Saturday 22 September 2018

UPDATED: The Cambridges Enjoy a Family Day Out for Sophie Carter's Norfolk Wedding!

The Cambridges enjoyed a family day out today for the Norfolk wedding of Kate's close friend Sophie Carter and Robert Snuggs. Sophie is Charlotte's godmother and fittingly the Princess and big brother Prince George were on hand for bridesmaid and page boy duties. Michael, Carole and James Middleton were also present. People has a splendid selection of photos of the family attending the wedding. They can be viewed here.


Monique Jessen reports: "Dressed in a traditional tailcoat and vest, 36-year-old William arrived with some friends, while Kate, also 36, arrived in a striking blue dress. She drove to the event with the children in a decorated farmer’s truck, which might usually be used for carrying people to a shoot or hunt."


More from Monique Jessen's exclusive story for People:

'During the ceremony, locals joined in the celebration by watching in the churchyard and taking pictures of the occasion.
For the Saturday affair, both children wore traditional bridal attendant outfits in white and blue. Charlotte, 3, was one of three bridesmaids, while George, 5, was among the chosen four pageboys. 
Afterward, George was seen dashing around the churchyard while little Charlotte headed to her mother, who picked her up and held her as they posed for pictures with Sophie’s family. “George is a real star, quite the little chap,” a source tells PEOPLE. “He was having a great time, running around like the leader of the pack.”
 Sophie, who grew up in the village of Letheringsett, Norfolk — not far from Kate and William’s country house Anmer Hall — has long been in the same social circle as not only Kate but William too. Sophie once dated one of William’s closest friends, Thomas van Straubenzee, while Sophie’s brother, Robert Carter, is married to Kate’s old school pal, Hannah Gillingham.'

Kate and the children joined the bridal party for photographs.


The bride holding her goddaughter.


Amaia Kids created the outfits for the page boys and bridesmaids. Bojana noted the brand posted this image on their Instagram page with the caption "Wishing you a lifetime of happiness".


Sophie and Kate have been firm friends for over a decade; we saw photos of the pair attending Wimbledon back in 2008. Kate penned a letter thanking the club and noting how much she and her friend enjoyed the day: "My friend and I had such a fantastic time and it was great to be able to enjoy the day knowing we could have a little peace and quiet if things got too hectic.

Embed from Getty Images

Sophie is a member of the Cambridges' incredibly close-knit circle of friends. Described as "discreet and loyal", it came as no surprise when she was chosen as one of Charlote's godparents. She's joined the couple on ski vacations, visited Balmoral and become a fixture at Anmer Hall for Kate's birthday weekends. In 2016 and 2017, she was spotted attending church on the estate with the royals and other friends.


Sophie was involved in a relationship with another of Charlotte's godparents, William's close friend Thomas van Straubenzee. After Thomas' short lived marriage to 'Hogwarts Heiress' Melissa Percy, it was rumoured the couple had rekindled their romance. Obviously, that was not the case; Sophie found love with Somerset-born Robert Snuggs and the couple became engaged in May. Thomas was present at the wedding today.


Sophie with William and Kate's friends James and Laura Meade at the 2017 wedding of Pippa Middleton and James Matthews.


We most recently saw the stylish blonde at the Windsor wedding of the Duke and Duchess of Sussex.


For the little Prince and Princess, the day marked their third wedding. They first took on the roles of page boy and bridesmaid for their Aunt Pippa Middleton's Berkshire wedding.


They reprised the roles for Harry and Meghan's May nuptials. They both looked so grown up in their Givenchy outfits. Undoubtedly the pair did another terrific job at today's wedding. I'm sure it was a splendid day for all.


The Duchess brought back the cornflower blue Catherine Walker ensemble she wore in Berlin last year. The classic coatdress features several components of Walker styles previously worn by the Duchess. Underneath, Kate wore the same blue lace dress with a scalloped hem.


The Duchess repeated the same Kiki McDonough jewellery with the look.


Kate's earrings are her Kiki Blue Topaz and Diamond Drop Earrings in White Gold. The £3,500 pair are blue topaz oval and cushion cut stones surrounded by diamonds set in 18ct white gold.

And the Kiki Eden Blue Topaz and 18ct White Gold Flower Necklace.


Kate's floral headband is very similar to the Jane Taylor piece she wore for Louis' christening. I thought it likely the piece was by the milliner, however, the wonderful Laura confirms it's in fact a Juliette Botterill design.


The family will return to London tomorrow ahead of another week of school and nursery for George and Charlotte. William will be away - undertaking a working visit to Africa next week.


For those of you who have been in touch about upcoming engagements for the Duchess, nothing has been announced yet. Emily Andrews confirmed Kate would return to duties in October and given the strong possibility we'll see her attending events during the upcoming mental health summit (10-13 October), I imagine we'll definitely hear something from the Palace over the coming week.

127 comments:

  1. I do hope we hear something soon about when she’s going to be returning to duties.
    Clothes wise, the blue is nice on her, but I’m not really enjoying this new hat/headband style from here or the christening.

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    1. I was thinking the same thing Anon23. She looks lovely in this shade of blue. But the hats (this one and from the christening) are just too Queen Mum.

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    2. The hat is lovely and modern and the perfect topping on our elegant future Queen!

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    3. I agree . The headband looks too matronly for the Duchess

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    4. It’s the hat with the hairstyle combined that make it look dated. Imagine it with a sleek bun and different jewelry and it would look like a fresh flower crown.

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  2. I do hope we get more photos from the wedding - I loved this look on Kate last time.

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  3. Hi Charlotte, in the caption about Sophie at Pippa's wedding, you have stated the year as 2016 instead of 2017.

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  4. That headdress is unbearably matronly. I hated it at the christening, too. Sigh.
    Beth in SF

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  5. What a fun wedding. Hope we get some more photos. I always have really enjoyed Sophies fashion choices over the years.

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  6. I know were happy for her spending time with her family, but I sure miss her hopping for a lot more stuff from her.

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  7. I am not fond of that headpiece on kate, I feel like it would be more appropriate on a teenager or a woman in her early to mid twenties.

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  8. Wishing Sophie and her husband a lifetime of happiness! She's been a very loyal friend to Kate for years. The wedding sounds lovely.

    It's lovely to see the Duchess of Cambridge again and I'm very much looking forward to autumn when we will see her back from maternity leave.

    Not too much to say about the clothing or jewellery as she's worn the look before. The cornflower blue and the coat, pendant and earrings are very pretty. I'm actually far more interested in the lacy looking dress she wore in Germany and for this wedding but unless she unbuttons her coat we will never see it :(

    The headpiece: I know it is quite divisive but I really like it. It's a unique look and the floral details and colour are lovely. It could look so pretty with fresh or youthful hairstyle like hair down, half-up, low side pony tail, loose low side chignon or bun, side parting. However, I do not like it with this 1940s schoolmarm spinster low chignon in a hairnet which unfortunately seems to be the only way Kate wears her hair up these days. That hairstyle is aging at the best of times but with an already retro headpiece the look is rather frumpy.

    It's disappointing as she is a beautiful vibrant woman in her 30s with such enviable naturally thick long and versatile hair to see her wear such an unflattering, aging hairstyle over and over. Crossing my fingers and toes for better hair at Eugenie's wedding.

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    1. Exactly my thoughts on her hair and headpiece, Sunny. It's the horrid hairstyle that makes her look so matronly. Any of the options you list would be fabulous. The hat band itself is gorgeous. Also, I think a dress without any flare such as a sheath would pair better with it. The band is so opulent by itself that it needs a very streamined outfit to ground it somewhat. Thrilled for the sighting though. I've been feeling very Kate deprived.

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    2. At first I was just excited that she started wearing her hair up more, as a change, but I agree that this style of updo isn’t the best on her.

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    3. Glad you both agree. There are so many pretty, simple easy ways to wear it up which would even take less time. She's too young and beautiful with lovely hair to get caught in a frumpy, bulky hairnet chignon rut.

      @ Erika: Good suggestion about the dress silhouette. I think the lacy dress we can glimpse underneath seems like a sheath silhouette. It would be nice to see it with the headpiece.

      @Anon23: This is one of the reasons I loved when she had the fringe (or bangs) in 2015 because they softened the schoolmarm hair. If it's between this frumpy updo and wearing her hair down then I'd rather she just wore it down. At least that way we could admire her beautiful hair and it makes her look years younger.

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    4. I love retro 40s styles so that hair is right up my alley, but I can see why it's not for everyone. I also love the hairband. I like that it's different. And yes, it might be a bit agein maybe. But I'm not too fussed with "youth" being the standard for beauty. I think it's more about personal style and what you feel look pretty rather than what age you happen to be.

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    5. “But I'm not too fussed with "youth" being the standard for beauty. I think it's more about personal style and what you feel look pretty rather than what age you happen to be.” YES, Rebecca. I agree with you. Seems like that’s the hairdo she prefers and that’s okay. Plus, I think it looks lovely. Two years ago people where here saying she should have worn her hair up, now the problem is that the Duchess is wearing her hair up. Oh, please.

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    6. Sunny, I think the lace dress underneath is a great idea. Might work well with this headpiece.

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    7. Royal 👑 Watcher23 September 2018 at 17:01

      I could not agree more Rebecca. Thank you, well said.

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    8. While it’s lovely to see Kate, I think the coat is aging, it is not something you would see a thirty something wearing to a wedding, her mother would look well in this outfit. I like the headpiece if, as you said her hair was different. I get the impression Kate’s priorities are with raising her children and that fashion is just a prop for her position. These are definitely the mummy years and I wonder if we will even see that much of her. Sinead

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    9. Yeah Sunny, I get a bit nervous for Kate because she seems to follow other Royal women in getting into a comfortable zone. Remember when she wore the jeggings, stripped shirt, wedges, and blazer as her go-to outfit so much that it was sort of dubbed her "uniform"? Same thing with her hair and shoes (sledges and wedges saw a lot of airings). It's rare for her to try something new (she does, obviously:I remember when she got bangs one time (didn't last) or when the chignon was "new" but now it's worn quite a lot--this is just an observation, not a criticism), but she tends to stay with what is safe and comfortable. But then it gets to the point where perhaps it's over-used...? Anyway, she always dresses appropriately and looks so pretty.

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    10. Kate is a really beautiful woman, but she looks as if she is in her forties rather than her mid-thirties with that coat and hair style.

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  9. I love Kate's hat. She has just become so elegant and refined looking the times I have seen her in the past months. She truly looks like a future queen. I am so excited and anxious for her to come back to work but I am happy she is being allowed to spend time with her family.

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  10. Love these pictures .William looks especially dapper...his morning suit is perfect. I love Kate in this color, the coatdress and the headpiece. Nice repeat with a new twist I don't think the headpiece is aging her but can see how some might think so..perhaps it's the flowers. I think she looked very elegant and well put together. Can't wait to see pictures of George and Charlotte. Most of all I love how it appears to have been a wonderful family day shared with good friends .cc

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    1. I agree that it was a very nice repeat with a twist :)

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  11. I, for one, love Kate’s very elegant 1940s formal style, to include the headgear. It is a distinctive and elegant and royal look. It is vintage. To me she looks like a beautiful young woman wearing a style that echos a different time, but the look does not age her.

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    1. Anon 00:44 you explained the look very well!!! Beautifully stated. cc

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    2. I agree with your description of her look. It is fantastic!

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    3. Exactly!!

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    4. Silvia from Tuscany23 September 2018 at 12:13

      I think exactly the same! You have perfectly described Kate's look and the sensations it gives.

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    5. I also like Kate this way!

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    6. I agree. I love the whole look, as I did the christening look.

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    7. Totally agree with you, she looks beautiful

      Silvia

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    8. It's interesting you say that because I've thought for a while that Kate seems to br influenced by 1940s style.

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    9. I love the whole fashion vibe from Sophie's wedding. Elegant and vintage, all the women look great in the photos.

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  12. Anglophile in Ohio22 September 2018 at 23:45

    William & Kate broke up and got back together in 2007 not 2008. Kate attended the Concert for Diana but didn't sit with William, Harry and Chelsea as they hadn't gone public with their reunion.

    You wrote --
    "Sophie and Kate have been firm friends for over a decade; we saw photos of the pair attending Wimbledon back in 2008. That appearance came months after William and Kate reconciled following a brief split and media attention had reached fever pitch."

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    1. Hello,

      Thank you for your comment. I know it was 2007. The media attention surrounding Kate's Wimbledon appearance was huge at the time. I think one of the reasons Kate sent a letter was to thank the club for the privacy she enjoyed that day.

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  13. Joanne in California23 September 2018 at 00:07

    I really like the color on Kate. If elegant, sophisticated, and vintage was what she was going for, IMO she nailed it. I really miss seeing her wear her large hats!

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  14. I love the hat and the fact that Kate once again is starting a new fashion trend. There is a difference of opinion as to whether it makes her look like a teenager or matronly. I looked up the word matronly,and it means a married woman who is mature, dignified, and has an established social position. Yes, that's Kate!

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    1. Sometimes we need to really understand the words we are using!! The definition fits her and the look suits her!! I like Kate's little signature twists to her style!! cc

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    2. The dictionary definitions which I found are very different and not flattering. As a non-native speaker, I've always felt the meaning of the word as a little derogatory. Words and meanings can be tricky, can't they? 🙃Liking or not liking this style on Kate is a matter of personal taste, I believe (as it's often the case). I definitely like it better now than I would have 5 years ago when George was a baby.

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    3. I think it's probably one of those words that had a certain meaning that then grew to be derogatory by the way it was used over time.

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    4. I've never heard in my sixty-eight years the word "matronly" used in an approving way. Even this old frumpy lady would not like to be called "matronly". That said, no "matron" could wear a mini-dress and fitted coat like Kate has on and look as good. I am not a fan of the retro headpieces she's worn this year but if any woman can carry off the look, it's her. She looks very much in the style of the mother of the bride in lavender, in the group photo. I won't live to see her be my age and Queen Consort, so I don't mind getting a look at her "mature style" while she's young enough to dress quite differently. Clearly, this is her preferred style for attending church, at least. The children are adorable and they look happy.

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    5. Rebecca is correct as the word "matronly" wasn't always a derogatory word. It has morphed over the years to mean something much more negative and one of the definitions describes a woman as being "large or plump", none of which describes Kate at all. The original Oxford English Dictionary definition of the word describes somebody as having "dignity, propriety and social and/or moral rank". Regardless, of what it use to mean, it currently is an unflattering word and not one I would use to describe Kate.
      Greybird's "mature style" is much more appropriate if that is how you see her style. Kate has found a style and ease in dressing that works for her and she always looks classically elegant and content with her choices.

      http://virtuallinguist.typepad.com/the_virtual_linguist/2011/03/the-ups-and-downs-of-the-word-matron.html

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    6. No one called Kate matronly looking- only her clothing.

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    7. Good point! But either way don't think anybody wants to be called matronly for their looks or how their clothes look.

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    8. I agree that the word matronly has never had a positive vibe to it. :-) It's interesting that this hat inspires the description because it's a style that Princess Mary has worn (on more than one occasion) and how often has it been suggested that Kate should follow her lead …


      Kate does like the vintage factor and we can look back to her single days for evidence of this. She has a style and sticks with it. Jacqueline Kennedy did as well, didn't she? It also works quite well with her role, which is NOT to be a fashion icon.

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  15. I don’t think I’ve seen that Wimbledon picture before. Always nice to see a new (to me) photo.

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  16. Hmm i love the whole outfit even though we did not we see much but i think the orginal. Photos i imagined they will be at the glossy magazine in monday morning in hello front cover

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  17. Ya!!! A new post!!! I love her headband pieces!!! They look fantastic on Kate!!!! I also love that Kate seems to be in no hurry to leave her little ones. They will grow up so quickly, she is a good mother clearly. I would love to see more pics but I respect her choice to be a mom right now!!!

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  18. When was this? Friday? Saturday? Thank you

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  19. This is classic (wedding guest) Kate; vintage and a recycle. I like the look very much, including the updo.

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  20. I'd really like to know - seriously - why People and other news outlets continue to refer to the Duchess as Kate Middleton.

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    1. I read an article explaining it as a result of efforts to keep all internet data regarding her connected from first articles as a single woman. These types of notations are not uncommon for famous people, but it seems constant with stores about Kate.

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    2. US outlets haven’t gotten the message yet. I’m tired of them years on, still calling the her Kate Middleton . They also used the phrase Lady Diana , well after she had her children. I wish a member of the Palace would scold the press! Grrrrr..... pet peeve of mine, could you tell ?

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    3. Short answer, clicks. They will use the most searched term as that leads to more people finding the article and that's how they make ad revenue. Only simple business. Same reason they use it in the headlines as well since that will get the people clicking while "Duchess of Cambridge" would not. Depending on the paper they will use the proper title in the body of the text.

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    4. It's one of my pet peeves as well.

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  21. In defence of the headband. It is lovely if styled with a pretty fresh hair rather than the bulky old-fashioned updo Kate wears.

    She should take tips from the styling on the Juliette Botterill website where the headbands are styled with a low, sleek side ponytail or simple side chignon: http://juliettemillinery.co.uk/shop-headbands/

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    1. She would look amazing like that!!!

      Do you remember when Diana tried to grow her hair out and was criticized up one side and down the other until she cut it again? And she did some 40s style combs and a couple of updos. I thought it was fun. But most critics hated it.

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    2. Great find! The hairstyle makes a huge difference. The hatbands look lovely here.

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    3. Those hairstyles do look great with the headband style and Kate could easily wear any of those hair styles.

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  22. Will the Duchess be on the ITV documentary? I mean, it's supposed to be a documentary about the Royal Family, yet no one is talking about her appearance?

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    1. I’ve only seen them mention Charles, Camilla, William, Harry and Meghan for the documentary. And, of course, the Queen.

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    2. I read an article that said she was at the end of her pregnancy at the time of filming and did not appear. Personally, I don't understand why that would prevent her. But, I don't always understand the PR thinking of the palace. Hopefully, the article is wrong for the sake of posterity.

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    3. I find it interesting that Philip is never involved in speaking terms in regards to historical films made about the Queen yet other generations are.

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    4. I read this in a Sept 22 online Harper's Bazaar article by Naomi Gordon:

      "However, ITV has confirmed that Kate will be in one of the films, telling Harper's Bazaar UK: 'Kate does appear in episode one, in a sequence filmed at Buckingham Palace.'

      "They also confirmed that the scene will also feature the Countess of Wessex, as both royal women welcome designers and artisans from the Commonwealth to display their work at the palace during London Fashion Week."

      So assuming the magazine is reporting correctly what ITV said, Kate will be in the program.

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  23. Sorry, I couldn’t find a link yesterday for you on Twitter, Charlotte. The story I was looking at was nit the Carter wedding. I’m glad I didn’t give you false information.

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  24. I would love to see the children. Hopefully some snaps will appear. They have certainly had enough practice. It will be interesting to see if they will participate in Eugenie wedding next month.

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  25. Charlotte, thanks for the wonderful post! Prince George and Princess Charlotte are so cute in their outfits. I noticed Amaia Kids Instagram does not have the picture that you have posted in the blog. Wonder why? Parthenia

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  26. How cute is Prince George? That photo of him is darling 😍

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  27. The bride looks really beautiful, she is always very well put together, impeccably groomed whether you like her style or not. The colour of the Duchess coatdress suits her and the subtle jewellery I love , but the hairstyle is way too matronly and the headpiece, not a win at all for me, but obviously that is personal preference. You can look elegant without too much flower

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    1. Sophie Carter makes a beautiful bride but I have to admit that I'm slightly disappointed in her very traditional gown. I thought with her slightly off beat sense of fashion, and her love of pattern and texture, she would have chosen a more eccentric dress.

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    2. It may be a vintage gown reworked a bit, or a family piece reworked. But my first impression was like yours. I went back and really looked at it, it is very beautiful and has some vintage features which she loves. The neckline. It appears to have a halter dress under a ice overlay with that great collar, would love to see the back. Her veil?? She has a train down the back does it come from her headband? This is quite different. SO it it very subtle in it's uniqueness, but it is special:):).

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    3. Good point, Erika.

      MY first impression was that her gown has similar elements to Kate's wedding gown. And that Sophie is quite loyal to that hat style. :-)

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    4. Ok, both of you forced me to have a better look at the dress on the People site 😊 I think you're absolutely correct, ali, that the gown is vintage, and it is quite beautiful. It does have a slight train but nothing seems to be coming off the headband, not even the veil. I would love to see the back of it too.

      and royalfan, it does look similar to Kate's gown doesn't it. I wonder if Sophie had any influence on Kate's design. The neckline is super flattering.

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    5. Thanks Erica, maybe it was a train not a veil I thought I spotted. It might not be an actual vintage piece but some of the features had that nod to me at least. It did look like such a relaxed and joyful wedding group, clearly a group of people that were comfortable with each other. Love the shots of the kids.

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    6. Good question, Erika. :-) We will never know...……….

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  28. RE the observation that Kate doesn't seem to be featured in the Queen of the World documentary: It's my understanding that the documentary is about the Queen's role as head of the Commonwealth and not about the royal family as a whole. Harry has been appointed Youth Ambassador, and as his wife, Meghan will have a big role in that capacity along with Harry. Charles is a future head of the Commonwealth, and William a future king. Perhaps William and Kate will have to focus a lot on Europe and at home, as the Commonwealth should keep the Sussex's plenty busy. Sounds like the taping of the documentary started before the Sussex engagement, so Meghan's veil is heartwarming addition to the content. It also makes me think that a lot of discussion had already occurred about Meghan and Harry's future roles for her to be thinking of how to include a tribute to the focus of their work as a royal couple. In fact, I think Meghan mentioned the Commonwealth in her engagement interview.

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    1. Harry is just the Youth Ambassador though which is not that significant a role in the grand scheme. William will be the future Head of the Commonwealth so he and Kate will have a much bigger role to play in the Commonwealth.

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    2. Kate was pregnant and then on maternity leave during film, I guess. That probably accounts for it.

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  29. Cuteness overload. George appears to be the "big boy" in this bridal party, and having a great time being the centre of attention. Charlotte looks almost shy and not her usual extroverted self, as we've come to know her in pictures. Those two are bridal party pros, now!

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    1. I noticed that as well. They seem to have switched personalties for the moment.

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    2. George reminds me of William at that age. OMG. And I see Charlotte as being an old soul. Not shy, but simply observing and evaluating.

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  30. Thank you for the new pictures! I'm so happy because it looks like Kate is wearing matching blue shoes. I think this looks much better than the nude heels in Berlin.

    Kate's outfit fits so well with the colour theme for the wedding. She must have been happy to have a perfect outfit for the wedding already without having to worry about getting something new - just a new hat needed!

    The children are adorable and Sophie makes a lovely bride :)

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  31. I love Kate’s retro headband. It’s a very regal, elegant look.

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  32. Royal 👑 Watcher23 September 2018 at 23:02

    Beautiful photos! Both George and Charlotte are gorgeous, and so is Kate in the sensational blue outfit. I love her hair and “hatband”, classic beauty. Kate is dressing as a future queen.

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  33. I'm getting Wallis Simpson vibes--not a fan of the hat. But I'm always lagging behind in the fashion department, so I expect I'll be sporting a big, blue flower headband in 2020 and looking approvingly in the mirror.

    Sophie is a beautiful bride.

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  34. What a lovely family wedding the informality when they came out of church was lovely and George certainly appeared to be enjoying himself I suspect he knew many of the people there and we saw the real George. Charlotte seemed somewhat overwhelmed and not her usual cheeky self. The bride looked lovely and clearly very fond of Charlotte her goddaughter. I think Kate may have had some unofficial role as she was included in many photos being taken of the bridal party and close relatives outside the church. I felt the informality was quite striking compared to the recent Royal Wedding and even Pippa Middleton's everyone appeared so much more relaxed.
    I thought Kate's outfit looked lovely I liked it when I saw her wear it in Germany and the colour was perfect for today's event I also liked the hat.
    Changing the subject Tusk Trust have shown a photo of Prince William leaving UK for Namibia this evening. He is pictured beside the BA plane with the CEO of Tusk Charlie Mayhew, a lady who is head of conservation for United for Wildlife a woman First Officer of BA and a lady who is in charge of promotions for BA the plane has wording on the side about saving Wildlife whether they were all going on the flight was not clear however I went on to Tusk Trust and they are giving regular updates during the trip on what is being undertaken.
    Let us hope Kate puts in an appearance very soon it is time she started undertaking some public duties.

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    1. I agree with you Mary E about the informality of this wedding. It appears that this 'country group' are good friends and get together on occasions other than weddings or events. It is nice to see this side of George and perhaps it is a glimpse of how he is at home. I did seem that Kate was 'wrangling' page boys and bridesmaids and had a role in the wedding. It would explain her being in pictures and not so many with William. I was struck by the overall warmth and genuine happiness everybody seemed to have. I love that Kate has a friend like Sophie, and get the feeling she is a good friend as well as a nurturing mother. cc

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  35. I thought Kate looked just gorgeous. I love the dress and the new blue shoes and purse. I even love the hatband---I think it is a beautiful alternative to a hat. I love that George acted so natural and silly! I particularly love the blue in the kids' outfits, but my favorite clothes for the bridal party so far have been those for Harry/Meghan. It's hard for little kids to keep their shorts and shirts straight, and George's black outfit with long pants looked really sharp. :)

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  36. Well the photos didn't disappoint! George and Charlotte are adorable!! George looks so happy and more outgoing. Love the photo of Sophie holding Charlotte. Everybody seems so warm and friendly and just happy to be there. Sophie is a beautiful bride and I loved her dress. Agree with Sunny about how Kate's dress just fit in so well with the theme for the wedding and a peek at the shoes was a nice bonus too!! What a nice day for the Cambridges. cc

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  37. By George, I think George is actually mugging for the cameras!! I thought the bride looked lovely and I liked her headdress and the way she wore her hair and veil with it.

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  38. It's good to see that the cornflower blue coat dress fits Kate now, with the exception of a slight puckering around the buttons. She has worked at regaining her figure over the summer, as I expected she would. I like her shoes much better than the nude ones, but I don't care for the pile of blue roses on her head. Looking at the chignon, I wonder how long Kate's hair is now. She may have grown it out. When she does, there is almost too much to work with when she wears it up. But I always like the way an updo emphasizes her beautiful face. Kate and George look very happy at the wedding. William and George look very elegant, though William looks as usual unenchanted with being photographed. Charlotte is cute as a button, but I wonder if it was her nap time. She looks tired and uncharacteristically quiet. I know they were all happy to see Sophie Carter as a radiant bride. She has seemed a bit wistful, though very stylish in an edgy way, in photos of her alone at various events. I hope she will be happy.

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  39. Charlotte, I’m not sure what’s happening but I don’t see my comment. Please check and I’m always grateful. Thank you.

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    Replies
    1. Hello Marcia,

      This is the only comment from you I have for this post.

      Delete
  40. Seeing Kate seems like such a treat! She looks fabulous and I even like the headpiece - I think it is creative and on trend, but still flattering.
    I only wish we could already see her on official engagements. Not many, as I understand she wants to stay with her family, but just some, time to time. Maybe something less time consuming, something that doesn't involve a lot of preparation (speeches etc.) - so for example ehxibition openings, school visits... I feel like pretty much anything would be better than this radio silence :)

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    Replies
    1. Caroline in Montana24 September 2018 at 15:24

      I believe what you are referring to as radio silence is actually called maternity leave, and it will come to an end. wonderful to see kate at a friends wedding.

      Delete
    2. Caroline, I apologize if using this term came out as an offence. I am certainly aware of Kate being on a maternity leave. I just expressed my wish for her to (slowly and from time to time) attend some events in official capacity, which I believe is a wish shared by many of us :)

      Delete
  41. Marvellous as always! I think Kate could wear a potatoes bag and still look perfect!!!She doesn't need much to stand out!

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  42. Kate pumps I think are the FERN POOLSIDE BLUE SUEDE HEEL, that look so much better then the nude suede pumps she wore previously with this outfit. She also could wear these pumps with her L K Bennett Snorkel Blue Floral Paisley Lasa Dress, that I love.

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  43. Ok, Charlotte. Thanks for checking. I’ll re-submit my post: Wow!!! So great to see the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge and the children. Prince George and Princess Charlotte are really making their rounds at the weddings and looking soooo cute. Both have been adorable at all the weddings. Re: the Queen’s documentary, I read an article stating that the Duchess of Cambridge is not in the documentary because she was pregnant during filming and “could give birth at any time”. I really like what the Duchess of Cambridge is wearing. This color and ensemble are two of my favorites on her. Thanks, Charlotte.

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  44. It’s nice to see the Cambridges but I wonder how these photos got out. They seem pretty intimate but since the subjects aren’t looking at the camera, it appears they weren’t aware that they are being snapped in this manner. The photos don’t look like they were taken by a long lens, so someone who was a wedding guest, or in the midst of the other guests, took them. Were they leaked? Or were they sort of sanctioned to be released by the Bride and Groom? I wonder if payment was involved?

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    Replies
    1. The wedding was at a normal village church on public property, there were many people standing arround looking at them.
      However, these photos were taken by a royal photographer who went there and took them from the road next to the church. Just like the last two weddings attended by the Sussexes this summer. Nothing sinister is going on.

      Delete
    2. Thanks for the explanation, sofy

      Delete
  45. Sorry I used to LOVE Kate’s style but for the last few years something is off. I know some call this vintage but to me it’s just old looking. I wish she would bring back that her previous smash hits, I feel like she still has it!

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    1. I like it and I don't like it. I love the color and maybe the pieces separately, but together I do think it's a bit more "mature" or overdone (stands out rather a lot among the wedding party) or overly formal (maybe it would work for Trooping?). Not sure what it is either (trying to find the word to describe it). This is her second hair band and it is similar to the Queen's style many years ago (saw a side by side of them both). I don't want her style to become too regal too early on. But she's always pretty and classy. =)

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  46. I love this blue coat on Kate - I think it’s very flattering. I just wish we could have a peek at the dress she’s wearing under it! I don’t find her hairstyle or hat aging, in fact I find it pretty and, I don’t know - timeless, maybe? I wish I could be around 20 or so years from now - if she wears the same style of hairdo and hat, we might be describing it as her ageless and beautiful iconic look!

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  47. The Express article has a photo of Carole and Michael Middleton and Carole is wearing the coat she wore for George's christening. https://www.express.co.uk/news/royal/1022017/carole-middleton-children-kate-pippa-james-wedding-pictures-sophie-carter

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  48. Fun family event. I love the dress on Kate. I think the color is great. I agree with others, I would love to see the dress underneath.

    So fun that George was comfortable and running around, like a typical kid. He seems to be growing and getting more outgoing. I would LOVE to see him do an engagement with one of his parents sometime soon. Something low key. William and Harry have always said Diana made it a point to expose them to all areas of life. I am hoping William and Kate are keeping up the tradition. It would be nice for us as the public to have a slight peek at it, to join in the fun.

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  49. Kate looks beautiful but the head band ages her congrats to the bride so nice to see cute george and Charlotte

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  50. I agree with those that find this outfit to be a bit aging. I love the color. I do think that it would be vastly improved if she let her hair out instead of that old-fashioned bun.

    I also want to ask Charlotte about her opinion on Kate' schedule. What do you think about her lack of engagements?
    I know this won't be a popular opinion but I am fast losing interest in Kate. One hardly sees her even when she is not on maternity leave. And since Louis she has literally dropped off the face of the earth. I hope that I feel interested in following her again when she comes back from her leave. I wish I would see the spark of passion and interest that we see in some other royals.. I have refrained from criticising Kate's work ethic in the past, thinking that she will pick up soon but golly... WHEN? People are just not going to be interested in her when her looks fade and other pretty faces come on to the scene. Why isn't she out there more in some capacity or other? She doesn't have to be out promoting herself up the wazoo but people need to see her working, even if it is one appearance a week or every two weeks. Even releasing a video or something would help. I think this is crazy. This is the first time I have been so blunt and I hope I won't be jumped on for my opinion but I really think this silence is pretty crazy.

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    1. I agree with you Rosman. I still like her but I’m not as interested in her (both work and style) like I used to be. I get that she has kids but a lot of us have kids and we still manage our other commitments. oh well

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    2. @Risman: Were you actually following Kate over the last year as prior to her maternity leave (and post HG)? She was very visible and doing on average 1-2 engagements weekly even whilst heavily pregnant.

      I'm not sure why you were expecting information or appearances during her maternity leave. That's not how it works when people are on maternity leave. When she returns to duties then announcements will be made (and,indeed, her first post-maternity engagement was announced on Wednesday).

      There will always be interest in Kate because of her role and position. Of course, it helps that she is beautiful but the interest will never go away. And even if there isn't the same heightened level of interest, so what? That is the nature of the world for everyone as they age but it's not like that will stop her doing her work or pursuing her causes. If that were the case the Kents, Gloucesters, Wessexes, Princess Anne, Duchess of Cornwall would have given up long ago.

      onestly, I'm not surprised to see this post from you. I've only started to post recently but I've lurked on this page for a long time and observed your frequent passive-aggressive, rude and belittling comments towards Kate for a long time. Whenever I see your username I know it will be a negative post. It's obvious you don't actually like Kate as you never have anything positive or nice to say about her so perhaps it is better for you and us if you direct your energies elsewhere in a more positive manner and follow someone you actually like.

      Delete
    3. Sunny, you must have me confused with someone else. I never post anything negative. And I haven't posted anything about Kate in over six months. Are you sure you are thinking of the right person?
      Whatever it is, please calm yourself down. You seem really upset.

      Delete
    4. First of all Sunny, Rosman expressed her opinion in a respectful way. And sdcondsecifsher comments are deemed good enough fod Charlotte to post then that's all that matters. If you disagree or not like the comments there is the option to scroll past. Your reply is rude and you are jumping on this poster when there is no need to. I have been reading this blog frfr 2011and hardly comment yet i know Rosman has been here for a long time. Her opinion is as good as yours so no need to get all bent out of shape. In fact in a previous post you had a rude comment about Meghan when there was no need to -pots, kettles?? Charlotte does a good job of policing and moderating the comments. Even if you do reply you can always do it in a civil manner. You always jump on commenters you don't agree with. This is really a place where people come to read and express their opinions. If people get so worked up over others opinions on a site like this i seriously think they need to reassess their choice to read this blog. There are much more important things to be concerned about.
      Pri

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    5. That is beautifully put. Rosman is only expressing her opinion and it is one that many are thinking. She wasn't being malicious or nasty. We have freedom to express what we feel and Charlotte does an amazing job filtering what she believes to be offensive. Charlotte thank you for such a wonderful blog. You do an amazing job.

      Delete
    6. Sunny, Rosman is allowed to her express her opinion even if it's one you do not agree with it. She was not disrespectful or rude. She has an honest criticism. I didn't see anywhere that Charlotte only allows comments that 100% praise Kate. We are allowed to have different opinions. It's comments like yours that keep me from commenting as often.

      Delete
    7. I sincerely appreciate the support from Pri, Sophia and Anon 23.48. Thank you very much indeed. We are all allowed to express opinions here as long as they are respectful.

      Delete
    8. I am also a passive reader and feel uncomfortable with this conversion. Granted, the last paragraph of Sunny's post was unwarranted, but Anonymous response was in the same vein of unnecessary personal attack against Sunny. Let's agree to discuss the comments not the commenters, please!

      Delete
  51. I am looking forward to seeing Kate more, but am impressed that she puts her family first. I hope it will always be that way. She is a wonderful future queen and a great mom. I think she balances it well. She is the reason I became interested in the royal family, and I have enjoyed following her. Thanks, Charlotte for this blog!

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  52. I watched Part 1 of the Queen’s documentary. Although the Duchess of Cambridge did not feature in an actual one on one interview, she was seen up close in the documentary. Charlotte posted the documentary to the Mad About Meghan blog. The documentary features heavily on the Commonwealth. Thanks, Charlotte.

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