It was a chilly autumnal day in Essex with reporters noting conditions were " very cold" when the couple arrived at Basildon Sporting Village just before midday.
William and Kate returned to London over the weekend ahead of Prince George returning to school at Thomas's Battersea following a half-term break. The Cambridges spent much of last week at their country home Anmer Hall, briefly taking a helicopter back to Kensington Palace with Prince Louis, to attend the Dutch State Banquet.
Kate was greeted by a very excited group of children.
The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge have arrived at Basildon sporting village and took time to say hello to children and people who’d gathered to greet them #HeartNews pic.twitter.com/K8KTRzqsDO— Essex News (@HeartEssexNews) October 30, 2018
A little boy was determined to hold onto William's hand.
It looks like even the Duke thinks is cold today... #royalvisit #basildon #HeartNews pic.twitter.com/yCW5zoNt85— Essex News (@HeartEssexNews) October 30, 2018
Coach Core Essex has been running for almost three years, showing growth and building strong partnerships with local organisations year after year. William and Kate met apprentices working with two of these partner organisations: Sport for Confidence and South Essex Gymnastics club, who have been involved with Coach Core Essex since its inception and have subsequently employed multiple apprentices.
Coach Core received terrific news last month when Sport England announced plans to award the Royal Foundation a £1 million national lottery grant to double the reach of the programme. It will ensure plans to expand the initiative across England can take shape much faster than initially anticipated.
The Duke and Duchess met some of the 30 plus graduates of the programme, before joining in with their coaching sessions.
A hug from the Duchess.
More from the BBC:
"The mother-of-three was at the Basildon Sporting Village with her husband, the Duke of Cambridge, to highlight the ability of sport to change lives. She embraced young fans, along with Janet Emery, 58, who hugged both Catherine and Prince William. "Thank you very much," Catherine told her. "Hugs are very important. I keep saying that to my children."
A video of the sweet moment.
"Hugs are very important; I keep saying that to my children."— Peter Cary (@PeterCary1) October 30, 2018
The Duchess of Cambridge meets Janet Emery, a @sportforconf client in Basildon Sporting Village, Essex - my video for @PA. pic.twitter.com/wjTKsdoTOf
The couple also participated in a game of Boccia, which is one of the sports provided by Sport for Confidence, a social enterprise that provides sporting opportunities to individuals who face barriers to participation.
Getting very much into the spirit :)
The Duchess adores tennis and enjoyed hitting the ball.
William joined a group of children for various sporting activities.
William and Kate walked through to the gymnastics centre, which is the home of South Essex Gymnastics Club.
They watched Olympic standard gymnasts in training as well as a pre-school session.
The couple posed for an official photo.
Kate was given a beautiful bunch of flowers by Sophia Mitchell.
A very nice shot of William and Kate departing.
View a video from the engagement below.
The Duchess opted for a smart casual look in a stylish checked jacket, black turtleneck and black skinny jeans.
The Duchess sported the Smythe 2 Button Blazer (with thanks to Christin). The glen check/black corduroy, tailored, single-breasted silhouette has a traditional riding blazer feel, featuring a contrast collar, flattering pocket flaps and oversized leather buttons. It's retails for $795 at Smythe. It's also available in limited sizing at Shoptiques.
A closer look at the buttons.
Valerie from What Kate Wore Facebook suggests Kate's sweater is the $69 & Other Stories Merino Wool Turtleneck. It certainly looks like a match.
The Duchess wore her Russell & Bromley Fallon Mid Zip Chelsea Boots. The £295 boots are described as: "With elastic detailing and a stack heel, Fallon Dry by Aquatalia is the perfect gaucho-chelsea boot hybrid. Crafted from weather resistant black suede and featuring two zips, they delicately toe the line between smart and casual."
It appears Kate accessorised with the £1400 Kiki McDonough White Topaz and Diamond Cushion Drop earrings (with thanks to Rebecca). They are available on the Kiki website and in gold at Neiman Marcus.
Kate wore her Cartier Ballon Bleu watch.
At present, there's no further engagements announced for the Duchess. I expect that to change before the end of the week.
Nice to see them again. They really love sports so they always are so happy at events like these.
ReplyDeleteI LOVE her jacket!! So cool!
Looking forward to see more!
Has Kate had a haircut or is it just that photo??
ReplyDeleteI thought so, too! (And of course, my next thought was “every time she changes her hair she’s pregnant....” but it seems unlikely... :-P )
DeleteAnnie
NY, USA
I thought the same thing but I think it’s the curls and possibly the angle of the photo. She looks great.
DeletePhwoah!!! Wow!! Kate ⭐️🗯🤜🏾💚 Had to double take & zoom in on that look! She is smokin’ hot & professional all in one! Love the boots, love the hair & this long legs in black!! She has certainly bounced back from bubba #3!!! Go Kate.
ReplyDeleteTheresa
QLD Australia
Totally agree! 😍
DeleteLove your description! I couldn't find the words to describe how healthy and glamorous she looks. The more children she has, the better she gets. Kate loves all children and people in general.
DeleteI am green with envy! That's insane! Kate is a wonder!
DeleteTotally agree Anon! She looks smoking hot!! I cant wait to lose weight after I deliver and Kate is my inspiration :-) I'm glad she's back with a WOW!!XOXO
DeleteSiddhii
Those legs! Theresa you are spot on....she is smokin' hot!
DeleteLovely! Great job!
ReplyDeleteXOXOXOXOXO
She looks thrilled to be there
ReplyDeleteThere is something about Kate ! She has the most genuine warm smile. And wow, how amazing does she look 6 months after having Louis ! Look forward to the full post!
ReplyDeleteCharlotte our lovely royal ladies are keeping you extra busy today!)
Looks great and wish we would see her more often! She has nothing scheduled after today!
ReplyDeleteNothing might be announced but we will very likely she her next week around Remembrance Day.
DeleteNothing scheduled as far as WE know. And how many times have we been pleasantly surprised with a new post before the ink is dry on this debate? :-)
DeleteAmen Royalfan:)
Delete:-) Ah, timing...
DeleteLove her beautiful, classic blazer 😍
ReplyDeleteLove love seeing Kate in this structured jacket! I’m in awe of how polished, poised and pretty she looks. Just an amazing transformation.
ReplyDeleteJane inTx
Love love love the outfit....the boots, the jacket!
ReplyDeleteShe looks gorgeous today. Polished, professional and just a beauty all around.
ReplyDeleteI would absolutely wear this outfit - although at a much cheaper rate and not look half as good!
ReplyDeleteLol me too! She looks incredible and I really like this outfit. So glad she's not wearing a track suit and trainers.
DeleteIt's not a look I would personally wear (I'm more of skirts, colours and frill kind of girl) but I love how relatable and copyable the look is :)
DeleteAh ah me too!!! To bad my legs aren't spool wonderful lol
DeleteBeautiful jacket and beautiful engagement she rocks everything she wears these days!
Silvia
Yikes! I have "this" outfit...and so does hubby! We shared a giggle this evening. :-)
DeleteLol royalfan, “twinning”! hehe :)
DeleteThey both look great and ready to work with young coaches. Glad to see them out together again.
ReplyDeleteHmm i love The duchess cambridge she is the bomb hmm i I love the boots and jacket hmm its seems she sporting a new do.
ReplyDeleteBluefire - your comment really made me smile.
Delete+1
DeleteKate looks amazing! I love everything about this outfit! It is amazing how quickly she loses her baby weight. I'm still working on mine . . . . and my baby is 17. :-) William looks handsome as well.
ReplyDeleteHope from USA
Actually I think for Kate, it seemed to take longer this time around. She's got great genes & surely worked hard to get back into shape.
DeleteDenise, you might be right. It took her rather long this time. Dont get me wrong, but in 6 months also gilrs with rather "bad" genes can easily be back in shape IF following a healthy lifedstyle etc.
DeleteBut she doesnt look starved, but healthy and toned! Good for her!
I had my baby 5 months ago and even with healthy eating and exercise, my body just wants to hold onto the last 10kg 😭😭😭😭 maybe it will drop when I finish breastfeeding. She's just so amazing, no one I know has bounced back like she has. Good for her!! 🙂🙂🙂
DeleteMy guess is that our own experience very much shapes the way we look at Kate bouncing back. The mums I know, including myself (also 3 babies), were back to normal within easily less than 6 months, no big deal. There is EXACTLY one exception that I know. For example, I just met a friend that I didn’t see for a few months, she had her baby in July and is back in shape as well, nothing spectacular about that. Consequently, I would be more than surprised if Kate would not look as usually after a whole 6 months, since she has much more resources, etc... Nevertheless, Kate looks great of course, very fit!
DeleteI find it very interesting to see the different reactions of the readers on this blog, probably very much influenced by the personal situation.
Anon 08:19 I think it really varies for as you said for lots of reasons. Age of Mom, how many babies, how far apart babies are, guidelines given for weight gain during pregnancy, activity and weight pre, during and post pregnancy etc etc. The flat stomach may be a result of her particular build. With the women I know regaining a very flat tummy was the most variable no matter how thin they got post pregnancy. My Mom had 6 kids and had a flat stomach throughout her life, I had 2 and am thin and exercise and never regained my pre pregnancy stomach:):).
DeleteI would love to see her weekly meal plan....and follow it to a tee of course!
ReplyDeleteYes! and her weekly excercise program.
DeleteI would love to see it too- can't imagine how she loses weight so quickly!
DeleteI am sure that Kensington Palace has a gym in the basement. And I'm sure that Kate has a trainer that comes by daily. My guess is that she has every pilates machine in that lovely gym that looks out onto the beautiful garden. Just sayin'
DeleteAnd it'd cool if Meghan came over at least once a week and they did yoga. :-)
Oh Elle, that is such a great image!! gives me motivation:)
DeleteAnyone have an ID on this blazer? I NEED it.
ReplyDeleteShe looks simply stunning 💗
ReplyDeleteI would love to see her in something other than skinny jeans... a nice trouser. I know this was a sporty event but I'm personally over the skinny jeans look. Shes beautiful and I love the blazer just tired of the skinny jeans.
ReplyDeleteI agree. She looks great. wonderful jacket and top, but the skinny jeans are just so wrinkly. Straight leg black jeans would be great, and still sporty.
DeleteI agree.
DeleteLOVE this blazer...and those boots, what's not to love!! Kate's look is sleek and professional and as usual has her winning smile. Fantastic look all the way around. Can't wait to see more about the jacket, pants and boots!! cc
ReplyDeleteKate is rockin' this look. Love everything about it. She just shines when there are events like this - sports and kids! She seems to be so genuine. I just love her. Glad to see her out and about again. Wishing for a new picture of Louis soon too!
ReplyDeleteWell, I won't be ordering this blazer, but I found a great replicate and corresponding black turtleneck for about $50 total on H&M!
ReplyDeleteOMG!!! I need to check it out! Thank you!
DeleteSilvia
Kate really does look especially thin to me now. You really see it in the photo of her hitting the ball with the racket. I don't remember her looking this very thin since shortly after the wedding, during the Canada/US tour in 2011. I think she looked great in early summer. She'd lost the weight and looked great but now I think her figure is less attractive.
ReplyDeleteI'm not comfortable with people talking about her weight in general, or anyones, unless they are close family/friends who are worried or a doctor/dietist or something of the sort. And especially not in terms of attractiveness. We all are attracted to different things ofc, and nothing wrong with that. But Kate certainly doesn't have to live up to someone elses view on her attractiveness. If she feels healthy and pretty, that is what is most important and strangers on the internet can't tell that from her shape and certainly wouldn't be the people who should bring it up if there was an issue. I'm so tired of thin-shaming being allowed. I'm a fat person and most people nowdays have agreed that fatshaming is bad (although the internet is slow on that), but a pendelum swing has turned towards thinshaming. No bodies should be judged as health/unhealthy by bystanders. That is the proffessionals job. And noone has to live up to anyone elses standards of beauty. Full stop.
Delete(Also, while Kate probably wont see this and get impacted, other people will who might be fighting with views on how they look!)
Thank you Rebecca!
DeleteWell said Rebecca +1
DeleteSo many comments on this blog are talking about, with praise and a bit of envy, how Kate has lost the baby weight so quickly, how great she looks, etc. etc. That's judging her body, but it is seen as okay to say those things because they are said in admiration. No one has replied back to those comments that people shouldn't be talking about how her body looks. Let's face it, Kate being slim is part of her appeal, part of her persona, and people talk about it. There's no bodyshaming intended on my part, I just wanted to say that I think so many people, younger generations especially, think that thinner is better, more attractive, always, no matter what. I just wanted to comment that yes, wow, she's lost the weight so quickly but, in support of most women who do not lose the weight that quickly, who are not slender like Kate, that not every one sees that as a positive thing. Yes, in a perfect world no one would notice or care what a person's weight was. But in this imperfect world, and on the internet especially, a great deal of attention is given to women who are slender. And Kate is a role model to so many young women. My own four daughters are growing up to admire her. And as much as I've tried to raise them not to focus on how their bodies look, the truth is that they do care about how they look. So I just hate to think that there are so many young women out there who think that a very thin figure is the ideal one to have.
DeleteI totally agree Pam, I actually felt uncomfortable with all the comments about how amazing she looks. She does look amazing but I also thought she looked very slim in comparison to everyone else. It is noticeable and I don’t think your wrong to comment on that. Sinead
DeleteThank you, Rebecca. I'd really rather not go there again.
DeleteYes, she does look good and I understand Pam's point about the positive comments being welcome. But when people talk about her being "too" slim it seems to suggest that there is something wrong with Kate, or perhaps her private life, etc.
I see a healthy and happy young woman (couple) and I don't think concerned speculation is warranted.
I also think she's back to her 2011 body, maybe she is following the same diet. i personally think she looks Great.
DeleteConsidering that Kate acts as a role model for many, I believe that not only it is fine, but it should be encouraged to talk about things such as quick weight loss. Some women loose weight quickly, while others dont. The entire topic is very delicate, but ignoring an obvious weight loss, just for the sake of being polite or not wanting to offend someone, might end up in a negative result. We need to be allowed to point out if something is concerning, also for the sake of the affected person.
DeleteObvously, right wording is just as important. But silence is never the best solution.
Other than that, I think that most comments anyway dont belong to the catergory of thinshaming.
To be honest, I'm not 100% comfortable with the admiration posts of her weight either.
DeleteAnd I get your point, I do. But I think that if Kate is healthy at this weight, she shouldn't have to put on more just to fit another ideal. Fitting the "healthy ideal" instead of the "model ideal" is still an ideal people try to fit her in.
Also, I still think the attractive part of the comment was unnecessary if no judgement was intended.
Thin is not the same as unhealthy, thin is also not the same as healthy. Healthy looks different on different bodies.
I quite agree with you , Pam , very young women and even teenagers want to achieve that sort of look without the help that Catherine probably has , nutritionist, physical coach and so on , and besides, why should beeing so slim be the utmost of beauty ...
DeleteWell, I did intend to "judge" - I didn't say I wasn't judging. I'm judging Kate as a role model. But I don't think that's the same thing as shaming someone. I actually did start to write the word "healthy" instead of "attractive" in my original comment, because I knew I would criticized for the use of that word, but then I thought about it and thought...well let's be honest. Does the public really care if she's healthy? I mean, I actually do, but do most people? Doe the average person (not us DKB fanatics) looking at photos of Kate evaluate how healthy or happy she is or do they mostly evaluate how she looks? And I think it's honest to say most people just want to see her look good and wear the nice clothes. So I used the word "attractive." After all, when I commented on a previous post about Princess Eugenie's wedding, and pondered why, as a beautiful girl, she doesn't get the attention that Kate and Meghan do, one of the comments in response mentioned that Eugenie was "curvy rather than skinny." And I'm sure there is some truth to that. If Eugenie was tall and slender, you bet she'd be getting a lot more attention than she does.
DeleteI commented about how I think she looks the skinniest she's ever been. In no way did I even think it was an unhealthy thing, just an observation & I've been very open that I prefer her slender & not skinny... we all have our own ideas about what we think looks the most natural. She obviously knows how she feels most comfortable. I know commenting on bodies is a dicy subject in our society either way..... but just like we have preferences on which outfits we like, we may just also have opinions on whether we like her in different sizing. Personal preferences are just organic. As long as it's done with respectful intent, I think observations are only natural. Especially if it doesn't cause trouble & it doesn't break any of Charlotte's rules. Just my 2 cents.
DeleteI am all for body positivity for all shapes. I also don't think it's a terrible thing to comment on Kate's slenderness -- those posting opinions about her size have not done so in a cruel way. If opinions are posted in a respectful manner, I don't see why they shouldn't be allowed. If we censor every comment we have, there will be nothing left but bland agreement on all fronts.
DeleteMy thoughts exactly.
DeleteShe surely has great gens and probably a good personal trainer. Good for her and she definitely has a healthy glow.
But please no one should try to copy that. Live your own life, do what's good for you and the most important thing, concentrate on your kids not your food.
Beautiful! It might just be me, but Kate looks so much more carefree and relaxed since coming back from this latest maternity leave. She always seems warm and engaged, but she just seems lighter and more confident lately.
ReplyDeleteI agree. She seems very happy and that happiness radiates. We could use some happiness these days - so it's a blessing. I admire that she has put her family first and taken appropriate time to tend to her new baby and other children.
DeleteI agree Dayle, I've picked up that vibe! :)
DeleteShe looks absolutely amazing!!! -AZ
ReplyDeleteKate looks amazingly beautiful from top to toe! Her hair is so beautiful post Louis, and I love how she’s styling it. I love it better when she doesn’t put it behind her ears. Structured jacket is the perfect blend of casual and professional and boy is she in great shape! Love the all black, it must be getting cold in the UK. Earrings are beautiful. It’s so good to see Kate & William together at events like this! They make such a good team. Our monarchy is sure in great shape with these 2, and Harry & Meghan. Would be lovely to see W & K do a Royal tour sometime soon. I wonder where will be next? Surely some more of the Commonwealth countries?
ReplyDeleteI think William and Kate are probably mostly on the Brexit-offensive still so I wouldn't be surprised with some more EU countries.
DeleteI'd love to see some more EU countries, though between them, I feel like the BRF has already covered most of them. But a couple or so must still be left, so here's hoping :)
DeleteOMG!! I will never stop being amazed at this woman. Perfection in every way. An she's such a natural athlete!
ReplyDeleteGorgeous, and they are so engaged with everyone. They are terrific together.
ReplyDeleteKate looks wonderful!!! How is it possible that she looks even better after each child?
ReplyDeleteMy guess? Confidence!
DeleteLovely post and a great interactive engagement with William and Kate. Both seem very engaged and particularly like the photos of William and Kate playing Boccia (love Kate laughing with the young lady). Good to hear about the 1M lottery grant that can help the program to reach more children. These are important initiatives that can have such a positive impact. Well done. cc
ReplyDeleteI love her coat! So smart & fitted. I have those booties. They are super comfy.
ReplyDeleteShe is an inspiration 💖
ReplyDeleteI love to see Kate at sporting events. She’s totally in her element. And she looks great today also.
ReplyDeleteI have a similar (courtesy of Marshalls discount store) outfit that I wear during winter months (only Dec-Feb here.) But the trousers aren't skinny (couldn't get away with that) and the jacket doesn't have the lovely velvet touches, it is plain houndstooth. I do feel quite smart when I wear it though.
ReplyDeleteI love Marshalls. I saw some things there recently that made me think of Meghan's wardrobe.
DeleteJo, it's always nice to have that "go-to" outfit that makes you feel good! The houndstooth jacket is a very classically smart look!! I use to have one years ago with a velvet collar that I paired with a black turtleneck and a midi black a-line skirt and boots....always loved how I felt when I wore it!! cc
DeleteThis jacket is POW plaid or Glen plaid, not hounds tooth.. She also wore this plaid for her recent V&A engagement-that show-stopper Erdem. I think I spotted FLOTUS stepping off AFone in a POW plaid outfit today. It must be en vogue. Kate does have a hound's tooth outfit--coat? I think she wore it in Scotland with that gorgeous bright blue skirt. Or maybe the skirt was hound's tooth and the coat bright blue... Haha!
DeleteOh CeCe, I had a midi length skirt and black suede boots that I wore the same way.
DeleteSuch a beautuful look for her. I really enjoy the causal events becuse we see more of their personalities and smiles.
ReplyDeleteVF calls Kate a "Global Fashion Phenomenon"! She certainly is. She also has a heart of gold to go with it.
ReplyDeleteI've been saying that for years! Catherine is simply amazing, every year her confidence shines brighter and brighter.
DeleteYes, she shines the the Queen that she will one day be!
DeleteKate looks great. Totally on trend. Love that she removed the blazer and stayed awhile!. W&K are looking much more relaxed then usual. I welcome the informality.
ReplyDeleteKate looks great but more to the point, is it just me or is the Duchess adopting a less formal, princessy look for these sorts of casual events? I remember when Kate used to never the leave the house for an engagement in anything less than 4 inch stilettos and a designer dress and clutch. But ever since she came back from maternity leave it's as if she has a time and a place to dress up a lot, and then she has events where she wears more casual clothes. I hope she keeps up this trend. I feel like when she wears casual clothes she's also looser and more relaxed and happier.
ReplyDeleteI remember she went to a an engagement that involved playing a bit of volleyball and she wore her skinny jeans, striped shirt, navy blazer, & her wedges--she worse this ensemble so often that it was dubbed her "uniform". During or running up to the Olympics, she'd wear skinny jeans & her wedges. So I think this is normal for her for such events. I think it's just the nature of the events lined up for them (more casual) that makes it seem like a new trend, but it's just timing. =)
DeleteNot really, no.
DeleteCanada 2011: https://i.pinimg.com/originals/52/35/08/523508333c87cdc349fa1d85e376f391.jpg
2012: http://www1.pictures.zimbio.com/bg/Kate+Middleton+Kate+Middleton+Takes+Whack+bPDRJWMLSu-l.jpg
and many others. The only change miiight be she's wearing wedges less and more flats with looks like these. But she's been as engaged from the beginning I think.
Not really. She never wears heels to sports events that I can remember. She always dresses for the occasion and dresses smart sports casual. It's pretty much always been blazer/jacket, skinny jeans and boots/wedges/trainers for sport or outdoors events.
DeleteI remember her playing cricket in a dress, pantyhose and heels ...
Deletehttps://imagesvc.timeincapp.com/v3/mm/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fpeopledotcom.files.wordpress.com%2F2016%2F08%2Fkate-middleton-4-300-5.jpg%3Fw%3D300&w=700&c=sc&poi=face&q=85
https://i.amz.mshcdn.com/IK6rPS325mNzPPJy9Yur1SnRv-s=/fit-in/1200x9600/https%3A%2F%2Fblueprint-api-production.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fuploads%2Fcard%2Fimage%2F55178%2FKate_Middleton_playing_cricket.jpg
Thanks Sunny and Rebecca!
DeleteIvy Lin, those two examples you showed are her on a major tour and those were not her only events of the day, (super recognizable) hence the more formal wear for the sport activities sandwiched between more serious functions. she has her sports go to uniform that she is in 98% of the time.
DeleteKate wore dresses and heels to a extremely limited number of sport engagements. Normally its skinnies and boots/trainers.
DeleteNo change here. Tidefi
That was in India on tour. In general when there is sport involved she dresses for it and participates in it.
Delete@ Ivy Lin: She didn't dress like that just to play cricket lol! She was dressed formally because this was during a very packed day of engagements on their NZ visit in Christchurch when they (takes a deep breath): greeted tribal elders, viewed some of the rebuilding work after the 2011 earthquake, toured a Cathedral, opened the Botanical Gardens visitor centre, attended a remembrance ceremony for earthquake victims, visited the Air Force Museum, attended a business lunch, and viewed the Memorial Wall for Royal New Zealand Air Force who have died in service of their country so she was dressed appropriately for the day.
DeleteThe pictures you posted came from the event somewhere in the middle of these other events to celebrate the ICC Cricket World Cup which was coming to the city in 2015 and both William (in his suit) and Kate (in her suit and heels) had a quick go at some cricket.
(Credit to this websites search engine as I had to go back and check everything they did that day!)
@ Rebecca - Sweden: Thanks for the pictures! She's always been our Sporty Duchess since the beginning! :D
Delete@ Ivy Lin: Sorry I missed the second pictures but they are from a tour again. This was on a very busy day during the tour in India and, once again, she did not dress that way just to play cricket but to dress appropriately for the different events (sorry I can't be bothered to look up everything again) throughout the day.
In summary, if she is attending just a sports event she will dress appropriately as she did today and as she always has. When she is on tour and it is a busy day where she won't have time to get changed between engagements and dressing casually isn't appropriate for their other events then she will just make do and join in because she loves to participate whatever she is wearing :)
Really?? My goodness...I have lost count of the number of posts Charlotte has covered during the past seven years with Kate wearing skinnies (or similar looks) with blazers.
DeleteAlso the heels Kate did wear, as shown were outdoors, not on a hard wood gym floor.
DeleteHi Charlotte, I absolutely adore the blog! Thank you for all your hard work! I was wondering if there is any chance you could help me find a repli-kate for the Smythe 2 Button Blazer? I love it, but it is a *bit* out of my price range. It's a perfect fall blazer. Thank you again!
ReplyDeleteHello,
DeleteMy apologies, I am just seeing this now! ZARA has some terrific alternatives at the moment. If you have a store near, I would recommend popping in.
Great idea, thanks! There is a Zara at the mall near me, so I will definitely take a look.
DeleteLove this look and would kill to own that Smythe jacket. She looks long, lean and most importantly, engaged. I think the time off did her good.
ReplyDeleteThat woman is sheer perfection! Amazing!
ReplyDeleteGoodness, she looks about as thin as she did in the 2011-2012 era! I didn't think it was possible for her to find a skinnier skinny pant, but she seems to have succeeded. I think this black pant looks more high quality and more professional than the old pair she used to wear.
ReplyDeleteIt's always nice to see William looking happy and relaxed at engagements. I don't know why, but for some reason I always get this slight feeling that he's not entirely enjoying his royal work. I'm sure I'm wrong (and hope I am) -- but either way, it's fun to see them having fun.
About William I feel like what you see is his empathy toward people he meets with the knowledge that he will be their head of state one day and his will to do them right when the times come.
DeleteThis is what I see of course, I don't know if it makes sense or if what I wrote is understandable, if that is not the case I'm sorry English is not my native language.
Silvia
William is more reserved, but I certainly see an engaged young man.
DeleteBoth William and Kate seems to be introverts and as most introverts will tell you, meeting strangers and making small talk does not come naturally. You might end up being good at it and even enjoying the events but it is never easy. Each of us have parts of our job that we love more and parts that we are not as fond of. But you put on your game face and do all of it to the best of your ability. And just because there are parts of the job you like less doesn’t mean you don’t like the job.
DeleteHas anyone above had three under five at home, including a nursing infant? Did you show up at work oozing brightness, energy,and enthusiasm 100 per cent of the time? Nannies don't work 24-7 and it wouldn't matter anyway since Kate has to tend to Louis. That leaves William for calming the other little one's nightmares and restlessness. The baby wakes up crying and then the other two chime in. Very challenging time for dedicated parents no matter what their income level.
DeleteI think they're sleep-deprived. William looks tired. I have also seen him laughing and enthusiastic during many, many engagements. They're not super heroes.
Phillip could be poorly. Why go immediately to work-shy/ reluctant William?
Hi there Anon 2:37, did I say workshy? Nope. I did not.
DeleteSilvia, your English is very good and I understand your meaning -- I think perhaps you're right (royalfan, too), that William is more reserved and is coming at his work from a different point of view...which is that he'll be head of state one day. I've just always gotten this feeling that he wasn't enjoying himself as much at engagements, so it is nice to see him relaxed and very obviously having fun.
You mean 3 under six, not under five. George already turned 5 last summer!
DeleteOur two oldest slept fine latest when turning 3, but every kid is different. Who knows how they handle everything... we can only safely assume that they have more resources and help than the average family, but thats already it.
Gorgeous gorgeous gorgeous! She is like a statue! So perfect!
ReplyDeleteReally great outfit and she looks incredible. William looks great in the blue sweater. That blazer could be worn with so many things, would be a great staple.
ReplyDeleteI love everything about the duchess and her amazing style, but is it me or is she looking thinner than ever? I am the mother of a toddler, and I hope she makes time for herself between royal engagements and being a mother and a wife!
ReplyDeleteShe looks absolutely esquisite! Her body is in great shape and she looks perfectly proportioned to her height.
DeleteThin-shaming can be just as hurtful & harmful as fat-shaming; some people just have naturally slender builds,
Classic Kate!
ReplyDeleteWith the time differences it did not clash with the New Zealand activities.
However, it must have eroded into Charlotte's (non-existent) down time.
OT--I just discovered my back-lite screen is perfect for light for threading needles. Those of you on the shady side of sixty plus will understand. Ha!
As a fellow needle-threader (but not on the shady side of sixty) I am delighted for you.
DeleteI think that Catherine always knows how to put cloths together to match and look perfect. She is a beauty to behold , and that smile lights up the room . It is hard to describe how beautiful she is . Love this outfit on her .She looks like she just stepped off of a magazine cover.
ReplyDeleteAnon 19:21, I like your "that smile lights up the room". Very true! I believe Kate's beauty is so special because you can see how genuine and warm she is inside. And that's what her smile reveals.
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DeleteVery true! :-)
DeleteI’m enjoying the Duchess of Cambridge’s look today. Casual yet professional. Thanks, Charlotte. I remember this Coach Core program and I’m glad it has been a success. The $1 million grant should definitely give it a boost. Well, Charlotte you are continuing to give fantastic coverage to both Duchesses. It will be nice when you can take a break and rest. Thanks so much!!!!
ReplyDeleteThe Duchess looks great, love the jacket, the contrast colour with the shirt underneath looks very fetching as well on the model. What a incredible organisation that utilises its program to suit all groups of people. How absolutely fantastic to see people with disability being able to join in a program specifically for them, this is really impressive. It was lovely to see William and Catherine interacting and participants with the group and taking an interest, things like this really make a difference in people lives. A great visit. Thank you for a terrific blog, so up to date and informative.
ReplyDeleteHandsome couple ! Nice to see them out together ! they look happy and relaxed.
ReplyDeleteI love to check the site and find a new post about Kate! Lovely surprise! And she looks so pretty, natural, at her ease and so positively involved in what she's doing. She looks always so appropriate and perfectly polite. This is a quality I love in her. And the outfit, perfect!
ReplyDeleteGreat engagement, well done! Such a lot of joy and fun. "Hugs are very important" - I couldn't agree more!
ReplyDeleteLooking at the style and brands, I imagine Kate and Meghan doing some online shopping together over a cup of tea or wine while Harry and William catch up and talk about their new/future babies!
ReplyDeleteElla from Europe
Love that idea, Ella!
DeleteKate looks incredible! I love the deep blacks of this outfit!
ReplyDeleteOn another note, it's so refreshing to come here and see positive comments from people who also follow the MAM blog and appreciate both duchesess's differing personalities and styles. I have been reading some very divisive comments on blogs devoted solely to Kate, and people's conjectures can be so aggravating!
I like having this little corner of the internet where Charlotte commends each duchess and couple for their unique contributions!
Agree! The hate, racism and vitriol directed at the Duchess of Sussex on other royal blogs and royal fashion blogs as well as the Kensington Palace page is disgusting and shameful.
DeleteIt's really great! I don't like how people always pit women against eachother. I don't follow Meghan much, her style isn't mine and she hasn't drawn me in like Kate has. But that's no fault on Meghans side. Some we just click more with than others. But why would I go around talking about someone that doesn't really interest me (or in other cases I dont like). I stick to commenting on Kate, because why wouldn't I? :)
DeleteRebecca-Sweden,
DeleteThe amount of hatred directed at the two duchesses by their opposing “fans” is appalling. It is disturbing and disheartening to see how each woman is used to tear the other down.
I like her outfit for this event. The jacket is flattering on her and I like it with the turtle neck. Her hair is very pretty and I love all of her kiki earings:) not a fan of the skinny jeans, but at least they seem to be a new pair and it was a sporting event so that makes sense. love the booties and love seeing them together!!
ReplyDeleteThe Duchess of Cambridge looks beautiful in the riding blazer. I think it is one of the classiest blazers she has ever worn. It would look great with a black velvet skirt for Christmas. Great post Charlotte. Parthenia
ReplyDeleteNot too thrilled about the all-black look. They're pretty colors that are fitting for autumn that she could wear instead, like dark orange or orange-red, and still look professional. I don't favor the boots either for this occasion. I favor some other looks she sported in the past for similar sport-oriented engagements.
ReplyDeleteGreat engagement. Coach Core is a great success for the Royal Trio.I adore that blazer. I much prefer how Kate is wearing it open than on the model where it looks a bit too tight.
ReplyDeleteGreat casual outfit and a the Kikis. I'm actually surprised to see a new pair as I thought she must own nearly all of them by now!
How on earth do people identify possibly one of the most basic item of clothing in existence like a plain black turtleneck? I wouldn't even know where to start! Every single one would look the same to me.
Haha, yeah. I have no clue how people can ID those basic clothes! Other stuff I can (and have) IDed, but basic black turtleneck? Where does one even begin? :P
DeleteHaha! I would give up before even trying
DeleteI know that I rarely comment, but after reading other comments and commentary on Kate today, there are a few things I wish to say.
ReplyDeleteAs someone who lived with and struggled with an eating disorder in college 15 years ago, I long for the day when we as women, as men, as people can stop critiquing or commenting on another's weight. We are not numbers on a scale. We are not condensed to clothing sizes. What matters is our physical and mental health. All of us come in different shapes and sizes; just as we all have different personalities and interests. No one should feel like they have to look like someone else. No one should measure their health and appearance by how they look in comparison to another. Even though we may not be intentionally adding to the pressure of appearance, we have to understand that by focusing on how someone else looks or how much they weigh, we are contributing to that pressure. We need to remember that there may well be readers of this blog (and I'll include myself here) who are struggling with body image challenges, with an eating disorder, or women who feel like they need to "bounce back" as quickly as possible after having a baby. That pressure to look a certain way is enormous, and to read comments about Kate's weight or how slim she looks 6 months after having a baby only adds to that pressure. What matters is that Kate feels healthy and happy. What matters is that all of us feel healthy, physically, mentally, and emotionally. Physical health does not equal thinness. Physical health does not equal a certain number of pounds or a certain clothing size. Physical health is about balanced nutrition, physical activity, getting enough sleep, and taking care of any medical needs. Mental health is about what we need psychologically and emotionally - being aware of changes in our behavior, affect, or mental processing. Mental health is being open and honest with those we trust about our feelings, concerns, and challenges. We need good physical and mental health in order to be our best selves, and those should be the roadmaps by how we judge our fitness. Our weight and size should not be. When either physical or mental health is out of sync with the other, it is important to reach out for help. For anyone who may feel pressure (whether externally or intrinsic) to look a certain way, please know that what matters is your health and happiness; not how much you weigh. If you are a woman who has had a baby (whether recently or years ago), please know that what matters is your health and happiness; not how much weight you've lost. Your body carried and nourished another life for 9 months and that is amazing and miraculous. Celebrate that journey and process. Finally, if you are someone living with an eating disorder, please know first that you are not alone. Your physical and mental health is of the utmost importance, and an eating disorder is an illness that can be treated. Please reach out to someone you trust for help, call a mental health helpline, or talk to your doctor.
Each one of us is uniquely and wonderfully made, and in order to be our deepest and truest selves, we need to be physically and mentally healthy. And the definition of health will be different for each person and their particular circumstances. But physical and mental health will never be found on a scale, in a certain jean size, or by comparing ourselves to someone else.
Thank you for this, Sarah! You expressed it so well.
DeleteI know how painful it was when I got very skinny after my 1st child and people didn't have scruples to tell me: "Oh, you are so thin! I envy you! Would you like a couple of my extra-pounds, hehe?" I always thought it very insensitive. Being extra thin is no win and it's devastating for your self-esteem to constantly hear such comments. The funny thing was the people didn't even realise those comments were uncalled-for! They thought they were flattering me! It took me some time to get over it. And to put on a little more weight, too. I didn't have an eating disorder, I was just sleep-deprived, tired and stressed-out. Every new mother knows these feelings so some extent, I believe.
I love the jumper & jacket combination; makes Kate look really smart & sophisticated. Less keen on the too-tight jeans. (for a royal engagement). The boots aren't super-stylish.
ReplyDeleteshe looks fantastic i love the outfit it makes her look so put together i also love her shorter hair
ReplyDeletethanks Charlotte
Wow! Kate looks amazing, she seems to have had a bit of a makeover, perhaps she saw recent pictures from the state banquet! Good to see her wearing a bit more make up. Her hair also looks magnificent
ReplyDeleteKate looks amazing and I love the blazer. Her hair looks ultra healthy and her skin is glowing. Great engagement!
ReplyDeleteKate looks Amazing! Is it just me, or does she look the skinniest she's ever been?
ReplyDeleteI see that Kate is at the Imperial War Museum this morning. Am sure you will have a post up about it soon dear Charlotte. And KP's Twitter feed also announced that Kate will be going to the Tusk Trust Awards Dinner Nov 8th with William :)
ReplyDeleteLooks like Kate had another engagement today.
ReplyDeleteKate does smart casual beautifully. Gorgeous blazer
ReplyDeleteDoes anyone know where one might get those boots in the USA? It looks like they only deliver to the UK.
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