The outing marks Kate's third appearance at the championships this year. In her role as patron, the Duchess enjoyed a day of tennis during the first round of the tournament and yesterday it was a girls' day out as Kate, Meghan and Pippa watched Simona Halep defeat Serena Williams to claim her first Wimbledon title.
As a lifelong tennis fan, it's incredibly fun to mix my love of the sport with following the royals. A match made in heaven (no pun intended) for this blogger.
An arrival video. Gill Brook compliments William and Kate on their very well coordinated looks.
Speaking in a 2017 documentary about Wimbledon, Kate recalled her own memories growing up. "I have watched Wimbledon, that was very much part of my growing up. I was really taken by Agassi and Sampras, Ivanisevic and Steffi Graf. Those are my first memories." She said she queued for hours to get into the tournament before joining the Royal Family, adding: "Being able to go into Wimbledon and be part of an amazing atmosphere is special. It inspires young people including myself. Every time Wimbledon is on I am thinking ‘Yes, I could do the same’ and get out the racket. Sadly, not the same results." Kate also revealed she asked her doctor if she could attend the 2013 Wimbledon final when she was eight months pregnant but he told her 'definitely not'. "I was very heavily pregnant. I wrote to him [Murray] afterwards saying sorry for not being there."
The Duke and Duchess met ballboys and ballgirls.
William and Kate arrive in The Royal Box.
Wimbledon is a staple on the Middleton family calendar. Mike, Carole, Pippa and James have already made several appearances this year.
Whilst Kate attended yesterday, George and Charlotte were spotted enjoying a family day out with their grandparents at Englefield Summer Fete. People reports: “They were having such fun going from stall to stall, playing on all the games,” an onlooker tells PEOPLE, adding: “George did pretty well at the ‘crockery smash’ stall. He looked very pleased with himself.” The royal siblings enjoyed several turns on the inflatable bouncy slides, exploring the small gathering as they held hands with Kate’s parents. “They were so cute, and Charlotte particularly was very friendly, politely saying hello to other children. George was running around, exactly like all the other children,“ says the onlooker.
Today, Carole, Pippa, James and his girlfriend Alizee Thevenet were cheering on Roger Federer. I do wonder if Mike Middleton might be on babysitting duty with Nanny Maria today :)
Carole selected a blue print Jaeger dress this afternoon (another great ID from whiz Laura from UFO No More). It's reduced to £85 at John Lewis and Pippa was in a pink print dress.
The Cambridges and the Middleton family are very close with Roger Federer and his wife Mirka. The tennis superstar and his family have visited Kensington Palace and Bucklebury on a number of occasions. Roger and Mirka attended Pippa's wedding in 2017. Indeed, Roger revealed he's been teaching Prince George a few tricks of the trade during a game in Bucklebury. He said George is "already good" adding, "At this age it's all about just touching the ball...same with my boys".
Guests in the royal box included Benedict Cumberbatch, Katherine Jenkins, the Kents and tennis royalty.
William and Kate chatting before the action got underway.
Ready for the final.
Following an epic semi final win against Rafa Nadal, Federer said he never thought he would be in this position at this stage of his career. "Not possible. It's not something you can ever really aim for, I don't think Rafa aimed for 12 French Opens. You aim for one, then two. Ahead of today's match he said. "I never expected to be playing in a Wimbledon final at almost 38. I feel really good. I remind myself I have one match left to go." He also discussed his first Wimbledon win sixteen years ago. "At that moment my career could have ended and I would have retired very happily." Little did the future Prince of tennis know he would continue to become one of the (if not the) greatest players of all time. Today he is fighting for his ninth singles Wimbledon title.
Reigning Wimbledon champion Novak Djokovic returned to the iconic tournament this year in the hopes of securing his fifth win. Ahead of the match, he spoke about feeling as prepared as possible at the beginning. "If you're not feeling so well at the beginning, you don't start a match well, you're on the back foot because your opponent is feeling that he has a chance to dominate the play from the baseline." His appearance in the final follows his record 7th Australian Open win earlier this year.
An action packed first set filled with tense moments.
Yes, it was that kind of match..
Former tennis star Stan Smith gave Kate a signed sneaker for Prince Louis.
Following an epic five hours of tennis, Djokovic was victorious taking three sets.
For the first time, patron Kate presented the winners trophy.
Kate told Roger he was amazing...
...And congratulated Novak on a stunning victory.
Kate with Wimbledon President the Duke of Kent who passed the trophy presenting tradition to Kate today.
Speaking with officials before departing. What a day for the sport!
Wimbledon offers a spectacular array of fashion. Have you even seen more appropriate hats? Outstanding millinery and perfect for the final.
Afternoon tea is served.
Wimbledon shared a look at the All England Lawn Tennis Club under the slumber of darkness.
A quick refresher of Kate's Wimbledon looks this year; for her first appearance the Duchess chose the 1940s inspired Suzannah Wiggle dress. Styled with Gianvito Rossi Piper block heels, Catherine Zoraida earrings and a McQueen belt and bag.
Yesterday, Kate brought back her bottle green Dolce & Gabbana dress styled with her Sicily bag by the brand, Asprey London Oak Leaf earrings and Rupert Sanderson Malory pumps in nude.
Today, the Duchess chose a very pretty powder blue Emilia Wickstead Jordin dress. The £605 piece is described as: "A dress with a straight neckline, twisted strap detail and beautifully pleated skirt."
Laura identified Kate's gorgeous new shoes as the $80 Aldo Nicholes Bone Block Heel shoes.
Described as: "A 40's inspired stacked heel ankle strap pump, swathed in luxurious faux suede, brings a vintage touch to an indisputably must have for the modern girl." They are available in multiple colours on the Aldo website.
The Duchess wore her In2Design pearl earrings.
Kate completed the look with her Ray Ban Wayfarers.
And her UFO vintage clutch bag.
It was an epic day of tennis. Did you watch?
oh i love the dress may i know the bag she carring
ReplyDelete<3 <3 <3 lovely dress-great color on her!
ReplyDeleteThat blond lady used to compliment on Kate's looks 😅 and she is right, this one is really pretty! Light blue is her color, blue and green are definetely her favourites 😊
ReplyDeleteLove it Can't wait to see more pics Alway love Kate & Wills together x
ReplyDeleteNice!
ReplyDeleteXOXOXOX
Love this dress. It's summery and casual-elegant, unlike yesterday's which looked so heavy. Also love her ALDO shoes. This look is a total winner. Also did she cut her hair? I like this length.
ReplyDeleteGiven that I had little positive to say about yesterday’s dress I am thrilled with today’s summery pretty day dress! And fantastic shoes from one of my favs Aldo. They are such a handsome and warm couple!
ReplyDeleteCan somebody more knowledgeable educate me please? I’ve noticed that upon greeting her, some, particularly the younger generation are doing a mini head bob vs. a curtesy. Or in some cases neither. Is this proper?
Maybe someone more knowdledgable will inform us on the official rule, but I would not curtsy. This is the 21st century and they are young people, so the seniority rule that would apply to HM, doesn't apply here. We are all equals and these movements, however small, involve a feeling of inferiority. I love seeing them and appreciate all they do, but do not forget that there are people who are way more educated, more capable, and who are working much harder with infinitely less privileges and they should not be frowned upon if they forgo them. Not saying that your comment implied anything of the sort, jyst sharing my views on the subject generally :)
DeleteI don't know anything about proper protocol but I've noticed too that the younger people, especially, seem to be moving away from the formal bow and curtsy. Could this be just a general trend that in the future these formalities will go by the wayside? Modern monarchy, indeed.
DeleteI believe it depends if they are Btitish citizens or not. If not, they are not required to curtsy to royalty.
DeleteI don’t think anyone is actually required to curtesy. Even the Queen appears perfectly happy to just shake hands if that’s the other person’s preference. That said, for those who choose to follow this tradition, generally women curtsey and men bow their heads, but there’s no rule saying men can’t curtesy or women bow. It seems the girls in this group chose to go with the head bow along with the boys.
DeleteCJ
As far as I know no one (including Brits) is required to courtsey nowadays. You can either handshake, courtsey or bow your head or a combination.
DeleteCurtsy was simply a kind of salute, not reserved to the Queen, young girls would curtesy to older people. It shouldn't imply inferiority, it is a custom, and a nice one IMO. It is bound to disappear, as many customs have done, a pity, IMO, I don't think two kisses on the cheeks are a better or more egalitarian way to greet people.
DeleteAgreed Natacha!
DeleteAgree Natacha!! Love your comment that a curtsy is a kind of salute, it is a gesture that shows respect, while on the other hand 'air kisses' (a large majority of the time) seem at best insincere.
DeleteI love this dress! It's a beautiful color and a nice summer look. Kate and William match nicely!
ReplyDeleteOne of my favourite outings of the year, today does not disappoint. Kate looks lovely in her light blue dress and William very handsome. They are an asset to the Royal Family XXX
ReplyDeleteShe looks beautiful! I love this colour on her.
ReplyDeletePerfect for this occasion and no ruffles or big golden buttons.
I couldn't put into words, how much I disliked the green dress, so I am really happy today ;)
Kersti
VERY pretty dress and it looks so good on her! Will looks very summery, too. They look great!
ReplyDeleteKate looks amazing today. Dress is femine and soft and new shoes are so stylish.
ReplyDeleteMuch prefer Kate’s look today, yesterday’s green dress was a miss ( I didn’t like it when she first wore it). Love the new shoes and will love a better look of the clutch.
ReplyDeleteIt is always nice to see the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, together, watching tennis at Wimbledon. From what can be seen, the Duchess looks lovely. I await the full post. Thank you, Charlotte.
ReplyDeleteI did watch the video and the dress is a nice fit for the Duchess. It is her style and she wears the dress well. Thanks, Charlotte for posting the video.
ReplyDeleteKate looks great! I love this dress....mostly the beautiful shade of blue and how nicely coordinated she is with William! Lovely!!!
ReplyDeleteShe looks great: lovely dress, her hairstyle is really nice, great shoes. But I would have worn the dress with yesterday's handbag. But in general, she looks really happy and even radiant these days!
ReplyDeleteGorgeous! And I totally just ordered these shoes!
ReplyDeleteAnnika,I'm jealous! I'm too old for the shoes, but thinking of getting a pair just to look at. They are gorgeous!
DeleteThis is lovely on her, and William seems to have coordinated most attractively. Her first visit white number is my favorite, but this is very flattering and very Kate.
ReplyDeleteLove the dress and shoes! Thank you, Charlotte! :-)
ReplyDeleteWow it's a really beautiful look. Love everything about it - the cut, the fabric and especially the colour which is one of her bests. It reminds me of that light blue Emilia Wickstead dress she wore when pregnant with George. At first glance I thought it could be an altered version of that dress but this fabric is lighter.
ReplyDeleteThe color and especially the fit of this dress is so much more appropriate for a summer tennis viewing. She should have worn this yesterday!
ReplyDeleteBut then what would she have worn today? :-)
DeleteCJ
So beautiful in blue. Nice that her and William made an effort to match. I was wondering why in video of their arrival (DM) that the officials greeting them do not bow or courtesy. The ball boys/girls did bow appropriately. Just wondering if someone could clarify if they are to be formally addressed
ReplyDeleteOh sorry... forgot to say I am obsessed with Kate’s handbag. I’m not one to try and copy her style but I would love that bag. ❤️
ReplyDeleteAgree! And with the possibility that it is vintage, I like to think it was a gift from someone in the royal family (one can dream)!
DeletePersonally, I don't care for Emilia Wickstead's designs. They're boring even on Kate. But, I do like the light blue color on Kate, but the style is just blah. The dress did move prettily in the video. Also, I agree that this dress was better than the green dress she wore yesterday. I like the new shoes too btw.
ReplyDeleteAbsolutely lovely dress - too bad her hair isn’t up to show off that gorgeous shoulder detail. Love the shoes too! As a Canadian I love seeing her in a Canadian brand.
ReplyDeletePerfect summer dress! Very young and fresh. I love when the Duke and Duchess co-ordinate their outfits.
ReplyDeleteShe saved the best for last....and the shoes!! The blue looks great on her, and the style is so feminine and unique. I know I always say this, but it's my new favorite! Lol.
ReplyDeleteThat’s a beautiful dress and it suits Catherine perfectly. I think a darker shoe, maybe navy, would have given it a more finished look, but the neutral shoes are fine and they’re very much her style.
ReplyDeleteCJ
Today's look is beautiful on Kate. I didn't like the pleated breast yesterday.
ReplyDeleteThis is a beautiful dress on Kate, she looks so summery, and the fit is flattering. The shoes are a great new addition and blue is definitely both her and William's color. They look smashing together. My 'unofficial ranking' of Kate's Wimbledon fashions 2019 are 1) the white dress on the first visit; 2) this beautiful blue summery dress, and 3) the green one from yesterday. While I love this dress, the white one is my favorite! cc
ReplyDeleteI'm wondering why on earth her doctor said she couldn't watch tennis at 8 months pregnant?!
ReplyDeleteIt was a hot summer day and she had been very ill during her pregnancy, they probably didn’t want to risk anything going wrong.
DeleteSorry I'm going to be a bit negative here- but it needs to be said: ( apologies in advance, Charlotte, I mean no disprespect !)
ReplyDeleteIndeed this is better than the rest of her Wimbledon looks this year- but even this is more suited for a garden party than a tennis match. Don't get me wrong- it's a really lovely dress, but not for here.
I'd say in the sartorial stakes for Wimbledon this year- she missed out at every single turn this year - sorry to say.... The first two were work-to-evening event dresses ( at best) and this at least was not offensive- but again- more garden party than tennis game. I'd say she's better going towards a clean, sporty-style dress- so very easy to come up with, without very much effort to sort either. I do imagine though she'll never be able to top the perfect ( and I believe first dress she wore to Wimbledon after she was married)- white knit one- which was so very spot on that everyhting else will always pale in comparison in my book.
The Duchess of Sussex managed to nail it both years (although yes her cotton shirt fought with the fabric of her skirt yesterday but the skirt was spot on at least). I also thought Pippa's dress was again way too "garden party" yesterday, although I know others liked it...
Clean, sporty, tailored, classic- that's the way to go here- Her mum nailed it nicely today as she generally does, albeit her looks are a " bit" more mature as they should be. All told though, she should give her daughter some instruction! Really a total sartorial strike-out this year for the Duchess I thought. Game on for next year! But I have good faith- it surely happens to everyone. and I'm sure like Serena Williams, the wonderful Duchess will live to win another set or two!...
No need to apologize Oliver UK, it's your opinion! While I agree with you about the white knit that she wore years back, was one of her best, I do not agree that the rest have been misses. In fact, one instagram account shows all of Kate's Wimbledon looks side by side and aside from the very first one, which was very youthful and edgy, she has consistently donned classic, streamlined clothing that are very appropriate for the occasion and her status. As to the Duchess of Sussex, her first look last year was very nice, except the pants were way to long. But yesterday's look was a miss, and while the skirt was nice, it doesn't IMO fit into the sporty-style dressing you refer to. It seemed out of place at this event. Pippas dress, which would be great at a garden party, was Pippa's style and appropriate for a sister accompanying her royal sister to an event where she was a patron and would be highly photographed. They both showed deference to Kate's position and royal role at Wimbledon. As to Carole Middleton, I would completely agree that she generally 'nails' her looks at Wimbledon, is a classy woman with a great sense of style, but I don't think yesterday's look fit that bill. Carole is a beautiful woman, but again IMO, looked a bit too casual and should possibly wear longer skirts, and I don't say that snarky, but just an observation. But just like in tennis, we all have our favorites and some styles that appeal to us more than others, that's what makes royal watching and tennis such interesting past times!! You are also right, they can't be winners all the time, so 'game on'!!
DeleteThanks Anon 21:23 for the "okay to have an opinion"- lol- yes- I guess we all do! ... I probably do not recall all her Wimbledon looks nor have I gone in search of them either- and I know she's generally done quite well- okay- so I will always love that first dress she wore;the white one ! :) I just really felt this year was such a dud. That or, hey, just wasnt feelin' it this year? maybe, neither was the Duchess-lol. Probably more important that two crowd favourites lost this year- and the Duchess has now taken over the trophy presentations! Cheers!
DeleteVery interesting bit of information about her 2013 pregnancy. I wonder if there was some kind of health issue with the pregnancy, otherwise why shouldn't a lady pregnant at 8 month be forbidden to attend a sporting event? Unless they were afraid of her going into labour then and there. I've had two kids and at 8 months was out and about as always.
ReplyDeleteOn another note, I love the dress. Especially the twisted neckline detail!
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DeleteBy all accords George was at least a week if not more overdue, so she was more like 9 months pregnant at that stage, hence the caution.
DeleteMy guess is it had more to do with the additional drama of having her water break on international television. The interest in George’s birth was huge, can you imagine if everybody knew the moment she went into labour? Chaos.
I think you mean Prince George was born on 22nd July and was overdue - so it goes without saying that it would have been very undignified if she went into labor in the Royal Box on Centre Court!!!
DeleteOther than that I just love the Duchess of Cambridge and usually find no fault whatsoever with the way she dresses and presents herself!!!
Together with the Duke of Cambridge they were quite a handsome couple today!!!
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DeleteThis dress is perfect! Beautiful summery color, nice shape, and lovely shoulder detail. Love it!!
ReplyDeleteI am very impressed and appreciate Britain's long-term history, tradition and culture of enjoying sports which are represented by Wimbledon and Royal Ascot and so on.
ReplyDeleteI think this dress is more successful than yesterday. It looks more light and comfortable.
ReplyDeleteI am dying to go back to London and I used to play competitive tennis as a young teen.
I would love to go to a Wimbledon match, but I probably could only afford to go to a very early match and then there would probably be no royals!
Seeing the Duchess there would be so amazing !!!
One day before it’s too late I will!!!
OMG, Kate presented the plate and the trophy this year! While it wasn't the outcome I wished for, so very happy to see Kate front and center and stepping even more into her role as Patron!! Tennis is such a gentlemen's sport, you can cheer for your champion all the way until the end, but then in the end everybody stands up, recognizes, and applauds the champion and the athleticism of the entire competition. Roger Federer is a class act. I am loving that Kate is the Patron! :) cc
ReplyDeleteWhen Djokovic stop to give Kate a bow before receiving the trophy...super special (in my opinion showing her that curtsey does not deference to her or any inferiority on the part of Djokovic but rather respect for tradition)
ReplyDeleteI had a gut feeling we would see Kate handing over the trophies this year, but I thought she would do it at the ladies final. Nice surprise.
Another busy day for you, Charlotte.....
ReplyDeleteThank you again for all you do for us.
A lot better than the ugly green thing she wore yesterday ..... she should have had an updo so that the décolleté would be visible , as it is th main element of the dress . Oliver UK , times are changing , in UK as everywhere , and I can see everyday that dress codes change too ... différences of fashions according to the event are less important , I really can’t see why Kate’blue dress is a miss, IMO the real miss of to day is the shoes ..... absolutely not matching the dress, not adapted to the situation , and .... really not elegant . Dressing according to what a person likes makes that person feel confident and it shows , and that’s what it is all about ...
ReplyDeleteI thought it is a great combination as usual. no fuss, no frill on the accessories. Catherine is an expert in choosing matching accessories. and ohhh the shoes are lovely, I've ordered one pair for myself and can't wait to open the box when they arrive !
DeleteI immediately went and bought the shoes. I love Aldo and I was looking at them for work. So Kate made the choice for me. Can't wait until they get here.
ReplyDeleteAnd that match was incredible!
Kate looked lovely and summery. I don't agree with the poster who said this look was too garden party. It looked like a very cool and comfortable dress, very feminine but not fussy with nice design detail. Besides, as patron, I think she has the privilege of determining what is appropriate as long as it doesn't show disrespect to the athletes, the sport, or the organization.
ReplyDeleteAnd also Wimbledon is a very garden party sporty event. While you will see a lot of people dressed down (like Meghan was the other day) you will also see a lot of women in garden party type dresses especially in the members area where Kate finds herself.
DeleteGorgeous. She looked wonderful. Love the dress and thought it was perfect for the event and her role in the proceedings. The shoulder detailing, wow. So fun to see her present the trophies. Wanted Federer to win but was a fantastic match.
ReplyDeleteHer reactions to the actual tennis games are always adorable.
ReplyDeleteHaha, oh Will and Kate politely applauding Novak....those aren’t the best poker faces I’ve seen. 😁
ReplyDeleteKate choose a beautiful dress. Very femimine and lovely color. The draping around the neckline is beautiful.. I will say, it reminds me - a little bit - of the light blue Preen dress, the ballerina dress (scoop neck with soft pleating around the waist).
ReplyDeleteLove how Wills coordinated with Kate - they are a handsome couple.
What a match! History made in so many ways. And Kate handled out the trophies - wow!
I thought Kate chose a great line up of dresses over the tournament. I loved the new white dress, the pleating around the waist was very pretty (and I look forward to her styling it differently next time, that's what makes that dress a good buy), the repeat of the green dress was nice - loved the purse and heels, and again, the blue color and style of her dress today was lovely.
Pippa had some great dresses this week as well. My favorite was the soft pink Stella McCarthy.
I think Kate's dress in a soft pink would look lovely as well! Also, in ivory.
DeleteWills made me laugh in the video. He was either desperate for a pee or a pint the way he seemed to be rushing Kate thru the handshakes, he usually talks longer himself, and then he kept tapping her like, let’s go! 😂😂😂
ReplyDeleteMen, you can dress them up and make them royal but they are still all the same!!!! 🤣
- Sara from FL
AND Kate presented the men's trophy! I've been wishing for this....so excited. Thanks Charlotte for your coverage of this event. Great as usual.
ReplyDeleteI think it is a shame that people do not identify the man seated behind William. He is Rod Laver, arguably one of the top two or three greatest tennis players ever.
ReplyDeleteI agree, Sylvia. Rod Laver has also given his name to what used to be Centre Court at Australian Open, a legend in tennis. You can also see Stefan Edberg there with his wife Annette, just behind Kate and William.
DeleteSylvia he is a WOW tennis player! Also that she got a Stan Smith autograph on a kids sneaker....how cute. Do you think he had one ready for her? I assumed she handed him it and asked for the autograph.
DeleteKate has done such a great job of molding herself into the perfect consort for William, but I really enjoyed William being her +1 at Wimbledon. And he looked so proud when she was handing over the trophies. A special moment.
ReplyDeleteRachelZA :):) Agree
DeleteI believe this is one of my favorite dresses on her. I love the shoulder detail and the color. And the shoes and clutch-just beautiful!
ReplyDeleteThe powder blue dress is one of the prettiest dresses, the Duchess of Cambridge has worn. Is the vintage purse by Josef? Parthenia
ReplyDeletewow what match well i love both players i had mixed feeling about it..maybe the duke cambridge is something what should be the feeling of happy and sad at the same time the duke color combination with the duchess and the duchess catherine presenting men finals was what waitting for congratulations to novak
ReplyDeleteI really don't think she could have picked a more perfect outfit!!! I absolutely love every detail! Powder blue looks amazing on her and she shoes are fantastic and affordable!! Well done, Kate! Also, what a match. I watched all of it at home and I was on the edge of my seat for a lot of it! It's not one to soon to be forgotten.
ReplyDeleteThe Duchess looks lovely a pretty dress, the colour is gorgeous on her. Really like the strappy shoes and clutch bag, so chic and a little different to the norm. So fantastic to see our past Wimbledon Australian greats sitting behind the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge. Our own wonderful Rod Laver winner of 3 Wimbledon's and John Newcombe a winner of 6 Wimbledon titles. Fantastic to see them looking so well!
ReplyDeleteThe trophy presentation was a bitter-sweet moment to me. It was great to see Kate handling the task with all the grace and dignity the ceremony requires. It was a bit sad, too-the passing of the baton to Catherine from the Duke, who in turn took over from his wife.Those photos with Catherine and the Duke of Kent: it is impossible to look at him and not see that this marks a significant turning point in his life. It is also easy to imagine the conflicting emotions Catherine must be feeling as well. The contrast of that girl who stood in line for hours for a seat at Wimbledon compared to the woman presenting the trophies. What a moment of triumph for her: yet I don't see triumph in her face in the photos with the Duke of Kent. She is aware that this is also a moment of transition for the Duke. She has such an expression of kindness and perhaps humility.
ReplyDeleteShe is finally at a point where circumstances allow her to live the role for which she has steadily and methodically prepared. Her early years projects, which she plans to follow into the future, are well under way. She is no longer only William's wife and George's Mum. She has her own identity and plan.
That is the reason for her recently noted confidence and glow. Just completing her family would not be enough for the Catherine we saw today.
Just a thought- Grandpa Mike may have been wrangling the kiddos -maybe James Matthews is there with Pippa's little one, too. Anyway, I would have loved to have seen Mike's face watching his daughter hand out the awards at Wimbledon. For a tennis-loving family that outranks the balcony appearance at Buckingham Palace every time.
Beautiful and lovely post that reflect what I'm thinking in a better wording
DeleteWell said Lucille in Tn. I too feel like she has "arrived"....it's really wonderful to see. She is a gem.
DeleteWow, Lucille you said it all! You captured Kate & this transition (the first of many). We can know these moments are coming, yet when they do, it's still bittersweet. Feeling the passing of time is a powerful thing. I just feel so proud of Kate for staying the course, no matter what anyone has said doubting her over the years (all the way back to waity katie days). This is a woman who knows slow & steady wins the race & always has her eyes on the long game & her priorities always in place! :)
DeleteWhat a thoughtful post Lucille! I completely agree this is a very significant turning point and one which Kate handled with grace and deference to the Duke of Kent. cc
DeleteWhat a thoughtful post Lucille! I completely agree this is a very significant turning point and one which Kate handled with grace and deference to the Duke of Kent. cc
DeleteJust a quick fact check: Marina, the Dowager Duchess of Kent, was the mother of the present Duke, not his wife. His father was killed in WWII when he was a small child and he has been the Duke of Kent since then. (I’ve just been reading some books about Britain in WWII. Before that I hadn’t really sorted out who all the Gloucesters and Kents were.)
DeleteCJ
CJ
Thank you for the kind remarks. Kate's transition has been on my mind and in my heart for a long while.
DeleteThe current Duke of Kent's wife presented trophies from 1969 to 2001 when she retired from active royal life and gave up her HRH. She was well-appreciated and respected for her kind and capable presentation. Her efforts went beyond merely handing out the prize. I believe she shared duties with her husband during this time. He took over the role full-time as President after his wife retired. He has become a Wimbledon tradition and many regret his being eased out. I agree, Cece. I think it has been accomplished in a kind, respectful mmanner. I believe the Queen presented once to mark her Silver Jubilee.
After reading of her time at Wimbledon and her other efforts I gained a new respect for this shy and very private Duchess. She was a class act.
I enjoyed reading your commentes and share your sentiments both about Kate and the Kents, Lucille.
DeleteAnon 17:29 thank you. :):)
DeleteI bet all the Middleton family minus the father are in wimbledon not only for Federer but also for Catherine presenting the trophy. They must feel proud.
ReplyDeleteKate looked lovely in powder blue and William coordinated perfectly with Kate’s Outfit, except for his shoes should have been either navy suede or leather. I hope their people who help them coordinate outfits read our tips, suggestions and observations. They both look great today 💙.
ReplyDeleteIt's been an incredible two weeks of tennis! Wimbledon is my favourite sporting event of the year and this year was exhilarating. I loved Kate's dress today and she looked marvelous presenting the trophies, I just wish Roger could have pulled off the win. On the West Coast daily coverage started at 5am so I watched for a couple of hours then recorded the rest of the day. How cool is it that Stan Smith signed a shoe for Prince Louis. I love my Stan Smith sneakers with all my heart. And yesterday Simona Halep was truly magnificent as was Strycova/Hsieh winning the doubles match today.
ReplyDeleteRod Laver was pointed out and talked about frequently by the ESPN commentators as were other tennis icons whom sat in the Royal Box, in fact he is revered at the All England Club.
The frock was an aporopriate one for presenting the trophy.
ReplyDeleteshe looks stunning must be hard to see her friend lose :(. Wills and her look great matching up very cute couple! thanks for such a great post
ReplyDeleteSuch a fantastic look on Kate and I loved that she and William were fashion coordinated! This was the best Wimbledon Gentlemen's Singles Final I ever expect to see in this lifetime. It was unbelievable and I tip my hat to both of these superlative men for such a stunning display of professionalism, athleticism, grit and grace. That match has set a new standard for excellence and will never be forgotten.
ReplyDeleteWell said & I echo everything about that match! Wow!
DeleteEverything about today was perfect Love Kate’s dress and hair and Will coordinating too Great pics of their reactions during the match And wonderful to see Kate presenting the trophies Charlotte thanks for the detailed write up as always xx
ReplyDeleteJust realized I forgot to comment on Kate's look. I thought she looked absolutely lovely! Quintessentially Summer! Love that she & William were color coordinated! I love the light airy, yet crisp feel of her dress & ensemble! I'm not sure if it was, but the fabric reminded me of blue & white seersucker pinstripe, which just says Summer & Tennis to me! Bravo! :)
ReplyDeleteShe looks great!
ReplyDeleteWhere to even start! I like this dress better than my first impression. the shoulder twist that I was not sure of yesterday seems to add a nice detail that would maybe make the dress otherwise seem plain. I like the new shoes, must see what other colors they come in!!! was nice to see her present the trophy and will be nice to see in the future. the passing of the torch can never be easy. in the photo of her and the duke of Kent I feel she is looking at him with such respect, she seems like she is really in tune with how he must be feeling.
ReplyDeleteI have to say the real show stopper for me was PW, dang! he should always wear this color jacket it was so flattering on him (im not a fan of the Windsor blue) and they were coordinated but not overly so, they looked so great together! some of my new favorite pictures of them. love to see them together, it is evident that they get on so well and nothing seems forced.
On a side note, yesterday was the first time I felt the problem with Charles’ so-called slimmed down monarchy in practice.
ReplyDeleteNot only was England hosting the Cricket World Cup Final, they were playing in it and won it and the most senior royal available to hand over the trophy was Prince Andrew.
Putting the current controversy surrounding Andrew aside, it just seems wrong that there was no more senior royal available to hand over the trophy in what is arguably England’s third most popular sport.
And the fact is everybody was busy somewhere else. Going forward this is going to happen more often, unless we see more split events (William goes to the cricket and Kate to tennis) or having to ask some difficult questions about which events are more important. Does a movie premier trump a world cup final? Is a Wimbledon final (which happens every year) more important than a World Cup final (every 4 years)? It was rumoured that William would attend if the Lionesses played in the women’s world cup final, but he doesn’t attend the cricket final?
And I don’t know how you answer this, because everybody is going to have different priorities.
I think it would actually be really rude of the royals to have changed trophy presentation plans after/because of England making the Finals. That'd be them basically saying "well we thought the Duke of York was good enough for the rest of yall but now that it's our own team I think we can do better". Tht being said a more senior royal could have certainly gone to watch at least, and I do think its a shame that neither the queen, Charles, or William did.
Deleteforgive me but I guess im thinking that there aren't that many more senior royals above Andrew?? - QE2, retired PP, The princess Royal and prince Charles (and Camilla). seeing as they were all busy id say that Andrew has some SR. royal status. agree with anon 00:39, would have been beyond rude to have changed the trophy presentations.
Deletequestion though, so are William and harry more sr than Andrew and say anne and for sure edward? even though they are the children of the current monarchy and the boys are the grandchildren? always something to learn:)
Valid question Caroline. Andrew is more senior than William for now, I suppose. But the problem of downsizing the RF remains. There are a dozen working royals right now. If Charles reduces it to his immediate family, they only will be 6 of them, for the same work.
DeleteI'm late to the party as I had a busy weekend and wasn't able to check the blog but I did manage to fit in some of the mens' final yesterday between doing some DIY work around the house, especially the last 1.5 hour and enjoyed seeing Catherine handing out the trophies. Always enjoy the rare chances we get here in the US to see the Royals live. I have always enjoyed watching tennis and playing some as a teen, and have even was lucky enough to see play and even meet some of the greats like Bjorn Borg, John McEnroe, Ilie Nastase, and Rod Laver and Jimmy Connors. So it's always enjoyable to see them still, watching the matches or commentating on them.
ReplyDeleteOn to the fashion - although I love the color and fabric, this dress is a miss for me because of the "twisted strap" - looks pretty in the photo of the dress by itself, but in reality when wearing it, the gathering looks loose and bunches up around the sides of Kate's breasts. Especially shots of her seated, the bunching was particularly noticeable. So overall I am disappointed in this year's WImbledon sartorial choices. I liked the green dress enough except for the darts that look like nipples and it was ill fitting this time. I still think the polka dot dress worn with black sandals from a couple years ago was my favorite Wimbledon look and one of my favorites ever.
Kate looked beautiful today. I wasn't crazy about the texture of the fabric at first, but the more I look at it, the more I like it. It moves really well. But the shoes are gorgeous! I have been hoping for an ankle strap for a long time, and here they are! My only wish is if she had worn her hair with the front pulled back. I think it would have shown off the neckline/shoulder detail more. And it would go along with the 40's feeling of this outfit (and the white one earlier.)
ReplyDeleteHope from USA
Beautiful!!! I love the texture of the dress, the shoulder twists, and the way it flows. It makes her look effortlessly gorgeous. Those shoes are awesome. Looks like a fun match!
ReplyDeleteThank you Charlotte for your work and passion. Our Duchess looked beautiful and professional, both players gave us an amazing match. It was a really specjal day.
ReplyDeleteI must say that Catherine and William looked adorable together. They are obviously in a wonderful relationship and promote The UK in a very positive way.
ReplyDeleteWow! Love the ensemble and the Duke even matches!! Such a joy to see them both together at this event! But again, love the outfit. She did so good and I bet the matching was on accident but it worked out well! I enjoy seeing the Patron continuing to support this role and those who eat, breathe, live this wonderful sport! ❤️❤️
ReplyDeleteAbsolutely love this dress. The fitting on the top is so shapely and flattering and the color on her is wonderful. She looks so graceful walking with the trophy. A great pic for the day.
ReplyDeleteLove the dress, the fabric texture/twist detail at the neckline/and color and it looks amazing on Catherine. The shoes are awesome and I love the vintage bag.
ReplyDeleteThe photo of Novak above made my knees hurt!
Very much looking forward to The King's Cup regatta event.
Border Terrier lover :-)
I love that she is wearing $80 shoes! I love that she mixes lower cost pieces with expensive pieces, shows everything doesn't need to be $$$$$ to look great!
ReplyDeleteCharlotte I am having withdrawls!! Any way you would do a Kate's Fashion Evolution? Like from marriage to current. It seems to me that her ensemble at Archie christening was a step forward for her in terms of fashion. I read that she is being coached by a former Vogue editor in terms of upping her fashion game. If that is true, it was definitely on display that day. I think her fashion has evolved from tentative to predictable to more fun of late.
ReplyDeleteHello Rita,
DeleteI'm planning summer break coverage for the blogs this evening and that's a terrific idea. Emily Andrews reports the Cambridges flew to Mustique earlier this week, we discussed last year we would probably see a schedule shift in the Mustique trips with the children at school. We expect to see a new photo for George's birthday, so keep an eye for that on Sunday or Monday :)