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.

Read More

Updated: Kate and Lupo Watch William Play Polo

It was a busy day for the Duchess who joined inner city children in Wrotham, Kent this morning for a camping trip, See today's earlier post for info and photos. Afterwards Kate travelled to Tetbury where William and Harry played a charity polo match at The Beaufort Polo Club.

Kate brought her adorable cocker spainel, Lupo along. Below we see Kate with Autumn and Savannah Philips.

Kate appeared to thoroughly enjoy spending time with Savannah :)

The Princes competed against each other in opposing teams with Harry's team, Zedan Polo, achieving a narrow victory.

The Polo Scene Twitter

The Beaufort Polo Club was formed during the winter of 1928-1929 and has become known as one of the friendliest clubs in England. It is home to the famous Tomlinson polo dynasty and plays host to the first Audi England International match of the summer. The Princes have played polo their regularly over the past number of years.

Wikipedia

If any of you are polo enthusiasts, the cub has on online shop where you can purchase items such as the Beaufort Bear, Baseball cap and clothing items.

Beaufort Polo Club

The always informative Trisha noted Kate attended a polo match on the June 17 2006, exactly six years ago today. Below we see Kate and Pippa wearing pretty summer dresses.

Aussie Finder

It was lovely see Kate attending one of William's matches today. During their pre engagement years she attended as many as possible.

The Polo Scene Twitter

The couple spent the weekend in Highgrove house in Gloucestershire, a residence of Prince Charles and Camilla.

Richard Palmer Twitter

Prince Charles hosts many briefings and receptions at Highgrove. It is the ideal residence for Prince Charles, stunning scenic views and beautiful gardens yet within close proximity to London. Perhaps the royals will have a Fathers Day dinner there later?

Highgrove Gardens

Princess Charles has spent over thirty years transforming the gardens. A look at the 'Carpet Garden'

Highgrove Gardens

Kate wore the same outfit as this morning except for the brown, distressed suede jacket. I do not currently know the designer but will update when it is confirmed.

Kate first wore the £295 Burberry military pocket shirt on July 5 2011 during a visit to Blachford Lake.

Burberry/Canadian Heritage

Kate wore the $80 Zara Molecule Slim Fit  jeans teamed with a brown belt. (A huge thank you to My Small Obsessions)

Again Kate wore her favourite Le Chameau Vierzonord wellies.

Le Chameau

Kate accessorised with her Kiki McDonough Grace Earrings.

Kiki McDonough

See you all tomorrow afternoon for Order of the Garter. Wishing all of you Dad's a very Happy Father's Day :) We'll finish today's post with one of my favourite photos of the day taken by the wonderful James Whatling.

Read More

William and Kate collectables, Royal Christmas card, Why Madonna admires Kate and more

I have plenty of interesting tidbits to share with you for tonight's post. As we are officially getting into the swing of Christmas (With thanks to my boyfriend for making the Christmas header) retailers are releasing some amazing William and Kate collectables. As part of their 'Dickens' Village series', Department 56 have introduced a miniature 'Anglesey Cottage' made of porcelain for $64.95. If you wish you can purchase it here. (With many thanks to the very talented Molly and Jennifer)

The Dickens cottage also comes with figurines of the royal couple, 'A Fairytale Romance'. The figurines depict the couple dressed in clothing from Dickens time, With William sporting rather red hair. :) They are available for $19.95 here. Both of these pieces are certainly collectors items and a beautiful addition for fans of the young royals.

I assume all of you have put up your Christmas trees, for those of you who would like a Kate inspired bauble, (Yes a bauble :)) there is now one available. Royal Crown Derby has produced an £85 bauble made of porcelain to commemorate the couple's first Christmas together. It is described as

"To celebrate the couples first Christmas Royal Crown Derby has produced this delightful oval decoration. Displaying the ornately intertwined initials of Catherine and William on the front with the inscription "Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, 29 April 2011 Hand finished in 22ct gold and giftboxed. Limited edition of 1500".

Royal Christmas cards are a much loved tradition, the photos chosen are eagerly anticipated and none more so than William and Kate's first card as a married couple. I was very disappointed to read that the couple have decided not to make their first joint card public. (It is possible one will be made public but not officially) I expect the couple have chosen a photo from the wedding with Prince Charles chosen the one below for his official Christmas card this year.

The Royal Family's Christmas cards contain signatures with a photograph and have a royal insignia on the outside. Very interesting info and photos here.

Charles and Diana's card from 1986.

Kate wore a lovely Stella McCartney dress to Prince Philip's birthday dinner, the dress had first been seen on Madonna three years ago. The coincidence did not go unnoticed by the Queen of pop who has been singing Kate's praises.

"She is a lovely girl with a great sense of style. She's elegant and still knows how to have some fun. I'm a fan of her style. She developed a style and stuck with it whether people were interested or not. I admire her individuality".

Madonna made some interesting points about Kate's style and I'm delighted to see her getting recognition from someone like the material girl. :)

It has been said that Kate could single handedly save British fashion from recession as almost everything she wears sells out. The Duchess has certainly done wonders for Mulberry. It was announced that sales at the label have increased by 44%. Mulberry has 86 stores worldwide and plans to open nine more next year. New creative director Emma Hill has been doing a splendid job and with Kate being frequently photographed wearing their pieces we will continue to see the brand soar.

Finally, No official word on Kate's next appearance apart from Christmas day, however photos do turn up out of the blue so fingers crossed :)

Read More

The National Aboretum dinner raises £4.2 million, William and Kate's Christmas plans, Kate reveals she sang in a choir + New Reiss coat

When I wrote last nights post I did not expect there would be so much Kate news today. I have some interesting bits and pieces to share with you all. Firstly I was delighted to hear last nights dinner for the National Memorial Appeal raised £4.2 million. This sum goes a long way towards securing the £12 milllion needed. Plans include building a restaurant, a shop and a large covered area for large services of remembrance. You can see a video from last night which includes William's speech and shots of Kate here.


While chatting to violinist Nicola Benedetti at the dinner last night Duchess Kate revealed she used to be a church choir girl. Nicola told Kate she was nervous about performing and Kate said 'I know what you mean. I once sang in a choir in a church'. From that admission we can safely assume the Duchess is a talented singer. :)

British Royals

With Christmas fast approaching, (I'm already feeling festive, are you?) everyone is making plans for the holidays. William and Kate will spend their first Christmas as a married couple at Sandringham with the other royals. Each year thousands of well wishers gather on the streets to greet the royals at they attend a service at the church of St Mary Magdalene, close to Sandringham house. Last year the couple did not get to spend Christmas day together as William was on duty in Anglesey. 

As you can it looks like a beautiful place to spend Christmas. The house built in 1870 by King Edward VII and Queen Alexandra was once described as 'The most comfortable house in England'.

Sandringham House

As you all know Reiss is one of Kate's favourite labels. Reiss confirmed the Duchess was spotted shopping in the Kings road store but didn't purchase anything. However they also confirmed that while shopping in their Bichester village store three weeks ago, Duchess Kate purchased the Angel fit and flare coat in fawn. ( Many thanks to StyleMe) The coat is out of stock at the moment. It is beautiful and I expect we shall see Duchess Kate wearing it over the winter.

We will next see Duchess Kate  Sunday for' Remembrance Sunday', I'm not ruling out today or tomorrow as possibilities either!

Until then, Have a wonderful weekend x

Sources (Styleme.ie, Reiss, Mirror, Telegraph, British Royals,)

Read More

Kate Wears Libelula to Present Prizes at Polo Match

Duchess Kate made a surprise appearance at Coworth Park today near Ascot to watch Prince William and Prince Harry participate in a charity polo match. It is the second consecutive day the Princes have proved they are dab hands at the sport. Throughout William and Kate's relationship, Kate often attended his polo matches to support him. It's nice to see that tradition continuing on into their marriage.

However today was a little more special with Kate on hand to present prizes with Lupo by her side.

@modelrecommends Twitter/Grazia

The cocker spaniel pup was the centre of attention today :)

Mark Stewart Twitter

Over 200 special guests were invited including actors Russell Crowe and Tom Hardy to mark the tenth anniversary of the Audi Polo challenge. Funds raised from the event will be used to support Prince Harry's Sentebale charity which helps orphans in Lesotho. 

Coworth Park is a five star retreat set in 240 acres of parkland on the borders of Windsor Great Park. Coworth retains a close affiliation with polo, the season takes place there from April to September annually.

Coworth Park

The hotel has a fabulous spa, restaurant and bar. No doubt useful facilities for guests hoping to unwind after a game of polo. It's an incredibly picturesque place isn't it?

Coworth

The couple share a romantic moment :)

The Royals enjoyed mingling with guests at the exclusive event. Kate did not wear tights today, unusual for her but definitely the right choice with open toed shoes.

The Duchess wore the emerald blue and cream petal print Libelula Rebecca Shirt Dress. (With many thanks to Lara)  The long sleeved, buttoned dress is currently on sale reduced from £290 to £199. The dress is also available in emerald green and black velvet.

Libelula

Libélula (Dragonfly in Spanish) is known for its in house designed, vibrant prints and beautifully cut, timeless and flattering pieces. Designer Sophie Cranston won the Designer of the year award at Graduate Fashion Week in 1999 and went on to work with Kate favourite's McQueen and Temperly before creating the label which also offers wedding and bridesmaid dresses. Kate previously wore the labels silk wool twill Dulwich Coat to a wedding in January 2011. The classic piece is still available in various colours for £399.

Big Pictures Photo/Libelula

Kate showed off her long legs in a pair of Stuart Weitzman Minx Wedges. (With many thanks to Carolyn) The camel laniard shoes have an adjustable buckle and a 4 and a quarter inch heel. They are available for £398.

Stuart Weitzman

It was an unexpected surprise to see Kate at the polo today. Below we look at one of my favourite photos of the day, Kate dashing gracefully across the grounds.

To view more photos from the polo match please visit the wonderful Pop Sugar. 

Pop Sugar

You can watch a lovely video from the event here. (With thanks to Greg for kindly sharing)

Hope you all had a lovely weekend x

Read More

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!

Read More

Kate Wears Whistles and McQueen for Diamond Jubilee Concert

The Jubilee weekend continued in spectacular fashion this evening with the Diamond Jubilee Concert . William and Kate joined other Royals for the extravaganza outside Buckingham Palace. Ten thousand fans, all of whom had been given free tickets through a public ballot for the event attended the concert whilst thousands more lined the streets.

PA

The star studded line up included Paul McCartney, Shirley Bassey, Tom Jones, Elton John, Stevie Wonder, Kylie Minogue, Cheryl Cole, Jessie J, Ed Sheeran, Madness, Alfie Boe, Grace Jones and Kate favourites Robbie Williams and Gary Barlow. Take That singer, Gary Barlow organised the event and said Her Majesty and Princes William and Harry had a great deal of input in selecting the acts.

BBC

Guards posed with singer Cheryl Cole after her performance of 'Need you Now' with Gary Barlow. You can watch their performance here.

Cheryl Cole Twitter

A view of the mall before the concert began.

British Monarchy Flickr

A look at the Royal box.

The Times

Kate was seen waving her British flag throughout the concert, She and William also sang along to Elton Johns performance.

Reuters

The most talked about song of the night, the specially commissioned song for the Queen, 'Sing', written by Gary Barlow and composer Andrew Lloyd Webber. Mr Barlow visited Australia, Kenya, and Jamaica in order to immerse himself in the music of the commonwealth. Prince Harry makes his recording debut on tambourine :) The sheet music and words to 'Sing' are available to download here.


Speaking to The Telegraph about Her Majesty's reaction to the song Mr Barlow said

'We played her the song, and she was most excited that we had collected people from all round the world. She was asking about the characters, who they were and what they did. It was lovely, really nice. And we were officially told that she was - delighted with the song'.

Projections appeared to be open up the Palace as if it were a dolls house.

BBC

Very sadly Prince Philip was hospitalized today with a bladder infection and will miss the rest of the celebrations. The Prince who turns 91 on Saturday was taken to the King Edward VII hospital in London from Windsor Castle and will remain there for a few days. He is said to 'very disappointed'. No doubt it is a difficult time for him and of course Her Majesty. Prince Philip also missed Christmas at Sandringham after suffering chest pains and underwent a coronary stent procedure. I wish him a speedy recovery.

Richard Palmer Twitter

Kate wore the blue and purple Whistles Bella Dress (With thanks to Leisa) The £150 dress is a last season piece and unfortunately sold out, It is available in a different print for £120 here and in red here.  It is described as

'Crafted in a silk rich fabric with a petal print design. Featuring a round neckline with a bound edge, cropped sleeves, gathering to the waist and an exposed gold tone zip fastening to the reverse'.

Asos

Whistles express their excitement via Twitter and officially confirmed Kate's dress is theirs.

Whistles Twitter

 The colour is quite classic while the print is a fun choice for a concert and of course, always nice to see Kate choosing a high street brand especially for a Jubilee event. Kate teamed her dress with a black  belt a black McQueen jacket.

Grazia UK

Over 4,000 beacons were lit around the world today to mark the Queen's Diamond Jubilee. At 10.30 pm Her Majesty lit the National Beacon outside Buckingham Palace. Prince Charles delivered a speech after the performances finished where he thanked HM 'for making us all proud to be British'.

Daily Mail

After the concert William, Kate hosted an intimate reception at Buckingham Palace to thank the artists on behalf of the Queen for participating in the event. 

Reuters

You can watch a video of HM lighting the beacons at The Telegraph and highlights from the concert here. This youtube channel has most of the show uploaded.

See you all tomorrow for the carriage procession :)

Read More