Hello dear readers,
I hope your Christmas morning has been filled with loved ones, gifts and I'm sure a little traditional chaos in the kitchen. I'm sneaking away from our own festive lunch preparations for a quick post covering the royals' annual Sandringham church walk appearance.
Note: Adorable Mia Tindall holding Louis' hand for 'moment of the day'.
The Prince and Princess of Wales wished followers and well-wishers a Happy Christmas on social media this morning with the release of a new portrait of George, Charlotte and Louis. Taken by Josh Shinner, as part of the 'Christmas card' photo shoot, I think we can all agree, they are growing up so, so quickly!
King Charles and Queen Camilla, coordinating in camel tones, led a large gathering of immediate and extended family members to St Mary's.
The parish church of St Mary Magdalene is one of exceptional historic interest, with memorials to many members and relations of the Royal family, from Queen Victoria onwards. It is considered one of the finest carrstone buildings in existence and dates back in its present form to the 16th century.
The Princess Royal in winter white with her husband Sir Tim Laurence.
The Duke and Duchess of Edinburgh have had a packed year with a great deal of significant trips made both at home and abroad.
Zara and Mike Tindall with little Lena.
Princess Beatrice and Edoardo Mapelli Mozzi were in high spirits.
Princess Eugenie and Jack Brooksbank.
The York princesses had an additional reason to be joyful today: for the first Christmas since they were children, they are joined by their mother, Sarah, Duchess of York at Sandringham. For a mother to be separated from her children for any part of Christmas must be incredibly painful. This will likely be the greatest gift Bea and Eug will receive this year.
Gathering to wish the royals season's greetings is a tradition for many. It was so lovely to see the warmth from the crowd once again this morning.
BREAKING: The Royal Family have arrived at St Mary Magdalene Church for Christmas Mass
— Sky News (@SkyNews) December 25, 2023
Sky's @laurabundock speaks to a fan who has come all the way from Washington to see the Royal Family https://t.co/PAiZ4D1jU3
📺 Sky 501, Virgin 602, Freeview 233 and YouTube pic.twitter.com/2NNlzIJEeP
The royals departing after the service.
The Princess of Wales accepts beautiful flowers.
A lovely shot of the Wales family.
Kate shares a moment with her mini-me :)
George and Charlotte exchange Christmas wishes with locals.
I think we can safely say Charlotte and Mia are going to be firm friends.
Lady Louise and James pictured after the service.
The family will sit down to a traditional Christmas lunch at 1.15pm. Norfolk turkey accompanied by a selection of cold meats and a variety of side dishes is served. The children will be happily wrapped up in their gifts before refreshing walks, festive drinks and board games fill the evening. At 3pm, it will be time to take seats and watch the King's Speech. A spot of television will be enjoyed, and we do know the Queen Consort is partial to Strictly Come Dancing. Will the royals watch the Christmas special? Refreshments and cocktails will be enjoyed, followed by a sumptuous dinner and games until midnight.
The Princess was elegant in a striking blue McQueen coat, styled with a matching hat, her Gianvito Rossi boots and her sapphire and diamond earrings.
A reminder, His Majesty's Christmas speech will stream live at precisely 3pm on the link below.
On that note, I would dearly like to take this opportunity to wish you all a very Merry Christmas! May the day be filled with warm memories for you. I'm equally cognizant of how the day can be for those who have had a particularly difficult year, including several of our readers. You're all in my thoughts today. As we close another year in royal watching, I want to express my gratitude for your enduring support.
🎄 Wishing all of our followers a very Merry Christmas! pic.twitter.com/6mhutrnA3T
— The Royal Family (@RoyalFamily) December 25, 2023
Now, time for (a rather tardy) Christmas lunch :)
P.S. I will add a link here to Kate's carol concert the moment I find a good copy available.
Thank you for brightening up so many days with your lovely and positive posts and coverage.
ReplyDeleteLong time follower rarely will I comment. I was just curious about the scarves. Princess Royal, Tim Lawrence & Lady Louise all are wearing the same scarf. Probably will never know the story behind this but I find it enduring. I wish Charlotte and all of this community a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!!
ReplyDeleteI thought perhaps a gift from the King and Queen?
DeleteHappy Christmas and lovely to see your comment :)
The Earl of Snowdon also was wearing that same scarf.
DeleteI read elsewhere that they are from Highgrove. So gifts from the King and Queen seems likely.
DeleteSam Chatto also wore one. It was ID'd elsewhere as a Highgrove Cashmere scarf, retailing at £115, so guessing it was from the King?
DeleteLovely all round appearances. The scarf added an extra twist! I noticed that we've had a generation downshift - no descendants of George V (Kents and Gloucesters) - all from George VI - descendants of QEII and Princess Margaret. Time moves on.
DeleteThe Duchess of Edinburgh was my style winner, but there were no losers!
I read that they are called the Highgrove Heritage Scarf , from the Princes Foundation. Merino wool , which is nice and warm to wear.
DeleteThe scarves, gifts from King Charles, are from the Highgrove Shop, colors of the Prince of Wales plaid? The King's blue-and-tan outfit seems to echo the color scheme. https://www.highgrovegardens.com/collections/clothing-and-accessories/products/highgrove-heritage-scarf
Deletehttps://www.highgrovegardens.com/collections/clothing-and-accessories/products/highgrove-heritage-scarf
DeleteApparently they were gifts from the King, from his Highgrove Estate. Lady Louise was also wearing one.
DeleteIt appears that the King did gift Anne and her family - including the Chattos - with the Highgrove Heritage Scarf! Anon 14:37, I love your comment that it is 'enduring'....and that they all chose to wear it together is a touching sign of support and family solidarity. This entire walk with all the mix up of families amongst each other is heartwarming.
DeleteI couldn’t wait to see these pics. Everyone looked fabulous but I must say my favorite look was Sophie’s!
ReplyDeleteI also loved Sophie's look. Her coat was divine!
DeleteWhat a beautiful family William and Kate have, in demeanor as well as in fashion and attractiveness. Lovely to see the extended family, too.
ReplyDeleteSince this is a fashion-aware blog, I want to ask what others make of Eugenie's oversize coat, with sleeves so long that even her hands do not show. To me, it looked like a burka. Actually, all the pictures I've seen of Eugenie lately have made her clothes look like attempts to disappear behind massive amounts of fabric. I hope she is happy in her life and in her self.
Perhaps oversize, man-tailored coats are in style in the UK this year? I thought that Louise's coat looked like she selected it from her father's closet. That said, she looks very feminine, poised, and lovely.
My favorite coat was Sophie's. I notice that Prince George was the only person without an overcoat, but how handsome he looks!
Oversized is in everywhere at the moment; in fact, I bought a couple of oversized blazers this past fall. They rather reminded me of the 80s, when I loved some of the exaggerated silhouettes that were fashionable then. Unlike some people, I like shoulder pads. The Yves Saint Laurent autumn collection this year had me swooning.
DeleteEugenie's coat brings to mind The Row designs, which are typically oversized. However, she had her second child about 6 months ago, so perhaps she's still feeling a bit burdened with baby weight.
@In My Opinion,Eugenie’s coat was in need of alterations.The sleeves were too long,as well as the overall length. I agree with you on the excessive amount of fabric.As you said,William and Catherine do indeed have a beautiful family.It was delightful to see the young cousins enjoying being together 😊
DeleteEugenie mentioned on her podcast that she's finding it hard to shift her baby weight after Ernie - perhaps she wants to hide her figure until she feels happier with herself.
DeleteI think Princess Eugenie looks like a very strong confidence young Lady. She is obviously madly in love and loving being a Mother to her two sons. I thought Lady Louise looked very stylish and didn't really like her Mother's hat. Each to their own I suppose.. S🙂.
DeleteI think Eugenie still has some baby weight that hasn't come off yet. I might be wrong though.
DeleteLovely photos, but I have to say the real winner for me was Prince Louis. I think this was the first time I've seen any of the Wales children with patterned trousers on? Does anyone know? They're quite dapper for a little one and so very festive. And the fact that he matches Charlotte's dress....adorable.
DeleteI think Eugenie commented recently (in a podcast?) about being "less than perfectly slim" growing up in the public's eye. She seems to be like most women and needs some time to get back to her pre-baby weight. I think she is very happy and just needs to have privacy (hence larger clothes) for awhile. And it may not be a priority for her right now either, just enjoying her two babies.
DeleteHonestly, I did not make anything of Eugenie's coat! Oversize and somehow "shapeless" is very much on trend as far as i can tell, my young sister in law basically only wears clothes that I would describe as "drowning". Anyway I kind of like Eugenie's look, it is not as precisely tailored as we usually see from the PoW but for me, it is normal to see slight imperfections in people's outfits, such as sleeves being a tad too lond/short, pants being a tad too loose/tight etc. Happens to normal, imperfect people and for me it is even likeable, relatable maybe.
DeleteJust yesterday I saw a dress from one of Kate's favorite brands in real life (priced over $1300) and it looked so unremarkable. If I hadn't know it from browsing the brand's new collection, I wouldn't even be able to tell it is not regular fashion. It was interesting for me to see it in real life to be somehow able to tell how much of the "beauty and charm" is Kate and how much her clothes. And I am ending this royal watching year with a realization that it is ALL just Kate, lol.
To Charlotte and all the fellow readers, happy new year!
Ella
She is a beautiful happy young Lady. I'd listen to Vittoria on fashion. The 80ts are back with a bang. S.🙂.
DeleteAnonymous mentioned Louis’ pants match Charlotte’s dress - does anyone have a pic of Charlotte’s dress? I’ve only seen photos with her coat closed.
DeleteRather a somber-looking group this year. Perhaps that's as well, given the austerity economy with which the UK is still grappling.
ReplyDeleteBut how many blue coats does the Princess own by now? This one is, as always, beautifully tailored and fitted, but it's "déjà vu all over again," to quote the immortal Yogi Berra.
The bow on her hat looks a little odd from some angles, but otherwise I like it and the quill trim. I always prefer hats without frills and flowers.
The Duchess of Edinburgh's coat is lovely, and I rather admire Princess Eugenie's, too.
I thought Sophie looked lovely.
DeleteSo agree about another blue coat. I thought this was a rewear since it's so similar to her other coats. She buys so many coats and so similar to! I don't get the fondness for shoulder pads either. To each their own :)
DeleteVittoria, I love it and keep it coming 👌. I hope you had a lovely day with your family and didn't miss your Mom too much. Wishing you and yours a very happy and peaceful New year. S.🙂.
DeleteI have to agree far too many blue coats and hats - I really wish she would rewear her clothes. It’s so extravagant and not environmentally friendly to keep buying new clothes . With the low number of engagements she undertakes and the very small portfolio of patronages she has no need for new clothes particularly when she has so many similar items already in her wardrobe.
DeleteI feel that since the Queen passed they have dropped their workload which gives the impression they were only doing more engagements as that is what the Queen expected of them .
They could help so many more people if they upped their game . I support a local domestic violence charity who on Christmas Eve helped a lady who fled her home with her 18 month old baby . She could only take 1 bag of clothes and is now in a hostel . I wish Kate would expand the organisations she supports there is so much more I think she should be doing to help people who desperately need assistance.GT
Anon at 2:49, thank you so much for your kind wishes. The holiday is a bit melancholy this year, because we can't help but remember the wondrous Christmases my mother gave us, but we're getting to the point where we can smile and not cry at good memories.
DeleteBest wishes for the New Year to all of the participants in this blog and to Charlotte, for keeping us so well entertained.
Catherine has pleased us with numerous rewears this year. Charlotte, perhaps you can do a recap of her rewears! Did QEII endure such critic of her coat collection? And, bravo to W&C to not "broadcast" everything they do. It appears they are quietly transforming the definition of "work". Many of King Charles greatest accomplishment at POW were done quietly whilst he was constantly demeaned by the media. Less time focusing on PR and more time focusing on getting the job done!
DeleteRather thought the family was in good spirits! Loads of smiles, hand holding. They brought brightness to a somber world.
DeleteThank you Anon 16:21 for expressing what I could not. xo
DeleteI ditto that sentiment Becca USA! Well said 16:22!!!!
DeleteMerry Christmas Charlotte! Thank you for your work all year, I got up early in the States to see what they were wearing. The Wales family brings me so much joy. They all look great and how fun to see them with Mia and extended family. Sue from IL
ReplyDeleteMerry Christmas Charlotte! Kate’s hat looks like it could be used as a weapon if necessary!
ReplyDeleteWhat a lovely Christmas morning! Kate looks resplendent. I love how all the cousins are together this year, including Louis.
ReplyDeleteMerry Christmas Charlotte! Thank you for all you do all year keeping us up to date with Princess Catherine.
Agree, it was wonderful to see the cousins. Happy children enjoying the holiday with loving family!
DeleteThe scarf they are all wearing seems to be one on the Highgrove Gardens website. Merino wool Prince of Wales £115.00 sold in support of the King's Foundation as was Princes Trust.
ReplyDeleteEveryone looks great! I love Sophie’s look. Lady Louise seems slimmer than before so perhaps that’s why her coat seems too big on her. Charlotte and Mia look like they are having a great time. Didn’t see Mark Phillips and his children though. It was nice that Fergie was invited once again. The pants that Louis is wearing seem the same or similar to a pair George wore a few years ago in a photo with QE, Charles and William. I love his navy pea coat. - celticgirl
ReplyDeleteWas awesome to see Fergie there! Pleased for her - nice seeing her accepting gifts to give to the other royals. She looked elated.
ReplyDeleteKate looked beautiful and loved the sapphires. All the cousins were sweet.
Used to seeing more smiles on the walk to Church. Wonder if something is up. Not a fan of Eugenie’s oversized coat. Catherine has way too many coats. I’m reminded of William choosing some of Diana’s dresses to auction for charity & wonder if Catherine should do same considering current economy. The kid are cuties, as usual. Looks like they may have received a family scarf for Christmas? Merry Christmas to all. Missouri Girl
ReplyDeleteYou can't tell in this photo but Sarah Ferguson should go buy a new coat. Also Kate doesn't need to be so vivid with everyone else being so muted. Color coordinating with charlotte would have been nice.
ReplyDeleteCatherine's coloring is very different from other members of the family. She chose a coat that flattered her. QEII also chose bright colors as her har became vivid white.
DeleteKate has worn muted colors (dark green for example) quite successfully. And she's not the queen yet so no need to stand out.
DeleteI think Zara and Lena look very good! I wish the "whole" family was there so all the second cousins could get to know each other.
ReplyDeleteEveryone looked lovely. Mia with Louis...so adorable. Wishing you, Charlotte, and all the readers a beautiful day and a happy, safe, healthy 2024!
ReplyDeletePity she didn’t wear green as that seems to be the color du jour
ReplyDeleteGorgeous picture of the Wales kids! They all look so grown up and like they are best buds. All the family looks so nice today. Love Kate's coat and hat. That shade of blue looks so nice on her. The Queen looks especially nice today. Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to all the commenters here on the blog! Merry Christmas, Charlotte, to you and your family!
ReplyDeleteMerry Christmas Charlotte and fellow blog readers! I liked Kate's look this year and I especially enjoyed Louis's tartan trousers!
ReplyDeleteNo surprise, Kate looks lovely. No surprise, her coat is perfectly tailored. I was kinda hoping to see Kate in the Holland Cooper Tartan Coat she wore in 2021 during the Scotland tour. I thought that coat was lovely and we've only seen it once (that I can remember). My favorite today was Zara and little Lena. Love Charlotte's (new?) coat as well. Happy Christmas everyone!
ReplyDeleteMerry Christmas Charlotte and fellow readers!
ReplyDeleteI always love to see the traditional Christmas walk, besides what they are wearing, it’s wonderful to see them as just a family.
I have to agree with who said Eugenie’s clothes look too big for her. Maybe it is what she is comfortable in but she had looked much better in years past, this year has just been missing the mark.
How cute was Mia holding Louis’s hand?! You can see there is a close relationship between the Waleses and the Tindalls. Speaking or Louis, were his pants a hand-me-down from George? If I remember correctly, there was a photo of George in plaid pants, I’m not sure if I’m remembering correctly but if so; fantastic rewear.
I was a little surprised to see Fergie but then I thought about it and at his core; King Charles is a father and I’m sure he realizes that there has been enough time passed to include his niece’s mother as part of the family once again. She still lives with his brother and cares for his late mother’s dogs. I’m sure Beatrice and Eugenie were thrilled to have their mother with them this morning.
On the whole; everyone looked wonderful and I’m sure they are all looking forward to some down time and spending time together.
Looks like Prince of Wales check on their scarves?
ReplyDeleteThank you for taking time from your own holiday preparations to post today. I love that you showed the extended Royal family.
ReplyDeleteI always think of something else to add. I do like Kate's hair pulled back -- both Kate and Meghan look so good, in my view, with hair pulled back so we can see their earrings, necklace, dress, etc. If I didn't mention it before, I'm glad to see Fergie finally included. She is the mother of Eugenie and Beatrice and as such should not be excluded.
ReplyDeleteThe Princess looks beautiful, lovely shade of blue. Cut very well. Those sapphire earrings are always welcome. They all look great and lovely to see the family together. It was really nice to see Sarah Duchess of York there today with her family. They might be divorced but she is very much a part of the family. She has made mistakes but who hasn't. I always found it very harsh that she spent Christmas in a cottage on the estate while her girls went to the big house. The King is showing his kindness, forgiveness and compassion here. I think the late Queen was the same but Prince Philip ruled the roost on family matters. Her sence of duty and loyalty to the Crown can never be questioned and that is why she was there today. Interesting that Italy is their first visit as Prince and Princess of Wales. I look forward to them meeting the Pope. If he is still with us.🙏. I'm not sure if there will be another post before New year's Eve, so Happy New year Charlotte and all who follow. Please God a better times to come. S.🙂.
ReplyDeleteThe Prince and The Princess of Wales are raising happy children.
ReplyDeleteOn the other hand, ¡I love Prince Louis' trousers!
Thank you Charlotte for all your hard work over the year. The blog is always enjoyable and informative. Hope you have had a lovely Christmas with your family and best wishes for the New Year. And as Christmas is about family I was pleased to see Sarah going to church with her girls and their families. This church service is family event rather than a public engagement so for me appropriate.
ReplyDeleteGood morning ! I've been reading your blog for years but I rarely comment. But I wanted to write to you because this year I was in Sandringham and I met members of the Royal family for the first time. I saw the Wales family up close and I must say that Kate was very elegant and very beautiful and kind. This Christmas is very special for me.
ReplyDeleteMarie from France
Wow! So exciting. Thank you for sharing. Sue from IL
DeleteWow, that's amazing. I'm sure you'll always remember that!
DeleteWow, Marie! Thanks for sharing! It must have been a very special moment!!! 🥰
DeleteI'd like to wish Charlotte and all the readers of this blog a Happy New Year 🩵 ! Zora from Prague
Oh Wow, Marie! What an incredible experience for you! One to remember for sure. I hope you weren't waiting long - it looked cold. Thank you for sharing your memory with us here. Did you g et to see any of the other Royals up close? They looked relaxed and happy in the photos - hope that was the impression you got too :)
DeleteMarie, what a treat & such a wonderful experience & vivid memories for you!! xo
DeleteThank you Charlotte for another wonderful year of posts and seasons greetings. I love to
ReplyDeleteColour and style of Kates coat and her blue boots and hat. The children look very smart and love Louis pants. The other RF ladies look lovely I liked Sophie's coat and Lady Louise is turning into a stylish young lady. I thought the York Princess's weren’t quite as stylish as other christmases and lovely to see their mother with them. Zara looked fabulous I would have liked to have see Sarah Chatto as could only see her head with magnificent hat. I like the walkabout after the service very special for those who attend to get a chance to meet the RF. Sue in WA
What a beautiful sight.The only " odd" note was Princess Eugene's coat...too big and without structure. The Wales family my absolutely favorite. Merry Christmas to everyone that celebrates .
ReplyDeleteInteresting comment about the scarves, Anne, her husband and Louise DO appear to be wearing the same one, I wouldn’t have noticed. Huh. Catherine as always looks immaculate, but I like Zara’s look the best.
ReplyDeleteWhat a wonderful picture of George, Charlotte and Louis. They are lovely children.
ReplyDeleteLovely to see Duchess Sarah back in the fold!
ReplyDeleteMerry Christmas Charlotte! Thank you for your work all year, sorry for the late post the Wales family giving me a dose of joy and they all look great and how close they are
ReplyDeleteFor readers in the US, Together at Christmas is available on BritBox if you have a subscription.
ReplyDeleteThanks Becky for the tip! :)
DeleteDear Charlotte, Thank you so much for your hard work on the blog. I always look forward to your posts. Your blogs are so well researched, well written and include information about the extended family, which I really appreciate.
ReplyDeleteThe Queen looks quite lovely in her camel coat and her hat is so attractive.
Catherine looks very elegant in the blue ensemble. Again, love the hat! I NEED those boots. The Wales family looks so happy. It is nice to see the children interacting with the crowds and with their extended family. William and Catherine's approach to parenting the next generation of royals is giving their children confidence, poise and maturity.
I always like to see Lady Louise and her fashion choices at events. She has grown into a beautiful young woman. Duchess Sophie's coat is to die for. I love the color and the bow feature at the neckline.
I also love the Princess Royal's winter white coat.
My absolute favorite coat of the day is Zara Tindall's. I love the color, the belt and the collar. The Tindalls' close relationship with the Wales family is lovely to see. I am so glad the children are able to enjoy time together. The photos of Louis and Mia are adorable.
I am sure the York princesses were thrilled that their mother was included in the walk.
Wishing all readers a wonderful holiday season and a Happy New Year.
Another wonderful Sandringham Christmas for the family. They all looked great, relaxed and like they were enjoying the festivities with family. I like Catherines coat and hat. Everyone's attire safe fashion choices but looking warm and comfortable for the walk and sitting in what I am sure is a drafty church. Loved that so many wore what we assume was a Christmas gift scarf from someone in the family. The kids appeared to be having a great time with each other and the Aunts and Uncles and Grandparents. Ali
ReplyDeleteHi, if anyone is interested. The documentary on King Charles coronation that was broadcast on St Stephen's day is on YouTube. It's very good and definitely worth a watch. A lot of behind the scenes footage of the family and the Wales family. S.🙂.
ReplyDeleteI forgot to say, this is the first year I've seen the carol service and it was really lovely. I preferred it to the King's service which was broadcast on BBC2 at a similar time (not the actual King, it's linked to a university- Oxford or Cambridge, can't remember which). Anyway, I highly recommend it.
ReplyDeleteThank you for another wonderful year of updates! I never comment throughout the year, but you can bet I always race to this blog every week in hopes there's new content, whether it be a new engagement, a Kate loves topic, a new addition to the calendar, or a fun activity for readers. A lot of things come and go each year but your blog is a steady and continuous tradition I love year after year. Especially being overseas and not getting regular updates on the royals like the UK does. I love that your blog brings us all together, from around the world, in unity, for a princess we admire, no matter where we are. A very merry Christmas to you all!
ReplyDeleteHello Charlotte, I’d love to see a “Year in Photos” blog to wrap up the year, if you have time. We likely won’t see any engagements until after K’s birthday. Thanks for all your wonderful posts. I am curious to know more about a trip to Italy and why it was selected. It’s not a commonwealth country, it’s Catholic, there’s no royals, Italy is firmly EU etc. - celticgirl
ReplyDeleteFrom those of us shit in and across the pond thank you as always. A hopeless romantic in my old age regardless of circumstance I was delighted to see the Duchess of York. The late Prince Consort did not behave in a gentlemanly way to this daughter-in-law. He lived in rather a glass house himself so perhaps the reflection explains the dislike.
ReplyDeleteA belated "Merry Christmas" & "Happy Holidays" to Charlotte & our CK Family. It took all my energy to drag myself through our Formal Christmas Eve & our more casual Christmas Day, only to be up terribly sick all night of Christmas & I then realized I wasn't just in a funk, I was horribly sick. I felt just terrible for exposing my family... but such is life. I'm on day 4 & this thing is just Not letting up its grip on me, but this is the strongest I've felt, in order to post.
ReplyDeleteI have to say that viewing this post, was the treat I was looking forward to on Christmas Day. I used it as the time I needed to rally, to face the rest of the day. Charlotte I hope you realize how much your posts are a highlight in our lives, often offering us a bit of respite & an excuse to take some time for ourselves, amongst our busy lives! xoxo
My first reaction, was that there must have been a memo that it was a "Blackwatch" Christmas, as at our large Formal Christmas Eve (with my husband's family) we all wore either black, Navy, Green or actual Blackwatch Plaid!! All my granddaughters wore beautiful versions of the pattern & my daughter recycled a pair of JCrew pants & partnered it up with Black Velvet & she looked stunning. So when I saw the Wales Family, I had a big smile on my face! It looks like Charlotte was wearing a Blackwatch plaid dress/skirt, underneath her green coat & Kate looked like she had one of her go to Navy knit dresses under her coat.... although she always looking stunning, I wasn't in love with how bright the blue coat was, especially in relation to the vibe of the general tonal coloring of the whole group... but perhaps those, who mentioned it, are right... that she is favoring bright colors, like QEII?!
It was lovely to see Fergie with the group. I was a bit off/melancholy/felt poorly anyway... but for some reason, seeing the family this year gave me a massive sense of the passing of time....
Thank you Charlotte, for yet another year of amazing coverage of Kate & all that goes along with that. I look forward to 2024 & I too hope it's a more peaceful year. Blessings to everyone here & may we all have a blessed & peaceful 2024! xoxo
Becca, it seems like you have had more than your share of illnesses (counting COVID) this year. I SO hope you're feeling better by now. It's hard to feel bad during cold days.
DeleteThank you Allison! To say I wasn't said to see the backside of 2023, would be an understatement! lol :)
DeleteI love seeing the extended family. I wish we knew more about James Wessex - I find it strange that we haven't been told where he goes to school. (We know where his sister and all his cousins were educated.) Mia looks like quite a character!
ReplyDeleteSarah UK
Thank you to S for your recommendation to watch the documentary on the Kings coronation year. In particular it gave great insight into just how much planning, preparation and rehearsal goes into major events like this. It obviously takes a huge number of people a huge amount of time. It was fascinating to see the actual crowns being “remodeled” and without the usual velvet headpiece. Philip Treacy remade these and it was great to see him in action. The only thing I found slightly odd was that KC and QC appear to merely approve various aspects vs being actively involved in the planning eg they go to inspect their completed robes but are not shown discussing it beforehand or having any input into the design. Perhaps that’s down to editing?? They do spend days at the Abbey rehearsing; the Archbishop of Canterbury is great! - celticgirl
ReplyDeleteAn interesting recap of December has been posted on the Wales social media accounts - Demember rewind - photos and little write up of events. Interesting read and I liked the format. Their social media has upped its game and I think engaging on the various platforms across generations. I have also just seen the abdication announcement of the Danish Queen. She has been a good steward for Denmark. I will miss her appearances notwithstanding my like for Frederick and Mary. I often think how well Princess Mary embraced her new life as a royal as an adopted Dane, learnt a new language and has become part of the Danish people but also made sure her family are still connected to her homeland.Such a change for her from growing up in the sleepy apple isle at the bottom of Australia.
ReplyDeleteHow fascinating Libby about Queen M of Denmark! I had no idea! I will have to go & check out the news! Thanks for the tip! :)
DeleteAllison in US
DeleteBecca, if you can find info on Queen M's history of flamboyant dressing, I think you would enjoy it. I read about her in a Vogue article dated today. Very fun!
DeleteLike that the Danes won’t have a big expensive coronation. Just a proclamation. Denmark is a more egalitarian society and this falls into what you expect. No fuss, just get on with it attitude.. Danes like their royals but it’s not in the same slavish manner as here.
DeleteI found myself wondering, as I watched what coverage I could get, of the abdication/proclomation, & was wondering what simplifications William will make, when it's his time..... just like Charles made simplifications compared to his mother's coronation! I admit I was surprised that Mary didn't wear a tiara, since she so often does for other occasions???
DeleteAny idea when more engagements will occur? we are nearly 10 days into the new year.
ReplyDeleteI’m disappointed too the last engagement was 8th December children didn’t finish school til 15th December so I expected more engagements before Christmas . The children went back to school on Wednesday and no engagements this week .
DeleteLooks like they are carrying on the miserly number of engagements in 2023 to this year
The kids went back on Wednesday. Why aren’t there any engagements announced for next week? Sigh
DeleteHi Charlotte I hope you are well… I don’t post often but check nearly everyday to read your posts! This is definitely my happy place, and I am concerned that your posts are getting so infrequent… worried about you! Just know that in a world of grumpy, mean, spiteful and divisive posting, you are a beacon of joy, reason and light… missing your words and kindness…. Hoping all is well with you… ❤️ Nance
ReplyDeleteHello Nance,
DeleteThank you so much for your incredibly thoughtful comment. It means a great deal to me.
Unfortunately, I've been dealing with minor but persistent health issues which coincided with a number of problems with the site. As you all know, changing the blog name led to a host of unexpected challenges with archiving posts/links from previous years. I've also been working to address the site adverts which are intrusive for readers.
I hope to make a site announcement within the next fortnight and in the meantime, I very much expect to see an engagement for Kate any day now.
I'm sorry to read you've been unwell. Hope you feel better soon.
DeleteCharlotte you never have to apologize to us for anything! Our concern for you is an indicator, as to how much we care for & appreciate you. It also is an indicator, as to how much your blog has become a"happy place" for many of us!
DeleteBe well & we will look forward to when we next hear from you!
xoxo
Dear Charlotte, I just want to say to take care of you, health is one of the most important things.
DeleteIt is always a pleasure to read your blog, and as far as I'm concerned, I haven't noticed any changes between "Duchess Kate" and "Chronicling Kate" (no disturbing adverts for instance).
Nicely said Becca! I agree 100%! We care and appreciate you Charlotte!!
DeleteJoanne in CA
I'm always looking for good "Royal" things to read, during these quiet Kate periods... & besides checking in on the Danish News, I came across a Fabulous article today about Sophie Winkleman (My fave Royal, after Kate) & it's just Marvelous. It has bits about Kate, Charles & the other Seniors, even the late Queen. She's featured for her upcoming role, in the new (ITV/UK, MGM+/USA) Julian Fellowes Period Drama "Belgravia The Next Chapter"! (I loved the 1st Belgravia & I have to put in a shameless plug for one of my dearest French/UK friends, who's in it! :) Sophie is Just as wonderful as ever! Each time I read something from her, I fall in love even more!
ReplyDeleteHere's the link, I Highly recommend it for a read!
https://www.tatler.com/article/the-lady-of-belgravia-sophie-winkleman-2024-february-issue
Thank you, great article!
DeleteI heard the princess kate will be accompanying Prince William in visiting a British military base abroad for their first trip abroad in 2024
ReplyDeleteI hope you had a Happy Christmas and Happy New Everyone and special thanks to Charlotte for her hard work at this blog sorry for my late reply have been away on vacation
ReplyDeleteHi, Do we know why there are no official photos for Kate's birthday this year? Thanks
ReplyDeleteIt looks like there was a meeting for the royal foundation centre for early childhood at Kensington palace and Kate was not there….
ReplyDeleteAllison in US
DeleteI don't understand the need to meet in person. The members who are participating must have very busy work lives. We have learned how productive zoom meetings can be. The report from the Royal Foundation is "A huge amount of work has been going on behind the scenes with the taskforce members and there are some really exciting projects being developed." So given that no one ever thought early childhood is not important, hopefully some concrete projects do occur. It sounds like it was just a photo op that was missed. It is a little odd that someone could not step in from the RF.
DeleteSigh. Im not criticizing, I just want to put this question out there that I'm sure others have as well. Have any new engagements been announced? Isn't it a bit weird to be this far into the new year without any events already scheduled or completed? I've said it before, and now I think it's pretty undeniable...there is less work being carried out now that QEII has passed. We hardly saw her in the fall and lead up to the holidays. And I don't think her raising the children is a sufficient reason...the children are older now and in school, she did more when they were babies.
ReplyDelete-EC Anon
I agree. Since the passing of the Queen, they are defintely doing way less. Very strange to me.
DeleteThey are not, as you can see from the number of engagements and days they've worked.
DeleteSadly I think since the passing of QEII we are starting to see more of Kate and Will's true color. Which is they just don't have any work ethic and don't care to work. They just want the life of luxury. The claim that they are focusing on more large projects now instead of few small ones is just an excuse to work less. They are putting in more work for those large projects, just their staff is. They didn't work a ton when QEII was alive, but it was better than the present. It seems it was only done to appease her. It is really sad in my opinion.
DeleteI took a look at upcoming engagements and there are no listings for K or W, perhaps they are embargoed. Princess Anne and Sophie and Edward literally have dozens announced in the next two months. It’s interesting that even a meeting, a lunch or dinner is noted as an engagement though which to my mind seem very ceremonial vs hands on. I’m not knocking Anne but these types of engagements are a throwback to QE days. However, if events such as these are considered engagements then clearly K is not doing much behind the scenes at all. This is disappointing as I’ve always supported the thought that she was more involved. - celticgirl
ReplyDeleteI am beginning to wonder where are the Wales’? January is halfway over and they have not “worked” since the beginning of December. We have seen zero sightings of them either over their nearly 6 week break.
ReplyDeleteThis is getting to be ridiculous. Are they reshaping how they plan to work this year? With all of their staff, please don’t come at me like they are extremely busy working and that is why they have not been seen.
Can someone sincerely inform me on this?
I agree it’s getting ridiculous. She is the princess of wales now she needs to up her engagements. if she wanted to be a housewife she should have married a private citizen.
DeleteMy concern is the Wales know they are all the BRF have as full-time working royals of their generation.
DeleteAs newlyweds, it was viewed as a break-in period, the children came in pretty quick succession and are their priority. The next reason will be spending time with Kate's aging parents. They work as much as they want and ignore the criticism.
William did an engagement last, honoring Rob Burrow and Kevin Sinfield, former rugby teammates, with their CBEs for their work raising awareness and funds for motor neuron disease, a terrible condition that Mr. Burrow was diagnosed with in 2019. It’s worth googling the event because it’s a beautiful and touching story about Mr Sinfield’s dedication to his friend and Mr. Burrow’s bravery in confronting the challenges of this incurable and life limiting decision.
DeleteIt’s a pity this engagement didn’t get more airtime. If Kate had been there, photos would have been splashed everywhere. That’s why, IMO, her very light public schedule is so disappointing. She can move a lot of needles with her presence.
I think it is becoming a bit worrying. Perhaps she is down with the flu? It is the season.
DeleteNatacha, I shared your concern and wanted to say something, but didn't want to put into words, lest it be true. Now with the latest news, am very concerned for Catherine and wish her a very speedy and full recovery.
DeleteOne more thought from me. I don’t usually criticize K buying new clothes but I read she spent £162,500 last year. This is a huge amount for so few engagements. A turning point for me was new blue coat at Christmas, K has many other blue coats that have only been worn a few times and coats are meant to be worn over and over and last a long time.
ReplyDeleteI know fashions and tastes change but still it’s only worn for a few hours at most. Same with custom McQueen pantsuits, surely a bespoke suit in a rainbow of colors is not needed - celticgirl
So agree Ceticgirl! It is really sad the amount spent on clothes that are never worn again. Especially when you consider Will and Kate's stance on climate change.
DeleteI agree with many of the latest comments over 50 staff , 3 homes and no work for over 6 weeks - totally unacceptable.
ReplyDeleteSo many people and charities in this country are seriously struggling yet W & K seem to be very workshy . Children had 4 weeks off so no excuse not to get back to their very part time work GT
Do we think she's not scheduling any events yet because of the Danish Coronation?
ReplyDeleteTbh she had no engagements planned since early December
DeleteHi. There haven' been any recent posts or a list of upcoming engagements. Are you okay? I hope so!
ReplyDeleteHello,
DeleteThank you all so much for your comments.
I was expecting a return to engagements for Kate last week. Nothing has been announced yet, though I do very much expect we'll see something by the end of the week.
Charlotte, news just breaking now. The Princess of Wales is in hospital recovering from surgery .She is expected to be in hospital for two weeks recovery. She is not expected back at work till Easter or after it. No further information except all went well. S.🙂.
DeleteI guess we now know why Kate hasn't returned to engagements. It sounds rather scary to me -- until after Easter sounds like a long recovery for someone who is normally so healthy. And there is such a tendency lately to tell what disease or condition one has that it's a little unnerving for her information to be private (I certainly don't fault her for that of course!). I hope the surgery was minor and that she recovers well.
DeleteKP announced that Catherine is in hospital following “planned” abdominal surgery. The announcement says she won’t return to public engagements until Easter. Sounds very serious. Wishing her a complete recovery.
DeleteHello Charlotte, It was announced on UK news, she has gone into hospital for abdominal surgery, it went well, but she won't be returning to engagements until Easter, hope that helps.
DeleteI just read that the Princess of Wales underwent a successful abdominal surgery yesterday. According to CNN she'll be in the hospital 10 to14 days and probably no engagements until Easter.
DeleteSo the announcement is that Kate has had abdominal surgery and won't be back till Easter!! Wishing her a complete recovery.
DeleteShe is in hospital, had surgery yesterday. See Kensington Palace announcement on Instagram.
DeleteI just read on People that Kate had abdominal surgery and won't be returning to public duties until after Easter. Explains why she's been so quiet.
ReplyDeleteWell, the news explained Kate's absence. Surgery and a recovery period post-op. My apologies for the above critical remarks.
ReplyDeleteWishing Kate a speedy and uneventful recovery.
https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-68009259
ReplyDeleteHeadlines this morning re her surgery explain why she has been absent and perhaps why fall engagements have been scattered if she hasn’t been well. This is a reminder to be kind to everyone and not make negative assumptions. None of us know the burdens of others’ lives. I’m a long-time reader, and enjoy this blog very much but don’t usually post. Jan from Canada
ReplyDeleteI heartily agree with your comment Jan from Canada! We all can use a reminder to be kind. No matter the varyiing personal opinions, the health of a person is everything. May Catherine have a full and successful recovery, we will miss her presence!
DeleteI came to say the same. We can't assume we always known what's going on in others' lives. Praying for a full and speedy recovery.
DeleteJan from Canada,well said,I’m glad that you commented.Yesterday I was reading some of the comments regarding Catherine’s “absence”, but I refrained from replying.My hope is that some who have made these negative remarks will realize that Catherine is not just a royal figure,but a human being, As you said,”none of us know the burdens of others’ lives.” How true that is.
DeleteJust learned that Catherine is going in for abdominal surgery via their Instagram.
ReplyDeletePrayers that all will be well. Considering the lack of engagements for some time, hopefully it's nothing too serious.
The Prince of Wales has cancelled upcoming engagements and will step back from work for the duration of The Princess of Wales recovery. S.🙂.
ReplyDeleteI just read (10:15 Eastern Time Zone)that the Princess of Wales had abdominal surgery yesterday, and will be hospitalized for 10 to 15 days.I’m sure others have seen this as well. I’m praying for her recovery.
ReplyDeletePoor Kate! I hope she has a speedy recovery. -EC Anon
ReplyDeleteThe news that the Princess has just had surgery may explain the recently low number of engagements about which some people are complaining. If she's had an ongoing and painful condition, then it makes sense that she hasn't been able to undertake as many engagements as she otherwise might have.
ReplyDeleteHello Charlotte. It's been announced on UK News that the Princess Catherine has had abdominal surgery which went well, but she won't be returning to engagements until Easter. Hope this helps x
ReplyDeleteCharlotte, I'm just getting the info, here in the states, about Kate's surgery. Can you possibly start a new post where we can express ourselves? It doesn't have to have anything more than the Palace's statement. Just a request.... I know how important it is to have your privacy while you heal. I was so fortunate that my brain tumor surgery was during lockdown. It made it easier to allow me to heal.
ReplyDeleteBecca, I'm very sorry to hear that you had to go through that during lockdown. I hope you are doing well now..S.🙂.
DeleteBecca, I hope you’ve had a full recovery from your brain tumor and surgery.When you mentioned that it was during lockdown,my husband got his diagnosis of chronic leukemia at the beginning of Covid.Fortunately it wasn’t one of the acute types, and I feel fortunate every day that he’s alive.The news about dear Catherine was a shocker,I’m sure it was for you as well.
DeletePOW in hospital, had surgery yesterday. See Kensington Palace announcement on Instagram.
ReplyDeleteSee Kensington Palace announcement on Instagram. POW had surgery yesterday.
ReplyDeleteOh no…not the news I was expecting.
ReplyDeletePeople magazine reports that Kate had surgery today and will be off duty possibly til after Easter. I sincerely hope she isn't seriously ill. I hope she takes all the time she needs. https://people.com/prince-william-postpone-duties-kate-middleton-surgery-8430672
ReplyDeleteThere is a reason for the lack of engagements. KP has announced that Kate has undergone major abdominal surgery on Tuesday & will be in hospital for 10 to 14 days. No engagements until at least after Easter.
ReplyDeleteKate is currently hospitalized following abdominal surgery and is expects to remain in the hospital for up to two weeks.
ReplyDeleteI just read she had abdominal surgery and will be in hospital for awhile.
ReplyDeleteIt's easy to speculate when someone isn't well. The Princess has asked for privacy. A Dr on TV said it would of been major surgery to require two weeks in hospital and nearly 3 months recovery. I really hope she is doing ok. 🙏. I got a second shock when the palace released a statement saying that The King was going into hospital for surgery as well next week. S.🙂.
ReplyDeleteKate will recover. She has blocked off 3 months for recovery. Charles’ diagnosis is more forthright and he also will be under medical care. Charles has travel plans coming up. They are getting the best medical care and support. Soon they will be back for public consumption. I think it’s very healthy for people to take a break and find other relaxing interests in the meantime. So here’s wishing both to speedy recovery and all, better health.
ReplyDeleteWishing the PoW a safe recovery. Scary news, plus the King is having treatment for an enlarged prostate.
ReplyDeleteFolks, I am concerned. A ten to fourteen day stay in the hospital signals something more than just "routine" and could likely be complex and/or serious. Fortunately, the announcement was made that whatever the matter is, malignancy of some sort is not part of the diagnosis. Regardless, a person of her age and her fitness should be able to bounce back fairly quickly, however, obviously her condition is one that requires continuous medical monitoring post procedure. Ugh. What a lousy way to start the New Year, unless of course, it is something that was found incidentally and in time to correct before some other complication could arise. I would imagine William may be feeling considerable angst, which has hopefully past now with reassurance that the surgery was a success and that Kate is recovering.
ReplyDeleteRegarding the disclosure of one's personal medical condition and this instance, I can chime in and say that when something serious happens it is rather scary and I think it is obvious that the silence on the matter is meant to protect the children. The last thing they need is to hear everyone's opinion, see things in the news or get asked questions about something that they probably barely understand in the first place. At this point, I suspect that all they know is that Mum is in the hospital and that she is doing fine after "getting something fixed" and that it's going to be okay. For now, that is how it needs to be given their prominence in the world. After all, they are still people with real feelings, fears and vulnerabilities. I'd put money on it that they asked for and received a lot of professional advice on how to handle this situation with the kid's wellbeing at the top of the list. In due time, I also suspect that we will hear about this directly from Kate as she herself processes what has happened and recognizes how helpful it can be for others facing the same diagnosis to know that they are not alone, perhaps what it is like to experience the matter, the healing that is involved, recovery tips and what it's like to have a young family with this ordeal to manage.
Lets all hope for a positive update on Kate's condition very soon.
Very well said Anon 21:35.
DeleteReading the comments, I’m worried about some of you. I don’t think people need to assume the worse here and the kids are well taken care of. Being a royal is a double edge sword, but the perks are excellent medical care, palaces full of helpers and extended family all around as we saw at Christmas. The children won’t be neglected and left alone in the dark.
ReplyDeleteKensington Palace should have been more straightforward with the news, but as usual it’s living up to its fussy, circular way of doing things.