Thursday 19 January 2023

It's Roland Mouret for England Wheelchair Rugby League Reception

The Princess of Wales stepped out this afternoon to host a reception for the England Wheelchair Rugby League team in recognition of their success at the recent Rugby League World Cup at Hampton Court Palace.

The event was scheduled in Kate's role as Patron of the Rugby Football League.

The Princess' new role was confirmed over the autumn. In a statement, she said: "I am so thrilled to become Patron of the Rugby Football League and Rugby Football Union – two fantastic organisations who are committed to harnessing the power that sport can have in bringing communities together and helping individuals flourish. I look forward to working with them across all levels of the games, and to cheering England on in what promises to be an exciting year for both sports." At the time, Kensington Palace said the patronage "closely aligns" with Kate's "longstanding passion for sport" and "the lifelong benefits it provides".

The Princess was greeted upon arrival.

Embed from Getty Images

It's been an incredible time for the enormously talented England Wheelchair Rugby Team, owing to a smashing 28-4 victory against France in November. Take a look at the highlights from the game. The sense of joy is palpable -- and the win was so well deserved.

Kensington Palace said: "The win marked England’s first World Cup triumph since the inaugural Wheelchair tournament which was held in Australia in 2008."

Kate spent time with members of the squad and coaches, taking the opportunity to congratulate them on their success.

The Mirror reports:

'Asked whether her children were interested in rugby, she said: "We’re always slightly competitive with each other. They all love sport and Louis is mad about rugby. They are at an age where they just love running around."

The princess then divulged her own fitness schedule and added: "I do it all: whenever I can squeeze in exercise I do, even jumping on the trampoline with the children before school."

"I’d love to come and play," she said. "There’s no excuse now. We’re going to have to have a family training session."

Kensington Palace added: "Her Royal Highness heard about the impact that the Men’s, Women’s and Wheelchair competitions being played concurrently during the World Cup, a breakthrough moment in the tournament’s history, has had on the sport. The Wheelchair Final attracted a capacity crowd of 4,500, a new record for Wheelchair Rugby League, and was watched by a seven-figure broadcast audience."

Embed from Getty Images

Wheelchair Rugby League was founded in France in 2004. The sport is open to all, including those with or without disabilities, with men and women playing on the same team.

Embed from Getty Images

Established in 1895, the Rugby Football League is the national governing body for Rugby League in the UK -- covering all forms of grassroots and the professional game, including women’s and wheelchair rugby.

Embed from Getty Images

Hampton Court Palace is a lovely spot to host royal events and a key visitor attraction for those touring England.

It's history:

'The original Tudor Hampton Court Palace was begun by Cardinal Wolsey in the early 16th century, but it soon attracted the attention of Henry VIII, who brought all his six wives here. Surrounded by gorgeous gardens and famous features such as the Maze and the Great Vine, the palace has been the setting for many nationally important events.

When William III and Mary II (1689-1702) took the throne in 1689, they commissioned Sir Christopher Wren to build an elegant new baroque palace. Later, Georgian kings and princes occupied the splendid interiors. When the royals left in 1737, impoverished 'grace and favour' aristocrats moved in.

Queen Victoria opened the palace to the public in 1838. It has remained a magnet for millions of visitors, drawn to the grandeur, the ghosts and the fabulous art collection'.

The Princess was effortlessly stylish in the striking Roland Mouret suit she debuted in Boston before Christmas.

Embed from Getty Images

It's understood the suit was custom made for the Princess. It's impeccably tailored.

Kate wore her Gianvito Rossi suede burgundy pumps.

The Princess accessorised with her Daniella Draper Cupid hoops...

...and a new necklace by the jeweller. The eagle-eyed Susan from What Kate Wore and Data Duchess identified the piece as the Gold Citrine Baby Treasure Necklace.

The piece is described:

'The Citrine Baby Treasure Necklace is made using 100% recycled solid 9ct yellow gold & set with a beautiful citrine. Wear alone or layer with other DD necklaces to create your own unique look!

The birthstone for November, citrine assists in manifesting your biggest dreams, bringing in more success & prosperity.'

A huge congratulations to the team!

83 comments:

  1. What a wonderful repeat for the beautiful Mouret suit. Kate has really grown into the trend of pantsuits and this particular take on it looks amazing. I hope that this week is just the beginning of what many of us wished for - stronger presence of the Waleses. Unlike some other readers I am happy that W&K are sticking to their causes (early childhood, sports and nature for Kate and e.g.homelessness for William). I love how radiant and invested Kate is. I might need to save up for the white sweater!
    With all this being said, I also have to add that I am devastated for you, Charlotte, to be losing some of your readers on both blogs. I continue to enjoy your writing tremendously and I continue to enjoy following the royals despite some recent events. I have been a dedicated royal follower for over 12 years an I am quite sad to see that some other followers are "easily" or "quickly" dissuaded (on a basis that to mee seems not entirely transparent). The royal family is a robust institution, it has its its flaws, very obviously, and some members are probably not good people, but after many many years of royal following I am quite firm in my stance and interest in the royals and I am sad to see others losing their interest and changing their views quickly this year. This is my personal grievance - not meant to hurt anyone or to change anyone's mind, as of course we are all free to read whatever we please. I just hope we will not lose you Charlotte! Ella
    P.s. please Charlotte, feel free to omit any part of my comment - except for the praise of today's outfit :-)

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Agreed! I enjoy this blog so very much and since I am not on the inside of anything going on in the Royals' households, I plan to continue following with the same interest I have always had. Thank you for your well written comment and thank you Charlotte for this blog.

      Delete
    2. Thank you for saying what I have been thinking.

      Delete
    3. Thank you Anonymous19 January 2023 at 14:57 for writing what I've also been thinking.
      I've enjoyed Charlotte's blogs from the royal wedding and will still enjoy her writings into the future!
      Thanks Charlotte!

      Delete
    4. I 💯 agree & commend Charlotte for writing about the Royals in particular Catherine without bias , unkindness or disrespect . You bring her patronages to light & allow us to enjoy her style . As a proud Brit & monarchist living in Canada , Charlotte’s blog is my connection across the “pond” .

      Delete
    5. Your comment Anon 14.57 has plenty of wisdom. In all we read about the Royals, we only ever hear one side of the story. Whether the media reports amazing accomplishments, or controversial issues, the Royals do not elaborate. Their quiet dignity makes me have respect towards them. People who announce that they will no longer follow this blog, are looking for the bad in others, rather than the good. As with all humans, Kate is not perfect and those around her are not perfect, but by and large Kate does good work and highlights many causes, that would otherwise go unnoticed. She is respectful, kind, enthusiastic and genuine. Her fashion is interesting and always appropriate. All that is enough to keep me interested.

      Delete
    6. Agree and well said, Ella. I hope Charlotte continues in a way that brings her a sense of satisfaction and engagement as well as us, her readers.
      I understand and respect people are free to choose to stop following either blog based on what they are reading and feeling. I am trying to keep an open mind and understand that we are only hearing one side of a long, painful family dispute that has been made public. There are two sides (often more) to every story and we are not going to hear them all. The family breakdown we are witnessing in real time is distressing. Most family breakdowns are not a matter for public fodder and discussion. The royal institution is bigger than the family and will roll on and evolve with or without the relationships of the parties involved.

      Delete
    7. Agreed Anon! I have been a Royal follower British and others for over 40years and I will continue to do so. I will look forward to more on this blog and the new venture Charlotte has been working on. Sue in WA

      Delete
    8. Hear, hear to what everyone says. Well done Charlotte. I will still be here too.

      Delete
    9. I thought on first pictures of this event, showing female guests in dresses, that Kate's outfit looked rather businesslike for a reception. But when I see these photos with the suited and booted gents, her trouser suit makes the perfect foil for the official picture they will all presumably take home.

      Delete
    10. I agree with every comment. Clouds pass . S. 😄

      Delete
    11. I've been a reader of this blog for years and I just want to say Thank you, Charlotte! It can't be easy for you these days but I'm happy you're going to continue blogging and I'm looking forward to anything and everything you have in store for us! ❤️ Zora from Prague

      Delete
    12. I too have been following your wonderfully written blog on the now Princess of Wales for years and with keen interest. Thank you for all the work you put into bringing all of us so much more than just Catherine's outfits.... You highlight her causes, her kindness, her courage, her loyalty.... Please keep going. You and this blog are loved by many.

      Delete
  2. I love how Kate is looking today!!! She appears so relaxed and happy, radiant even!! Thank you for posting so quickly on this news along with yesterdays post. It’s always a treat when unexpected engagements (that I am not aware of personally) photos come of both William and Kate. They are just a darling couple and love seeing the work they do unfold beautifully. Charlotte, thank you for this blog. Again, I will repeat myself here, this is my own little happy place and have been a loyal reader since you started this blog. I’ve followed W&K since I can’t even remember, but I love it and enjoy it all still to this day. ♥️🥰

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Anonymous in Colorado21 January 2023 at 05:46

      Agreed!! I have been a follower for several years (2013?!) and am not going anywhere. Thank you so for all you do, Charlotte ❤️

      Delete
  3. Yessssss love the purple suit!

    Rachel

    ReplyDelete
  4. I agree, and I also feel that W & C are wise to perhaps carry a lighter workload and prioritize their children. Soon their children will be grown and they will have plenty of time to dedicate to their duties.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Excellent comment, agree with you totally.

      Delete
    2. My thoughts exactly. If there’s one thing to learn from Kate, it’s the importance of a happy, secure, loving childhood. I’m sure William also has feelings about what his mother went though as PoW and how that impacted his childhood. As long as the children are young, I suspect they will stick to their normal schedule and prioritize their children.

      Delete
    3. I agree. Even George at 9 is still only young to have undergone the upheaval of the last few months - new home, new school and sensing the stress of the change for the adults around him in their new responsibilities.
      Also, there will be much going on behind the scenes that we don't see - extra workload for William around the Cornwall estate, planning for the Coronation, etc.

      Delete
    4. Well said. The children they are giving priority to is the future King and Royal family. Besides all the changes over recent times, the children have had a much higher public profile. The Prince of Wales aged overnight when he became King. I think they should be allowed as much family time as possible especially when the children are so young. S😄

      Delete
    5. I think what some people don't appreciate that just because they are not out and about they are not working. They both have (but especially Prince William) meetings and staff to speak with every day. Plus the coronation coming up will be a huge undertaking. I have just read the the Australian Government are in talks with them for a Royal Tour in 2023. This all takes time and effort. I think if we were given a copy of their timetables of the work they do behind the scenes we would be amazed. Like the Queen who worked every single day (except Christmas Day) on her red boxes reading government papers and signing documents which she had to read thoroughly before signing.

      Delete
  5. Dear Charlotte and dear readers,
    I’m from those silent readers of this amazing blog and I will continue following W&K through this blog, despite all the recent events. As always very informative, pleasant and positive way of writing, which I admire. Please continue what you do, as I really think you are one of the best sources of information for the RF. I don’t really understand from fashion, so I don’t comment on a regular basis. But I’m really pleased to see repeats. In those difficult times, it is the way to show that the RF also understand what sustainable fashion is- repeats are part of it as well. On the note that W&K should have more visits - yes, I do agree that they have to have more visits but meaningful ones. If, we as ordinary people, are able to work full time and have kids, definitely they can also do it. But let’s be patient, the year is just starting.
    Best regards,
    Kristina from Bulgaria

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Very well said! To have all this family drama played out in the glare of the public eye is upsetting all round. And we have heard only one side of the story; we need to keep an open mind.

      Your work is very much appreciated Charlotte, and I hope it long continues.

      Delete
  6. Lovely engagement and as usual Kate looks lovely. Also, don’t go anywhere, I too am heartsick about what has gone on but I love this blog ❤️

    ReplyDelete
  7. Gorgeous outfit! I always wonder how Kate is able to wear so many very high heels, my feet have never been a fan, lol.

    ReplyDelete
  8. I really love this suit. The colour is gorgeous and it's a lovely shape.

    I also love that Wheelchair Rugby has had a higher profile. All the RL World Cups (Men's, Women's, Wheelchair) were played over the same period, and all were on TV, which is great.

    ReplyDelete
  9. Beautiful, I like this suit so much more with the simple white top underneath instead of the blouse with the bow. She looks like she's having fun, too! I always love the emphasis on health , sports, and fitness by her and Willam, and these folks are really strong players. Very uplifting and inspiring!

    ReplyDelete
  10. This is the best of royalty, in my view. Helping ordinary people to celebrate their achievements in a way they will always remember. Love the suit even more today than I did before (because I much prefer the white top and loathe pussy bow blouses!). She's doing a great job this week.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. You know, that is well said: Helping ordinary people celebrate their achievements...

      Delete
  11. Love this blog and always look forward to it. Enjoy the historical features, which are so informative.

    ReplyDelete
  12. I have been following your blog, Charlotte, since the beginning, and am not going anywhere! I love the content so much and appreciate all the hard work you put into it! Regardless of all the "noise" going on, I'm a huge admirer of this couple and look forward to reading about their future causes and engagements.

    ReplyDelete
  13. I am not a fan of trousers suits, I find them boring and I much prefer Kate in dresses. But I have to say, this suit is gorgeous. I agree with Lori, much better with the white top than the pink blouse.

    ReplyDelete
  14. Funny -- I thought this suit looked so good. Really like the suit and how Kate looks, including her air. Then I saw it was the Boston suit, which I did not like at all. The culprit is that pink blouse! :)

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Same! I didn't recognize it and was pleasantly surprised to discover it was the same one. It looks more "purple" whereas in Boston it looked more "maroon" to me.

      - Rachel

      Delete
  15. Good to see the PoW out and about again. A solid engagement highlighting the achievements of the team. They deserve this high-level recognition! Great suit too. Love that plum colour.

    On another note, what saddens me is the ongoing vitriol thrown at both Catherine and Meghan from both sides of their fan base on Twitter. Each side (not the press but the fan base) drag each woman down in the name of lifting the other woman up. We should be celebrating their strengths. Not comparing them and finding fault. Their roles, jobs, personalities, temperaments and styles are completely different. Perhaps what lead to some of the breakdown in the relationship in the first place? Pure speculation as only they will ever know the real truth. But it saddens me. I really should do a digital detox as Twitter can be a festering negativity pool!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. My thoughts exactly, Cara!! Thank you for articulating it so well.

      Delete
  16. Loving all of it this week. I have a great deal of respect for The Queen and love The Princess Royal and how dedicated they both were/are but also really appreciate how the younger royals have focused more on a few core passions. And I think that is just a reflection of how we have changed as a society. Even if Kate was out 3-5 times a week, if they were just traditional ‘bread and butter’ engagements(plaque unveiling, ribbon cutting, etc) I think her role would come across as shallow and frivolous. I think going deeper and being committed long term make for a richer position. And although we attribute it to William and Kate, Charles did it before and Sophie also has a few causes that are near and dear to her heart that she continually circles back to (PS - PLEASE say Sophie is a part of your new project?!?)

    That being said, I wouldn’t be opposed to Kate picking up some ‘bread and butter’ patronages, especially some that have been long supported by various previous senior royals. Sometimes in a job, you just need a few easy but still important tasks/roles.

    ReplyDelete
  17. I understand both sides and completely agree. If you started “royal watching” because of one person (ie, I really started to notice because of Kate) but then leave when that one person doesn’t do what you want and so you lose interest, that’s totally cool. But that is not really “royal watching”, that’s “insert person’s name” watching which is fine but also different.

    ReplyDelete
  18. Thank you for another terrific entry Charlotte! I enjoy each and every one. It’s so interesting to see how you can wear the same suit but make it look so different with the shirt, hairstyle and jewelry. Loving the repeats!

    I too have lots of feelings about the state of Royal watching. There are multiple sides, so much negativity, and I wish everyone would remember that William walked behind the casket, too. He also lost a mother. But I’m gonna focus on the positives from today with shining a light on homelessness (William) and rugby accolades (Catherine). Sue

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Sue, William did indeed lose his mother and have to follow the casket. The two boys did not have a regular home life as they were sent to school. When their mother died, they were not enveloped in a family but had to continue living away from their very busy relatives. I think both sons value their marriage and children above everything; I'm sure they've had enough of fighting and divorce. The consistency of the Middletons must be such a comfort to William, as are Doria and Meghan's niece to Harry. I feel they each had to find a family and they did.

      Have to say again how good this suit looks, especially in the second photo, the closeup.

      Delete
    2. He absolutely did, Sue, and has had to make many sacrifices (including giving up a beloved career as a rescue helicopter pilot) to proceed with a life that he didn’t choose. It’s a huge responsibility. I’m not naïve and realize there are many sides to this situation but I adore this couple, I truly do. I’ve been following this blog since the beginning and this only my second comment, but I feel compelled to speak up now. And I want to thank Charlotte again for creating this blog, my “happy place,” as another commenter said, and for highlighting these amazing causes. I agree with Katie C.H. that spotlighting fewer causes allows them to go deeper and I would also love to see Sophie included in the new blog! I have always admired her as well.

      Delete
    3. I always thought it was wrong to force W to give up his chosen career. I think (although the RF hasn't asked me) that the heir should not be chosen until they reach the age of 21. Then they have the option of refusing and it moves down the line. Charles might have refused so he could marry Camilla. Then the option should go to Anne. But it should never be something forced on a child.

      Delete
    4. Unfortunately I know from experience how loss and grief affects you at different ages. When I lost my 18 year old Brother, the next two years were a blur. Year's later when I lost my Mother I had more strength and life experience to help me cope, that and my faith. Yes both boys lost their Mother very young. William being that little bit older has helped him to cope and move on with his life. Harry was very young to have to deal with it while the world watched on. I don't know any family who haven't had trouble or people falling out. Time is a great help and healer.S.😄


      Delete
    5. Allison in US, I agree, especially if there is another sibling who truly wants the responsibility and the role more than the heir. It will be very interesting to see what things are like when William is King and George is older. Will they be open to more choice or will tradition prevail? Actually, I just realized that if the monarchs continue to live as long as they have, I probably won’t be alive when the crown passes on from William. Yikes! Well in the meantime it will be interesting to see how William and Catherine continue to raise their children and how/if it will differ.

      Delete
    6. What comes next? Voting who's the heir? That's not a monarchy. Any heir is free to renounce, many have done so in all monarchies and nothing has happened.

      Delete
  19. I have been following your blog, Charlotte, since the beginning, Thank you for saying what I have been thinking Ella. I will continue following W&K through this amazing blog.
    Best regards,
    Melissa, Singapore

    ReplyDelete
  20. hmm i love these blog enjoy this blog so very much and since I am not on the inside of anything going on in the Royals' households, and all the family is given have all dis agreements they have their own way how can resolve in time always heals wounds I plan to continue following with the same interest I have always had. Thank you for your well written comment and thank you Charlotte for this blog.

    ReplyDelete
  21. This is a beautiful burgundy pantsuit, the fit is perfect. I love the color, gorgeous.
    The Princess looks elegant and carries herself with much dignity.

    ReplyDelete
  22. Valerie in Arizona20 January 2023 at 02:58

    I realized I ended up "Anonymous" on the previous day--the blog about the nursery school outing. I was the one who commented I was a substitute teacher :) Just wanted to own up :) Anyway, this was so interesting. At first I was confused because only a couple of the players were in wheelchairs at the event today and I was confused. So I read up on it. Won't post a long explanation here but it's very interesting how it's open to people with disabilities that affect all four limbs. I also remembered that there was a joint event with (now) King Charles and Queen Camilla and W & K where William had a go at wheelchair basketball. Also, I used to live not far from Hampton Court in the 1970s and it was a favorite place for me to wander around. Beautiful, beautiful place!! Thank you as always Charlotte for your post. I have followed the Royal Family since I was old enough to hold a book--my mom had several books about Princess Elizabeth (she became Queen the year I was born) and the Queen Mother. My grandma lived on a large boulevard in Montreal where the Queen drove past on one of her visits to Canada (think it was 1956) and my mom took a photo of her which sadly I lost--it was quite close up. I bought all of the Diana books in the day and, well, I follow the Royal Family. That's about all I can say and I have followed you from day 1, sometimes lurking, sometimes posting. Valerie

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Wow, Valerie! What an amazing family history of royal following! Thank you for sharing! :) Zora from Prague

      Delete
  23. Angela M. Australia!20 January 2023 at 04:38

    I love reading about The Princess of Wales and all the details you provide of her work and her outfits!
    However, I do want to say that I do not like the term "REPEAT". Who in the real world says they are "repeating", particularly a bespoke designer suit, when wearing something worn only once before? I don't think in the present era people except the women in the Royal Family to wear a new outfit for every engagement, particularly when the cost of the wardrobe would be extremely high.... A suit is a versatile outfit that can easily be mixed and matched to make many other great outfits - Catherine should be "repeating " it often!
    Just my thoughts :)
    Thanks for always keeping us up to date

    ReplyDelete
  24. Thank you for another interesting post. I Tarly comment but felt it was important to thank you bearing in mind others deciding to leave. I have my own opinions on the latest debacle but appreciate that this is a stress free zone

    ReplyDelete
  25. It was decided quite a while that Catherine does not intend on increasing her work load for many years. Lets enjoy what we get :)

    https://www.geo.tv/amp/392529-kate-middletons-children-will-remain-her-priority-for-the-next-15-years-report

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thank you for the link that states that Kate will make her children a priority for the next 15 years. I did the same. Although I was well educated and held a professional position, I stayed home with my four children until they were all in high school (age 14, where I live.) For me, being at the house, when they came home at lunch time and after school was very important. My kids, now all in the 40s, state that coming home to a hot lunch and getting a break from school, was the best part of their day. Our life was calmer when as very young children they weren't rushed off to daycare every morning. That said, I fully accept and understand that not all women can financially afford not to work and other women need the stimulation of a job to feel fulfilled. I am NOT judging or criticizing them. But for me, as for Kate, making my children a priority over my job, worked best. Therefore, Kate should not be criticized that she is not out in public five days a week. While home, there is other work to do around the charities....research, reports, speeches, interviews etc. To give the world well adjusted children, is indeed very valid. Kate is seeing that her children have the same attentive and supportive upbringing that she had. Michael and Carole Middleton did a fine job in their parenting.

      Delete
    2. Your experience staying home until your children were in high school is not an option for most parents (which you do acknowledge to be fair) but is absolutely not an option for the taxpayer funded and living an obscenely luxurious and wealthy life Prince and Princess of Wales. If this is what Kate wanted she should have married a wealthy man or aristocrat like her sister and been a private rich stay at home mum. William has been the heir and presumptive Prince of Wales from the moment of his birth. They absolutely knew what their futures held when deciding to get married. Unless they renounce the roles completely they simply do not have the option to decide to recast these roles as functionally part time in the name of child rearing. And on that topic I find the assertion relatively insulting. Kate is not cooking her children’s hot lunch per your idyllic image, they have a household staff and pay for their children to go to an exclusive school. She could do 3 events a day and still easily be home when the children leave and return from school. We are being fed a line of PR when it comes to William and Kate as the revolutionary new stay at home parents in the RF. That may be a lovely image but I suspect will not work for the taxpayer paying public forever.

      Delete
    3. Where could I find this link?

      Delete
    4. I might point out that the taxpayer does not fund the monarchy -- the Sovereign Grant represents a minority percentage of the Crown Estate income, not tax monies. It also does not go to the Waleses. They are funded by the income from the Duchy of Cornwall. Indeed, earlier, their official expenses were paid by King Charles when he was Prince of Wales and the recipient of the Cornwall income.

      Delete
    5. Anonymous 11.55, I am Anonymous 15.34, who had the "idyllic image" as you put it, of staying home when my children were young. To clarify, I am not married to a rich man and living on just one salary meant sacrificing things like vacations (other than camping) and many events and possessions that my friends, in two income homes, had. We all have choices and we all need to make those choices work for us. You sound so bitter that Kate is not out and about every day, when many working women would be on the job. As I said previously, there is no doubt behind the scene things to do in preparation for tours and events. Even our late Queen, who was much loved for her dedication to duty, was not out and about every day. And using the Queen as an example, she worked until age 96, whereas most people retire at least 30 years earlier. King Charles is embarking on a new role, in his mid 70s. The Duke and Duchess of Gloucester are in their late 70s and the Duke of Kent is 87 and they still do public engagements. So perhaps the extra years can balance out the days when those people appear not to be working. If Kate is granted a long life, she will be working far beyond normal retirement age.

      Delete
    6. The one that is born in this role and has the job is William. Kate's job is to support him. It is inded revolutionary that she is actively involved in raising the children, and certainly very beneficial for the future of the BRF, which means long-term benefits for the taxpayers.
      It is clear that Kate has had to sacrifice a lot, and having read Harry's book, it very clear that it is very difficult to remain happy and sane in her circumstances. She shouldn't be expected to sacrifice what is most important to her, raising her children.

      Delete
    7. Kate's work time has been a long debate. When I read a bit about past royal family members, a warm family life seldom comes up. I think the RF made sure that Kate was happy ("allowing" her to have her family involved, traveling with her children, etc.) to avoid what happened to Diana. I know Kate is immensely privileged, but there are many such people in the UK (and elsewhere). Kate is up for constant scrutiny, and I don't think that balances out with riding in coaches, etc. She has provided what the majority want -- a continuing RF, and I think it makes little real difference whether she works daily or is present for important events.

      Delete
    8. Natacha & Allison, I agree with what you both said & you both expressed yourself so well. I think what is important to remember... is that William & Kate only have as much "leash" to do things, as Charles & Camilla give them.

      This year especially, is all about Charles. He has a definitive job & that's to establish himself in his new role, as monarch. He has to also guide the country's acceptance of Camilla as Queen Consort... not to say they are selfish.... but they are from a different generation & special circumstances.... I don't have any question that things will be different between William & George, when the time comes... so while W&K have long had their eye on doing things a bit differently, with establishing their family & they have always seemed to have there eye on the long game.... after reading the book... I think it has been hard for Will & Kate to be harassed for being lazy.... I think they clearly found that difficult & were doing what they were told to do, as to not overshadow those ahead of them, in the hierarchy. What we have seen in real life does track with what was written.

      After I have had time to "process" things a bit, I ended up saying "Yes" to a project, having to do with this time, we are now in, & how it might play out (positive spin to the story & their future).... I can't say more, but I will when I can.

      Fondly,
      Becca USA xoxo

      Delete
    9. Well said Vittoria, The Prince of Wales is paid very well from The Duchy of Cornwall. 22 million+ a year. Regarding their workload people seem to forget he is now also running a billion pound estate. I'd be very surprised if his wife isn't involved as well on many levels. Inresponse to the comment about Catherine not cooking and having staff, yes of course they have staff but they don't have live in staff through choice. It's also well known that she loves to cook for her family and cook with her children. Prince William was only talking about it the other day. The gift she brought for the late Queen the first time she stayed with her was homemade marmalade. I would expect like most busy Mother's she cooks for her family when she can. Dad's can cook as well. S.😄

      Delete
    10. Yes yes and yes to you all! I am the original Anon for this thread. It is so awesome to see others get it! I know its hard to look at the royal with the lowest numbers get the most attention and the largest clothing budget, but they obv invest in her because she gives the people what they want!

      Delete
  26. I like this look and the change from blouse to knit top. A look we have become used to seeing Kate in and it is a good "work" outfit. I like the new necklace maybe a birthday present?? Sue in WA

    ReplyDelete
  27. The Princess looks beautiful. I love her suit and the colour. It looks much better with the jumper, more suited to her age. New jewellery is always welcome. It's a lovely piece. S.😄

    ReplyDelete
  28. I really love this suit but I really hated the pink blouse. I like this look so much better, it really lets you appreciate the suit.

    Thank you so much Charlotte for all of your wonderful insight and research. As an American, I have learned so much about the royal family, the UK and so many other wonderful things.

    ReplyDelete
  29. I'm always amazed by what wheelchair athletes can do -- things I couldn't accomplish on two good legs. The very idea of playing a sport while having to maneuver and manipulate a wheeled chair leaves me feeling both admiring and exhausted. However, I am not a rugby fan any more than I am a fan of American football. I think both sports -- the conventional, non-wheelchair versions -- represent medical dangers to athletes that can manifest themselves later in life, and I'm an advocate of eventually doing away with them.

    Sorry, rugby fans.

    That said, it's clear that well-fitted trouser suits have become another uniform for the Princess, and this is a nice example, albeit a touch, er, boring. Her designers, tailors, and her high heels always do a nice job of giving her the illusion of long legs, when in fact her legs are short relative to her torso. These suits are therefore very flattering while also managing to look quite neat and professional.

    I do wish the Princess would experiment more with fashion, but given her very traditional tastes, it's unlikely she'll do that. I'll have to content myself for a while with the terrific green Solace dress she wore in the US, since I doubt we'll be seeing anything unusual for some time. But I live in hope.

    ReplyDelete
  30. For people talking about the monarchy and its popularity especially after recent events and books I suggest to check videos from Charles and Camilla's visit yesterday. The crowds were amazing. It doesn't seem people are turning their backs on them.

    ReplyDelete
  31. Hello lovely Charlotte, what a truly gifted, fair and empathetic writer you. Happy New Year to you & our fellow readers - wishing you a wonderful new year from Australia. I’ve had a tough 12 months, with my darling hubby being diagnosed with Throat Cancer in late April, and then I received more confronting news when I was diagnosed with Breast Cancer in late October has one lot of surgery before Christmas, and my surgeon wasn’t able to get clear margins … so, on January 10th I had a bilateral mastectomy. I’ve had quite a few set backs & complications, and hope to home tomorrow. So, my apologies I’ve been absent from commenting for such a long time. But, I’ve always been there reading by What an incredible year this is going to be, I can’t wait until the weekend of May 6th, how incredible that we are living through this moment in history. Catherine looked exquisitely beautiful today, from top to toe she was perfection. Take care everyone & a Happy New Year to you all xx Dee

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Dee, I am thinking of you and so truly sorry to hear you've been through such a difficult time. X

      Delete
    2. Dee, I just wanted to send love to you during this very difficult time. I will light a candle this evening for you and your family. I'll pray for healing. X. S.😄

      Delete
    3. Dee, I am so sorry about your husband's and your diagnosis of cancer. I am a cancer survivor myself, having had two surgeries 48 years ago. I am wishing you both the same successful outcome. Sending you peace and blessings.

      Delete
    4. Dear Dee, Your Smiling Face has always been so uplifting to see, each time you have posted over the years! I am in awe of, not just this unbelievable journey you & your husband have been on, but your positive, indomitable spirit, that comes through in your update!!

      I am so sorry you all have had to walk this path! However, I do know how healing it can be to read Charlotte's amazing posts! They are not just interesting, but they are always so fair, unbiased & full of education. A touchstone, when we are going through difficult times.

      I had a Brain Tumor removed. The Tumor itself was benign, but it was pressing on my brainstem & was at the cusp of herniating into my spinal cord, which would have killed me instantly. They were in there for 9.5hrs & able to get it & thus save me life. However, due to the nature of all they had to do & where it was located, I woke feeling great, but I had to learn to learn to walk & talk again. This was Feb. 2021 & as I am coming up to me 2yr marker, I can truly say that it's been the hardest best thing that's ever happened to me. I can't imagine leaving this world, not having learning the lessons I have about myself & life. It's amazing how suffering can teach us so much.

      I wish you & your husband, nothing but the best most healing journey! Please know that you have a friend rooting & praying for you all, in Chicago!

      All my love,
      Becca USA

      Delete
    5. Thank you so very much for your sweet comments, you all gave me such a boost today, when I really needed it. The best part of Charlotte’s blog, is the incredible group of wonderful women that share a common interest, and for the most part we are respectful and show kindness to each others opinions. It’s such a lovely blog to read - and then I just love seeing familiar names & faces pop up, with view points from all over the world. Lots of love & happy new year to you all. God willing, and if our health holds up, we’re hoping to get to London, Paris & Lake Como around June or July. That’s our dream … and I’ll do everything I can to make it. PS (Becca, I lived in the US as an exchange student in California, where I met Prince Charles about 6 months before he started dating Lady Diana. We hosted an exchange student from Wisconsin, so I’ve been through your amazing city probably 100 times. I LOVE Chicago!! It’s making me hungry for Pizza 😂😂😂

      Delete
    6. Dee, Healing prayers are on their way to you and your husband 🙏.

      Border Terrier lover

      Delete
    7. Oh Dee, your travel plans sound wonderful! How great to have such an adventure to look forward to!

      I had to smile when you mentioned the Chicago Pizza! I was in the Shirley Ryan Rehabilitation Hospital for a month & I had a generous corner room on the 22nd floor. It was akin to having my own Penthouse Suite! Since it was during a particularly snowy Chicago winter & at one of the surges of the pandemic, I could only have 1 "official" visitor, which was of course my hubby. Each time he came down it was like we were in our own private bubble, with an Amazing view of the city's lakeshore! On Valentine's Day he brought me flowers & a small individual pizza from Pizzeria Uno, along with a gourmet picnic, he had packed for us! :) xoxo

      Delete
    8. My dear Becca, my apologies that only one of my messages was sent in the last few days … I suspect the heavy doses of pain medication I’m on, led me to delete my words to you. I’m so very sorry to hear of your diagnosis & treatment. Your journey over the past couple of years must have held many tears & fears, and I’m so grateful to hear that your tumour was benign, albeit it in a very scary position. I am glad to hear that your recovery has been so successful & you’re able to enjoy this wonderful journey of life that we’re living. In a beautiful way, Charlotte's blog has bought the 4 corners of our world together, and the comments section is like reading messages from friends we’ve never had the joy of meeting. You truly made my day with the message you left, and I’m sending you some very special Aussie hugs as you continue to recover. I’m out of hospital, but not feeling terribly well. One day at a time my surgeon has told me … and I know she’s right. Thank you everyone for your incredible kindness xx

      Delete
  32. Get well soon Dee, and your husband too.

    ReplyDelete
  33. Dee, I know you can do this! I am sending warm hugs and the best wishes for you and your husband. This is a wonderful site for kindness.

    ReplyDelete
  34. Becca, I am SO glad you are continuing to heal and that your surgery was successful!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Allison, Thank you for your lovely messages & your unwavering support, no matter where we find ourselves in the royal watching process! :) xoxo

      Delete
  35. Just wanted to add my very best wishes to Dee and her husband, may your plans go as you wish and I hope you come to visit lake Como - which is pretty close to Milano where I live - and enjoy it very much!
    It is very true that Charlotte's blog is a mood lifter and I hope that, despite everything that is happening around the Royal Family right now, she will continue writing her very nice and interesting articles.

    ReplyDelete

Comments are most welcome! Constructive discussion is always encouraged but off topic or hateful remarks will not be published.

We ask you use a name when posting (a pseudonym such as the name of a royal you like or anything you wish). If you do not wish to use the sign in options, simply select the "Name/URL" option on the drop down menu and insert your name, and if you wish the country/state you're from. You can leave the URL blank.

If there are a large number of comments, it is necessary to click the 'Load More' button at the end of the comments section to see the latest additions.

Kate's Favourites