The occasion marked the first time the Cambridges have been publicly seen together as a family of five.
Eleven-week-old Louis has grown so much since we last saw him! I do believe he favours his mother. What do you all think?
The little prince slept peacefully in his mother's arms.
The christening was an intimate affair attended by Prince Charles, the Duchess of Cornwall, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex, Michael and Carole Middleton, Pippa and James Matthews, James Middleton and Louis' godparents and their spouses.
Unfortunately, neither the Queen nor the Duke of Edinburgh were present. Buckingham Palace said the decision was taken "some time ago" and it is not due to health reasons. Richard Palmer reports "I’ve spoken to a couple of sources and the explanation seems to be it’s another busy week for the monarch at 92. She has the RAF centenary tomorrow, a meeting with President Trump on Friday and audiences in between. I understand that it was mutually agreed some time ago and the Cambridges are “relaxed” about it." It was incredibly surprising news. If it was decided upon weeks ago, one would imagine it would have been leaked to a trusted outlet to avoid it becoming the talking point on the day. I certainly hope it's not because Her Majesty or Prince Philip are poorly.
Louis' godmother Laura Meade with James Middleton.
The Duchess was in great spirits and kept a close eye on Louis as they arrived. We saw several excellent mother/son shots. Below, Kate talking to the Archbishop of Canterbury.
A very grown up looking Prince George and Princess Charlotte.
Russell Myers reports "Prince William encouraged his children George and Charlotte to "shake hands" with the Archbishop of Canterbury and said "Well done" when they did so." William and Kate chose six godparents for Prince Louis. Each has a long, or in some cases life-long connection to William or Kate.
They are all people in the inner-circle the couple trust implicitly.
Nicholas van Cutsem - A close friend of Prince William's whose daughter Florence was a bridesmaid at Harry and Meghan's wedding.
Guy Pelly - Known as a "party animal", the well-known nightclub owner is one of William and Harry's closest friends. The royal pair acted as ushers at Guy's Memphis wedding to Elizabeth Wilson in 2014.
Harry Aubrey-Fletcher - Hello! reports "Harry Aubrey-Fletcher is the son of Sir Henry Aubrey-Fletcher, the 8th Baronet and Lord Lieutenant of Buckinghamshire. Prince William was an usher when Harry married Louise Stourton, in Boroughbridge, West Yorkshire. It was the first wedding that William and Kate attended after they announced their engagement in 2010."
The Lady Laura Meade - Laura is the wife of one of William's dearest friends James Meade. He is the son of Olympic gold medallist equestrian Richard Meade. He has become a close friend of Kate's too, and accompanied her to the Badminton Horse Trials after her brief split from William in 2007. James is Princess Charlotte's godfather. The couple have been photographed with William and Kate on a number of occasions - most recently Laura was spotted with Kate at the Beaufort Polo Club last month.
Miss Lucy Middleton - Lucy Middleton is Kate's cousin, the daughter of Michael Middleton's brother Richard. Lucy's brother Adam is one of Princess Charlotte's godparents. Kate is said to be close to the solicitor, they both spent part of their gap year studying Italian in Florence together.
Hannah Gillingham (Mrs Robert Carter) - Hannah has been a friend of Kate's since they attended Marlborough College together.
Prince Louis wore a hand-made replica of the royal christening robe, made by Angela Kelly, dressmaker to the Queen. The original Honiton lace and satin robe, was last used in 2004 with Lady Louise Windsor being the last royal baby to wear the piece. After years of wear it had become too fragile to use, so in 2008 Her Majesty commissioned a replica. It features the same length skirt, elaborate collars and bow as its predecessor. The first baby to wear it was was James, Viscount Severn, son of the Earl and Countess of Wessex. Both George and Charlotte wore it for their christenings.
The Lily Font and water from the River Jordan was used during the baptism.
The silver baptismal font which was commissioned by Queen Victoria and Prince Albert in 1840 after the birth of their first child, Victoria, Princess Royal. It was first used at The Princess Royal’s christening in 1841 and has been a feature of Royal christenings since then.
The Chapel Royal at St James's Palace was used for the lying in state of Diana, Princess of Wales after her death in 1997. The chapel was also the venue for Kate's confirmation into the Church of England in 2011, in a private ceremony before the royal wedding. Built in 1531, the heart of Mary Tudor was laid beneath its chancel step in 1558. Most recently, Prince George was baptised there in 2013, the Palace said William and Kate chose the Chapel Royal because it was the "perfect venue" for the intimate christening.
The traditional 40 minute service was conducted by the Archbishop of Canterbury, Justin Welby. Ahead of the service he said:
'I’m delighted and privileged to be christening Prince Louis today – a precious child made in God’s image, just as we all are. Please join me in praying for him and his family on this special day.
“You are my beloved” (Mark 1:11)'
Kensington Palace shared details of the service:
'The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge have chosen two hymns, two lessons and two anthems for the christening of their son, Prince Louis. The Hymns are O Jesus, I Have Promised and Lord of All Hopefulness.
The lessons are from St. Mark 10: 13-16, read by Miss Lucy Middleton and Ephesians 3: 14-19, read by Mr Guy Pelly. The anthems are This is the day which the Lord hath made (John Rutter) and Suo Gân, a traditional Welsh Lullaby (Gareth Wilson).
This is the day which the Lord hath made was composed for The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge’s Wedding on 29th April, 2011. The anthems will be performed by The Choir of Her Majesty’s Chapel Royal. The Processional Organ Music will be R. Vaughan Williams' Prelude on 'Rhosymedre.' The Recessional Organ Music will be Prince Johann Ernst von Sachsen-Weimar's Concerto in G major, BWV 592.
The Archbishop of Canterbury, the Most Reverend Justin Welby, will baptise Prince Louis. He will be supported by The Dean of The Chapel Royal, The Right Reverend and Right Honourable the Lord Chartres, and The Sub-Dean of the Chapel Royal, The Reverend Canon Paul Wright.'
The Cambridges leaving after the service.
The Duke and Duchess of Sussex departing.
Following the service, William and Kate gave a private tea at Clarence House. Guests were served slices of christening cake, which is a tier taken from The Duke and Duchess' wedding cake.
The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge’s wedding cake, designed by Fiona Cairns, was made from 17 individual fruit cakes and had eight tiers. The cake was decorated with cream and white icing using the Joseph Lambeth technique. There were up to 900 individually iced flowers and leaves of 17 different varieties decorated on the cake. A garland design around the middle of the cake matched the architectural garlands decorated around the top of the Picture Gallery in Buckingham Palace, the room in which the cake was displayed during the wedding.
The official portraits will be taken at Clarence House by Matt Holyoak. The photographer took the much loved 70th wedding anniversary portraits of the Queen and Prince Philip. We can expect to see them released later this week.
A video of the royals after the christening. As they are leaving, Charlotte turns to the photographer and says "You're not coming", much to the surprise of Prince William :)
For both George and Charlotte's christenings, the Duchess opted for bespoke cream Alexander McQueen ensembles and hats by milliner Jane Taylor.
It was a hat trick for McQueen and Jane Taylor today with Kate selecting the designer and milliner once again. Kate's bespoke dress features a v neck and puff sleeves. It was a very elegant look and an ideal choice for the occasion.
A closer look at Kate's Jane Taylor headband style hat with floral detail.
Kate wore her Jimmy Choo Romy pumps. They are available in a selection of colours at Nordstrom.
The Duchess debuted a new pair of pearl cluster earrings. The wonderful UFO No More team identified them as the Cassandra Goad Cavolfiore Pearl Studs. The £4,360 pair are described as "set with seven pearls set with diamonds (0.3cts). Inspired by the clusters of young flower stalks of the cauliflower (cavolfiore) in the market. From the Journey to Sicily."
See you later this week :)
O My Goodness -they are so sweet and so beautiful.Catherine is radiant,she shines with love.I 'm so glad to see our little prince among his family.
ReplyDeleteI am really looking forward to this! Thank you Charlotte.
ReplyDeleteI stood for 90 minutes with a crowd and paparazzi on one side of St James' Palace but they didn't go in that way. I'm still very glad tried!! It was fun! Time to rest up so I can get to The Mall super early tomorrow!! Looking forward to more pictures, Charlotte. :)
ReplyDeleteForgive me if this is a repeated comment but I've submitted this twice already and it seems like it didn't go through: Florida girl, I was thinking about you today and hoping everything worked out for you! It's too bad you didn't get to see them today but I hope you get to see the family tomorrow! And I hope you were able to get to the Tower today! So what do you think of London so far?? Pretty amazing, I think!
DeleteHi Florida Girl, like Pam I was thinking about you today. Good to know you arrived safely in London. Too bad that you didn't see any Royals this time, but as I said before, just to be In the vicinity and catch the energy and excitement would be special. Do keep us posted about your days ahead.
DeleteThank you! We have had a big day so far and are now exhausted! I have to get up super duper early to get a spot to hopefully see the balcony appearance tomorrow and we've been up 36 hours so we're unpacking and going to bed (8pm London time). So far London is fabulous!! It's a prettier, kinder New York so far although I will always love NY.
DeleteStanding with others and some pap all waiting for the royals and listening to the pap's talk and answer calls from buddies on the other side of the palace telling them what they think based on what they see and hear, etc was fascinating! I'm so glad I did it even though I didn't see anything except the changing of guards, which was pretty cool. The street on the otherside was lined with people hoping to get a view as they drove by as they left. I didn't stay for that so I don't know if anyone got to see anything. It takes a lot of patience, fortitude, and some luck to see them apparently!
We went to the Tower this morning. It's just amazing being near those old buildings - nothing like that in the US so I've never seen stuff like that before. It's really amazing as a lot of you know. You can almost feel the history.
The area of London we're staying in is so pretty and neat (Mayfair). Lots of flowers on all the buildings and cute pubs and restaurants.
I think you can see what I post on facebook without sending me a friend request if you want. I'm posting pictures and will continue to do so. I don't mind accepting friend requests at all but if you just wanted to keep yourself private I believe you can still see it as so far I've never had a reason to be private and these posts I've set to public. My name is Sarah Dalton Chamblee just in case you want to see anything regarding this trip or particularly my adventures tomorrow trying to see the balcony appearance and flyover. If I get there too late and have no hope of getting a decent balcony view then I'll watch the flyover from a pub nearby but I'm going to get there early and at least try.
florida girl, So glad you arrived safely, that you love it & that you got to experience the excitement around the Christening, even if you didn't get to see them. I'm so excited for you & can't wait to hear how things go tomorrow for you! :) I actually was thinking of you going to the Tower, as the first thing that struck me about Kate's look was that I could envision her as a woman in the 1500's wearing a "French Hood", especially with her elaborate updo. She looked Devine & So Royal!!! It made me think of Henry VIII & then of The Tower & Then of You!! :) Rest Up!! xo
DeleteFlorida girl, thank you for sharing and letting us travel with you through your FB account! You have a wonderful sense of humor!! Good luck tomorrow and enjoy your visit!! cc
DeleteIf you're on Facebook be sure to check out Sarah's pictures. Sarah, I feel like I'm living vicariously through you! I hope you're able to have a royal sighting!
DeleteThank you Becca and CeCe. I am speechless and teary because I did end up getting a great spot! I posted pictures on my facebook. I am almost in shock that I will get to see the Queen - and she's giving a speech!!!
DeleteKate just rode right past!!!
DeleteJust saw the Queen drive past hesded to the service at Westminster Abbey.
DeleteDressed in the lighter blue of the RAF. My life is now complete. Lol ;) 💙
I'm hoping Kate makes a balcony appearance too since she was all dressed and headed to the Abbey too.
I'm glad you're having a splendid time Florida Girl - if the football success continues, you may have a very exciting visit.
DeleteHow exciting, florida girl! I saw them all at Trooping the Colour in 2015. There's no experience like it!
DeleteThanks brxlvr, Julia, and Pam! I never even knew to set this as a realistic dream but it happened! Been smiling for hours! Pam, Trooping must be AMAZING!!
DeleteJulia, I am excited and nervous but msinly excited about seeing London when it wins or loses this match tomorrow! I'll be wearing my red and white!
As I stood there today marveling at the perfection of it all I realized truly how much the Queen means to this country.
So glad I got to see them all. They are pretty and shiny and perfect looking, lol! Kate is so tall and so beautiful!
May Christening ceremony of Prince Louis be performed without any trouble.
ReplyDeleteHow wonderful the day is finally here! Even with a few perplexing choices it's a very happy day! The kids are getting so big and Kate looks splendid. I quite like the kokoshnik-shaped hat and that she followed through on the white/creme theme of the christenings! Can't wait to get better looks of all of them :) Wonderful day!
ReplyDeleteAgree wholeheartedly, Rebecca. Definitely some perplexing choices though. Not loving the very limited camera access upon arrival.
DeleteThe choices I was more thinking of was the choice of the Queen and Phillip. And the choice of Guy Pelly as a godparent :P
DeleteYeah, can't disagree with you there. I think PW has been trying to get Guy Pelly in there since George's christening:)
DeleteI too was surprised until I made the connection that Guy's Mom was one of Diana's Best Friends & I forgot that she is a "Herbert", sister to the Current Earl of Carnarvon! (as in Highclere Castle/aka "Downton Abbey") Also, their father was "Porchey" (sp?) from "The Crown"!!! So Quite close to the family all the way around!!! So Guy Pelly is a "Carnarvon" of "Highclere Castle". Well now to me, that's a Horse of a Different Color!! lol :) Sounds like he takes after his Great, Great Grandfather!!! The one they joke about in "The Crown" .... baby in every nursery & all that!!" Not that Guy's like that, but the Great Great Grandfather had Quite the Reputation of being a Wild Guy!!!!! lol :)
DeleteBecca USA, Guy's mother is Vanda Joan Allfrey, not Herbert
DeleteThat hat is giving me life. Think it's the best topper she's ever worn.
ReplyDeleteAgreed. Kate is radiant!
DeleteYes! I love this hat! Very retro in a lovely, elegant way. The bead and flower work is gorgeous.
DeleteLove this hat!! Agreed Erika, very retro and elegant, somewhat reminiscent of the Queen Mother's hats and some of Queen Elizabeth's early hats. Quite regal and "queenly". cc
DeleteAgreed. This is a best ever hat for me.
DeleteCeCe, I'll have to go back and look at some old photographs. This doesn't remind me of anything that the Queen Mom used to wear. I do remember many of her hats were asymetrical with one side larger than the other with more elaborate decoration on that one side. I can see the connection there. I do remember HM wearing a similar style as well as Princess Grace and several current Scandinavian princesses. It is a very regal look:)
DeleteErika, yes that's it!! You are right, it's really more similar to a style Princess Grace, Victoria and Mary have worn!! :) You are probably right about the Queen Mother not actually wearing this type of hat, think that the asymetrical aspect and some of the work on the hat maybe just reminded me of the Queen Mother's style. Kate didn't disappoint with her classic style and a stunning hat...definitely the impression is very regal!! cc
DeleteSo good to see you, Erika! :-)
DeleteThe hat has Russian vibes for me.
All in all, I'm happy to see the 5 Cambridges and sad not to see HM and PP.
May God bless them all.
When I first saw Kate, I thought I had stepped back through time & was back in the 1500's looking at a beautiful Royal Lady wearing a "French Hood", combined with an elegant updo twist so common back then! She was Striking!!! I think even back in the 1500's, she would stand out as a Royal Beauty!! She is quite breathtaking in her serene, natural beauty! She literally sparkles when she smiles!!
DeleteHello Zora:)
DeletePrincess Charlotte looks so grown up! Looking forward to more photos. Everyone looks lovely.
ReplyDeleteHow cute is Princess Charlotte shaking hands with clergy at the door! The Duchess looks beautiful as always. Did you notice Pippa's dress? It's beautiful and she looks wonderful. I also liked Laura Meade's dress. Waiting to see Meghan more clearly.
ReplyDeleteLooks Great, i hope For a full view of the dress
ReplyDeleteWonderful family and a special day for all involved. Thanks, Charlotte.
ReplyDeleteKate looks radiant and so happy! Prince William looks especially handsome.
ReplyDeleteKate was truly radiant, but I too was struck by William looking particularly handsome & serenely adult, guiding a child in each hand! :) xo
DeleteLove the hat - I think Kate is growing more regal by the year. I agree Louis favors Kate over William. I wish William would smile more!
ReplyDeleteAmy, I thought William looked stressed today. He rarely smiled unless spoken to. Hopefully nothing to do with the queen not coming. I feel like something is going on behind the scenes with the Duke of Edinburgh and the queen that we don't know yet. I know he is recovering from hip surgery, which can't be quick at his age, but I have a weird sense something else is going on. I don't know why, and I hope not.
DeleteThere's a great deal going on with the government at the moment that William would have every reason to be worried for that alone. It's a very troubled week.
DeleteThe queen seemed well enough over the last week in Scotland but it's possible she did too much. Or it may feel too sad for her to come without Philip. But every time I get very worried about Philip, he appears looking quite stout for his age.
William doesn't have the best resting expression. He often looks tense or out of sorts. I don't think he can help it but it is a problem for someone in public life. So it could just be the photos snapped. Harry and Meghan seemed just a little subdued in these photos too. But Kate looked radiant.
William doesn't exactly have the Queen's dour resting expression, but he is serious, and he he does dislike the media, and maybe noisy crowds. We can't tell what was being called out, but even Charlotte looked a little baffled.
DeleteI think the very first picture of the tiny prince looks very much like Prince George on is baptism, but with lighter hair! Precious!
ReplyDeleteWonderful article. Can´t wait to see the official pictures. They are a lovely family
ReplyDeleteCharlotte, I think PL looks like Kate as well. The resemblance to her baby pictures is uncanny.
ReplyDeleteHi Erika! Nice to see you here... And, once again, I agree with you! :-)
DeleteHello royalfan:)
DeleteI think Prince Louis's nose is different from Kate's. It seems thinner, more resembling William's. It is hard to tell with babies, but the nose is definitely different. His coloring-brows, eyelashes are darker like Kate's, but the overall eye shape seems rounder, less almond-shaped as the Middleton women. Prince Louis's hair, what we can see of it, looks a bit like it will be lighter, like William's. Maybe even more reddish, like the Spencers'. He does seem like his disposition may be even calmer than Charlotte's. She was such a calm baby but has turned into a bit of a firecracker.
DeleteIt is difficult to judge a mother's feelings for a baby via photos. We never know for sure if the photos we see are representative of the whole of the relationship on a daily basis at home. She does seem involved and taken up with Louis. I recall especially enjoying my last baby because I knew it was probably my last and I savored every moment I could. Also, by the third one, most moms tend to be less distracted by appearances and more relaxed and confident.
:-))
DeleteIt is so great to see the Cambridges as a family of five and Prince Louis has grown so much. That hat is great. I love it when Kate tries a different style and it really works. It is odd to me that the Queen and Prince Philip could not take part and it concerns me. It looks like the Christening could have been scheduled at a different time, but we never really know what is going on behind the scenes in terms of scheduling.
ReplyDeleteTammy was saying something similar (up above). I wonder if the Queen is still taking it "easy" in her own recovery from being sick recently. She pulled out and didn't attend the service at St Paul's Cathedral marking the 200th anniversary of the Order of St Michael and St George. That's so rare (though not unheard of--both she and Philip were sick near Christmas a year or two ago). I think she'd rather rest and sacrifice the christening today so she can show up for the RAF Centennial tomorrow and, if her health wasn't up to par. Philip seemed to be doing well at the races, driving the car at one point. So my guess is Elizabeth's health is the concern here.
DeleteI agree with both of you, Rachel and Denise. I do hope the Queen and Prince Phillip are just tired and not sick. The Queen adores her great grans and it does seem strange that a "scheduling conflict" would be the cause. Especially since these things were scheduled "some time ago". I would imagine the Cambridges would gladly work around the Queen's schedule. She does have two major things going on this week. The RAF tomorrow and the American president and first lady are visiting her on Friday.
DeleteI wondered if the queen didn't want official photos taken without Philip - does that make sense to people? It does to me now I think about it. They have been such a team that it would really call attention to his absence.
DeleteKate's joy in her son is wonderful to see. She simply glows with happiness. Louis is a gorgeous baby, as all of Kate's babies are.
ReplyDeleteI found there was something magical about the 3rd. The other 2 are busy with activities & people are around to help get them here & there & as a Mum, you have permission to just adore your 3rd little one! Plus you are more relaxed & if he's an easy baby..... all the more to enjoy & treasure!! :) xo
DeleteLouis is a gorgeous baby. I can not tell who is going to look like but he has wonderfully fine features for 3 months old. Kate, William and the kids all look great. Looking forward to some other pictures of Kate's dress. Not sure about the hat. Charlotte is very well behaved but looks as though she already wants to know the lay of the land and be in charge of things:).
ReplyDeleteAli, I agree. Charlotte is always taking it all in - and perhaps even questioning it. No doubt she is going to shine.
DeleteCharlotte is so completely mesmerized by the Archbishop's attire. So cute!
ReplyDeleteThought "hmn, we have a budding fashionista here." Charlotte never disappoints, she's a hoot at every sighting.
DeleteHee hee Pam she was definitely eyeing the robes of the clergy. Can't blame her, they are pretty spectacular.
DeleteCharlotte, I think you are confusing the van Cutsem boys. I thought Nicholas was the father of Florence, who was in Harry and Meghan’s wedding. I think it’s a different one who is the father of Grace.
ReplyDeleteOh that hat! It's very retro but not in a good way...more in a Queen Mother kind of way.
ReplyDeleteI loved it. Thought it was very 1960s. A vibe that the Duchess pulls off very well.
DeleteI could not agree more!
DeleteI liked the hatband at first until I saw the profile, then I thought it was too Queen Motherly/1940's (?) for my taste. Maybe if it was smaller? I don't know. The dress looks like her other 5 cream dresses. LOL. Kinda done with those to be honest. But Kate always looks pretty.
DeleteI love this look! So elegant and kind of vintage: Kate's hat has a very Queen Mother vibe that I love. That lady had amazing hats!
ReplyDeleteI can't get over how old George and Charlotte look--time truly flies. Everyone looks so joyful; what a special day!
Shantel
Minnesota, USA
Guy Pelly's mother is not Lady Carolyn Herbert, who is Lady Carolyn Warren. She is the daughter of the 7th Earl of Carnarvon and is married to the Queen's racing manager.
ReplyDeleteGuy Pelly is the son of Vanda Pelly. See this article about his father's funeral, which William attended. http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-3362735/Prince-William-misses-Royal-Family-s-Christmas-lunch-attend-memorial-service-father-close-friend-Guy-Pelly.html
Kate looks fantastic! And all the family and friends! It's so nice to see them all together. The children look so grown up and Prince Louis is precious. Looking forward more details!
ReplyDeleteWonderful event! Prince Louis is gorgeous, Kate looks ultra elegant, and William the proud father. George and Charlotte so well behaved. That is the best hat I have ever seen on Kate, a classic. I am sad that the Queen and Prince Phillip could not attend, I wonder about the scheduling at times. Looking forward to seeing more pictures!
ReplyDeleteRoyal 👑 Watcher
I love everything about Kate's hat! I adore retro looks and she nails it. The family of 5 looks adorable and what a sleeping prince!
ReplyDeleteWhat a beautiful family! Kate is glowing and looks every bit a proud, and loving mother. Like that she stayed with her cream theme for christenings, looking forward to seeing a full view of the dress. I agree with Charlotte and think that Louis looks like he favors Kate. Actually, looking at Charlotte and George, think that Charlotte favors her father and the Windsor side of the family (in the picture of all of them together), but has her mother's beautiful hair, and that George looks like a Middleton, but has hair much like William did when he was younger. Little bits and the best of both parents!! cc
ReplyDeleteIsn't that funny Cece, I had seen it in the reverse. To me George looks like a little William & Charlotte looks like the spitting image of Kate around that age in that now famous pic of her with her father & Pippa in Jordon! Funny how we can all see different things! lol :) It will be such fun watching them grow up, as they have already evolved & changed so much in just these few years! :)
DeleteIt is funny Becca, because in a previous post I had thought that Charlotte looked a lot like Pippa and Carol!! But others have commented also, in the picture of William entering the church with George and Charlotte, if you look at her and at William, they both are holding their heads in the same manner and have the same look throughout their eyes. Definitely they have changed and evolved and am sure that mannerisms will come through that will have them look like one or the other of their parents over time. I like to read the opinions from everybody and perhaps try to see them through others eyes!! One thing for sure, William and Kate have beautiful children and it is fun to watch them grow up!! cc
DeleteCeCe, I absolutely agree. It will be fun to not only see them grow, but to also see how they flit back & forth favoring both parents & especially when enhanced with given mannerisms. I didn't notice William & Charlotte with their heads, I'll have to go back & look for that! I love little things like that! :) xo
DeleteLovely look on Kate. The headband style topper is a very "Swedish Royal Family Christening" look, only better. Thanks again for the excellent coverage, Charlotte.
ReplyDeleteYes, we have seen this type of hat on the Swedish princesses as well as Princess Mary. If I'm not mistaken, Princess Grace also wore this style. I could be wrong but I don't remember the Queen Mother or Queen Mary wearing a headband style hat at all.
DeleteLove Kate's hat! It is retro but it works for her! Prince Louis definitely favors him Mother. It's the eyes....if you look at her baby pictures he has her eyes! I thought that from the very first photo that they released.
ReplyDeleteMy first impression upon seeing the early photos was that her lovely headpiece had a very ‘Tudor’ look to it.
DeleteUS Reader that was my first impression also.
DeleteMe too!! A bit Anne Boleyn-ish!!
DeleteCheck out Duchess of Windsor's wedding hat in France.
DeleteI thought The Same Thing!!! Very reminiscent of the 1500's French Hood look! She just looks more & more Royal & Elegant with each year!! I'm finding it harder & harder to remember that she wasn't always a member of The Royal Family! :) xo
DeleteYeah, it really has a Tudor feel, and also almost a feel of a gloria. It's a very unique hat, but it feels well fitting for a christening.
DeleteRebecca, I totally agree! :)
DeletePoor Louis! His christening has been overshadowed by all that's happening with the government, by football, by coming visits and events, and even by Granny's absence. He's seen so much as the third child - the Andrew of the family - I wonder if he won't surprise everyone, and grow up to be something remarkable - like the first Queen Elizabeth. Hopefully, not king though since George and Charlotte stand ahead.
ReplyDeleteI suspect between those heavy robes at the Thistle and all that's happening this week, the queen may have felt it was one thing too many, or perhaps she didn't like to attend without Philip. Duties are one thing but family matters may be another. It will be interesting to see if she attends Lena's christening. As for Philip, I suspect he finds long services too difficult for some of the reasons that affect older men. I do hope he is able to attend Eugenie's wedding though in the autumn.
I rarely dream of the royal family, but last night strangely, I dreamt that Kate wore a wonderful red dress for the christening. When I awoke, I realised that was most unlikely - the cream precedent has been set, and I was right. I do like her fascinator.
The fashion winners for me are the aunties. I loved Pippa's dress although with the buttons and banding at the waist, it was an odd choice when pregnant. It's so pretty though and the colour is lovely on her. I thought Meghan looked wonderful in her green - a fine dress and hat - I'm not one who needs to see her in bright colours - I like her muted shades.
Camilla hardly seems to try these days - cream does nothing for her but make her look wide. It will look good in the photos though. Carole looked nice as did all the godparents. I do wish they would release photos with the godparents - I don't understand why they don't follow that tradition.
I was watching the video of Harry's christening and William was such a delightful tearaway. No one will accuse little George of that - in public at least, but he is very cute. Charlotte is a precious poppet - and for all the speculation - I wonder if she isn't going to resemble her Middleton cousin. I'm generally wrong about these things though.
I attempted to comment earlier, but I know how busy this blog has been, curtesy of Charlotte’s dedicated coverage. I suspect my response may not have “made the cut”. I noticed some replies relative to the Queen’s state commitments this week were derogatory toward her and the subjects of those events. Including a silly and immature emoji regarding a US President. I am hopeful the the Queen and Prince Phillip are in good health and are enjoying time together. I think they have earned that! Whatever the reason for their absence at beautiful Prince Louis Christening, I believe the Queen has been very generous to Will and Kate regarding their marriage and family time as a priority to their expected royal duties. It saddens me that there are critics of Her Majesty’s decision to not attend the Christening.
DeleteJulia, I do believe your theory about HM's absence makes perfect sense. It would be sad to see her without PP at her side for a family occasion such as this and the speculation would be far greater than it is with both of them having missed it.
DeleteWhat a beautiful family! How precious are Prince George and Princess Charlotte shaking hands when prompted by Prince William. They look so big and grown up. I am so sad not to see the Queen and Prince Phillip. I do hope they are well and it is only a busy schedule keeping them away. I’m looking forward to the updated post and seeing the pictures taken in the next few days!
ReplyDeleteLove it, love it, love it! Kate looks amazing as always! Regal head to toe! The children look very grown up indeed! Louis is so sweet!
ReplyDeleteher outfit choice is spot on as always, and I love that hat. It's giving me Queen Mary vibes, but I don't really know why. Beautiful.
ReplyDeleteThe Duchess looks lovely , except the hat. In my opinion made her look matronly , not retro. Thank you Charlotte for the history of the gown and font.
ReplyDeleteNice to see the family. I am sure Kate’s dress is fine-hard to say at this point. But the hat!! It’s so terrible and frumpy and dated. I was completely distracted when I first saw the video thinking, what is that on her head!?
ReplyDeleteThe kids appeared to be cute and well behaved, though a bit bored.
Thank you Charlotte for the post and for the Meghan website as well. I have stopped commenting to a great extent but have popped on to say thank you for your wonderful posts (I still read them all.) I love Kate's hat, she has just the right face for it. William is very much a hands on dad. And speaking of William, he really has been stepping up with engagements and responsibility. His tour to the Holy Land was so well handled and there is a recent photo of him in Scotland, clasping the hands of an elderly lady that showed his innate kindness. Perhaps he is still a "reluctant royal" but I very much admire him. I think he deserves a blog of his own :)
ReplyDeleteVery sad that the Queen and Prince Philip aren't there. Somehow it doesn't seem right although given her age, new protocols seem to be emerging all the time for who goes where. I am trying to remember what kinds of engagements the Queen Mother attended and which great grandchildren would have been born when she was still alive. I know that William and Harry were born, Beatrice and Eugenie as well. The Queen Mum attended all of their christenings and is in the photographs.
I am also sad that Kate isn't going to be attending the RAF Anniversary. But I stuck my neck out several posts ago about the maternity leave thing so will not comment.
Welcome back Jo in Arizona. I'm not sure that I'd call William a "reluctant royal," although perhaps he is showing more enthusiasm and interest than he once did. I personally can't fault him on his involvement at any time.
DeleteYes, very sad that the Queen and Prince Philip are not there for the photographs. I understand this is a busy week, but they could have been driven directly to the location, sat quietly during the ceremony, posed for the official photos and then gone home and rested for the rest of the day and evening. That said, I am not 90+ so perhaps I don't really understand.
Kate looks lovely and being appropriate and elegant is what we've come to expect of her. The dress is understated and the hat is just great in its simplicity.
Hi Jo, so nice to have you pop in!! I hope you'll do so more often?? Hugs, Becca xo
DeleteVery good to see you, Jo, I always enjoy your comments!
DeleteI agree, as they are stepping up I find that I am interested in what William does because it is part and parcel of the little family's development. I get quite some info from the KP twitter feed. But I would have looooved a post on his Israel tour!! Charlotte?? Maybe a Cambridge and a Sussex blog?
DeleteKate is absolutely stunning. She is the epitome of grace & elegance. Lucky women - she photographs more beautiful, every time we see her! LOVE this headpiece - matched, perfectly, with her pearl earrings. A Grace Kelly vibe? Feminine, powerful, and confident. Charlotte & George are growing so fast - and tall. Both of them seem to have had arecent, growth spurt! Love that we have the opportunity to witness them mature & grow. And,William wears his 'dad' hat, well! Handsome, serious, and a confident dad, too.
ReplyDeleteThank you, Charlotte, for the wonderful photos, family videos (Pippa's wee baby tummy is adorable), and interesting, supporting, background data! Such a beautiful & gifted family.
Agreed Peggy, you said it all ! :)
DeleteKate looks so beautiful!!! The entire event looked very solemn and lovely. Can't wait for the family pictures to be released!Thank You Charlotte!!!XOXO
ReplyDeleteKate looks beautiful.
ReplyDeleteCharlotte. Could you put together a post with all of Princess Charlotte's blue smocked dresses? I don't understand why Kate continually chooses nearly identical dresses for her!
Maybe Princess Charlotte likes blue ? My strong willed six year old niece insisted on wearing her flower girl dress from a spring wedding to school in winter. It was allowed, and we packed her a warm outfit “just for the backpack” . She was wearing the warm clothes when she came home.
DeleteI believe Kate said not too long ago Charlotte's favorite color is pink. So the constant blue and white dresses are a bit of a puzzle.
DeletePerhaps the little royals are dressed that way to keep the press from talking about and tearing down everyth8ng they wear; thus daring too much attention to them in the process.
DeleteThis must be my favorite hat of hers in a good while- it looks so custom (and expensive). I adore it! She looks so so happy in these snaps- it's almost as if she knows the "third" is just hers to cuddle, not an "heir to the throne".
ReplyDeleteThere may be something to what you say and others seem to think so too. Interesting article on Kate's body language with each of her children. Who knows, but for sure Kate appears to love being a mother. cc
Deletehttps://www.yahoo.com/lifestyle/body-language-analysis-kate-prince-174300449.html
Cee Cee from KY, I had similar thoughts!! She seems completely taken with little Louis and has even from the beginning. When in front of the Lindo Wing, I noticed how many times she looked at him and gazed. She seemed and still seems enraptured with him. Not that she wasn't in love or happy with her other babies (I am not saying that at all)! Just that something with Louis is different. I simply adored the whole family today. Lovely event!
DeleteFamily looks great. Not a fan of the hat, but I am a big fan of how happy she looks.
ReplyDeleteBeautiful family and Kate looks so happy. I love her dress, and ADORE the hairpiece! She always brings fashion to a new height. Little Louis is a beautiful baby.
ReplyDeleteCatherine is elegant and chic. Her dress color is so appropriate for the mother of the baby and I LOVE her hat wear. Carole and Pippa are just lovely. The front tie detail on Carole's dress is wonderful and while some (on other websites) may think Pippa's dress is old-fashioned, I quite like it. The mix of the top part like a shirt with the pleated skirt part is very classic. The Middleton women were just beautiful today!!
ReplyDeleteAgree, love their style!
DeleteFederica
Kate looks beautiful, her hat is stunning but I thought her dress was the same as she wore to Charlottes christening. It’s so similar.
ReplyDeleteI think Kate has become so Regal, she is so poised and comfortable in her role. It’s as if she has just assumed her future Queen position now that Meghan has arrived and is the novice. She is a senior royal and no longer a young girl married to a Prince.Sinead
What a lovely observation Anon, there is definitely a royal aura to her in a very subtle graceful way. cc
DeleteAnon 19:23 I believe the one she wore to Charlotte's christening had quite a large collar and very different shoulder detailing from todays, it also had what I call a front concealed placket running down from the collar. When we see a full front view hope we can see the front detailing of todays dress. The one she wore to George's with the ruffle and round neckline is the most distinctive to me of the three.
DeleteThey are a lovely family and everyone looked great. My only quibble is that every ivory McQueen dress she gets looks almost identical...I guess I expect something a little more interesting and different from McQueen and not the same style every time. Just my opinion, but it was a lovely christening.
ReplyDeleteI like how she's done that. Especially when you think about how they bring out a tier of their Wedding Cake to use as Christening Cake. I think the white or cream is just perfect on her! I've not seen that before, but I really like it! :)
DeleteHey, does anyone know what is going on with Charles' hands? I continue to notice how very swollen and red they are but can't find anything about it. He must've had to resize his rings because they tremendously swollen. It can't be comfortable. =(
ReplyDeleteHe does a lot of gardening, so maybe that is a reasoning. It's hot in Britain so they may just be blotted because of that or maybe he has artritis.
DeleteI understand why you think Charles' hands look swollen, and while it is certainly possible that he could be struggling with a form of arthritis, I will say that his hands have been that way for a long time (decades now). When he was in his 20's and 30's, his fingers were slightly slimmer, but in his 40's and beyond, his hands/fingers began to fill out more. Prince Philip has the same hands and my hunch is that the characteristics are inherited. At times, I've also noticed that William's hands are beginning to resemble his father's and grandfather's. It is hard to know whether or not Charles' hands are actually "red", because lighting makes a difference there, and when one is feeling hot/warm, the skin will of course naturally redden.
DeleteI too have noticed Charles's hands for years now. I've just taken it to be as the particular way the aging process is shown on him. We all seem to have at least one area of our body or manner that changes fastest with age.
DeleteI agree, Charles has always seemed to have those huge hands. Now I see William has them as well in this post, I took a quick look at Harry's and I don't see them yet. It appears to be a genetic thing. I doubt its arthritis related. William is too young.
DeleteI think little Louis looks like Kate, compared to how George looked at the same age, who to me had much more of William in him as an infant.
ReplyDeleteI hope to see better pictures of Kate's dress. So far the ones I've seen the dress is covered by the baby.
Kate looks lovely, though I don't particularly like her hat. The V shaped mark on her forehead makes me wonder if she intended to wear a different hat. The baby looks very sweet and apparently well behaved. As usual, George looks anxious and Charlotte looks calm. William seems to have them well in hand. :-)
ReplyDeleteI can't get the video to play. Hopefully there will be other photos of the guests.
The videos now play on both blogs. Thank you, Charlotte, for the elegant coverage of a special event!
DeleteI like Kate's dress, but find it a bit funny that Kate seems to have gone to McQueen and said 'I have three events in the next two months: one Trooping, one christening, and a wedding. Make me two of the same thing in slightly different colors. For the wedding, make me the same thing you made me last time in another, SLIGHTLY, different color. So close that no one can tell the difference.' I mean really, the neckline is great and the hat adds interest, but I feel like I'm in a time warp with all of these same dresses for the events/appearance she has had this summer. They're so limited in number that you'd think it wouldn't take so much effort to mix it up a bit? I really believe she just does not enjoy fashion, which is fine, but too bad when she has such an opportunity to go wild and have fun with it!
ReplyDeleteI didn't really count the cream?Primrose? coat for the wedding for Kate didn't have her figure back yet, but the dress worn for the Trooping was quite different from this. Both are very nice. Some of the most successful royal ladies limit their designers and stay with a consistent look - I'm thinking of Letizia particularly. (But not Natan and his followers!) Kate may be emulating that.
DeleteI do think, having watched Kate for many years now, that she cares about fashion. But she is also very cautious. Meghan has been making a splash with many new things and foreign designers. Since she is on a break anyway, Kate may feel this is a good time to be restrained in choices.
I don't know... seems pretty practical to me!? Keep it simple! :)
DeleteI disagree about Kate not enjoying fashion. Just look back at her single days; she always looked cute and pulled together from head to toe. Hardly a functional, Princess Anne approach to fashion, lol.
DeleteAnd as a member of the RF, I believe her goal has been to NOT make it about her wardrobe. She always dresses appropriately for special occasions and looks very much like a future Queen, but she does not want to be the Queen of the fashion stakes. Otherwise, we would not see her repeat various shades of blue, lace dresses and gowns, nude pumps, etc. And in her position, I think that is very wise. The Queen and even Camilla often recycle and, knowing how the Firm reacted to the fashion days of Diana (and even Sarah to a degree), I just think Kate "gets it."
I so agree, why go to the trouble of getting another dress from McQueen that looks exactly like all the other cream dresses you have already. She looks lovely but I would love to know how she thinks these fashion choices through.She has so many beautiful dresses in her wardrobe that could be worn again rather than adding another cream dress to her collection. Sinead
DeleteI don’t like to try to guess what is going on in a family when I don’t know anything at all, but I do find it worrisome that HM and the DoE didn’t attend. Some are trying to say it’s health, some are trying to say it’s family drama. I don’t know. I just hope all is well with all parties involved.
ReplyDeleteOn to clothing. From what I can see, I think I like Kate’s dress. She’s all covered up by the extravagant christening gown, but Louis is the star of this show, so he should be in the most fancy outfit of anyone there. :-) The dress looks very much like her Trooping dress except the neckline and color are different. I could be way off though.
I really don’t care for the hat. It’s giving me strong Queen Mother vibes, and I think it’s rather aging. But, Kate looks like she’s over the moon with her baby, and that’s all that really matters.
If the Queen and PP are saving their strength for tomorrow, then that is very much what they feel they should do. Maybe the christening had to be today, it does seem strange not that the Queen couldn't make it given the busy week but that it would be set for part of a busy week.
ReplyDeleteNow I'm worried that MM was "supposed" to wear blue and wouldn't---surely that's not possible, right?
I agree that Kate's hat made her look old but it's a gorgeous hate anyway! AndCharlotte is just so adorable. Everyone looked great.
Hope someone will ID Charlotte's little smocked dress and Mary Janes. She and George looked precious and were quite properly behaved! I think Charlotte is beginning to look a lot like Kate.
ReplyDeleteMe Too!!! As soon as I saw her today I remembered that iconic photo that was set out for William to see during his trip to the middle east, of when Kate, Pippa & Michael were sitting on those stones... I had never focused on it much before, but as soon as I saw Charlotte today I thought she looked so much like Kate did in that photo of them at about the same age!
DeleteVery special day! God bless Prince Louis! He looks very much like his mother. Kate looked beautiful as always and Prince George and Princess Charlotte are so grown up! God bless their beautiful family! ❤️🙏
ReplyDeleteI am in LOVE with her look today. The hat was an expected choice and so different from what she has worn in the past. She looks beautiful and so happy.
ReplyDeleteLovely to see the family of five ! Thought Kate looked lovely. Glad she went with the 'hat trick' and wore McQueen. Loved the head piece, a little different and not her usual style, but it worked beautifully with the dress. As lovely as Kate's outfit was, the most beautiful thing Kate wore today, was her smile ! Think every mother recognises that look on Kate's face when she was looking down at Prince Louis ! Priceless !
ReplyDeleteAll the ladies looked well turned out, but thought the men all looked dapper in their matching blue suits, and variations in blue ties.
Charlotte seems to have grown since the wedding. She is such a delight to watch. George, bless him, all seems a little more cautious of the attention.
Thank you Charlotte for putting this beautiful post together,and helping us enjoy the day !
Simply lovely and elegant. I love the band/hat as it is almost double duty ... from the front it appears to be a regular hat but there is a 'reveal' when you see it from the back and realize it is a gorgeous embellished band.
ReplyDeleteI wonder if Prince Louis slept through the entire ceremony? What sweet and beautiful children. Princess Charlotte changes every time we see her it seems like. And clearly, Prince George will be a tall one considering his height at a young age. Although that can backfire as I know from my own son. He was always tall for his age up until high school and everyone expected him to act older than he really was.
Considering they have now used a third tier of their wedding cake for a baptism cake, I wonder how many tiers were saved from William and Catherine's wedding?
Border Terrier lover :-)
How lovely! Did anyone else notice Charlotte looking just like her father in the arrival photo? Around the eyes particularly. Maybe it's just that they're both at the same angle, but I thought it was pretty cute!
ReplyDeleteWhitney: You are not alone. If you look back at photos of William as toddler and even later, you will see a striking resemblance. I also think that she has his personality, at least for the time being. Precocious, rambunctious, smart and ever so adorable. One can also see the love emanating from Kate for her little bundle--it is a beautiful thing!!!
DeleteSo sorry that the Queen and Prince Phillip could not be there. I hope they have a photo session with the group, at least.
Regards,
RW.
Whitney, I was about to post this same comment. She does look a lot like her dad, I never thought it before. The little flat nose and the expression is so similar. She is a little doll!
DeleteI've always thought Charlotte looks like William and her eyes are developing the downward slant of his and Diana's. I'm waiting to see if she develops the 'head tipped down, eyes looking up' mannerism that both William and Diana have/had. Time will tell!
DeleteThis was what I was going to comment on also. William and Charlotte have almost identical expressions. It was precious.
DeleteThat hat...oh dear. It's like a neat little headband that was inflated to bizarre size and sits in mockery of a crown. Still, Kate experimented with something just a touch different, which I appreciate. That McQueen is lovely and expected. I thought Meghan took the cake today for best dressed.
ReplyDeleteI really would love to know why George and Charlotte are always dressed in the same outfits every time there's a public appearance? Is it some BRF protocol that I don't understand?
Hi Becca,
DeleteI worked as a nanny in an aristocratic French family many years ago. Their children were also dressed very much like George and Charlotte. The dresses never altered other than colour, and their eldest girl was 12. It would not surprise me if we will keep seeing the Cambridge children in the same type of clothes for many years to come. If I am wrong, I might have to eat my hat eheerm, my tiara!!!
Royal 👑 Watcher
I apologize if my comment appears twice. But I am afraid that my first trial was deleted, so I will try to re-write it.
ReplyDeleteKate looks exquisite today. I was captivated by her lovely headpiece, which is so rich and intricate and halo-like around her radiating face.
It made me happy to see it. I am personally and deeply touched by today's occasion. I am Kate's age and a mother of two children, aged 7 and 6. I wanted to conceive with my third two years ago, but it was delayed, firstly due to a relapse of a general anxiety disorder. Then, just when I have managed to recover, I slipped and broke my leg and needed surgery. But I didn't give up, and 6 months ago, 3 months after my leg recovered, I conceived with my third, whose due in November. It felt a bliss today, seeing how beautiful, feminine, maternal abd strong Kate looks. She is a lovely inspiration. I truly appreciate thus woman.
Shira from Israel
Congratulations!!
DeleteJust wanted to add a notion from a sartorial point of view. At first, I was surprised by the color of Meghan's outfit. She looks lovely of course, but olive green is not the most summery hue... and then I noticed that this color blends in with the reddish-greenish shade of the church's brick wall! I remember quite a few times when Kate has done the same, for example when touring Belgium for WW II remembrance day, when her ivory and black lacy dress blended with the gravel texture. I am not sure whether that is what Meghan had in mind today, but it does seem she was cautious not to be the center of attention. Which is nice...
DeleteShira from Israel
Congrats! Wishing you a joyful & healthy pregnancy
DeleteCongrats to you & your growing family!
DeleteKate looks so beautiful and she positively glows holding her little boy. Although I don’t know her, personally, I am willing to go out on a limb and proclaim her a magnificent mother. It just oozes from her being, how loving, tender and kind she is with her children.
ReplyDeleteHer outfit and everything else aside for a min - just LOOK at the way Kate is gazing at Louis in these photos! Beautiful! She loves her little boy so much ♥
ReplyDeleteI agree - she loves being a mother. Loves it.
DeleteThe Welsh lullaby song at the christening is beautiful and a lovely choice. cc
ReplyDeletehttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gem2miKab1A
So beautiful! Thank you for sharing, CeCe :)
DeleteThank you Charlotte for a lovely post. The family looked serene and happy. I was pleaeed for cream as it does not compete with the wonderful christening gown that we see so seldom and liked the totally different style of hat. Very Princess Mary. Goodness we are demanding to expect an additional appearance for the Queen. She is 92 and did 13 engagements in Scotland. This week two major engagements both of which will demanding in different ways. She will be standing for a long time tomorrow. And sadly for her her job as Queen takes precedence over family. It has always been like that. She has no choice just as in a different way William and Harry are not allowed to go to Russia to support England in the semis much as they would like . I have always thought that William and Kate have been given time now with their family in the children’s formative years because in the future they will have to choose State over family which is fine by me. The future of the Monarchy would not be served well by a very future King who had issues rooted in his childhood years.
ReplyDeleteThank you Charlotte for the photos and your post! I agree it is a bit odd what happened with the Queen... They could have put it off later, at a more quiet time for all of them.
ReplyDeleteAnyway, they are such a lovely family and seeing them all together is very cute. A big applause to Prince William blue outfit and Prince Harry, too. Kate is glowing with love and she is so beautiful. For me, the new experiment with the headband is a success, so the new earrings.
Not pass: the puffy sleeves. Didn't really like dresses of: Mrs Carole Middleton, Lady Laura Meade - too much red- and Meghan.
Prince Louis is adorable. He looks like PG and Kate. Can't wait to see more photos.
i thought the woman in red was Catherine's solicitor cousin as she was walking with James Middleton and the very tall woman seemed to be with William's friends, but perhaps I am wrong. i thought Meghan's outfit was the most elegant and suited an occasion where the men were not wearing morning suits or uniforms. It was a small family occasion after all, not a public function like Ascot or Trooping of the Colour. Most of the women including Catherine were dressed like the previous queen Mother, rather over the top in my opinion.
DeleteSome thoughts...Kate looked lovely, as always. Unfortunately, she is getting more matronly looking at each passing event. I really don't understand why. She is young and beautiful and has a long way to go before needing to create a look that is ten years past her time. Perhaps, it is McQueen pushing her in that direction. I must say the grandparents absence from such an important even in little Louie's life especially as head of the church is very odd to me. I do not think we have been allowed the true story. Just a grandmothers opinion!
ReplyDeleteThe most likely is health and rest reasons. Maybe could have happened even over last night, that the Queen did not feel well and it was decided to not rush her back to London or back to London and straight to bed.
DeleteThe grandparents were there. Charles and Camilla, Michael and Carole. The great grandparents were not there, which was a shame. I would have loved to see The Queen and Prince Phillip in their family roles, but also in their royal role/s, supporting another heir to the throne. Mostly for the sake of Prince Louis though, who might wonder why The Queen came to his siblings' Christenings, but not his. Just a thought.
DeleteRoyal 👑 Watcher
It's funny how we all see things differently. I don't find Kate to continue to look matronly.... rather I find her to only grow in beauty & to look more regal & full of grace! :)
DeleteLovely! The best part of Kate's look for me is that beautiful hat! It's so retro. Love it. Not too crazy about yet another cream McQueen, but I guess it's nice to have a similar colour story in each child's Christening pics. Her makeup also looks extra beautiful today.
ReplyDeleteNot to be negative...but I am not crazy about Pippa's dress...at all. It's a no go for me. It's brings to mind 80's maternity wear. Carol looks divine, very flattering twist front on that dress. Cams looks gorgeous as usual (love that python clutch!) Meghan also looks great. Love the dress/hat, not crazy about the matchy shoes/clutch/gloves. They read a little "Fall" to me.
Beautiful family. Just wish that we could have seen HM and DoE today. Hope they're feeling ok.
Lovely family and occasion. Very surprised that neither HM nor Philip showed. Philip I can understand but HM has had a fairly active schedule recently so it's surprising not to see her there.
ReplyDeleteAs to what everyone wore:
Kate's hat is different from her usual style and I really like it, but her dress looks too much like all the other cream dresses she's worn. I don't like the puffy shoulders either.
Time for George and Charlotte to maybe get a new look? They've sort of outgrown that extremely toddlerized wear. I would love to see Charlotte in something different than the same sundress she wears to every occasion.
Meghan and Harry look great. I love Meghan's wider-brimmed, simple hats.
William - turn that frown upside down! Don't know what's going on but he looked awfully glum for the christening of his son.
So did Harry! I wonder what was going on that both princes looked so glum!
DeleteOh my God! Wonderful Catherine! What a beautiful hat and dress, I think a pendant pearl matching the earrings would have looked good with the V neckline, but I simply adire her, she is radiant!
ReplyDeleteAnd the duchess of Cornwall! When I look at the arrival video I can really see the differences of composure and walk between all the other ladies, albeit all beautiful, and the three duchesses, they are really regal imo, is it my impression or do you see it to? They are three wonderful ladies!
Hope to see the portrait very soon!
Thank you Charlotte as usual and enjoy your stay in London Florida girl!
Silvia
Silvia, I see it too! :)
DeleteAmazing photos! Everyone seems so happy and joyful.
ReplyDeleteIf I could nitpick just one thing, it would be Georges shirts. They are way too girly in my opinion. There must be a better way to do a "classic" look that will stand the test of time.
Other than that: perfection.
Kersti
I actually liked Duchess Kate's looked today! I love her classic vintage style! She is dressing as the future Queen Consort, and I applaud her!
ReplyDeleteMy first thought on Prince Louis is that he resembles Kate. Just look at her christening photos, for example. Adorable baby, and George and Charlotte are growing up. Beautiful family. :-)
ReplyDeleteI expected to see Kate in another vintage dress in this color. It's a nice and traditional touch for all three children. The hat made me think of CP Mary or the Swedish royals, and not the QM.
Regarding the Queen and PP's absence, I doubt it has to do with schedules; surely the date would have been set to accommodate them. I have another possible theory and that is that she was "giving this one" to Charles. Both sons are married and it gave Charles the opportunity to be *the* senior royal on this family occasion. Prince George was the first born, and Charlotte's christening was at Sandringham where the Queen's absence would have been far more controversial. I may be wrong, but missing family events is not unheard of and perhaps this was seen as an appropriate time to give Charles top billing.
I assume there was another color memo passed around. And I have no issue with Meghan's green, but I do wish Camilla was not wearing the same color as Kate. It just seems like she's stepping on toes here.
Regarding William's expressions, well, HM is often seen with a serious, if not stern, expression and no one questions her reluctance to be Queen. We just see it as her taking her role seriously. On less formal occasions, William will laugh and turn red as a result so I really don't think it's fair to question him too much.
Mike and Carole always look good. And Pippa looked nice although I think the dress was meant to be an inch or two looser around the waist. Not that anyone should hold it against her under the circumstances. :-)
I’m speechless at how regal and mature Kate looks today. The joy of the day is quite evident in her smile. Thanks again Charlotte for another wonderful post. Your efforts do not go unrecognized.
ReplyDeleteJax/Canada
Ooze is a very good description, Tedi. I do agree and will say again that the children are very lucky indeed to have Kate for a mother. Fortunately, William got the happy married life Diana would have wished for him.
ReplyDeleteI do love Laura Meades' dress!! Nice red & floral. Does anyone know where to find it?? I haven't read all the posts, so I don't know if anyone mentioned anything about her dress, but if anyone reads this post and knows, please let me know. Thank you, Charlotte for posting this special occasion.
ReplyDeleteCatherine is stunning and she has a beautiful family. Thanks for the great post Charlotte. Pippa's dress is awful though. The portrait of HM and Prince Phillip is lovely I am surprised they didnt come to the event.
ReplyDeleteBeautiful images of Kate and Louis. A comment about the fashion, I loved the earrings and hat Kate wore. They are both summery, have a retro feel and yet not too formal with the materials use. Kate likes cane/rattan , and so do I. Its similar to the summery feel the Swedish royals do with their christenings. I had a giggle at Charlotte's comment to the photographer, that is something my youngest son would have said.
ReplyDeleteIt was wonderful to see the family of 5 today! I’m undecided on the hat and the sleeves, I’m not a puffy sleeve girl but I liked that Kate wore a V-neck, a little pearl or diamond solitaire necklace would have been perfect but Kate can pull off a v-neck with no jewelry.
ReplyDeletePippa’s outfit was unfortunate. It did nothing for her figure and instead of looking like a freshly announced expectant mother, the dress just looked ill-fitted to me. I would love to know what is going through the Middleton ladies minds with these dresses that seem to cradle their boobs - Kate wore the style at Pippa’s wedding and Pippa & Carole wore the style today. I know it’s the stitching but it just creates a weird silhouette to me.
I always love a sighting of the kids - I love that when they were leaving and they were walking in a line - it looked as if George was either holding on to Louis’s christening gown or Kate’s skirt.
I know the Queen and Prince Phillip didn’t attend the christening but it is possible that they joined the family for the afternoon tea. We will never know but I would like to think that they were at Clarence House to celebrate this special day. Also, let’s be honest, the Queen could very well FaceTime or have a personal livestream set up to experience the day. After the Invictus video with Harry, I wouldn’t put anything past her.
It seemed as if Camilla was walking a little different than usual - her footing seemed off to me. I don’t know how to describe it other than to say her footsteps seemed heavier than usual. With all of the engagements they’ve undertaken recently, I wouldn’t blame her if she had leg fatigue.
Overall, it looked to be a wonderful family outing!
I love Charlotte wiping her hand on her dress before she shakes hands with the prelates. That little princess knows her etiquette!
ReplyDeleteWonderful post, as usual, Charlotte! I agree that everyone looks very elegant, especially Kate, Meghan, and Louis. Princess Charlotte changes every time we see her, and is so full of personality.
ReplyDeleteKate headpiece looks like Ann Boleyn!!!
ReplyDeleteSince my first comment was eaten by whoever and whatever, here we are again.
ReplyDeleteIt is unfortunate that such a happy event was overshadowed by family and political drama. As I read others noticed the mood too, I suppose it was not an accident.
I was not disappointed fashion wise, I knew this would come, I think Kate and AM should let each other's hand go, and the same goes for her hairdresser, having designed the same colour and type of dress for every occasion makes no sense to me.
Her head piece is actually too big and bridal to me, I don't like it. Same goes for Pippa, it is really a mystery why she couldn't find a pretty maternity dress at this point.
Camilla might recycle the same dress for every occasion but I think she looked lovely. So did the other Duchess.
As for the kids, Charlotte is still the star of the family, it is lovely to see how completely she is at ease and must be fun being around her. I agree on the change of their clothes too. Not many photos of Louis, let's hope we see him more in the future.
Everyone looked just gorgeous but Kate's hat was so fantastic! She is so besotted with that baby boy it radiates from her. Someone should have given Meghan the memo on wearing blue - then again I don't think we've ever seen her wearing a blue that wasn't a dark navy. Confusing that HM wouldn't be there for the occasion.
ReplyDeleteWhat a lovely ocassion to the brtish royal family and cambridge oh i love the duchess catherine looks so good in thst dress looks good ad i love the color the cream color hmm im waiting for odficial photo and i think the duchess dress remind me of crown princess mary christening with kids hmm its seems the queen is and prince phillip are absence looking forwars to the official photos in thorne room
ReplyDeleteLove this post! Kate looked relaxed and happy, and her head piece. . was perfection! But did anyone else think that the guests looked like they were walking rather fast? Ha ha! Almost looked like they were about to break into a run as they made their way into the chapel. Lol
ReplyDeleteI loved Kate's new (and expensive!) pearl earrings. However, the revelation that they were designed to look like cauliflower buds somehow detracted a bit from their elegance in my eyesight. Too much information for me!!! haha
ReplyDeleteJust a small point but Aldborough near Boroughbridge, where Harry Aubrey Fletcher married, is in North Yorkshire. It was a Roman settlement and has a couple of beautiful mosaics.
ReplyDeletehttp://www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/aldborough-roman-site/
How true Royalfan. Happy for William, but sad that Diana is not here to enjoy both of her sons and their families.
ReplyDeleteAnother christening and another cream outfit🙁 The headpiece is not as good as some the D of C has previously worn, but a lovely occasion.
ReplyDeleteI feel like I recognize Carole's hat...does anyone know if she's worn it before?
ReplyDeleteI do wish Harry and William would ditch the blue suits! They would look so much more distinguished and grown up in a darkish gray color as their “go to” dress up suits.
ReplyDeleteSad indeed, Tedi. :-)
ReplyDeleteAny recollection of how long of a delay there was in releasing official photos after George and Charlotte's christenings? I thought for sure we would see photos by today.
ReplyDeleteI loved seeing all 5 of them together. So far I like the sleeves and neckline of the dress, but we'll probably see it a little more in the formal pictures. Hopefully we'll also get to see a more straight on picture of Louis' face, but so far to me he looks like Kate the most.
ReplyDeleteLoved all of the pictures and this made me feel like I was there, reading about the service. Love the earrings and Prince George and Princess Charlotte look so grown up. Seeing the whole family together was wonderful. Little Prince Louis is so precious.
ReplyDeleteThe hat (with less flowers): https://www.facebook.com/jtmillinery/photos/a.1729901360421410/2069652979779578/?type=3&permPage=1
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