It was a glorious day for the Wimbledon Men's Singles Final. The Duchess of Cambridge was in attendance in her role as patron of the AELTC, joined by William and, for the first time, Prince George.
Prince George is celebrating his ninth birthday later this month. It's been quite an important time for the Prince who completed his time at Thomas's Battersea on Friday and will be looking forward to starting a new school with Charlotte and Louis in September. We're beginning to see a gradual introduction to public engagements, through both sporting tournaments and the prominent role the Cambridge children played during the Queen's Platinum Jubilee.
When Kate and George arrived (William was already there), the Duchess introduced her son to familiar faces including Wimbledon chairman Ian Hewitt, telling George: "Ian is in charge of everything."
The #DuchessofCambridge arriving with #PrinceGeorge and they were welcomed from Prince William.
— ChristinZ (@ChristinsQueens) July 10, 2022
“Ian is in charge of everything here George.”
“You’re ok?”
🎥 BBC #Wimbledon pic.twitter.com/FQJXlU4V8u
Christin Z also shared this video.
His smile 😊 #Wimbledon #DukeandDuchessofCambridge pic.twitter.com/hNobrVlO0c
— ChristinZ (@ChristinsQueens) July 10, 2022
The images are very much a throwback to the late Princess Diana taking William to Wimbledon when he was a child in 1991.
As with the beginning of yesterday's visit when Kate met Gabia, the Cambridges began by meeting Dylan who was chosen for the coin toss.
Dylan's story is an inspiring one.
Every year, two deserving young people are chosen to perform the coin toss at the Singles Finals.
— Wimbledon Foundation (@WimbledonFdn) July 10, 2022
Today is Dylan's turn.#Wimbledon I #CentreCourt100 I #100moments I @givingtogeorges pic.twitter.com/9w8MAf8Wg6
Wimbledon shared that Dylan Mulvey, 13, from Wandsworth was chosen "after being nominated by Abi Davies, events fundraising officer at St George’s Hospital Charity, in recognition of his fundraising efforts for the hospital. Dylan decided to take part in an abseil to say thank you to St George’s for looking after his grandparents in their end-of-life care; for ‘repairing’ him and his rugby teammates; and for the hospital staff’s tireless efforts caring for people during the pandemic".
Dylan and his younger brother Aidan helping ground staff earlier.
The Cambridges take their seats in the Royal Box.
Someday it will be remembered King George made his Wimbledon debut on the Centenary of Centre Court.
Kate and George.
There has been quite the excitement and anticipation surrounding today's final. It's been coined as a face-off of the 'bad boys of tennis'.
Novak Djokovic beat British hopeful Cameron Norrie in the semi-final to earn a place in the coveted final. The Serbian player has featured in eight of the last eleven previous title matches. He is hoping to win Wimbledon for the seventh time. Ahead of the match he said: "I'm aware of what's on the line. I mean, every match, every Grand Slam that I get to play at this stage of my career, there is a lot on the line. I don't know how many Grand Slam opportunities to win the trophy I will still have, as I will have on Sunday."
Nick Kyrgios has become equally known for his behaviour on and off court, not to mention an incredible serve. It marks the first time he has reached a major final since 2015. Speaking about the journey he said: "You just have to ride the waves, roll with the punches in a Grand Slam. You just don't know. You really don't know. You could be four points away from losing the tournament, then 11 days later you're in the final." Kyrgios was scheduled to play Rafa Nadal in the semi-finals before the Spanish champion had to withdraw due to injury.
As I mentioned earlier, it's a beautiful day.
One for sun hats.
As we all loved Kate's hat yesterday, I wanted to share some tennis-inspired millinery worn at the tournament.
Before Djokovic came storming back in the second. An interesting fact for tennis fans -- it marked the first time Djokovic has broken Kyrgios' serve.
Waving at familiar faces.
If you were watching the match, you may have heard a large quantity of foul language from Kyrgios.
George's reaction summed up the commentators' words on it.
George and William say hello to Stan Smith.
Enjoying the action.
Crowds gripped on the hill.
A brilliant shot of Kate as Djokovic takes the third set.
Kate and George discussing the match I expect.
Djokovic claimed the title after a winning tie-break in the fourth set.
The final moments of the match.
Centre Court rises again for one of its great champions
— Wimbledon (@Wimbledon) July 10, 2022
Congratulations, @DjokerNole👏#Wimbledon | #CentreCourt100 pic.twitter.com/RAm2mm56pS
The Duchess takes to the court for presenting duties.
Kate is joined by Ian Hewitt to thank volunteers.
Commiserations to Nick.
And congratulations to Novak.
A wave from Kate.
William, Kate and George congratulated Djokovic. George was excited to hold the trophy, with William telling him: "Don't drop it."
"Don't drop it!" 😅
— Wimbledon (@Wimbledon) July 10, 2022
It's been a special first #Wimbledon visit for Prince George 🏆#CentreCourt100 | @KensingtonRoyal pic.twitter.com/VKXg06hPCU
The Duchess was in Alessandra Rich for the day.
Kate wore the sold out Chelsea-collar polka-dot silk-crepe dress. Described as: "Alessandra Rich’s navy polka-dot dress is rendered in silk crepe with a tie at the 1980s-inspired Chelsea collar, then accented with a peplum and crystal-embellished buttons."
Kate teamed the dress with her Alessandra Rich Suede and Patent Leather pumps. They are available at My Theresa.
The Duchess accessorised with her sapphire and diamond jewellery.
And her Cartier Ballon Bleu watch.
And her Bvlgari BV8170 cat-eye sunglasses.
After thirty years behind the microphone of the BBC's Wimbledon coverage, Sue Barker is hanging it up. A former professional player herself, Sue's combination of winning personality and intense knowledge of the players made her one of the favourite voices behind tennis. Sue will be deeply missed, though I do hope to see her enjoying a match or two in the Royal Box next year.
With the children on holiday, I expect the Cambridges might take a trip to Mustique this month. The Commonwealth Games kick off in Birmingham on the 28th, and I expect there will be a break in the summer holiday for a couple of appearance there. I'll keep you updated and hope you're all enjoying the summer :)
One of the years, she’ll make it a mother-daughter outing and bring Charlotte as her date to a Wimbledon match.
ReplyDeleteMeanwhile, it’s a credit to Kate’s beauty and aura that she can manage to look good in these fussy Alessandra Rich dresses that she seems to love. (Well, maybe except for the gold floral number she wore on departure from the Caribbean team).
Yes, that Caribbean number was a horror. Usually I am a goner for white dots on any blue background but particularly navy. It’s classic. This has way too much happening but she’s an peplum fan from way back.
DeleteHow fun to see George and William and Catherine. Can hardly believe George is almost 9. They all looked great. I will pass on the dress Catherine is wearing, too much going on for me with the ruffles, the sleeves the pearl buttons, Wonderful afternoon of tennis.Ali
ReplyDeleteDitto, Anonymous! Definitely too much is going on this dress!
DeleteA round of applause for young Prince George. He is handling himself very well in public. William and Kate said they wanted a happy family during their engagement interview. It is wonderful to see their dreams coming true with the couple and their three darling children.
ReplyDeleteI love all of Kate's jewelry that she wore today.
Ditto G.A.!! Their vision & all their hard fought work to have that life they so wanted, despite all the critics, makes it pure joy to see them all now!! :)
DeleteBecca USA
kate really seem to like Polka dots, this dress is very nice, she looks great, always elegant and classy .So nice to see George to like Tennis. In the last two weeks we seen lots of members of the RF visit Wimbledon and enjoy themself and support their favorite players.
ReplyDeleteI don't love this look but lovely to see some of the family and it was a good match!
ReplyDeleteThe dress is way too fussy and frumpy, even the cute shoes cannot make up for it. Im surprised they brought George as Kyrios is well known for his outbursts.
ReplyDelete-celticgirl
@zipzipzippy - agreed! Would like to see Kate bring Charlotte (equal representation) to the women's championship and was expecting to see George attend today. It was very kind of Novak to hand his trophy to George in the clubhouse after the match. The match was wonderful - so glad that Kyrgios won that first set. No doubt George heard some very colorful language, Kyrgios wouldn't stop talking (yelling) to his box.
ReplyDeleteI was surprised to see when Kate and George arrived that they were greeted by William (he had already arrived). Thanks Charlotte for sharing Sue Barker's retirement. Impressive that she was in the role for 30 years. Agreed that it would be wonderful to see her "enjoying" the tennis in years to come.
So surprised to see Kate in Alessandra Rich AGAIN. And while my first thought was polka dots again, I tried to count up how many polka dot dresses Kate owns and honestly it wasn't the many considering her extensive wardrobe. It looked good on Kate but not one of my favorites. I was excited to see her wearing the sapphire and diamond necklace again. Finally, I like that Kate's hair is long because it hangs down her back, and it does look nice.
I too was thinking how beautiful Kate's hair looked & how many women have to get extensions to have hair that long. Hers looks so lush & healthy! I'm so impressed how she does what she likes with regards to her hair & her outfits/accessories, despite how others feel about these things. I think it's yet another wonderful sign of her confidence, sense of self & beauty inside & out! xoxo
DeleteBecca USA
They may have ages they want the children to be for various outings/activities. May also depend on each childs interests and personal stages of development. ali
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Deletethere are multiple photos of charles hugging both his children at all different ages.
DeleteOh no another new Alessamdra Rich dress in blue polka dots.
ReplyDeleteWow, the Duchess is really a fan of Alessandra Rich dresses! I'm not, I'm afraid, and frankly don't think most of those we've seen have been all that flattering on her. Aside from being overly fussy, as others have pointed out, they have a tendency to over-emphasize the Duchess's long-waistedness. I just don't think that AR designs do her figure any great favors, though the bright blue example she wore the other day looked much better on her than others.
ReplyDeleteAs I've said before, though, I do like those shoes.
I'm not a fan of Pimm's either, alas. Every version I've been offered has involved cucumber, which I just can't seem to handle in an alcoholic beverage. I suppose that means I don't belong courtside at Wimbledon, but I'd love to be sipping a Honey Deuce while watching the US Open.
Perfect!
ReplyDeleteI continue to praise Kate's hair! And there was one photo in which her hair was crunched so it looked like it was shoulder length and curled and it was SO attractive. I admit I really like the dress today and loved yesterday's. I thought yesterday's hat was spectacular. I'm sure I sound like a crabby old American, but I think even royal children, and maybe especially royal children, should not make adult appearances until they are older teenagers. I know I am probably the only one in the world to think this. :)
ReplyDeleteNot to worry: you're not. However, when I expressed that opinion on this site not too long ago, I received some, er, backlash. I was concerned about a walkabout in Cardiff, where Prince George and Princess Charlotte had displayed some clear discomfort, but no one agreed that perhaps such experiences could wait a bit. And most people seemed to think it was fine for Prince George to appear at the evening Jubilee events, such appearances being similar to this one at Wimbledon.
DeleteI think different opinions on this subject are normal and entirely acceptable. I can only say that if it were my child -- and even if I were the Duchess of Cambridge, with an eldest child who would someday be king -- I'd wait a while on the front-row public appearances and walkabouts. Childhood passes so quickly. The royal children's lives will never be "normal," but there's no need to force the inherent abnormality of their existence upon them before they've even reached adolescence. There's plenty of time yet for that.
I respect your comments as being child-centered, but I disagree with your conclusion that George shouldn't have appeared as he did at Wimbledon. With his parents on either side of him, George was able to see HOW they each work a receiving line, which is a skill he will need for the rest of his life. It did not appear that he was being prodded to offer more small talk than he wished. Wimbledon's receiving line was not a high-stakes political gathering, it did not take place in front of large crowds. It seemed to be in a somewhat private entryway rather than in a very public area. I thought it was an excellent choice of venue for acclimating him to what will become routine and (in time) hopefully comfortable, which is only possible because of the practice that this type of event provided.
DeleteI agree that it seemed like a very agreeable outing for George. If this was merely a family outing to enjoy tennis, then no problem with him (and Charlotte) attending. But he is being groomed to be the heir. I understand how upsetting this thought is, but it would be nice to wait until George can comprehend what this means and perhaps even choose his future. If he doesn't want the job, why not Charlotte or Louis? If they all decline, there are children of cousins (I doubt Archie or Lili would want the job). I have no doubt that the 3 children can have enough insight into their parents' lives to wait until they are 18 to participate.
DeleteI actually wasn't thinking about or referring to the receiving line, but one can certainly learn those skills at a somewhat older age. A few more years won't make a significant difference.
DeleteHis appearance right in the front row of the royal box was what I had in mind. I don't know whether people here are aware, but no other children are allowed to sit in the box. And how many get to hold the trophy?
One of the things I'd be worried about while raising a royal child would be preventing the growth of a vast sense of entitlement. I attended a famous prep school and two Ivy League universities. At all three institutions, I knew some very, very rich people, including a couple of members of hereditary aristocracies, who were quite insufferably entitled in their attitudes towards others, people who had not been privileged to share the sorts of experiences they had enjoyed from a too-early age. It simply seems to me that holding off on such experiences until a child is old enough and mature enough to put them in greater perspective isn't a bad idea.
Of course the Duke and Duchess are anxious to prepare George for his future role. However, he's very unlikely to become king at the age of 15 or 16. I think he can stand to be just a child who doesn't have to think about receiving lines, and whose life is as ordinary and non-privileged as the life of a royal heir can reasonably and realistically be, for some years to come.
William loved going to the tennis with his late Mother. S. ☺
DeleteHmm, well a lot has been explained here, but I would disagree that George should not have been at Wimbledon. Think I read that Kate said "This is a treat for George", don't believe that it was all 'training and prepping', think it was genuinely an outing and a chance for him to see if it's something he wants to continue to attend. It did seem that William loved going to tennis with his mother as S states, and perhaps this was a chance to expose George to the same experience. Sporting events are a great opportunity for children to be involved, and an example would be the two children chosen for the coin toss, should they not have been given the chance? As to entitlement, I think that both William and Kate appear to be as grounded as possible and displaying a thoughtful approach to parenting, but then time will tell. The Spanish and Scandinavian royal families have involved their children at early ages as well, and by all accounts it appears that they are well rounded, non entitled individuals who have had good role models.
DeleteI appreciate the comments on this topic - thanks Allison! FYI, I'm not a parent but appreciate good parenting. I did watch Diana and the experiences she had. I appreciated her one-on-one times her boys - remember her introducing Will and Harry to homelessness. And she was so young at the time.
DeleteHM learned she would be Queen when she was 10-years-old and the direct line of succession. Her upbringing was so different, as was Charles. Times change, and social media is a driver. As a child, my life was so much easier when I was 8 to 12 - after that it was so difficult. My confidence vanished. I loved the years I was at girl scout camp learning respect, skills, and interacting with adults. Those were the years I had so many epiphanies.
And I don't remember William attending many events as a teenager. Once he went to boarding school, was he exposed much to Diana's or Charles' role and responsibility?Granted 15 at Diana's death but what did Charles expose him to? Other than photo calls skiing, maybe a theater production here or there, and family celebrations, I thought it was wonderful that they could be teenagers with no one watching. Overall it is such a different life, isn't it? They spend Christmas with the Queen! None of use could know but again, I think Kate and William really work at being good parents. :-)
I agree with Vittoria and Allison here. George seems a shy boy and doesn't seem to enjoy the attention. I am sure he did enjoy watching the match and meeting the players, but surely all eyes were on him and it must not be a good feeling at that age (or at any age, for shy people!). And was it really necessary to dress him so formally? Is there a dress code at Wimbledon apart from the players? Don't get me wrong, I am sure Kate and William are doing their best as parents, in a very complicated situation. They seem to surround their kids with love, and surely that will help them along the way.
DeleteI agree that George is at the right age right now and that is is easier for him to be introduced gradually when he enjoys it than later when he is a teenager.
DeleteAlso I don't think he will grow to be entitled because he experiences things other children his age don't and never will. That's going to happen to him his whole life. What might happen is that he will grow to be unfazed by meeting illustrious people. An useful resource for a future head of state.
Good points Natacha! William and Kate seem to be trying to balance their children's exposure to certain experiences and agree that a certain level of comfort and confidence will definitely be an asset for them in the future.
DeleteWhen to introduce the kids to public events must be a constant topic of conversation between William and Kate. As far as Wimbledon is concerned if it was me I would have brought him earlier in the week to watch some of the games on the outside courts. More of a fun outing for him, than a royal engagement.
DeleteI love this dress. For me it is perfect.
ReplyDeleteThe Duchess looked happy, relaxed, classy and elegant. It was wonderful to see young George…he looks like such a wonderful blend of his Grandfather Michael and his Dad.
I also always thought George was a mix of his maternal grandfather and his dad. I am not a big fan of
DeleteKate’s dress but I think she is able to carry herself in such a way that it works for her.
I agree that George is definitely a mix of his father and maternal grandfather. I am not a fan of this dress that Kate is wearing but she is able to carry herself with such poise that she is able to pull it off.
DeleteIs it OK to say that I admired Kate and William's gentle & supportive parenting of George, their talent of showing poise without grandstanding, and their overall styling...but I think this may be the most unflattering and unattractive dress I've ever seen Kate wear. Very 1980's with ruffles and a peplum and all those polkadots (again!). I think it is getting gimmicky to wear polka dots to tennis tournaments. Are the polka dots supposed to remind us of tennis balls? I suppose there are women who buy these dresses, but for one of the fashion icons of England who has an exceptionally generous clothing budget? Kate - you can do better than this!!!
ReplyDeleteI agree. Her look has become so obvious and lacking all subtlety and style. I really dislike these Alessandra rich dresses I’m just baffled as to how anyone can see elegance or style or sophisticated design. Plus I fear Kate just looks more and more as if they clothes wear her and not the other way around. I continue to prefer the stylings of other European royal women (although that assertion often gets pushback in these comments) who all have a clear look and vision and image Re: their style and role and all consistently wear what works for them (not that they don’t have missteps too). Kate always strikes me as either following a very old royal style playbook or just missing the mark when attempting fashion forward moments. My wish for her is that she find a happy medium between those options. I think she was better at this earlier in her marriage.
DeleteA lovely post, as always~thank you thank you!!
ReplyDeleteAbsolutely adored this dress! The sleeves, collar, peplum, polka dots and. . .everything! Makes her look very feminine yet professional and classy.
ReplyDeleteWe may be in the minority artistwriter but I loved this dress, especially the collar and sleeves, and well the shoes were perfect. She looked as you said "feminine yet professional" and she is alway's classy. The three of them together photographed very well!
DeleteLike others, I find some Alessandra Rich dresses to be too fussy. Nevertheless, this navy polka dot version is an improvement over the rather gaudy yellow print Kate wore in the Caribbean. Kate is so tall and slim, and if she wants to lean into that, go for it. However, I just feel that if a few elements were subtracted (who needs a long skirt and pleats and a peplum and ruched sleeves and big collar), it would look lovely.
ReplyDeleteFantastic game. 👍. A lovely day out for the family but I think poor George was feeling the heat. I love this dress on the The Duchess. Of course extra sapphires are always welcome, they really suit her and her priceless engagement ring very well. S. ☺
ReplyDeleteLoved the shoes and jewels. And the way she conducts herself is just always flawless. Pass on the dress.
ReplyDeleteWhat an outstanding tournament! I’m sure George and his parents will process the match (and any others they’ve watched) in terms of athletic analysis and sportsmanship that comes with being a public figure. I think it’s lovely that they both accompany him to these big sports finals! Lots of loving pictures and video were captured with all 3 of them.
ReplyDeleteThis dress isn’t my favorite but she certainly looks nice. I feel like her yellow dress was more of a wow moment when she was here by herself, and today she wore something that felt familiar and blended with her family to make a cohesive group and less attention on her. Thank you for all the work you do Charlotte! I love reading about the extra stuff like the coin toss nominees. :) Thanks! Sue
I think you are right Sue. Yesterday was Kate's day and highlighted a strong, confidant woman. Today she blended and let the focus be on George's experience. The stories about the young adults chosen for the coin toss was touching and what a wonderful experience for them, very deserving.
DeleteWhile the dress is fussy, Catherine wears it well. I don't think I'd like it in a pale or bright colour. Love those shoes and her hair is just beautiful. Prince George is growing up so fast and it's great to see him out and about with his parents lately. Thank you Charlotte for your great work, greetings from 🇦🇺 Australia. Bronwyn.
ReplyDeleteNot really a fan of this dress but again Kate can wear anything. Lovely to see George at his first Wimbledon! (Jax/Canada)
ReplyDeleteWhat an outstanding tournament! I’m sure George and his parents will process the match its fun and i enjoyed the match the dress is my favorite thing
ReplyDeleteYes, there was a lot to process. It was noteworthy that William and George were absent for a few games after the most disgusting, crude, disgraceful outbursts and I am sure that was very intentional parenting. It is sad that children cannot even attend a wholesome tennis match theses days, Good grief
DeleteThe parenting style we saw today is brave, real and not sheltering. WOW.
Catherine is absolutely lovely.
I think they left for a time because poor George was overheating in that dark suit and tie and was probably a bit hungry and thirsty and needed a break as any 8 year-old would....
DeleteSuch a timeless and classic beauty! 🥹♥️
ReplyDelete-FloridaGirl
Kate looked great. Would like to see her in designs if there than Alessandra Rich (too much going on) but she did look great. Wonder if William & George had to arrive separate so that 2 future monarchs weren’t traveling together. George is about the age he would travel in other vehicles/planes/helicopters, etc.
ReplyDeleteI watched some of the match it was thrilling but as it was on in the early hours of the morning here in Australia I couldn’t stay up through to the end. Nice to see Kate William and George there. I’m not a fan of this dress to similar to the yellow she wore in the Caribbean the peplum style doesn’t suit Kates figure and I’m surprised how many AR dresses you would want for your summer appearances when there are so many other designers to choose from. Shoes and hair and make up looked lovely today. Sue
ReplyDeleteThese 80s inspired dresses are not a look I like on the Duchess. But that's only my opinion haha. Nice to see the family together enjoying tennis though.
ReplyDeleteI had not realized how hot it is in the UK. It is 103 in Texas and I go outside only to take care of our animals. I can't imagine how poor George felt in a suit! And I noticed that Royal Box occupants did not wear hats. That's just hard to think about.
ReplyDeleteLovely to see Prince George ! Is polka dot in season ? Alessandra Rich dresses seem like they will look dated in a few years. The duchess does wear them well though.
ReplyDeleteThere are more news articles on George dressed like a “politician” in the sweltering heat. If K and W want to modernize the monarchy they could start by toning down the stringent sufficating dress codes and not requiring their kids to be mini versions of themselves.
ReplyDeleteIf dress codes never changed we’d all be wearing bloomers, corsets and layers of petticoats.
Many on this blog have commented on the sometimes frumpy aging outfits K wears. It pains me to see the kids looking overdressed and uncomfortable being groomed for future roles. A lack of autonomy and self determination can be very damaging mentally and physically. M&H are among the few to speak out and break out of royal constraints. Others like Zara have said how glad they are not to have titles so they can live a normal life which includes not feeling compelled to wear tights with trainers.
-celticgirl
I tend to agree with you here Celtic Girl I did think it was unnecessary for George to be so formal for the tennis match. I know its the Royal Box etc and there are dress codes but that wouldn't apply to a child and if he had a nice shirt and smart shorts or Chino's he would have been cooler and it would have looked appropriate on him. I look at a lot of what the Danish RF do with their children and I think they do it well. Sue
DeleteThere is a dress code for wimbledon, you don't sit in the royal box in a T short.
DeleteI hope George's was a linen jacket.
And yes, there are lots of constraints to their role that can be damaging. The way to go forward for them is to see their life as service, as giving back their privilege. But the public should be aware of the limitations and constraints and be if not grateful at least fair. There is a lot of envy and feeling of ownership towards the RF.
As for introducing or not the children and particularly George to his role early, well he has to be introduced. The only way he can learn is by practice. As someone commented above, better now , old enough to understand and be eager to learn than later, when he is a teenager and has lost the confidence of childhood.
Natacha, agree, plus I assume William and Catherine and their very involved extended families can all manage to consider all the issues around raising George, Charlotte and Louis and can chart the best course for their family and each child. Will there be some missteps but of course welcome to being a parent, a spouse, a friend, a co worker etc.Ali
DeleteIt always surprises me a bit to hear so much about what Kate wears but maybe fashion is the main topic in these posts. Guess I happen to admire that Kate always conducts herself well, is authentic and genuine in her expressions, and serves to support important causes. She radiates self confidence and enjoyment in both her professional role in the Royal Family and as a busy loving mother of 3 children. Kudos to her and I thought she looked lovely in all her appearances at Wimbledon.
ReplyDeleteAllison in US
DeleteYou are correct, although detail in more recent years has focused on the work of The Duchess. The blog began as mostly fashion, or at least a lot of fashion. Charlotte used to even have posts about "How Would You Style The Duchess" and give scenarios. So yes, you are correct, the blog used to be mostly about fashion and has changed some over the years to the work.
DeleteI was so impressed with Novak's demeanor and humbleness with his win. I also thought that Wimbledon set a wonderful example of not letting politics get into sports by allowing all tennis players, vaccinated or not, to play. As Novak said, he won't be allowed to play in New York. This means we won't be seeing the best tennis, we will just be seeing tennis. Sad that it has come to this.
ReplyDeleteI'm somewhat on the other side of that coin. Personally as someone in marketing, Novak had to behave "humble" (and that's not stating that he wouldn't be humble anyway) given his strong stance on non-vaxing. IMHO, he was doing damage control - he lost fans, and even after the tournament his wife got into a twitter feud. Trust me, I think he's a great tennis player and I even met him when I was working the LA Tennis Open back in the early 2000's when he turned pro (which is why I kinda cheer for him).
DeleteIn regards to "seeing the best tennis" keep in mind that Wimbledon restricted Russian players. Which brings me to Elena Rybakina - the women's champion. She lives and was born in Russia but 'joined' the allegiance to play for Kazakhstan (so much press on this topic, I hope she can manage it all). These are very difficult times - no doubt. We don't all have the same freedoms (democracy - just think about the Olympic boycotts over the years) and there will always be outliers, and mental health (Wills, Harry and Kate's focus) has now edged out players. Just look at what is going on with golf and the LIV tour. Definitely we both agree - it is sad - but there will always be great champions to watch.
I guess this is near vacation time, and I think the Cambridge family deserves time away from all cameras. As I watch, it's easy to take for granted that their job is to be in the public. They can't take a day off from a scheduled event and have much of their schedule planned for them. I thought all the appearances during AND after the Jubilee were amazing. And other family members are appearing so often -- thinking of Zara and Beatrice (who is looking SO good!). I think it is more of a Jubilee year and weekend. But I'm sure Kate is looking forward to just relaxing on a beach! And she deserves it. Its a little hard to remember but she really changed royal marriages -- so different from Charles and Diana and from the Queen and PP.
ReplyDeleteHello, Charlotte,
ReplyDeleteIs it possible for you to go back down memory lane and republish your blog from the very beginning? Maybe add more pictures or info? Not all at once... just a writing here and there. Maybe add in a memory of you first starting and your thoughts ... it might be enjoyable for us while we are waiting for the Autumn schedule to start up. Everything you write is so well done. Thank you!
Rachel
A great idea Rachel, thank you. There will be several posts for the quiet period :)
DeleteI think the dress was fine - whether we like or not, fussy eighties styles are back and super fashionable - and she looks beautiful in almost anything. But can we talk about those shoes?? SO gorgeous! I love those!
ReplyDeleteHello Charlotte,
ReplyDeleteis there a chance that the Cambridges are on summer holiday?
Evi
Hello Evi, I think there's a strong chance. Possibly a fortnight in Mustique.
DeleteI realize you do all the work and I have all the fun, but I wish the excellent The Royal Digest would make a return. I do appreciate all you do. The Duchess Kate blog is excellent and always a good read.
ReplyDeleteThank you G.A, it's on my wish list to write it again when I have more time :)
Delete