Following a busy week featuring South Wales and a memorable St David's Day parade in Windsor, the Prince and Princess of Wales were reunited with Crown Prince Haakon and Crown Princess Mette-Marit of Norway this morning when they welcomed them to Windsor Castle where they discussed several topics including green energy and the environment.
Haakon and Mette-Marit had initially planned a packed official visit to England last year but it had to be postponed due to the passing of Her late Majesty. A three-day itinerary had been meticulously planned to celebrate the "long history" and "excellent relations" between the United Kingdom and Norway. The UK is Norway's largest export market and thus this visit was planned in conjunction with a Business and Trade delegation. In addition to promoting cooperation, the couple are focusing on green industry, innovation and Norwegian arts. Speaking ahead of today's visit, Christin Z on Twitter noted the Crown Prince said: "It will be very nice to meet them, we look forward to that. We had a very pleasant visit from them in Norway, so it will be nice to meet again."
On a very snowy afternoon in February 2018, the then Duke and Duchess of Cambridge were greeted by Haakon and Mette-Marit upon their arrival in Norway, at Gardermoen Air Force Base outside Oslo.
From there, the couple were whisked to the Royal Palace for a luncheon and gallery tour before undertaking a walkabout and engagements. Kate, who was expecting Prince Louis, donned some memorable maternity looks. She opted for a petrol blue Catherine Walker coat, the beautiful Seraphine Marlene dress, Tod's block heels and Russel & Bromley pumps.
There was quite a bit of fun on the itinerary too, with a visit to Holmenkollen Ski Jump. It was an incredibly fun engagement with snowballs, panoramic views and plenty of light-hearted moments. Kate was wrapped up in her KJUS quilted jacket, Barts Jasmin Beanie and Sorel Torino Boots (updated version available here).
Mette-Marit took courses in SOAS (School of Oriental and African Studies), University of London after completing her economics studies in Oslo, so the capital holds fond memories for her. The Crown Princess carries out a dedicated programme of duties despite many challenges in her life. In 2018, it was revealed Mette-Marit had been diagnosed with an unusual form of fibrosis. At the time, the Crown Princess said: "For a number of years, I have had health challenges on a regular basis, and now we know more about what these are. Although such a diagnosis will limit my life at times, I'm glad that the disease has been discovered so early. My goal is still to work and participate in the official programme as much as possible."
Haakon and Mette-Marit have have two teenage children, Princess Ingrid Alexandra and Prince Sverre Magnus. Mette-Marit also has son Marius Borg Høiby, in his mid-twenties, from a previous relationship. I remember several years ago she spoke about the incredibly damaging level of media intrusion her son has experienced: "The last few years have been characterized by developments that I as a mother would naturally rather do without. Marius has been subjected to pressure from elements of the Norwegian press that I think is beneath them." She has spoken bravely about how her health, the sudden onset of vertigo, and how she was injured in a skiing accident in 2021. She's an enormously resilient lady, one whom I admire greatly.
Among Crown Prince Haakon and Crown Princess Mette-Marit's engagements in London this week -- a literary talk at the ambassador's residence. The Crown Princess chose a look by London-based brand Lisou for the event in which she was joined by a number of local booksellers. Addressing guests, the Crown Princess said: "Literature connects us to the past and to the future. Across continents and different ways of life. Literature connects us to each other. And to ourselves. I am a passionate reader. Whenever I read a good book, I want to share it with my family and my friends -- both at home and abroad. But literature needs help to travel across borders. Thanks to many of you present here -- translators, publishers, reviewers, booksellers, librarians, promoters and festival organisers -- it can do just that. The UK is a literary superpower. Shakespeare, Dickens and Virginia Woolf have inspired readers and other writers through changing times. Contemporary literary stars like Deborah Levy, Bernardine Evaristo, Kazuo Ishiguro and Douglas Stuart build on your profound literary legacy."
During a chilly visit to Brixton, the couple wrapped up as they met skateboarders at Stockwell Skatepark.
You might recognise Mette-Marit's glitzy dress worn for the 'Norway Night networking reception' at Lindley Hall last night. It's The Vampire's Wife Cinderella Ruffle Trim Maxi dress.
The brand's emerald silk metallic Falconetti dress is a very similar style favoured by Kate -- so much so, she chose it for her joint official portrait unveiled last year in Cambridge.
Speaking of vivid green shades, the Princess chose a similar hue for her trouser suit today. It's thought to be a Burberry design, previously worn during the Shaping Us campaign.
You'll recognise Kate's green pussy-bow blouse from the Shaping Us campaign. It's thought to be a bespoke Burberry silk crepe-de-chine piece. View the blouse in white here.
Kate accessorised with her diamond and emerald earrings. Emma notes they appear to be the same pair worn on St Patrick's Day last year.
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Kate looked so good on the 2018 trip! (Yes, shorter hair, too.) Her outfit today is just dreary to me. Paired with her flat hair, I'm wondering if she's just ensuring she does not look better than her guest. And I say that with sincerity. Paired with that blouse, the suit looks large and heavy. The crown princess sounds like a fun, well-educated woman!
ReplyDeleteAllison in USA, how fun and interesting it is to see/ compare different tastes of different royal watchers. I actually feel exactly the opposite- so happy that Kate went back to her trademark long wavy hair. I thought her fashion was a bit underwhelming around that time, too. Apparently we agree about today's outfit, unfirtunately. I do not think it was intentional but I do agree that it is not Kate at her best. I would also like to see a repeated suit as Kate's collectiin has plenty to choose from at this point.
DeleteElla
So funny—I think Kate looks gorgeous in this; the color is beautiful on her and she looks fresh and professional. And I love her hair today. Just goes to show that beauty is indeed in the eye of the beholder!
DeleteI like today's outfit too - the blouse is a repeat and I'm sure we'll see the green suit again too.
DeleteI actually do like Kate's long natural hair usually -- I am a huge MAM fan of long hair. I think maybe not seeing Kate move keeps me from appreciating her hair. And I would much prefer the blouse with a white or beige suit or the green suit with a white or beige blouse, to allow each color to be appreciated.
DeleteSo well said anon 18:51! Also let's take a minute to appreciate how wonderful Mette-Marit looked today. I do not follow her as closely as Kate but she looks truly radiant in today's pictures.
DeleteElla
I also think Catherine looks wonderful. Remember she dresses for herself and occasion. If it was anyone else she’d just look professional , confident and happy. I understand everyone has their own personal way of dressing however it amazes me why people find so many little faults with her outfits more so than what she’s actually doing.
DeleteD
The darling Princess of Wales , always a class act; genuine, authentic & kind - a true asset to country & crown!
ReplyDeleteI’ve read elsewhere it might be a Burberry suit which would tie in with the blouse . I must say I’m not loving all the green she’s been wearing . It would appear to be another new suit and undoubtedly very expensive
ReplyDeleteCharlotte, one newspaper is reporting the the suit today is Burberry. S.🙂.
ReplyDeleteIt's brilliant to see them for the 3rd day in a row but, yikes, that outfit is not flattering. Don't misunderstand me, she still looks much more attractive than me but this just isn't a look that suits her when she's capable of looking so amazing. And it doesn't help that I have never yet seen a pussy bow blouse that I like yet. It's not the colour, because she often looks wonderful in green (e.g. the Irish Guards event) and it's not the suit as I like many of her recent suits. So I can't work out why I don't like it. Still, the event is more important than the fashion so very pleased to see them.
ReplyDeleteIt’s not often that Mette Marit steals the show, but today she does. Even though Kate looks nice in the green ensemble, it’s Mette Marit that overshadows all. And it’s not just the red. Her position in the picture, the cut, the posture and the smile- she is the picture of a CrownPrincss, ready to move up, completely secure in her role. We don’t see her like this often especially in contrast with other royal ladies. So that is a nice treat.
ReplyDeleteKate does look kind of nervous and the whole positioning of the four feels a bit off. Why not put the women next to each other? There were good historic reasons why PP made sure/had to always be the half step behind (and why men are not crowned next to a reigning Queen) but this mustn’t translate to Kate. So why is her position not turned but actually behind Wiliam? She almost looks like staff.
Anyway, it’s nice to see them outing Windsor to work and I sure hope we will see them mingle with their counterparts a lot more.
She's gorgeous whatever she wears.Above all she is classy and polished ( I think the suit is Burberry too).
ReplyDeleteIt takes a very confident person to allow someone else to shine. Princess Anne is a master of showcasing others, Catherine seems to share this approach. Such behavior is not negative, it is respectful. Yesterday Catherine took center stage ensuring the Guards were met with significance. Today, she allows the crown princess to shine in red! A true lady!
ReplyDeleteI don’t disagree. But this type of official picture is not meant let others shine. That would be the pictures they take at events or in their demeanour at an event.
DeleteThis is a carefully composed portrait to commemorate the occasion. If she isn’t to be on the same importance as Wiliam and the guests in the composition there was no need for her to be in the picture at all.
I totally agree with you.
DeleteThe crown princess used some very Kate habitude( local brands and the host country flag colours) .Kate should have worn a princessy dress . Her Edeline Lee dress would be more fitting for this event.
ReplyDeleteI must admit I prefer a lovely dress such as the Crown Princess is wearing way above a matching pantsuit like the Princess of Wales has on. I’m sure the two couples had a good visit though. Thanks for another update Charlotte!
ReplyDeleteHmmm…not my favorite outfit. I like the color, but maybe it’s a bit much green? Maybe a cream colored turtleneck with the green pants and a multi color blazer to tie in the colors (or vice versa). Maybe a subtle design. I think it’s just a lot of green. Thumbs up again to Prince William looking great ☺️👍🏻 Thanks Charlotte!!
ReplyDeleteJoanne in CA
And we need more prints! How lovely would a beige/green print blouse have been? :)
ReplyDeleteAllison - I agree with you completely!
DeleteNot my favorite look, all that green may work better in person than it does in photos though:). She looks lovely anyway. Ali
ReplyDeleteI think some of Catherine's suits fit her lean/athletic frame better. GA
ReplyDeleteI would like to see Kate wearing this type of business suit with a straight skirt, just below the knees, instead of the pants. It would still be professional, but a softer look.
ReplyDeleteIt's way too much green for me. The whole outfit puts me in the mindset of an Aer Lingus flight attendant. Love the emeralds though!
ReplyDeleteOuch! I’m Irish and have been on many Aer Lingus flights but your comment rings true, lol!
DeleteAlthough to be fair, Aer Lingus attendants now wear a bluish green, almost turquoise, that they team with navy. The new uniforms in 2020 are a nicer shade. https://www.aerlingus.com/blog/new-decade-new-uniform/
DeleteI like the suit on Princess Kate, but not for this occasion.
ReplyDeleteIt's wonderful to see the two couples together & at Windsor Castle no less! I had my interest in the Norwegian Royal Family peaked, when I watched the (PBS/Norweigian Language) series "The Crossing". I highly recommend it. It's historical fiction, but covers the time when Crown Princess Martha was sent from Norway to the U.S., with the 3 children/the youngest being the now King, to live in safety (during the Nazi Occupation) at the invitation of US President FDR, for the duration of WWII. Meanwhile the King's Father (Crown Prince) & Grandfather (King) ruled Norway from London, with George VI & Queen Elizabeth as their hosts. The then King's late wife (the current King's Grandmother) was Queen Maud (the youngest daughter of Edward VII & Queen Alexandra) & was known as Maud of Wales, before her marriage. The Norwegian Royal Family returned to Norway when it was liberated.
ReplyDeleteI think they all look lovely & that trip to Norway was one of my favorites. I even purchased the Sorrel Boots, after seeing Kate wear them! :)
This meeting was steeped in history, with W&K as the new Prince & Princess of Wales. Both William & Crown Prince Haakon are both descended from Edward VII & Queen Alexandra, who themselves were once Prince & Princess of Wales.
There is so much to be interested in, as we follow W&K in their new roles. I admit to increasingly becoming excited about the upcoming coronation. I even ordered some special items, in my quarterly order from Fortnum & Mason, to enjoy while watching the festive/historic coverage!! I place at least 4 orders to F&M a year & we always look forward to their arrivals. For any here in the U.S. who have seen some of the F&M items @ William Sonoma.... I would encourage you to shop directly @ F&M online! It's waaaaay more affordable & there is a flat $25 shipping charge. F&M is my go to for special gifts, as well.... I can be sure of choosing a unique gift/basket, that the recipient will not already have! :)
Thanks for interesting history lesson, Becca. Most appreciated, M.
DeleteThank you for the interesting historical context re Norwegian Royal Family and links to the UK Royal Family. Charlotte might want to add some of this to her post!
DeleteLove your post Becca, and I too bought the Sorrel Boots after seeing Kate wear them!! I am a sucker for Kate's accessories, not having her slim figure to wear her clothes, the accessories are always a win for me! Love the Sorrel Boots, especially with the crazy weather and snow lately.
DeleteHi Becca, thank you for your recommendation! I'll definitely check it out. Have you seen the Norwegian film "Kongens Nei/ The King's Choice"? I really liked it.
DeleteI remember the then Cambridges' trip to Norway back in 2018 so well ... how much has happened since, it seems like another era!
Is it me, or do Kate's eyes look a little tired or perhaps even irritated? I've noticed it several times recently.
Thank you for the post, Charlotte!
Zora from Prague
Was looking where to view the movie, and Becca, is it perhaps names "Atlantic Crossing."?
DeleteThat was a good PBS series. Thanks for reminding me. I need to see if there are any books on this subject that are available.
DeleteThanks everyone for your kind words about my post! :) Yes Anon 21:43 you are right!!! It's "Atlantic Crossing"!!
DeleteZora I have not seen that movie, but I'll definitely look for it! :)
Hope it's OK to say to Becca that I think you would really enjoy the new blog at https://theroyaldecade.blogspot.com/. I look at the photos and text and think how much you would relate. :)
ReplyDeleteHi Allison! :)
DeleteI'm already over there! I posted successfully on the "main" "about" (I'm not getting the name right) page & saw my pink flowers avatar & "Becca USA", but when I then went to respond to a comment on another page, I did something wrong & can't seem to be able to successfully post!?
Figuring it out, is on my list of things to do.... but it means so much that you thought of me! xoxo
Royalfashionpolice is reporting the green suit as Burberry and the jacket, at least, as a repeat from the video launch of ‘Shaping Up.’.
ReplyDeleteNorways Crown Prince and Princess are a lovely couple.
ReplyDeletePrincess and Prince of Wales seem to be gracious hosts.
They’ve had an active schedule lately for some worthy causes.
Princess Kate looks great in the green and I love monochromatic.
The room is beautiful where they dined. Seems the choice of outfits
Blended with the room color schema.
Thank you for you great column.
You know you really don't like a gown when it is worn by two different beautiful princesses in two different colors and it still looks ugly! The cheap-looking shiny fabric. The flounces. The neckline. The cut. The length. Not one thing appeals to me. But it must be my problem because they each liked the dress enough to buy it and wear it at prominent occasions being photographed by the world press. So there you go. To each her own.
ReplyDeleteIt’s not just you. It reminds me of Siegfried and Roy….
DeleteI've disliked (a lot!) all of The Vampire's Wife outfits -- I think Beatrice wore one once that wasn't so bad but they really look awful to me.
DeleteAnother not just you on that gown style and fabric.ali
DeleteI'm not a fan of this tonal look today I think a light coloured blouse would have made the suit pop, it just looks bland to me. Mette-Marit looks lovely in all she has worn for this visit. Sue in WA
ReplyDeleteI actually do like princess of wales long natural hair usually love her art mastering each other both of them have a lovely friendship Crown Princess is wearing way above a matching pantsuit compliment the princess of wales oufit
ReplyDeleteLovely to see the two couples together but to me, Kate looks tired and not her usual relaxed self. They’ve been doing a lot of engagements and I’m sure this is still an adjustment time to their new roles and new “schedule” in life. I can imagine it’s not always easy to be “on” every day, but I admire all they do!
ReplyDeleteI love the green, but the bow at the neck...I never like those. They always look limp and they give even a beautiful fabric and cut an elderly-lady appearance. Only my opinion, though. It's a lovely green.
ReplyDeleteI must admit, I was surprised Kate wore a pant suit. I would have thought she would wear a dress of some sort that spoke professionally for that engagement, similarly how she has done in the past. However, I do think she looks beautiful in it and the green looks wonderful against her skin and hair color. I’m a sucker for green hues and these are lovely colors. 💚
ReplyDeleteThank you Charlotte for giving that insight into Crown Princess Mette-Marit! In sharing what you know of her, you've helped me to have a better appreciation for her too. Your blog is, as always, wonderful.
ReplyDeleteKate looks appropriate and immaculate as always, but I find the placement of the sleeve buttons on her jacket very odd. From the Burberry website it looks like that is how all their women’s jackets are designed. It’s as though the sleeves were attached incorrectly.
ReplyDeleteKate looked great in 2018 with a little weight on her. Today's look was just blah! Someone, please get her a new hairstylist. The flat hair is not at all appealing.
ReplyDeleteMany seem to like Kate with the longer, straighter hair but I like the way she wore her hair as a new member of the BRF.
DeleteI saw a picture of Kate and the late Queen going to view Kate's wedding dress. I realize she will make changes, but I thought the shorter, glossy hair with the curl at the ends was flattering. I think it was referred to as a Chelsea blow out. Something updated or similar
would be flattering on her. I think the way she has been wearing her hair ages her. At 41, I think her hair needs to be 3-4 inches shortest the same age I grew my hair lo g, but it was for the third and last time to donate my hair
Princess Kate looks so good! 👍
ReplyDeleteShe sets a high benchmark for all ladies to follow! 🌸🌸🌸
Immaculate look, without a fault 😍😍😍
Hmm. I thought I commented -- sort of lengthily -- on this blog post, but my comment has never appeared. Evidently, I did something wrong? Possibly that's what happens when you are sipping wine while attempting to talk about clothes and royal media coverage. Something to ponder.
ReplyDeleteNo Vittoria, it's after happening to me a few times as well. My comments won't publish. S.🙂.
DeleteThis matchy-matchy pantsuit and blouse is right out of the 1980s, and not a great look for Catherine. It’s aging, and too much for her thin frame. Not a fan of the flat hair.
ReplyDeleteKaren in Virginia
The Crown Prince and Princess seem like a lovely fun couple. The Princess looks lovely, I love the cut and fit of the suit. It's a lovely shade of green but this is just too much green. Even for St Patrick's Day. I wouldn't be a fan of the big bow, I think she is a bit young for that style. Charlotte, any news on when we can expect to see The Prince and Princess of Wales next? S.🙂.
ReplyDelete