Good evening, dear readers! With less than a fortnight to go until Christmas, the Waleses shared their annual festive card image tonight. Taken over the summer by Matt Porteous at their Norfolk home Anmer Hall, the fivesome are pictured smiling in denim and shades of blue. It marks the couple's first Christmas card in their new titles, Prince and Princess of Wales. On Twitter, Kensington Palace shared the image, with the accompanying message: "Sharing a new picture of the family for this year's Christmas card."
The Princess wore her
M.I.H. Jeans Mabel shirt with blue jeans. Below, Kate wearing the piece during the 'Back to Nature' display at RHS Chelsea in 2019.
The broderie anglaise piece features scallop trim on the neck and puffed sleeves. The delicate floral detail is a striking element in the piece.
Kate sported her
Superga Cotu sneakers.
It comes days after the release of the King and Queen Consort's Christmas card. Charles and Camilla chose a photo from the Braemar Games in September by Samir Hussein.
In 2014, William and Kate released adorable photos of Prince George (those cheeks!) taken on the steps of Kensington Palace by Prince Harry's former private secretary, Ed Lane Fox.
In 2015, they released a beautiful portrait taken among the autumn leaves at Kensington Palace. The Palace said the photograph was commissioned for their own use, but the couple decided to make it public because they liked it so much. It was taken by Wiltshire-based photographer Chris Jelf.
In 2016, William and Kate chose a lovely image of the family taken during the Royal Tour of Canada for their Christmas card photo.
2017 saw the most formal photograph we've seen. It was taken at Kensington Palace by Chris Jackson.
It was an autumnal Anmer Hall portrait for 2018. I adore this one. The expressions on the children, the background -- I expect it takes pride of place in their home.
In 2019, the family were coordinated in blue ensembles on a vintage motorbike and sidecar.
In 2020, William and Kate released an outdoorsy casual portrait from Anmer Hall. Against the background of a firewood shed and sitting on hay bales, the family were all smiles with George beside William, a laughing Louis in the middle, and Charlotte on Kate's knee. It's a beautiful family photo. The image was also taken by Matt Porteous.
Last year, it was a family photo taken in Jordan. The country holds special significance for the Duchess, as the Middleton family lived in Jordan when Kate was two and Michael was working for British Airways. During a solo visit to Jordan in 2018, William said his wife "loved" her time there. Kate attended an English language nursery before returning to England two years later.
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Speaking of Christmas, preparations are in full swing for Kate's second annual Carol Concert at Westminster. On Thursday afternoon, it is expected George, Charlotte and Louis will join their parents, the King and Queen Consort and the Middleton family for the event, which is set to air on ITV Christmas Eve.
In a promo, Kate says: "Join us this Christmas Eve for a very special service at Westminster Abbey, full of festive carols and beautiful performances, as we celebrate what makes this the most wonderful time of year. This year’s carol service is dedicated to Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II and the values Her Majesty demonstrated throughout her life, including duty, empathy, faith, service, kindness, compassion and support for others."
The ruffled neck dress is described as: "A vision of tulle and shimmering embellishment, the Aurora gown from Needle & Thread presents a grown-up way to wear sequins. From chevrons and diamonds to floral shapes and horizontal panels, each and every one has been purposefully placed, resulting in a light-catching finish that's sure to garner a whole host of compliments."
There were several reports suggesting a pre-Christmas trip to Cardiff is scheduled for William and Kate. With the children on holidays from Lambrook on Friday, and Kate's concert on Thursday, tomorrow seems the most likely date, though nothing has been confirmed.
I can't say I'm excited by this red Aurora dress, which strikes me as much too glitzy -- especially for a midi-length item. (The Princess evidently had it shortened, no mean feat when it comes to tulle.) I said in my comment about the red Packham worn to the diplomatic reception that all-over beading/sequins wasn't greatly to my taste, but I thought that dress worked well for a formal affair, and I loved the elegant silhouette. The embellishment here isn't as successful, and as I said, I don't think it quite suits the length. Too much.
ReplyDeleteNice card, very attractive. The Waleses' lives have changed so much in such a short period of time that they must be reeling a bit. They suddenly have a great deal to reflect upon and consider as the holidays arrive and the year comes to an end. I wish them luck -- and peace.
I appreciate your comment Vittoria, as I think many don't take into account that the Waleses' lives have changed so much and in quite a significant way. I too hope that they take this time to reflect and I too wish them much luck and above all else peace!!
DeleteCharlotte, I just wanted to take a moment and thank you as always for your positive, non-gossopy coverage of both Meghan and Kate. I feel like with the Netflix doc coming out there is so much negativity and vitriol, and as a fan of both women, it's hard to see and navigate, so I can only imagine it must be difficult for you as well. Thank you for not taking sides, and for being a role model of royal coverage. I wish you a happy holiday season and the best for both your blogs in the New Year!
ReplyDeleteI completely agree. Well said!
DeleteI second this sentiment!!!
DeleteWell said. Claire! I agree completely.
DeleteI too am a fan of both families and appreciate the fair coverage on this site. It looks like the Wales family is going on with life as usual, while the Sussex family is trying to struggle through their commitments trying to make a living. One is a fairy tale and the other is just a "tale". I pray that these familes will come through these times and be happy together.
Delete… how exactly are the Sussexes struggling through their commitments? They’ve had a top ranked pod cast, documentary, and pre sale of a book. They seem happy and in love.
DeleteWhat a darling photo! They sure are a handsome family and I love how many of their photos are out in nature. Looking forward to the Christmas concert. Thanks Charlotte- Sue
ReplyDeleteLovely Christmas photo. It’s a shame how little we’ve seen of the princess this month. I was hoping to see her doing something to support others for the holidays since she is the Princess of Wales now. Just a thought.
ReplyDeleteLovely card, but I would have liked a more winter/ Christmas theme. There is lots of speculation online that Kate wants a 4th. So I am wondering if this card will be the last one has a family of 5.
ReplyDeleteAbsolutely nobody's business but theirs. Most 'online speculation' is a lot of tosh.
DeleteAgreed, Cath. No one online knows what she is thinking or wants. I really caution everyone to be extremely skeptical of any claims of this kind, and that includes claims about the royals made in trashy tabloids by so-called "royal experts" and "royal correspondents".
DeleteHoly cow, there's enough speculation without that being added to the mix. If it happens, then we can all deal with it then, but for now they are a very lovely family of 5!.
DeleteA lovely photograph of all of them.
ReplyDeleteI thought this red dress was a bit too much coming right after that gorgeous diplomatic reception dress, but it is festive and I do like the earrings. Kate's shorter hair is so pretty in 2020. The card is very nice, and I think people will really enjoy it. I'm not a fan of children being formal, so this is quite pleasant and appropriate.
ReplyDeleteGreat Christmas photo. They all look relaxed and happy and embracing their new home. So many changes over the year for all of them, lots and lots to process and adjust to. They have had many of the major traumatic life events in the last year and hopefully are well supported by family, and friends. Ali
ReplyDeleteLovely. What a beautiful family! Looking forward to the concert.
ReplyDeleteMay I wish you, Charlotte, your family, and our treasured family here on Chronicling Kate, a wonderful holiday season. Hugs to all.
TEDI❤️
Very much looking forward to the concert, and I love this photo! Hugs to you too Tedi, your comments are always so sweet, succinct and positive!
DeleteMerry Christmas and Happy Hanukkah to Everyone, especially Charlotte and her wonderful husband who helps her. 🌹. I love the photos take for the holiday cards sent by the BRF.
ReplyDeletewhat a lovely photo the wales children are all grown up looking forward for Christmas concert
ReplyDeleteI will say I am disappointed in the card. I liked 2014, 2018, 2018 and 2020. I can’t get over the summery pictures for Christmas. It’s not that hard to set up a more festive and end of the year look. I also find the colours really drab against the vibrant green background.
ReplyDeleteThey can do better
beautiful family portrait would of been so much nicer though if wills was looking at the camera! looking forward to the concert
ReplyDeleteLovely family photo and the children are growing so fast it makes me feel old! I like the dress Kate chose to wear for the Carol concert promo but I like her hair style from the photo taken in 2020 it looks so much livelier than the current way it is styled now. Sue in WA
ReplyDeleteI like the card, but nothing compares to that 2020 photo.
ReplyDeleteI wish that they would do something a little more Christmasy, though. Which may be why I like 2020 the best. The colors they are wearing, sitting in front of chopped wood....at least it looks like it might be cold outside, lol
I agree Amy from Detroit, I'm Amy from Detroit too.
DeleteI also wish Kate hand done a few more engagements in December. I thought we would have seen one or two more engagements this month before the children are on holiday.
Aww, maybe I should turn the Amy:Detroit moniker over to you now, I recently moved to Florida, lolololol
DeleteI agree with you. It’s a nice family summer snap. Not quite what I expected. The Princess needs to ditch that jeggings look for official portraits but t I like her blouse a lot. Wish the prince had been looking at the camera.
Delete- Karen in Virginia
I like the card and also wish William was looking at the camera like everyone else is. He's the only one looking off to the side and I feel like it throws the picture off a bit. I don't mind that there's a summer photo on a Christmas card. Our Christmas cards always have pictures from where we've been and what we've done over the year, so ours are very rarely Christmas/winter-themed.
ReplyDeleteIt's not looking likely a visit to Cardiff will happen today, but is it too much to hope they'll still go, maybe even with the children? Possibly 🙂. I'll be interested to see if/how Kate's schedule changes next year once she gets more settled in her new role.
I hope that we do see more engagements from Kate in 2023 as her role as Princess of Wales. Maybe a tour in the spring!!
DeleteIs there a way to watch the Carol Concert in the US?
DeleteAnon, I completely agree about the 2020 card. It's like all my Christmas card dreams came true with that card HAHAHAHA! But seriously.
DeleteI agree far too few engagements in December particularly as they are likely to have a 4 week Christmas break . Even looking at the court circular there are minimal meetings. I think they could have gone to food banks and warm rooms and actually help those less fortunate
DeleteHonestly, I just feel lucky that they shared a nice photo with us. I’m kind of over any negative comments about a sweet shot. The family is in nature and smiling. They clearly like it, and that’s good enough for me! :) sue
ReplyDeleteAmen, Sue!
DeleteI feel the same way, seriously, it's a lovely photo and it's their photo, and happy they shared it with us. Kudos to them for trying something different, I think the smiles say it all, especially on George and Charlotte. Louis looks like he is still trying to figure it all out :).
DeleteI am underwhelmed by the Christmas card.
ReplyDeleteIt's always a pleasure to see the Christmas cards from previous years, because that's how I realize that time passes at an incredible speed. I wish that one day, Kate and William will share a photo taken during the holidays, with a Christmas tree or fairy decorations...
ReplyDeleteDear Charlotte, thank you for your work on this blog and on the blog dedicated to Meghan. With some advance, I wish you a beautiful holiday season.
Love their 2022 picture because of the natural expressions on everyone's faces, perhaps because they were in motion...walking towards the camera. I really like their more casual positioning in 2022, 2021, and 2020 rather than their very formal, stiff pose/clothing in 2017. My only quibble is their overly-casual clothing. This is the PRINCE & PRINCESS of WALES and family!!! Denim won't transform them into more relatable people. We like that they are royalty. Why are they in everyday clothes? The typical (American) family that sends a photo card, chooses a stepped-up appearance of nicer-than-everyday clothes, but perhaps this is just an American thing? Do British photo cards usually show families in "just-your-average-Tuesday" clothing? The 2022 picture captures a lovely moment, but as a Christmas card, it looks (to me) like it was taken in the wrong season and the wrong clothing.
ReplyDeleteI’m American and plenty of my friends send their favorite photos from earlier in they year, and they are dressed casual. I don’t think the Princess likes to stage her children in formal photos. It’s very hard to get kids to all look in the same direction and not ham it up for the camera.
DeleteI think the formal Christmas picture is an American thing, but of late have seen many Christmas cards from Shutterfly with photos throughout the year, so maybe a shift. I think Susan that you are right about Kate not wanting to stage her children in formal photos. With William looking off to the side, and Louis not holding Charlotte's hand, I would be going crazy trying to pick the the perfect photo, but I think this captures a happy moment for the family. In fact, all of their Christmas photos feel very happy and that's the best kind of photo.
DeleteI love the red dress and also love the new tradition of her hosting a service at Christmas. Long may it continue! I also really like the Christmas photo although I don't like the trousers Kate was wearing (too tight in my view, we can see all the contours on the bottom half of her body! She's in amazing shape but I prefer what once would have been called a more modest look).
ReplyDeleteI love the card...it depicts the family in their real life setting, not staged or formal. Hats off to Kate and Will for keeping a normal life in such a high profile position. Kate has already been so busy this year, I don't know how she does it. Annette S
ReplyDeleteLovely card, cheerful and relaxed. I like it very much.
ReplyDeleteI like the casual photo. And who knows, maybe they weren't planning to use it as a Christmas card, but after QEII's death, I'm sure that they got a lot busier. And if you have a photo with everyone's eyes open, smiling, no wardrobe malfunctions, etc. - you take it an run (at my house anyway).
ReplyDeleteI do appreciate all of the comments from people, expressing hope that the brothers will find their way back together. Unfortunately, I don't see that happening (at least not for years), as both brothers appear to feel that they have been betrayed by the other, and it is very hard to come back from breaches of trust, particularly with the press/media involved.
As always, a wonderful post packed with information. I have to say this year may be knocking the 2020 Christmas card out of my top spot. I love the more relaxed photos that offer us a glimpse into the family life.
ReplyDeleteThe dress was pretty but I was hoping some something a little more relaxed but still festive. I think the plaid skirt and black sweater from the 2018 military family Christmas party - even just the plaid skirt with a different top would have been a nice change. Yes, it’s a special event but for me, the glitter took away from the tree and decorations behind her.
Every time I see the card from 2016 I think about the balloon man. Little did he know in that moment that he'd be one of five very important people to feature that year!
ReplyDeleteAnd Kate disappeared again for a week. I was so hoping that we will see her a lot in December, in fun and festive engagements. I am so disappointed. The children's winter holiday starts soon and Kate will be with them (which is absolutely understandable). I hope as the Princess of Wales she will increase her duties, because one engagement per week is really not enough.
ReplyDeleteIf I were her, I would disappear completely. I don't know how she manages to carry on.
DeleteAs a person who creates and produces concerts, I am sure that Kate has been in production meetings and rehearsals for weeks leading up to the concert that is being presented tonight. Especially this week, she has been present at those rehearsals seeing to the details of the concert as well as being in rehearsals. It takes hours and hours to produce such a concert. I think it is a lovely choice to put her energies into an event that the whole world can enjoy this holiday season.
DeleteHello everyone, I’d like to give a different perspective on this years Christmas card. I think it’s important to remember that our wonderful Royal Family is not only a “British” Royal Family, but our King is also Head of State for our Commonwealth of Nations. There are so many comments about how Catherine, William & the children being dressed in “summer” attire, doesn’t suit the festive season. Well … that comment might be appropriate if you live in the US or the UK … but, for many parts of the Commonwealth, Christmas is spent at the beach in the Summer. Wishing you all a wonderful Christmas from sunny Australia, and a year ahead that is very special for you all xx
ReplyDeleteWhat a lovely perspective Dee! Christmas looks different all around the world! :)
DeleteSo true, Dee. Thanks for reminding that huge parts of the planet are warm and sunny at this time of year!
DeleteI love her fashion choices lately and this red dress is spectacular!! Her body is in top shape!! She looks perfection and her hair has never looked healthier. She is a role model. The Family picture is beautiful, the children looks like models, Charlotte is stunningly beautiful for a child!! Love it all!
ReplyDeleteEarthshot 2022 was broadcast in the US last night on PBS. I, for one, was fine with the nominees being included via zoom (someone on a previous post was negative about that). Being able to participate remotely meant that everyone could attend. It most likely would have been difficult for some of the nominees to travel and handle all the expenses associated with a trip out of country for a one evening event. I am so very happy that Prince William has started and focused attention on this far-reaching effort as repairing the environmental damage to planet earth will take innovation and participation by everyone. I am in the architectural field and the US architectural professional organizations also have environmental goals to be met by 2030.
ReplyDeleteAnd regarding Catherine's fashion choices, honestly it gets to be a bit annoying to read the sarcastic comments and people's negative opinions about sparkles, tight jeans, flowers, ruffles, you name it... because they think she should be wearing what THEIR preference is. There have been many a time when people have complained about something (and comment on how matronly or dowdy she looks), when what she is wearing is actually current fashion. I believe Catherine is always dressed appropriately and when the comments and quotes are shared by the people who meet her, they always talk about how engaged she is in talking with them, being attentive to the conversation, friendly, smiling, asking questions, etc. And THAT, to me is the most important part of her presence at an event.
Border Terrier lover
I love the card, honestly. The kids are beautiful, happy and healthy, and Catherine and William look relaxed and lovely. I personally love that they're casual. Just a happy family, being as normal as possible under the circumstances. I see a great deal of security and confidence in this photo.
ReplyDeleteI really like this years christmas card photo! they all look happy, healthy and great. My only quirk about it is her jeans, they are waaaaay to tight. these do not flatter her wonderful figure in my eye in anyway. love her blouse though! fun to see how big the kids are getting. i like that PW is not looking at the camera, it seems more natural!
ReplyDelete