The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge joined the Prince of Wales and the Duchess of Cornwall for the annual Commonwealth service at Westminster Abbey.
The Commonwealth Day Act of Observance is the UK’s largest multi-faith service and the premier event to celebrate the Commonwealth. It takes place in the presence of some 2,000 participants (1,500 this year) including High Commissioners and dignitaries from around the Commonwealth, in addition to 1,000 young people from schools across the UK. The Commonwealth represents a global network of 2.4 billion people, of whom 60 per cent are under 30 years of age. As head of the Commonwealth, the Queen has reinforced links and seen the association of nations grow from seven to fifty-four members during her reign.
TRH The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge have arrived at the Abbey.#CommonwealthDay pic.twitter.com/zdsdYTrGTG
— Westminster Abbey (@wabbey) March 14, 2022
The Prince of Wales and the Duchess of Cornwall arriving. Camilla looked smashing in a Fiona Clare ensemble and Philip Treacy hat.
A lovely rendition of the Commonwealth Anthem outside Buckingham Palace today.
Thank you to the Band of the Grenadier Guards @GrenGdsBand for the lovely rendition of the Commonwealth Anthem at today’s Changing the Guard at Buckingham Palace.#CommonwealthDay @ArmyInLondon pic.twitter.com/qb1ICxkbRs
— The Royal Family (@RoyalFamily) March 14, 2022
In the Queen's Commonwealth Day message, she poignantly wrote: "In these testing times, it is my hope that you can draw strength and inspiration from what we share, as we work together towards a healthy, sustainable and prosperous future for all."
'In this year of my Platinum Jubilee, it has given me pleasure to renew the promise I made in 1947, that my life will always be devoted in service.Today, it is rewarding to observe a modem, vibrant and connected Commonwealth that combines a wealth of history and tradition with the great social, cultural and technological advances of our time.That the Commonwealth stands ever taller is a credit to all who have been involved. We are nourished and sustained by our relationships and, throughout my life, I have enjoyed the privilege of hearing what the relationships built across the great reach and diversity of the Commonwealth have meant to people and communities.Our family of nations continues to be a point of connection, cooperation and friendship. It is a place to come together to pursue common goals and the common good, providing everyone with the opportunity to serve and benefit.In these testing times, it is my hope that you can draw strength and inspiration from what we share, as we work together towards a healthy, sustainable and prosperous future for all.And on this special day for our family — in a year that will include the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting and the Commonwealth Games — I hope we can deepen our resolve to support and serve one another, and endeavour to ensure the Commonwealth remains an influential force for good in our world for many generations to come.ELIZABETH R'
Buckingham Palace shared a video with clips showcasing 70 years of service to the Commonwealth.
In 1952 when The Queen acceded to the throne, she also became Head of the Commonwealth – a family of nations, spanning every geographical region, religion and culture.
— The Royal Family (@RoyalFamily) March 14, 2022
This #CommonwealthDay, take a look back at Her Majesty’s service to the Commonwealth over the last 70 years: pic.twitter.com/PEwFwJ6wA0
Almost 30 years ago the Queen received this solid gold mace with enamel flags of the member nations.
It’s #CommonwealthDay today. The Queen is Head of the Commonwealth & received this solid gold mace with enamel flags of the member nations in 1992. Today this voluntary association spans 54 countries across the globe.https://t.co/oaFzw6xXN8 pic.twitter.com/1b2LMuT8LE
— Royal Collection Trust (@RCT) March 14, 2022
Flag-bearers ahead of the service.
William, Kate, Charles and Camilla greet each other inside.
The service commenced with a procession.
The royals take their seats.
Each year a specific theme is chosen to help guide plans and activities for Commonwealth organisations.
The theme for 2022 is ‘Delivering a Common Future’. This highlights how the Commonwealth family are ‘innovating, connecting and transforming’ to help achieve their goals of protecting natural resources and championing young people, and reflects the deep-rooted networks of friendship and goodwill that connect the Commonwealth countries.
The flags of the 54 Commonwealth nations in Parliament Square today.
Buckingham Palace said, "The service is the first in-person gathering of the Commonwealth since the start of the pandemic and will reflect Her Majesty’s Platinum Jubilee Year with a special focus on the role that service plays in the lives of people and communities across the Commonwealth. Highlights of the service will include an address by the Lord Bishop Sentamu, former Archbishop of York, a reflection by young Tongan leader Elizabeth Kite, special musical performances from Emeli Sandé and Mica Paris, and the world premiere of ‘Beacon of Brightest Light’, inspired by the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee, composed by Debbie Wiseman."
Emeli Sandé and the London African Gospel Choir sang 'Brighter Day'.
Kate received a lovely posy afterwards.
The Duke and Duchess departing.
The Duchess was regal in a striking blue customised version of Catherine Walker's Mayfair coat (with thanks to UFO No More).
The wool crepe coat is cut in a "classic Catherine Walker silhouette". It's mid-calf length and flared at the hem and cuffs. Kate's piece has a velvet collar. The rich sapphire blue is a beautiful colour on Kate.
Kate's exquisite jewels held an important meaning.
We've seen Kate wearing Diana's sapphire and diamond earrings on multiple occasions, however she debuted the matching necklace for a meeting with President Volodymyr Zelensky of Ukraine and First Lady Olena Zelenska at Buckingham Palace in 2020, as noted by the amazing Court Jeweller.
It was suggested at the time the necklace is also from Diana's sapphire suite. Below, Diana wearing a pair of earrings in Australia which may have been used for the pendant. This has never been confirmed though, and at this point remains purely speculative.
A closer look at the sparkling necklace on Kate today.
Kate's blue pillbox hat is a design by milliner Sean Barrett.
More on the talented milliners background from the British Hat Guild:
'Sean Barrett graduated from Wimbledon School of Art in 1982, and after a brief stint at the Royal Festival Ballet, he began a career as a milliner. Initially operating on the fringes of the fashion world, Sean's work featured in both Vogue and Harpers & Queen. Since then, he has worked mostly in the entertainment industry for designers in theatre, film and television.
On television, Sean has created pieces for Helen Mirren's Elizabeth I and every series of Downton Abbey as well as the movies. He is has also worked extensively on series Mapp & Lucia, Decline and Fall, Gentleman Jack and The Crown.'
The Duchess sported her Rupert Sanderson Malory pumps in navy suede.
I'm expecting an itinerary for the tour any day now. Before it all begins on Saturday, we'll see the Duke and Duchess on Thursday for St Patrick's Day!
So sad that the Queen felt unable to attend today's service. What a horrible two years it has been since the last one. The Duchess looked stunning today, picture perfect. Blue always looks good on her but this is really lovely shade of blue Im still wondering are they Diana's sapphires she is wearing. Considering she has been married now over 10 years, we haven't seen her wear those jewels yet. I'd imagine if they were giving to The Princess of Wales, they are being held for the next Princess of Wales. I'm looking forward to the upcoming tour. S. ☺
ReplyDeleteI share your sentiments about the Queen feeling unable to attend, was so hoping she could start off her Jubilee year attending this ceremony. I think you may be right about Catherine not wearing the jewels until she is the Princess of Wales. Aside from not utilizing more jewelry from the vault, think she has been very reserved in her jewelry choices out of respect, and to some degree personal taste. Finally, a look reminiscent of pre-Covid. . The color is lovely and both she and Camilla look smashing in their jewel tones and I like the modification to the Catherine Walker look.
DeleteAll the individual pieces are lovely, but the outfit as a whole is too matchy matchy for my taste. I feel like the pop of different colored jewelry and shoes would have added a lot to the outfit.
ReplyDeleteI like the tone on tone effect of her outfit and accessories; prefer the navy to black shoes/purse or neutral tones, IMHO. The sapphires work well and I do like a matching set of jewelry! Funny how we all have different takes on what we like to see on the Duchess.
DeleteI think this is a gorgeous look on Catherine! Beautiful color and silhouette. Love the collar with the velvet and lower cut to showcase the necklace. Beautiful hat and hairstyle. Always nice to see Princess Alexandra, too.
ReplyDeleteThank you for the post. Sue
Rebecca English ID'd the hat : Sean Barratt hat
ReplyDeleteCourtney-Anne, thank you! This is quite exciting. He's the Downton Abbey milliner. I absolutely loved his creations for the show.
DeleteThat is such a cool detail! I just finished rewatching the series. The hats are truly fantastic.
DeleteIvy Lin, I agree with you completely. When I first saw the photo I personally thought she looked like she just came out of a Crayola Crayon box.
ReplyDeleteWow, she really is a vision today!
ReplyDeleteSo nice to see some members of the family gather for the service. The two most important ones are missing, The Queen do to health reason and her beloved husband has passed. Kate looks stunning in this new coat, great color to. Hope the Queen will feel better soon.
ReplyDeleteI don't think that earrings and necklace belonged to Diana.
ReplyDeleteDP
She looks lovely. Perfection. Sad that her majest wasn't able to attend. I can't help but think Kate's choice of jewelry is a nod to Ukraine.
ReplyDeleteThat was my 1st thought..... actually my 1st thought was how she looked Beautiful & her ensemble was Perfection!! I too thought of Ukraine!
DeleteBecca USA
What happens to Kates clothes after she wears them she must have worn hundreds of thousands of outfits in last ten years.
ReplyDeleteDo they go into storage in London, or get sold, sent back to designer?
The Duchess looks stunning. The close-up of the necklace is beautiful, do so hope they are part of Diana's sapphires! My thoughts are with the Queen on this memorial day and start of her Jubilee activities.
ReplyDeleteFirst the occasion is a wonderful event of unity! Kate is lovely as usual! Love the jewels. I wish her coat was about a foot shorter it would make it look really sharp as it is it's a little dowdy. Even the Duchess of Cornwall's coat is a good length & loving the purple color of the coat & pretty hat!
ReplyDeleteI agree I’m really over this shape on her it makes her look very rectangular and boxy. She’s not very curvey so this just isn’t a great shape for her. Shorter hems (she looks fab in knee length!) help to off set her overall long/lean look. Her hair and make up and hat is fantastic! :)
DeleteI wouldn't say she looks boxy! The cut of the coat has a slimming effect. I prefer a fit and flare on her, but this is a very elegant look
DeleteSimply stunning! I love the matchy matchy..and the length. Always so regal and genuine. Like it or not, Kate has her own style. I still like to hear the different views from readers. Thanks for the posts Charlotte.
ReplyDeleteGreat to see a ceremony like this again. Very sad not to see the Queen....
ReplyDeleteKate is beautiful in blue but if the coat was a little shorter it would be even better I think. The necklace is beautiful.
The 2022 European runways are full of monochrome ensembles so as usual, Catherine en Vogue! Love the sapphire on her, with the elegant matching hat and sparkling jewelry. She looks a vision. And Camila with her lovely purple coat dress and marching hat.
ReplyDeleteJeanne, I couldn't agree with you more!!
DeleteBecca USA
I think the length of coat makes Kate look more regal. It is a stunning shade of blue! I absolutely love the color! Her hairstyle, hat, jewels and coat are immaculate and perfect for this festive, yet formal occasion. I understand the need to protect HM, but will be so happy when it is safe for her to be out and about again!
ReplyDeleteDitto IBR! 😊
DeleteI also agree. I do not think it ages her or is dowdy but is quite spectacular. She has made this her formal "infomal" look and it looks grand on her.
DeleteCatherine's coat reminds me so much of something Diana would have worn, only Diana would have worn it cut off at hip length and with a straight skirt. I have to say, I am not a big fan of this coat, as it does look rather dated to me. I love Kate, and of course, she looks great, but love to see here in something a little more modern. I'd say, in general, the Catherine Walker designs are rarely my favorite, although I understand the sentimental appeal.
ReplyDeleteThe service is an annual event, so no purpose in commenting on it. Camilla and Catherine each look smashing. Love the colors they are wearing. I must specifically comment on Catherine's style - simply superb. Catherine has so grown into her role in the RF. William was wise in wishing to hold off on a commitment until he was certain that she had the confidence and strength of character to withstand the pressures and scrutiny that comes along with the role. Catherine is gorgeous, so poised, elegant, and regal. Her coat is stunning in its color and cut, but the cherry on top is the hat - I love it!!! There's not much else to say about her. She's simply a gem. Thanks for a wonderful post.
ReplyDeleteKelly USA
The Duchess looks lovely, but it would be nice to see her in a different style for a change, the coats all have a similar theme. This coat is is rather dated looking. A splash of colour shoe and clutch wise would have brought the overall look to life, and a bit different. The Sapphire and diamond pendants are gorgeous as are the earrings.
ReplyDeletethe duke snd the duchess really was great royal model to the crown the duchess corneal and price Charles are also good role model as well Catherine looks stunning in the coat
ReplyDeleteAlas, I fear we may be witnessing the beginning of the Queen's departure from the public scene, given her recent inability to attend a couple of important events -- the Commonwealth Day service has always been of particular significance to her -- and her clearly increasing frailty. She has been monarch longer than my lifetime, and I am not a young woman, so I find this distressing. Despite my proud American citizenship, I have so enjoyed observing the Queen over the years, while she has also represented a reliable constant and a sense of continuity that I couldn't help but think reassuring. This gradual withdrawal from public duties is not unexpected, I realize, and of course I'm know I won't be nearly as bereft as the British if Her Majesty does need to disappear from public view, but I'm feeling a sharp pang of regret in the face of that prospect as well as concern for her well-being.
ReplyDeleteThat said, I have to admit, once again, that I'm feeling somewhat bored by the Duchess's large collection of fitted Catherine Walker coats, which I described as "all of a sameness" in an earlier post. They are very serviceable and appropriate for the occasions on which she wears them, but they are so repetitive and unimaginative. The longer ones tend to overemphasize the Duchess's long-waistedness and look rather matronly as well. In my view and experience, it's possible to be age (and occasion) appropriate while also demonstrating a rather greater sense of style and creativity than these coats represent. I really wish the Duchess would step outside of her wardrobe comfort zone a little more often than she does.
I do love the intense color. I'm a hat person, so I'd normally think the pillbox was terrific, but in combination with that style and length of coat it merely emphasizes the matronly look.
I agree on both accounts. We will see Prince Charles taking over more and more. HMTQ will be Queen till her last breath but the time will come where we will experience a more Victorian set up, with her holding the title but the heir doing all the work.
DeleteRegarding Kate: I loved all the accesories but the coat. She doesn`t even have to step outside of her wardrobe comfort zone. She has an incredible coat collection with many different styles and colours. If you lookt at other repeats, even the ones from the early days must still fit just fine, so thats not the reason. And if normal people can get their clothes tsilored to make them work over yeats, so can she. I can think of at least three coats in almost the exact same shade of blue- we all know the Cambridges love their blues. I find it a bit boring, predictable and kind of wasteful to see her jumping on a trend without considering if it works for her (which is kind of the opposite of developing a classic style sense) and than adding basically the same piece in several colours to your wardobe only to wear them maybe three times in your life. As a royal there are certainly times to go all out with striking pieces that will only ever be worn once. Either because they become iconic (her gold Bond premiere look might be a contender) or the occasion is so significant (her engaegment dress, or other highly important royal or political occasions). That's fine and part of the deal. But this is like her fourth complete working wardrobe change in just a bit over ten years. Her private style seems to have stayed mostly the same from the little private snaps we get. It begs the question if she still hans`t found her comfort zone in the job if she still needs to change up her work uniforms so significantly and regularly. And for me, it's neither working for her look wise nor is it befitting to a future Queen.
"All of a sameness" is spot on! I understand the need for a uniform; no reason to invent the wheel every time you attend a function. But her wardrobe is now the size of two palaces, filled with coats, hats, pumps and purses in a variety of colours - all looking the same. Oh, well!
DeleteThe colour is lovely, she looks well put together - but this mountain of exclusive coats is beginning to look a tad out of touch. It's not a repeat when you wear a coat or a dress more than once. You're simply wearing it more than once ... :-)
She has been repeating a lot, I am glad to see something new.
Delete@Natacha: I have to kind of disagree. Yes, the second time wearing it is technicaly a repeat. But she owns around 150 coats in all colours and styles. She could easily repeat over three years without even wearing hald of her coats from this rotation round twice. Yet, there are only a handful of pieces she has worn more than twice in ten years. Interestingly enough, those piece are older and still seem to easily fit into every current trend. Which begs the questions why she still purchases coats that you know the second you see it, will never be worn again. What is the point? Like Anonymous 07:21 said, there is a place and time for things that are worn only once in a lifetime as a royal. But those occasions are rare. With the amount and diversity of her wardrobe, she could be repeating for 5 years and we would find ourselves being suprised a lot because we had completely forgotten about the pieces.
DeleteNot a fan of the coat. Over all, its too long - the deep v neck, the nipped waist appears is tailored too long on her. Maybe a self belt would have helped. The hem could use about an inch cut off to decrease the LONG look.
ReplyDeleteKate looks beautiful and polished as always. I love the color and the hat. I dislike the length and style of the coat, it doesn't flatter her figure and as mentioned ages her as well. I miss the knee length dresses and coats. She looks best in those.
ReplyDeleteWonderful to see the rf out & showing unity. But Kate’s outfit is incredibly dowdy.
ReplyDeleteBeth in SF
Kate's skin is looking super smooth lately. I wish i knew the secret.
ReplyDeleteDitto that Unknown! Would love for her to share her routine!
DeleteThank you Charlotte for this post. It's sad the Queen couldn't attend but it's nice to see a celebration with a sense of unity and unity for the future. I think Catherine looks wonderful in this blue outfit. I like the ensemble with hairstyle, outfit, accessories. Look forward to see them for St Patrick's day!
ReplyDeleteI have to admit this outfit has grown on me. At first glance I wasn’t quite sure, but it is stunning on her. The color pops and she wears it well. I’m excited for the upcoming events to see what she’ll wear. Beautiful couple.
ReplyDeleteshe looked nice in that colour although the hem was too long. Princess Alexandra also present not pictured in these photos looked nice and it was nice to see her. too bad the Queen wasn't able to come Im worried about her health at her age and that she no longer will be living in London. So wonderful to see that stunning picture of Diana what a true Queen she was
ReplyDeleteCatherine Walker does Kate no favors. This long paper towel tube look is horrendous. Kate is a lovely woman so she always looks nice, but this is such a huge NO.
ReplyDelete-PB
She is always a true beauty, but not again a boring coat dress...
ReplyDeleteThank you Charlotte for the post. Nice to reflect how the commonwealth of nations has grown and developed under the Queen's stewardship. She is a remarkable woman having lived almost a century through massive societal changes and still able to relate to life now. I was saddened she was not at the service but it involves a lot of walking and standing and I would not want her at 95 enduring pain just because we expect it of her. Liked the symbolism of two future Kings representing the crown at the service, which was done so well.
ReplyDeleteCamilla and Catherine were regal in their bearing and dress. Personally I think this is a good era for Camilla clothes wise. She is at a stage of her life where she really suits her dress style, which was not always the class when she was younger. Catherine is always impeccably groomed, and appropriately dressed for the event. I liked the long line of the blue coat. It was so elegant. However I would add in the year of 2022 fashion is not that important. My heart goes out to all the peoples in the Middle East and Ukraine under aerial bombardment some of whom have had this happening for a decade or more. Life can truly be so unfair.
Catherine looked beautiful as always.
ReplyDeleteI am wondering why it is taking so long for the itinerary to come out for their Caribbean tour that begins on Saturday. I am looking forward to seeing all the engagements for the tour.
I expect it is for safety reasons.
DeleteI'm on the fence with the coat. She looks very polished, but she does with all her Walker coats. But then this is a true "job" appearance today, so I would not expect anything unusual. I think her outfits were the most fun that she wore after George was born until after Charlotte was born. Now that she's firmly in her role, she probably feels it's best to be safe. I do wish the hemline would come up though. I am sorry for them to have to take a tour during this stressful time. I finally watched the video of their visit to the Ukrainian center and could tell they are greatly affected. I'm sure they are feeling worse daily.
ReplyDeleteCatherine & Will appear confident, regal,yet, comfortable and approachable! I love the colors she, and Camilla wore.Chatherine's coat is beautiful. Love the jewel tones and the matchy look! Yes,she appears very, very thin, lately, but I just need to get use to seeing that. Wonderful to see so many people smiling and outside, honoring the occcasions & traditions. Best wishes to the Queen - she has built an amazing legacy to be proud of.
ReplyDelete