William and Kate attend second Royal wedding of the year

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The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge have arrived at Canongate Kirk, Edinburgh for the wedding of The Queen's granddaughter Zara Philips and England rugby player Mike Tindall. The second British royal wedding of the year is a much more low key event than William and Kate's. It will not be televised and press is being kept to a minimum. These measures did not deter all fans with thirty people camping out overnight to get a glimpse of the bride. The reception will be held at the Palace of Holyroodhouse, the monarch's official Scottish home. Philips is 13th in line to the throne but does not use a title as her parents wished for her to have as normal a life as possible. Zara looked stunning in her gown and long veil.
Duchess Kate was reportedly eager not to steal the limelight from Zara, recycling her Diane Von Furstenburg last night. (She still outshone everyone else) Today she opted to recycle again, wearing the cream jacquard coat she wore to Laura Parker Bowles wedding in 2006 and a cream lace dress she wore to a book launch with Pippa, teamed with a stunning cream floral hat and her LK Bennett sledge 2 pumps. I think this outfit looks wonderful on Kate. She recycles her outfits but always adds something new to keep it fresh. Again choosing a neutral colour, Kate knows what suits her and in my opinion looks classic and elegant. For more photos of Zara Philips and guests at the wedding please check out the Royal Family page

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Kate first wore the coat in 2006

Duchess Kate wears green DVF dress to Zara Philips pre wedding cocktail party

William and Kate were photographed on board the Royal yacht Britannia in Edinburgh for the start of Zara Philips and Mike Tindalls pre wedding festivities. Duchess Kate looked radiant in the green Diane Von Furstenburg maja dress she wore on her visit to California. She teamed it with black heels. Hundreds of well wishers watched the wedding rehearsals earlier today, ahead of Zara and Mike's wedding tomorrow.

It was certainly a Royal occasion with the Prince Edward, The Countess of Wessex and Princesses Beatrice and Eugenie in attendance. Duchess Kate was spotted having a lengthy chat with Princess Anne. Prince Harry arrived alone despite the persistent rumours he is seeing Pippa, (I suspect they will remain rumours) It was a relaxed event for the Royal couple, I look forward to seeing photos from the wedding tomorrow. I'm sure (like myself) we will all be interested to see what Kate wears. Will she recycle? Choose a British designer perhaps? I'll keep you updated :)

Zara and Mike

Duchess Kate 'would have made a great teacher' according to Analyst

Duchess Kate has seen her life take many unexpected turns. After school she became an arts student at St. Andrews University where she met William which would ultimately alter the course of her life in every respect for the rest of her life. After graduation she briefly worked as an accessories buyer for clothing chain Jigsaw, then took on many roles in the Middleton's family business Party Pieces including marketing officer, webpage designer and catalogue photographer. She remained in this position until her wedding. She is now the Duchess of Cambridge and our future Queen. If Kate had not met William one wonders what her vocation in life might have been? According to one analyst, Kate would have made the perfect teacher!
Former chairman of the British institute for Graphologist, Elaine Quigley studied a letter written by Kate (You will all recall the letter she wrote thanking Wimbledon chiefs for ensuring she had an enjoyable visit) Quigley said 'The flow of Kate's script with rightward slant and jointed letters, shows a writer who reaches out towards others. Looking at the letter, the endings of words are rather short, It shows her use of time is efficient. She doesn't prolong something that can be dealt with promptly. She clearly believes timekeeping should be taken seriously and, as a bit of a perfectionist, she will prefer to be ready early rather than rushing at the last minute. Judging by the characteristics of her writing Kate would have made a great teacher. She has the ability to explain things clearly and sensibly. One can also tell she really enjoys meeting people'.

Duchess Kate certainly lived up to this character description during her tour of Canada, She was warm, friendly and down to earth. I can imagine her as a teacher being called 'Miss Middleton' as she interacts with children so well. What do you think? (Although, The Duchess of Cambridge suits her better :)) I expect her charitable interests may heavily involve children too!

Duchess Kate and The Queen formally open the annual summer exhibit

The Duchess of Cambridge joined her majesty, The Queen at Buckingham Palace to formally open the summer exhibition featuring pieces from her wedding day. In her first public appearance since her departure from California, The Duchess looked tanned and refreshed wearing a beautiful soft pink Joseph A/W 2011 dress and Jimmy Choos 'Lovely' shoes. Unfortunately, the Queen was most horrified at the way Kate's dress has been displayed. The ghost like appearance of the headless mannequin startled the Queen and she was heard describing it as 'horrible'. Kate replied 'It does have a 3D effect'. The pair were among the first to get a private viewing of the display which goes public on tomorrow. Duchess Kate is said to have been apprehensive about displaying her dress but after much consideration decided Buckingham Palace was the ideal place for the public to see it.

Half a million expected to see Kate's wedding dress at Buckingham Palace this weekend

One of the most iconic gowns of our time is going on display this weekend. Duchess Kate's stunning Sarah Burton, £250,000 gown will be the star attraction at Buckingham Palace's annual exhibition. Millions who admired the dress from their television screens are being offered the chance to see the dress up close and see an exclusive video featuring Sarah Burton discussing the creation of the dress and the participation of Kate during the entire process. 'We wanted to look to the past, yet the future as well'. The detail on the dress is really quite extraordinary as you will see in the photos below. Duchess Kate is expected to join her majesty to formally open the exhibition. (I will update if any photos surface :)) 
While the dress will certainly take pride of place, Visitors are being offered the chance to relive the wedding with other key items on display. The 1936 cartier tiara Kate wore on her wedding day and her size five and a half hand stitched shoes will feature as will the acorn earrings her parents gave her. Even the wedding cake will be shown! There has been record demand by fans eager to catch a glimpse of William and Kate's big day. 600,000 people have paid the £17.50 fee to visit the exhibition over the next ten weeks. 
The exhibition runs until October 3, If you are interested in seeing Kate's dress or any of the wonderful pieces on display you can purchase a ticket HERE

William and Kate plan to get cosy watching Downton Abbey as they move into Kensington Palace

William and Kate have finally moved into Kensington Palace. After months of speculation about the move, The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge have chosen a very modest flat. It is much smaller than their neighbours apartment occupied by Prince and Princess Michael of Kent. The couple have just arrived home from their hectic tour of Canada and I imagine were enjoying being back to 'normal' life in their Anglesey home. It must be difficult for the young couple to have to uproot yet again. The life of a Royal may not be as easy as people think?
Kate ordered a few minor renovations and builders discovered the place was riddled with asbestos, a material that became popular in building during the late 19th century, It was later discovered it causes cancer. Senior royals have confirmed the couple moved all their furniture from Prince Harry's apartment at Clarence House to Kensington Palace and spent a couple of nights there last week. (I must say I'm surprised the move escaped the ever watchful eye of the paparazzi) While Diana resided there she was hounded day and night. Hopefully it will be an easier transition for Kate. Sources also stated that William and Kate view Anglesey as their home and the arrangement at Kensington is only temporary. Royal aides are constantly looking for alternatives. The Queen has invited Kate to stay at Balmoral where she wishes to get to know her better. No doubt options will be discussed during the visit. The Queen was reportedly hopeful they would take an apartment at Buckingham Palace, they declined as they feared people would feel the Queen was favouring William over Charles.
 Perhaps the pair will relax and watch Downton Abbey while there, they told actress Jessica Brown Findlay at the BAFTA reception they simply love watching it together :) It is an excellent period drama series, Well worth a watch if any of you  enjoy period dramas, (I've seen the first series twice myself) The wonderful Maggie Smith stars.

Kate Middleton's University car set to fetch £30,000 on ebay tomorrow

A very special piece of Royal memorabilia is set to go on sale tomorrow! Bidders will have the chance to purchase Duchess Kate's university car. The indigo blue Volkswagon golf was purchased by the Middleton's in Edinburgh for £10,000 back in 2001. They gave it to Kate when she began attending St. Andrew University. She was often pictured driving around in it during her early years with William. In 2007 Kate was famously given a ticket by a traffic warden. (Note his smug expression standing behind Kate in the photo Also I love her style, this photo was taken back in 2003, the preppy look looked lovely on her.)
The car was sold by Kate's brother James to Sonny Brazil. Sonny has barely driven the car as he suspected it would be worth a substantial amount should William and Kate ever choose to marry. There were also a pair of cufflinks left in the car which will also be sold. Perhaps they once belonged to William? Brazil has high expectations about tomorrows auction 'I went to an auction house in Dorset a few weeks ago and they said it would be worth 30k plus, purely because of the name on the log book. It's amazing to think I only paid £1,400 for the car and now it's worth far more than that. James Middleton was very nice, a real gentleman. At the time I didn't put two and two together but when I saw the first owner on the log book was Catherine Middleton I was very excited'. Bids for the 1.4 golf will be begin at £20,000 tomorrow, If any of you reading choose to place a bid, I wish you the best of luck! :)

Vogue: 'Kate's the rare creature whose look appeals to men, women and the fashion industry alike'.

Duchess Kate's Royal tour has been the topic of discussion in every magazine around the world. Kate has been unfairly and harshly criticized for choosing conservative pieces and wearing hose. (She is not an actress and doesn't have the same freedom with fashion choices) In my opinion each and every piece in her wardrobe was classic, timeless and elegant. One could tell careful thought and consideration had been given. Whether it was respecting Canadian fashion by choosing Erdem or staying true to old favourites, Reiss, Issa and LK Bennett she pulled it off effortlessly. Simple clean cut lines and neutral colours part of Kate's signature look. She represented fashion, the Monarchy and herself excellently. I was always a fan of her style going back a number of years ago when she shopped at Topshop. She never needed to expose too much skin or felt compelled to wear 'trends' and one has to admire her for that. An article about the Duchess of Cambridge's style has been released. The verdict is very good! (Did you all hear Anna Wintour wants her for the cover?) The article describes Kate's style as 'feminine' and 'accessible'. It also mention how she woke up before William each morning to have her hair done by James Pryce. I was very pleased with it and I think they understand her style perfectly!

The Duchess of Cambridge came, she saw, and she conquered North America on a nine-day tour of Canada and California, but whether rowing crew, visiting a hospital, meeting and greeting, or attending the black-tie BAFTAs, the former Miss Middleton was perfectly outfitted for each and every occasion. In an effort to keep the entourage small (leaving plenty of room for those reported 40 dresses that she packed in her luggage), the duchess traveled sans stylist. She did, however, bring along her go-to hair guru, James Pryce, from the Richard Ward salon in London’s Chelsea, and woke up before Prince William each day to have her hair done before heading out for their official engagements—clearly, Catherine knows the power of a good blowout. That smooth and effortless-looking hair translates to the duchess’s overall approach to dressing: classic and easy, yet polished. 

In a time when most public figures are trying to push the envelope and shock and awe with their outrageousness when it comes to fashion, the Duchess of Cambridge is bringing an understated elegance (not sexy) back, while still managing to dress in a way that men clearly appreciate. She never wears pieces that befuddle the boys, like gladiator sandals, rompers, or platforms. Instead, she’s the rare creature whose look appeals to men, women, and the fashion industry alike. She shops where regular girls shop—Topshop, Reiss, Whistles, and L.K. Bennett—and wears looks that regular girls wear—wrap dresses, shifts, and skinny jeans. She’s pretty—but not intimidating; she looks like someone we could be friends with. Of course, she also wears Alexander McQueen and Erdem, but even when it’s “designer” it looks like “her”—the shape, the length, the neckline, the sleeves (she’s a one-woman endorsement for the comeback of sleeves!). Even at the BAFTA awards, her McQueen dress wasn’t a recognizable runway look—it was streamlined and modified by her. She repeats looks, too, which is both endearing and, in the midst of a difficult financial landscape, respectable. And she supports her hometown houses, boosting morale by working tirelessly yet tactfully to promote British labels while traveling. 

Above all, she understands that flirty, feminine frocks are always pretty and never fail. She keeps her accessories simple and pulls off a look that’s straightforward yet somewhat normal. Not normal in a banal way, but normal in a way that it’s empirically attractive and universally appealing. Sure it’s safe, but stylishly refined: exactly the right way for her to dress. She’s not alienating anyone—and no one is going to misunderstand her look. Her approach sends a powerful message that is stylish, thought-out, and position-appropriate—suggesting the best about British public life and decorum.There’s no subtext or hidden agenda when it comes to the Duchess of Cambridge’s style, and it’s refreshing that an aesthetic like this is finally having a well-deserved moment in the limelight.

Kate's waist.........

It was a truly memorable Royal tour for Duchess Kate, They couple accomplished everything they could have possible hoped for. Yet one headline has prevailed since the Royal wedding, The debate about Kate's waist!..........I woke up this morning to read an article in a tabloid newspaper stating that standing next to Kate, Nicole Kidman looked 'dumpy' and in need of a month no the dukan diet. Nicole Kidman is one of the slimmest movie stars out there. Before departing Kate met actress Reese Witherspoon who did look much heavier than Kate in photos. However there are many factors to consider, Kate is 5'10 and enviably toned. 
Carole White, founder of Premier Model Management would put Kate's statistics at 32-24-35. Other spectators think her waist is just 23 inches. Yet those who know her claim she eats sensibly. Paul Sykes, contributing editor at Vogue says people have got it wrong, Kate is simply dressing better. 'It's not necessarily that she is too thin and I don't think she is, It's that expensive well cut clothes make you look taller and thinner. That's the whole point of them. She emphasises her narrowest point- her waist plus she has the advantage of youth'. I'm inclined to agree with this to be honest. Kate is definitely very, very slim but the factor I would be observing is that she looks healthy.Her eyes and skin are glowing, She always looks alert and energetic which simply isn't possible if you are malnourished. What do you think? Like Diana, Kate's weight will always be a topic of discussion for the press. Diana suffered from bulimia and one would swear the tabloids are hoping for the same revelations about Kate. In my opinion that will never happen. She is healthy and taking care of herself. 
The couple have returned to their Anglesey home where William is working towards his captaincy with the RAF. Duchess Kate is said to be settling back into relaxed, married life and choosing carefully which charities she wishes to represent. Hopefully we will see them out and about in the not too distant future! :) 

William and Kate say farewell to California

It has been an amazing first tour for William and Kate as a married couple. I noted recently the tour had no lows whatsoever. From their arrival in Ottawa to the Canada celebrations finishing off with the BAFTA reception last night where they were the toast of tinseltown everything went better than anyone could have hoped for. For Duchess Kate on her debut tour getting it right in terms of style and greeting the right people was no easy task. However, everyone who met had nothing but good things to say about the beautiful Duchess. Whether she was meeting actress Nicole Kidman or a child at the inner city academy she treated everyone equally and gave them her full attention. One could tell she knew how much it meant to them to meet her. Today she told a reported she had 'really enjoyed the tour'. As for William he was a delight throughout the tour and reminded me of Diana in many ways.
The couple have just left California at LAX airport on a British Airways scheduled flight. I have been blogging about Kate since the Royal wedding and thoroughly enjoyed covering each and every event. I shall write a post on the 'most memorable moments of the tour' If there is anything you would like to see featured please feel free to comment. I look forward to covering the coming stories about Duchess Kate, I would like to sincerely thank you all who read my blog throughout the tour! Hopefully we will see another one in the not too distant future.

As you know I've been favouring posting quite a lot of the photo's from today, I will finish the post with two of my favourites. One of Kate wiping dust from William's jacket and secondly of her reaching down to talk to a little girl :)

Royal couple enjoy last day in California as William opens his heart about Diana

William and Kate are looking very refreshed today after a wonderful night at the BAFTA's reception. Tinseltown's elite warmed to them instantly and couldn't have made nicer comments. Duchess Kate is seen as friendly and down to earth. I have also read in several reports that photo's do not do her justice. She is even more beautiful in person. (If that's possible)

I don't think any of us followed the tour without Princess Diana in mind, Unfortunately I'm too young to remember her myself but have closely studied her life, Lately her Royal tours. She exuded an ease and elegance with people which we are now seeing in Kate. Days after  his mother's 50th birthday, Prince William opened his heart to three sisters. He rarely speaks about his mother's death as it is obviously a painful, personal subject but on this occasion he spoke too Meryl, Margot and Meghan Cooper who lose their mother to breast cancer in 2002. William spoke candidly 'I know what it's like to lose your mother at such a young age. I can empathise with your loss, I think of my mother every day'. All three sisters noted how sad William looked discussing his mother. Diana would be very happy to see Kate by his side now.
For their final day in California the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge attended a Sunday morning reception for Tusk Trust, an African wildlife conversation group. They spoke with academy award winning actress Reese Witherspoon. The couple then stopped at the inner city arts academy where they talked with the kids about their interests and life at the academy. The organisation focuses on bringing art into the classroom. Outside the academy a large number of people are gathering hoping for a glimpse of the couple. Some fans are holding union jack's. Inside the school Duchess Kate put on of the apron's and began painting with one of the young students. The children seem to love her. Shortly after William did likewise and the couple sat opposite each other in children's chairs painting. Adorable! :) Before leaving the couple left their hand prints in clay for the school to keep as a reminder of their visit.
Duchess Kate looks beautiful in a navy crochet top, white John Lewis whistle Lina Dobby pleated skirt available HERE (Thanks to what kate wore) paired with navy shoes and earrings made from a pair of Diana's. Her hair is worn in a demi chignon. Throughout the tour we haven't seen Kate with her hair fully up, perhaps we shall see that soon! For their final engagement  the couple will visit a service nation event at Sony studios in Culver City before arriving at LAX for departure. It is very hard to believe this amazing tour is almost over..........
As you can see I went slightly overboard with the photos, there were just so many lovely ones from today, I couldn't choose!

Duchess Kate steals the show at BAFTA reception

The annual BAFTA reception is known to be a stylish Hollywood event, However when Prince William arrived with his wife Kate they set a tone of elegance that had even the Hollywood elite in awe of them. Duchess Kate looked stunning in a lavender pleated Alexander McQueen gown, Jimmy Choos (Which are still available in some sizes HERE) and chandelier earrings loaned to her by the Queen. There was certainly no mistaking that the A listers knew they were in the company of a very special couple!

Hollywood royalty from, Tom Hanks to Nicole Kidman were in attendance at the Belasco theater for the $25,000 a table gala. In Prince William's speech he mentioned 'The King's Speech' the academy award winning movie about his great grandfather 'I would like to thank Colin Firth for the perfect opening line, I have a voice'. He continued to stress the importance of British and American talent coming together in film. With Kate by his side William was at ease and as always the Duchess was cool and collected. She looked amazing and is favouring lavender since her arrival in L.A. (I look forward to seeing more of the couple today as the Royal tour is coming to an end)

You can watch a video HERE 

Duchess Kate arrives at charity polo event in stunning floral dress

Duchess Kate  arrived at the Santa Barbara Polo and Racquet Club charity event wearing a stunning Jenny Packham floral dress, with taupe sandals. (She also appears to be bare legged) Photographed with her hair blowing in the wind she looks every inch the elegant princess! The event was in aid of Prince William's charity 'American Friends of the the foundation of Prince William and Prince Harry'. William played wonderfully in the match and Kate secretly wished him luck beforehand.

After the match Kate presented  medals to the winners of the event including William. (It was touching to see her and William share a kiss)  This evening the couple will attend the BAFTA reception at the Belasco theater in Los Angeles (I am very excited to see Kate in another gown) Photographers caught snaps of a long pink gown in her luggage, Perhaps this is what she will choose?

William and Kate enjoy a warm Hollywood welcome as they arrive in California

The Duke and Duchess if Cambridge have finally arrived in Hollywood and they couldn't have asked for better welcome! Upon arrival security intensified to a level not seen in Canada as members of the press were subjected to full body scans. Duchess Kate then walked off the plane clutching a bouquet of red, white and blue flowers, to meet dignitaries and any of you who have been following her style closely will agree, She never looked more stunning! Wearing a lavender Peridot dress by serbian born designer, Roskanda Illnic, The Duchess could easily pass for a Hollywood actress.

The couple were then swiftly taken to the UK trade and Investment and Variety's Venture Capital and New Media Summit Reception at the Beverly Hilton Hotel, They were met with screaming fans hoping to get a glimpse of the Diana's son and his beautiful wife. Kate remained totally at ease with William by her side. (How does she do it?) The couple were joined by 200 guests and greeted by David Beckham who apologised to William for his heavily pregnant wife not being there 'Victoria really wanted to come but she is just so tired at the moment'. William quickly replied 'Don't be silly, send her all our love and good luck with it all. We've had an amazing few days and seen such incredible places'. The couple also chatted with actor Stephen Fry in the garden of the Consul General's residence. It was a relatively relaxed affair for the couple where they enjoyed drinks and canapes.

Duchess Kate made an outfit change. Again she chose a stunning dress. This time she chose the emerald green, silk belted Maya by world famous designer Diane Von Furstenburg. She wore her favourite beige shoes and teamed it with a leopard print clutch bag by Diane Von Furstenburg also. It has been an incredible start to their California visit, Do you know the press are calling them 'Royal Rock Stars'? Seems appropriate, although not sure how the Queen feels :) Today is very exciting, William will play in a charity polo match, where Kate will award prizes to the winning team. Later it's the one we have all been waiting for, The BAFTA black tie dinner and reception! I'll see you all later................

'Peridot' dress

DVF 'Maya' dress