the dress as does the neckline. Very beautifully done. The kids were adorable. Does anyone know who the two young women standing next to William and Kate on the balcony are?
ReplyDeleteIt's the Duke of Kent's granddaughters, Eloise and Estella Taylor.
DeleteNext to William were Eloise and Estella Taylor, grandchildren of the Duke and Duchess of Kent.
DeleteThank you. They looked like they were having so much fun. Love seeing such a range of ages with the kids on the balcony this year.
DeleteStunning! So good to see the family again
ReplyDeleteLove the dress and hat. She looks stunning. Wish she would have worn this to the wedding!
ReplyDeleteOne word for Catherine: stunning! Thanks so much for the great post, Charlotte!
ReplyDeleteReally love her look today. The hat? Best. Ever. I thought the Duchess was a bit stoic today. I imagine she is tired and still recovering from giving borth. 3 young ones under the age of 5 must be exhausting.
ReplyDeleteStoic is a very good word to express her facial expression today. I don't think she is tired. I think she is beginning to appear older then her years through her choice of attire. It is okay to be young and beautiful as she is.
DeleteWasn’t sure about my initial thoughts on the dress since puffy sleeves are not my thing. But, after seeing the dress on the balcony, I really like it. The sleeves and the neckline add interest and variety to her normal trooping looks. Love the jewelry! I cannot believe she had a baby 5-6 weeks ago! This dress will be good for other future events and probably won’t need any tailoring! Overall a win for me!
ReplyDeleteKate looks lovely and very regal. Love the hat and wish we could see a head to toe of the dress. Loved the interaction of the children, very, very cute all of them. Missing Prince Philip. cc
ReplyDeleteI miss the Philip, too :( I was sad seeing the Queen alone in the carriage. I hope he is well.
DeleteAn added note, Kate's dress fits her like a glove. When she bends over the neckline lies completely flat. Also the darting etc looks really well done. Whoever at McQueen did the fitting of this dress for her should be on speed dial.
ReplyDeleteI noticed the same, ali.
DeleteYep, Sarah Burton (I assume) did a great job - impeccable tailoring.
DeleteI noticed that too when she bent over. The fit of the dress is flawless! I think this is one of her best Trooping looks ever. Sarah Burton really knows what works for Kate.
DeleteAll those people on the balcony! Only one who is really hidden is Camilla, next to MM. She probably doesn't care and it's nice to see her next to her newest step-granddaughter.
ReplyDeleteI remember past balcony scenes with Harry looking grumpy---what a different a gorgeous sweet wife makes. :)
I could not find the Duchess of Gloucester, but she may have been in the blue dress behind the Duchess of Kent. Except for Princess Margaret's family and the Earl of Wessex, this was nearly the whole extended family. I have a feeling that Prince Charles as King will not have this many people on the balcony, and that will be sad. Does anyone know whether the Queen entertains her whole family to lunch after Trooping and the balcony appearances?
DeleteShe has impeccable taste and always looks classy and elegant, like the queen that she will be. ❤️❤️
ReplyDeleteKate is stunning! I wonder if the necklace was a 'push present'? And, if the ice blue was a nod to little Louis who is too young to attend?
ReplyDeleteno, she wore the necklace before.
DeleteCharlotte, Lovely post, as always. I am wondering if you would do a post in the future where you show us all of the royals who were on the balcony today at the Trooping of the Colour. I know this is a blog about Kate, but I would find it very interesting to know who all the family members are who gather for this occasion. I have followed the royal family closely for decades but can't remember ever seeing the Duke and Duchess of Kent's granddaughters before and I wouldn't know their mother. or father. I am one of your American fans and don't know the extended family as well as I would like. Could you include photos of each; what, if any patronages they have; what their occupations are if they have any; where they live, including if they have any beautiful country estates and/or apartments in any Royal Palaces and, of course, how they are related to the Queen? Hopefully, other readers would be equally interested in such a post! Thank you for considering my request!! AnneHH
ReplyDeleteThat sounds like a very fun idea for the summer, thank you :)
Delete'Hopefully, other readers would be equally interested in such a post!' --> raises hand
DeleteI would concur, Charlotte- I'd love to see that- if you have the energy to do it! There are so many out on that balcony this year and I'd love to understand who they all are. ( adding to Anonymous 19;15- "succession number in line" too? ) See you've got a whole massive project there! if you want- lol.
DeleteI love this suggestion! I would enjoy learning more about the extended family and everything about them would be appreciated. I'm from the US and even though I've followed the royal family for a while I still have much to learn.
DeleteThank you so much Charlotte for your blog!
I think it would be fascinating---there are so many relatives!
DeleteI agree! I was trying to puzzle out the folks on the edges and I’m not good at knowing them either! Also an American Anglophile and love learning more about them all. Love your blog Charlotte!!
DeleteGreat idea! I tried to describe general groups below, but some of these young people are doing very interesting things, and descriptions would be excellent.
Deletehttps://www.townandcountrymag.com/society/tradition/a21271860/british-royal-family-balcony-trooping-the-colour-2018/
DeleteKate looked AMAZING today - she is such a natural beauty and this style of dress really suits her and she knows it. Loved it all, the shade, the fitting, the hat!! If I had a small criticism it would be the earrings or the necklace but not both. There was a lot going on in a short space. I would have probably left the necklace off - there wasn't much neckline to work with anyway and the shape of the earrings mirrored the neckline of the dress. But we can count on Kate to look absolutely spectacular and polished every time and this was no exception.
ReplyDeleteI think she should have left off the necklace. I don't care for matching jewelry; however, Kate likes that style. I'll give the earrings a pass, but the necklace totally crowded that area. Without it the look would have been more sleek and streamlined. That's the only flaw IMO. Otherwise, she looked poised, regal, beautiful, and self-assured. This was perfect for the occasion.
DeletePerfection from head to toe! I love her elegant dress, beautiful jewelry and especially that wonderful hat! Really lovely.
ReplyDeleteMy jaw dropped when I saw Kate. The dress, the hat, the jewelry, the handbag is nothing short of PERFECTION!!!
ReplyDeleteLovely, lovely, lovely! Trooping is always one of my favorite events! Kate did not disappoint today. While this isn’t the best hat she’s ever worn, the overall look was beautiful (I mean, she’s beautiful so...); McQueen never fails her!
ReplyDeleteThe turnout on the balcony was an amazing sight: so many members of the Queen’s family were there. It created a striking image. The only thing missing was Prince Phillip. It made me sad to see them all up there without him. There’s just something about him that tugs at my heart.
The Cambridge kids make me smile and it’s nice to see them interacting with their cousins—it shows just how much of a real “family” they are.
What a wonderful day, overall. I do hope I get to see this event in-person one day soon.
Thanks for the post, Charlotte. You're doing double duty, and you are doing it flawlessly!
Take care, everyone!
Shantel
Minnesota, USA
I love the look of almost all of them, and Kate in particular. Adored the young ones and their silliness. There was one moment during the flypast when the Queen and Princess Charlotte had their mouths open in exactly the same way. Missed Zara and Mike and Mia, as well as, of course, Prince Phillip. Does anybody know when Zara is due? Is it July?
ReplyDeleteThe question if Charlotte has features by this or that family member is funny. Some see all Queen others see all Carol and I believe there was another woman? Now, I have seen a picture of Diana and the boys recently and kid me not her face looked exactly like the little Harry. It was unreal.
DeleteI believe her features will still change a lot. It is going to be interesting if she will resemble someone later or grow very individual features in the end.
C.
I think Zara is due this month (she sure looks like it!). I’m waiting to hear for news of the birth any week now...exciting times!
DeleteBeautiful from head to toe. The children were the highlight. Lovely to see the Queen with her family.
ReplyDeleteNot a fan of the puffy sleeves atop the shoulders of this dress. I think the dress would have looked quite chic with a tailored, straight sleeve. I do like the hat - but it sure looks like a few others she has.
ReplyDeleteKate always looks so impeccable and poised on these occasions! For some reason,today, she also had a a truly regal presence about her, assured, confident, comfortable in her role as a royal! And just when I thought I couldn’t love her more!
ReplyDeleteI agree 1000%!
DeleteCatherine looks stunning!! Beautiful dress and wonderful hat!
ReplyDeleteSilvia
Kate looks lovely as usual. I would love to see her expand her jewelry selections considering all her options. All the matchy- matchy jewelry is very passe and truly unsophisticated.
ReplyDeleteI agree. I wish she would change up her jewellery to be a little less matchy-matchy...surprise us a little!
DeleteYes, Anonymous @ 19:51, great idea and I would be interested. Thanks, Charlotte for considering this suggestion.
ReplyDeleteBeautiful and regal as always!!! I feel for the rest of the ladies. Let's face it: kate completely obfuscates the "competition"!
ReplyDeleteHaha, she really does! I wouldn’t even bother trying to look as good as she does...she’s almost perfect lol
DeleteI love the and dress. Such a beautiful color.
ReplyDeleteKate has completely knocked it out of the park with this one. She looks every inch a future Queen. Just beautiful.
ReplyDeleteTotally agree with you, Nic! :)
DeleteI love the hat design but the dress and the hat could have been a stronger color. This is a bit too pale blue for me. Love the jewelry also!
ReplyDeleteDoes anyone have a link to a page that might give the full list of names of those on the balcony today? Other than Peter Phillips, his wife and children, I didn't recognize any of the people standing to Prince William's left. Thank you.
ReplyDeleteThose all appear to be descendants of the Duke of Kent. He and more of his family, plus the Duke of Gloucester and Prince Michael of Kent and most of their descendants are on the other end of the balcony. It is a very large extended family now! It's said the Queen loves to have them around her for Trooping and for her Christmas luncheon.
DeleteI was interested to know, too--I hope someone posts one!
DeleteTown and Country Magazine has all of the names of those on the balcony. https://www.townandcountrymag.com/society/tradition/a21271860/british-royal-family-balcony-trooping-the-colour-2018/
DeleteThanks Charlotte! Love this dress, hat, and jewelry. She looks regal and beautiful. It’s sad to see the queen by herself. These yearly processions really magnify the passing of time. The little ones are adorable. Can’t wait for Louis to join in on the fun. Thanks for the historic shots. A different one for each blog. Excellent coverage as usual.
ReplyDeleteKate looked absolutely stunning! I adore the hat! So elegant and classy. This is her best Trooping the Colour outfit yet, in my opinion. All of it. The jewelry and very well tailored dress. Loved the square neckline and puffy sleeves. I agree with someone who said that she had an especially regal presence today. She is going to be a fabulous queen!
ReplyDeleteStunning! Love this color on Kate. Love the dress, hat, and jewelry. Wonder what shoe she chose? She looks amazing for just having a baby not long ago!
ReplyDeleteI'm guessing her blue (not navy) pumps.
DeleteAlways a lovely event but I can't quite put on finger on what seemed 'out of snyc' about the trooping. Something.....
ReplyDeleteI thought that Kate looked lovely. The blue McQueen - well tailored, the sparkly Kiki jewelry, the stylish hat by Botterill (which looked a little similar to the one she wore at the H&M wedding) - all in all, quite impressive and loved her her in an updo.
I would love to see Kate re-wear her Trooping the Colour outfits - especially the McQueen suit, the Catherine Walker coat, the pink McQueen and this new blue ensemble. They are all lovely - IMHO - so I'd like to see them again.
HM - I didn't realize rode in a carriage by herself - made her seem lonely. I hope that Prince Phillip is well. Anyone know what the brooch is that the Queen had on? thanks!
It's the military badge of whatever regiment was trooping the colors. Someone else will know which one!
DeleteWell, after getting my First Look Peak & being a bit concerned.... I'm happy to say the The Duchess of Cambridge Looks Fabulous!!! We were out the door at 4:00am Sat (over here in the states) this am for a long day & night of 3 formal events! It's now 1:00am Sunday. This was my first chance to read the posts! I mentioned to my daughter today (She's very stylish & Kate's age) that I was concerned when I saw the waist up photos with the puff sleeve? My daughter reprimanded me for not having more faith & for making a snap judgement before I saw the full look (good points). Having seen the photos I must say that this is one of my Top 3 Trooping Ensembles Ever!!! Quite Possibly #1 or #2!! Kate looked Every Bit The Senior Royal Duchess!! As excited as I am about seeing Megan & loving her ensemble & First Balcony Appearance..... A shift has occurred in my minds eye & I know no longer see Kate as the new comer, but rather an established Windsor.... often forgetting she was ever a commoner!? My hunch is that is how it will eventually be with Meghan too.... they will become the Senior Royals & we'll just get used to them as Royals!! I just have to chuckle at how subtly the shift occurred in how I now view Kate! :) I can't wait to come back later tonight or Monday & read all the comments. I'm intrigued to see what you all thought about the day & the Ladies' Styles!! :) Didn't The Queen look Grand??? :)
ReplyDeleteI thought Kate looked wonderful. The dress was lovely well tailored fitted her perfectly and the sleeves just added a little something to the classic understated style of the dress. The hat though not my favourite went well with this dress. Her whole demeanour was that of a future Queen consort she conducted herself in a very regal and confident manner. William should be very proud of her.
ReplyDeleteI noticed how she and Camilla were interacting they appeared on very good terms and their dresses blended very well.
As everyone says the youngsters stole the show. It was lovely seeing young George relaxed and thoroughly enjoying himself but must admit that I did feel Savannah did behave a little over the top but it gave the press some good photographs!!
I reckon little Charlotte is going to keep us entertained for some years her facial expressions and royal waves are priceless
Sad to see the Queen on her own but as usual she looked lovely although I thought just a little strained possibly due to her recent cataract operation.
I hope it won't be too long before we see Kate again but I am not sure the christening will be in June as William has a busy schedule between now and going to Israel on 24th June for a week early July is my guess which will probably mean it will be at St. James Chapel like George pity I hoped it would be at Sandringham like Charlottes we saw so much more of the christening party however this is pure conjecture on my part.
Thank you Charlotte as always for an interesting post. Sorry not to see Prince Phillip but way too long time standing for a post op hip patient. It was good to see the extended family. Thought the light conditions were hard on the photographers- bright midday sun with hard shadows and the saucer hats added to the problem. In one photograph I saw Kate looks unhappy and frowning. However if one really looks this is just due to shadows - heavy from the saucer and various other shadows as the light has come through the flowers. A superficial look and that is how fake news starts. In a moment Kate’s post natal depression has become a trending topic world wide. Also in this post - for the cream yellow commenters on the wedding outfit notice in one of the videos the lighting has rendered Kate’s egg shell blue dress a sea green colour.
ReplyDeleteKate was Perfection! Every bit the Future Queen Consort! :) I loved how She & Camilla (both Future Queen Consorts) wore the same shades of Blue & The Queen wearing her own Pop of a deeper shade of blue! Loved all the raport with Kate & Camilla in the carriage, loved seeing Meghan join in the pomp with Harry & loved how her shade accented beautifully the blue shades. Truly, all The Senior Royal Women created a Lovely Summer Tableau! :) Oh & The Kiddos on The Balcony!! :) Such fun watching all their glee & interactions with each other! How fun it is to have a gaggle of Windsor kiddies again! I agree with so many others, that watching Savanah, George & Charlotte reminded me of the days of little Peter, Zara, William & Harry & their distant cousins! When one has such a wonderful extended family..... cousins are just cousins & such fun to see & play with at family events! In fact that's what I love about Trooping... It always strikes me as just a great Windsor Family Event that we all get to share in! :) Such a lovely bright sunny day & lots of fun all around! :) xo
ReplyDeleteVery pretty Duchess! She really does look like a future Queen here...well done, Kate! I wasn’t a fan of the hat, nor the neckline or sleeves, at first. But after studying her look, it does remind me a bit of the Disney Cinderella’s dress :)
ReplyDeleteLovely to see all the Royals out in the sunshine & the Queen looked fab, as always. Doesn’t Charlotte look like a handful? She’s such a character...I look forward to seeing more of her as the Cambridge children grow up. George is looking more & more like his Grandpa, Michael :)
Can’t wait to see Kate return to her busier schedule in time. I hope she’s having a wonderful break bonding with little Louis. I imagine we’ll see them again soon at his upcoming christening. Any news on Zara’s impending birth?
A lovely capsule of the event! The jewelry is my favorite item to examine. Also fun to see when money is not an issue. Sad not to see Prnce Phillip, but Happy 97th birtday to HRH today!
ReplyDelete🌸 Kate did seem very Queenly. She is Royally blossoming more each year. 👑🌺 William chose wisely. So awesome seeing he and his wife and children on the balcony. 🤗
ReplyDeleteBeautifully said. Couldn't agree more. Sylvia
DeleteKate looks so elegant!!!Love the powder blue color of her dress!! Love the earrings and the necklace,,and the hat,,It all looks so beautiful!!!
ReplyDeleteClassic and beautiful! I enjoy seeing the style evolution from previous years...Kate's look has become more sophisticated :)
ReplyDeleteKate's dress is lovely! I love the color, the cut, the poof in the shoulders, everything. The jewelry is beautiful. I'm not a big fan of the hat though. But overall a lovely outing.
ReplyDeleteHey Charlotte Ive found an event that Kate could potentially attend in the Autumn - https://www.changedirection.org/globalsummit/
ReplyDeleteAlex, terrific spot, thank you! I think we'll definitely see Kate there, it appears the Royal Foundation is involved.
Delete