Cambridge bits and pieces

Birkhall

It does appear we have come to another dry spell in relation to Duchess Kate news. (Every time I write that new photos emerge so perhaps we wont be waiting for long :)) However the couple have been in the news quite frequently this week.
The Cambridges spent the Bank holiday weekend cosying up with both sets of in laws as guest of Prince Charles at his Scottish estate, Balmoral. Kate's parents Michael and Carole Middleton were reportedly delighted to join the Queen at Birkhall house in Aberdeenshire situated on the edge of Balmoral. A source said 'The Prince of Wales has made a huge effort with Kate's parents. Birkhall is his favourite retreat and the fact they have been invited shows there is a genuine friendship there. It's wonderful to hear the Royal family are including the Middletons and hopefully they feel relaxed knowing their daughter is a credit to the Royal family.

With Halloween fast approaching it seems officials at Kensington Palace are keen to welcome a select number of visitors to see if rumours about the Palace being haunted are true. A source said 'There are many unusual and strange stories that have been logged by the warders over the years like bumps in the night, screams and ghostly sightings.  It's not for the faint hearted but fascinating'. The 'ghost tours' will take place over four nights from October 28-31. It does sound incredibly exciting (If not a tad scary), Perhaps they will meet the Cambridges in Halloween fancy dress too? :)

I was delighted to read the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge's kiss on the balcony of Buckingham Palace on their wedding day has been voted the UK's favourite TV moment. It was revealed after their nuptials Prince William asked Duchess Kate if it was ok to kiss her on the balcony. He certainly is Prince Charming! The couple initially shared a very brief kiss. After which William asked 'Another kiss? One more. Let's give them another one. I love you. Go on, Come here'. The second kiss lasted 1.25 seconds before Kate pulled away with a huge smile on her face. A wonderful choice for most romantic moment! Click on the video above to see the magical moment, One can never see it too many times.


In a quick style update. Some of Kate's favourites appear to be back in stock. John Lewis currently have the LK Bennett Maddox Wedge Patent Court Shoes

The beautiful Libelula Dulwich coat is currently on sale for £217. It is sold out in many colours but available in a gorgeous shade of purple.

Duchess Kate signs up for Prince Charles's cause to prevent riots

The Duchess of Cambridge's visit to Birmingham where she met riot victims was hailed as a great success. A source on the day said that Duchess Kate was eager to understand what measures were being taken to ensure these terribly riots come to a speedy end. The visit clearly touched Kate's heart and she is reportedly now considering becoming the patron of a charity working with young people affected by riots around the country. 'Catherine is keen to do what she can to keep young people on the right track. One of the things that she respects most about William's family is their efforts to help people less fortunate than themselves'. A friend of Kate's said.
A spokesman for St James's Palace, where Kate's official office is based said she is putting much thought into her charitable work. 'Since returning from Canada and California, the Duchess has been using the time to research her options for where she can most make a difference for causes close to her heart'. During Kate's visit to Birmingham she met the families of the men killed while trying to protect their homes and businesses. Kate obviously feels this is a charity which needs help now. I would love to see her working with riot victims. Britain has been left shocked and devastated in the wake of these horrific riots and should the Duchess lend her patronage to a charity in their aid it would not only give a morale boost but ensure the charity gets the support it deserves. The Duchess has not been the only Royal who feels compelled to help. Prince Charles has announced his trust will invest £2.5 million to help communities affected by the riots.

William and Kate get two tickets for the price of one at Cineworld

Yesterday William and Kate enjoyed a trip to their local cineworld in Llandudno to see The Inbetweeners. It as reported by other people watching the movie that both William and Kate were in fits of laughter throughout the comedy. Funnily enough it was 'bargain Tuesday' at the cinema which meant they got two tickets for the price of one. Even the Royals are becoming frugal in these recessionary times. :)

The couple are obviously major movie fans having been seen at the cinema recently watching the smash hit comedy 'Bridesmaids'. As you can see the photo's are not very clear. I'm sure the photographer (possibly just an excited fan) wanted to keep a respectable distance so the couple could enjoy their evening out in peace. Personally (And I know you would all agree) I would rather see photos like these than close up ones of William and Kate being hassled. 

Duchess Kate (from what I can see :)) pulled off casual chic yet again. Wearing light blue jeans with a grey cardigan and her black espadrille wedges. It's lovely to see them taking time out for a 'date night' like any other couple. In Wales they seem to enjoy a certain anonymity. As you will see in the photo's, the other cinema goers are not staring nor asking for photographs. It proves how attitudes towards the Royals is changing. Could you possibly imagine Charles and Diana enjoying a night out at the cinema? 

In other news, Duchess Kate graces the cover of Hello magazine this week. Her visit to Brimingham was extremely well received. Pippa is also on the cover with her boyfriend Alex Loudon.  For any of you who read the magazine, you will know Kate is almost always on the cover. There is a very good reason why, The Duchess has helped to lift sales of the magazine by more than a quarter in the first six months of the year.

 For those of you reading the 'Kate before Cambridge' page. I'm hoping to add at least ten entries a day. As it's in chronological order, do scroll down for new photo's! :)

Kate takes a stroll along the beach with Pippa

Duchess Kate was photographed yesterday enjoying a leisurely stroll with her sister Pippa and boyfriend Alex Loudon at the scenic Llanddwyn Island of Newborough, North Wales. If anyone here is planning to visit Anglesey in the future, there is an interesting page about it Here. The pair have always been famously close. It's nice to see them enjoying time together like any other sisters. Kate and Pippa looked very happy and relaxed. I have noticed in general Kate looks so content in Anglesey, It almost seems a shame she and William will have to relocate full time to London in the future when they become 'full time royals'.

Kate looked fresh faced with barely any make up and wore skinny jeans with a pink cashmere sweater by John Lewis (It's currently on sale) pin (It's the same sweater she was photographed wearing the day before the wedding) Her hair is loosely worn down and looks beautiful.

Kate teamed her casual outfit with a green anorak and green wellies. Yes she even looks glamourous in wellies! :) I believe her boots may be these Le Chemau leather lined wellington boots. You will notice the label on the top looks identical.

Kate was photographed wearing this Barbour jacket in 2008 while out shooting with William and the Royals at Sandringham. The brand is famously favoured by the Royals. Below you will see William wearing a matching jacket to Kate's and Diana looking effortlessly chic in an anorak (How do they do it :)) I believe this is the jacket she had with her today. While the exact anorak is out of stock there is one very similar for sale Here

Duchess Kate visits Birmingham in McQueen military chic!

The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge have arrived at Birmingham's Summerfield Community Centre. The Centre is located at heart of the areas worst affected by the riots in Birmingham. Prince Harry visited too and was shocked and saddened at the violence and loss of lives. The Cambridges met with dignitaries and emergency services staff.  The centre is only a short distance from the scene where three men were struck by a car as they tried to protect businesses and their homes. During the visit a source said: 'Kate seemed genuinely interested in how hospitals in the city respond to disorder'.

I only commented yesterday on the lack of Kate photos. Well it was worth the wait. The Duchess looks stunning wearing the Alexander McQueen Military Silk Georgette Blouse. It's currently on sale for $259 from Net-A-Porter:

'Alexander McQueen's military-inspired silk georgette blouse exudes signature sophistication. Tuck this navy-trimmed piece into a structured skirt, adding your highest heels to salute the new season in style.'

Teamed with the McQueen Embellished Wool Crepe Skirt avaialble for $580. The skirt is described as:


'A hit of Alexander McQueen's covetable military aesthetic. In a nautical navy hue, this button-embellished wool crepe skirt is a versatile style. Directional front slits lend it an air of It girl cool - pair with the matching blouse for a head-to-toe look straight from the runway.'

This outfit is the epitome of effortless sophistication and elegance. It is reminiscent of the navy McQueen military coat we saw Kate wear earlier this year (she also wore with her navy pumps) to the Irish Guards Armed Forces day. I wonder is it a possibility this is the o
skirt she wore underneath the coat that day? The fitted structure of the skirt with the slit is typical McQueen genius. Teamed with her navy pumps and her hair worn loosely Kate looks incredible.

Zara, Dolls, Riots, And Kate makes London the Fashion Capital

Time for the second Kate round up of the week. (Yes we're starved for Kate news) but there are some interesting updates you might like to hear about. Today William and Kate have been spotted in Birmingham, where horrific riots are taking place, They may have been meeting with riot victims. Three people have sadly lost their lives. Perhaps a Royal visit could help settle things down?

Duchess Kate was also reportedly spotted in a Zara store in London's Duke of York square. We all know the Duchess is a huge fan of the Spanish retailer choosing a beautiful blue dress by them on the day after her wedding. A source said 'She was in the store. She came in but left after a few minutes'. Hopefully some photos will surface from today! I'll update immediately if they do :)

Amazingly London has overtaken New York as the fashion capital of the world. It was revealed the Duchess of Cambridge and the death of designer Alexander McQueen, were responsible for the shift. It's quite amazing to see the effect Kate is having on the fashion industry worldwide. I've followed her style for years and always thought her simple yet classic look was perfection. Stylist Rachel Zoe said 'She can do no wrong right now. I actually kind of die for her'. Actress Anne Hathaway admits she is 'so grateful to Kate Middleton. Because she us such an advocate for dressing like a lady. So right now my fashion choices are all about Kate Middleton'. I'm sure you all remember Anne's comic portrayal of Kate on Saturday Night Live. I think Anne summed up Kate's style wonderfully, When did actresses stop emulating classic beauties like Grace Kelly? Kate is making ladylike elegance relevant again.

Kate's ladylike style is reminiscent of the late Grace Kelly

The above photo shows four year old Abbey Chan from Malaysia clutching the new Prince William and The Duchess of Cambridge wedding dolls. Made by Arklu they retail for one hundred pounds as a pair. They launched today in London. Perhaps the Kate doll will become as popular as Barbie? :) Obviously they not identical to the Cambridges but good fun for anyone to add to their collection! 

Since there are no new photos at the moment, I doubt most of you have seen this one. Taken in 2008 for the Middleton family business, Party Pieces. A beautiful photo of both Kate and Carole!

A review of William and Catherine, Their Lives, Their Wedding

I have just got around to properly reading, Andrew Morton's book: William and Catherine, Their lives, Their wedding.

I must say I found it an incredibly enjoyable read. The book begins with a section on Williams childhood, One of the most touching elements are the stunning photos of Diana with William and Harry. (I just added a few photos but there are dozens more) The book continues on to discuss Kate's heritage. Followed by William and Kate's time as student lovers at St. Andrew with amusing stories such as the fact, like any other couple, washing up was the bone of contention between them. It caused such friction they purchased a dishwasher between them :) 

The book goes through their relationship, break up and wedding. It is a very interesting read (I'm sure most of you have read it already) but it is the collection of photos that makes it a must have item for fans of the Duchess. I would suggest you all take a look at it, whether for your collection or for a quick look from the library. You can purchase it HERE. Let me know what you think if you do! :)

Photos from the fashion show where Kate caught William's eye

Kate during her early University days

Kate news round up UPDATED

Duchess Kate and Prince William (Am I the only one who doesn't call him The Duke?) have been keeping a very low profile and according to a new poll most people feel they deserve it. A survey conducted by Wakefield research as part of Princess Cruises' second annual 'relaxation report' found that 37 percent of Americans believe the Royal couple deserve a break from the limelight more than any other celebrities. During the Royal tour we were lucky enough to have daily news and photographs, with William and Kate taking as much time as possible to greet fans and show their enthusiasm for their role as the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge. I for one, must admit I do miss seeing new photos of the couple but I agree with the poll.  They should be allowed to live their private lives like any other couple. I think the press (The British press for sure) respect that. Hence their reluctance to publish private photos of the couple e.g. Kate shopping at Tesco.

As the couple enjoy downtime it seems Kate has been receiving some advice from Prince Philip! After famously falling out with Princess Diana and Sarah Ferguson after their marriage splits he seems determined to ensure Kate is settling into married life and being a part of the Royal family. He even offered advice on redecorating their apartment at Kensington Palace. A source said: 'Kate is really touched. It's a sign that senior royals are keen to ensure new members fit in. Prince Philip wanted to make sure the pressures weren't getting to her. He's even been sharing fitness tips about his exercise routine with Kate. He is 90 but still tries to keep fit'. Having Prince Philip's approval is of vital importance to Kate. He is the longest serving Royal consort ever. And who doesn't want to get in long with their grandfather in law? :)

Kate graces the cover of 'People' magazine. It is an excellent edition including numerous pages of photos, articles on her style, make up and hair. A collectors item for any fan of the Duchess!

During Kate's time in Anglesey, she has been catching up on her reading. The Duchess of Cambridge was spotted at the branch of Waterstones in Kensington high street purchasing copies of 'When God Was A Rabbit' by Sarah Winman and 'The Guernsey Literary And Potato Peel Pie Society' by Mary Ann Shaffer and Annie Barrows. Winman's novel about the the bond between a brother and sister features the death of Diana, Princess of Wales.
I'm sure these books will be flying off the shelves when people hear Kate has been reading them. The 'Kate' effect will do wonders for the world of publishing just as it has for fashion!

Duchess Kate wears purple again for shopping trip

Another set of photos have emerged of Duchess Kate shopping at the Wilkinson family value store in Holyhead, North Wales. Kate is again wearing the purple Ralph Lauren sweater and aquascutum scarf she wore on her shopping trip to Tesco with darker jeans and flats. This look may be Kate's signature shopping look or she may be trying to appear less interesting to the press. A huge reason there is such intense interest is because we are all so eager to see what Kate wears and emulate her look. Kate looks beautiful today, I think her hair looks lighter? 


On another note, I appreciate and welcome all comments from readers and you are all wonderful to take the time to check the blog! but lately I have been receiving some hateful ones. I will not publish unkind comments about the Duchess of Cambridge. Anything constructive, absolutely, but profanity and general trolling about the blog is unwelcome.

Baeur Griffin

Baeur Griffin

Grazia admits 'slimming down' Kate for magazine cover

I'm sure you all recall the speculation that followed when Grazia magazine released their May 9 issue, featuring the Duchess of Cambridge in her Alexander McQueen wedding dress. Duchess Kate looked frighteningly thin on the cover. Immediately we all knew the magazine had made alterations to 'slim down' Kate's already very slender figure. After investigating complaints the Press Complaints Commission said 'The magazine explained how the image had been altered to remove the arm of Prince William so that the Duchess could be featured on the magazine cover alone'.

Today, the magazine released a statement admitting that they did digitally doctor the image.

'We had wanted a great image of the Duchess on her own, but all the photographs had the Duke in too....so we asked our reproduction house to remove him from the picture. This would have left the Duchess with only one arm, so they copied over her arm to complete the picture'. The statement continues with the magazine apologising for giving the wrong impression to readers.

I think whatever the reason, making an iconic figure like Kate appear even slimmer does send out the wrong message. She is already very slender and honestly, there were numerous photos of her on her own. Walking up the aisle, stepping out of the car etc. These magazines often write articles condemning Kate for being too thin yet behind the scenes change photos in this manner on a regular basis. It does send out mixed messages to readers. When I read a magazine I want to see real photos not fakes. These images do not accurately represent the person they are writing about. Digitally slimming celebrities is common practice now. Why do magazines feel their readers want to see this? Does this news change your opinion of Grazia magazine? 

Duchess Kate's 'whirlwind of fashion successes' earns her a spot on Vanity Fair best dressed list

Duchess Kate has received the ultimate stamp of approval in the style world by landing a spot on the 72nd Vanity Fair best dressed list. The Duchess of Cambridge is one of the most famous faces on the international list. She joins First ladies Michelle Obama and Carla Bruni on the prestigious list which also features Princess Charlene of Monaco and British actress Carey Mulligan. 
The magazine chose Kate due to her 'whirlwind of fashion successes'. From her stunning wedding gown to the magnificent array of style she displayed during her tour of Canada. Kate is one of the few women in the public eye who feel as comfortable wearing Zara as McQueen. She recycles pieces that she may have had for years and updates them with different accessories. Such as her brocade coat at Zara Philips wedding, She transformed the look with her eye catching Gina Foster hat. I think this is only the beginning for the Duchess we shall see her on many best dressed lists in the coming years. I'm still hoping she may grace the cover of Vogue someday! :)


The Best Dressed list for Women is as follows:


CARLA BRUNI-SARKOZY, First Lady of France
H.H. SHEIKHA MOZA BINT NASSER OF QATAR, wife of H.H. the Emir of Qatar
H.R.H. THE DUCHESS OF CAMBRIDGE, wife of the future King of England
ANDREA DELLAL, mother of four
CAREY MULLIGAN, actress
CHRISTINE LAGARDE, managing director, International Monetary Fund
TILDA SWINTON, film-maker and actress
LIZZIE TISCH, entrepreneur
H.S.H. PRINCESS CHARLENE OF MONACO, Wife of Albert II, Prince of Monaco
JANE LAUDER WARSH, president of Origins and Ojon

Get Kate's 'pretty in purple' look

I normally leave fashion posts for the style page but I thought all my female readers might be interested in emulating Duchess Kate's 'pretty in purple' look. Absolutely anyone can wear this look, It represents casual chic perfectly. Kate is a natural beauty and I often think in her case less is more. I believe the purple sweater is the Ralph Lauren slim fit cable cashmere. It is described as 

'Wearable luxury you can treasure for years'

Almost identical to the above sweater is the Ralph Lauren buchanan cable knit sweater.  It is currently available for just under $100 It is described as

'A classic crewneck sweater is elegantly rendered in cozy, lightweight cable knit cotton and finished with signature embroidery for an iconic look'

It is available in a number of colours. The colour above is 'Wexford Purple'. Similar sweaters can be purchased on the high street or by designers. 

 This is  also a Ralph Lauren from the Black Label range. (Yes Ralph Lauren make great sweaters :)) The neckline is lower than the one above but they otherwise they are extremely similar. This cable knit cashmere sweater is available to buy HERE

For a more affordable alternative, I've chosen this dark purple Austin Reed cable knit jumper. It is available in all sizes HERE

On Kate's trip to Tesco she wore the beautiful Aquascutum Club Check Scarf she previously wore whilst canoeing in Canada, It is currently on sale. The scarf, made in Italy would be ideal for Winter.

Kate completed her shopping look with Croc Patent Leather Pirouette flats by London Sole

They are available for £165 and described as 

'A classic french ballet flat with fabric lining, leather insoles and strong elastomere outersoles'

To complete the look simply scrape your hair back and team with your favourite skinny jeans! Let me know if any of you emulate the look. Any photos? I shall add them to the blog!

On another note I am delighted we are seeing so much of Kate recently, After their return from Canada St James's stated we wouldn't see the Royal couple much this year. I can hardly imagine seeing Camilla shopping at Tesco which is why William and Kate are a breath of fresh air. Looking forward to seeing what she wears next!

The Down To Earth Duchess shops in Tesco and enjoys a romantic stroll with William!

After an exciting weekend in Scotland celebrating the wedding of Zara Philips and Mike Tindall, William and Kate were eager to get back to normal. The couple decided to enjoy a leisurely, romantic stroll in a park close to the grounds of Holyroodhouse where the wedding reception was held. Walking hand in hand the carefree couple looked happy and in love. (Which we all love to see :)) Duchess Kate looked beautiful as always with her hair swept back into a high ponytail. She wore dark skinny jeans, a purple sweater and jeans. 

William and Kate then returned to their permanent residence in Anglesey, Wales where Kate was photographed shopping in her local Tesco in Holyhead. Can you imagine shopping in your local Tesco and running into royalty? Not something one would expect! Kate spent around half an hour picking up essentials such as Kellogg's cereal and plastic bags. Again Kate wore the same purple sweater, this time teamed with a black and white checkered scarf by Aquascutum, blue skinny jeans and black flat shoes. I think Kate pulls off casual chic excellently, She looks effortlessly stylish in these photos. Despite being the Duchess of Cambridge it is clear she is eager to maintain a normal life. With William returning to work as a RAF pilot, Kate is enjoying the role of housewife until royal duties call again!

Source (Baeur Griffin Online)