New photos of Kate watching William playing football on Christmas eve

You will all recall I mentioned that Kate and Harry went to support William when he played a Christmas eve football match at Castle Rising. Stunning photos of Kate have surfaced from the event, from the talented people at Lynn News.

These photos remind me of William and Kate pre engagement when Kate used to go to his matches to support him. It's wonderful to see the couple still do that. Again, it should be noted that Harry is by Kate's side. He seems to be a great source of support for Kate.(as if we needed another reason to love Harry :))

Kate looked exceptionally happy about to depart for her first Christmas with the royals at Sandringham. 

Kate looked casual, chic and most importantly comfortable in skinny jeans. She wore the beautiful L.K. Bennett Darwin Jacket in Brown. (With thanks to WKW FB) The jacket is currently sold out, however there will be huge demand for it now Kate has worn it so I expect it could be reissued. From the signature collection it is £695 and also comes in black. It is described as


"The Darwin is a super sexy shearling jacket and one of the most beautiful pieces of the season. The full collar and cuffs with exposed shealing combined with a nipped waist makes this a must have. Made from 100% Toscana Sheepskin".

Kate appears to be wearing the Temperly Honeycomb Tunic underneath her jacket. (With thanks to Karen from Berkshire and Michéle) The Almond coloured jumper is €420 and also comes in orchid.

Kate's jeans were ID'd by the talented Melissa via WKW FB as the Twenty8Twelve straight jeans. I'm sure you know the famous brand is owned by actress Sienna Miller and her designer sister Savannah. Kate has previously favoured jeans from J Brand and Hudson, It's always interesting to see her experiment with new brands and these jeans are fabulous. They are €129,95 and described as


"Subtly distresses dark blue straight leg jeans from Twenty8Twelve by S. Miller. The dark blue stretch denim has a low rise waist with a higher cut at back and features a classic five pocket styling with welt patch pockets at back, belt loops, gold hardware, yellow stitching, a designer stamped button and concealed zip fastening at waist".

For a practical choice of footwear Kate chose her Le Chameau leather lined Wellington Boots. They are available for both men and women (You can see Prince Harry wore matching pair :)) for around £250.

Kate completed her look with a cream turtleneck and a cowgirl/outback hat. The hat wrapped up the look nicely whilst protecting Duchess Kate's hair from the windy weather. In 2005 we saw the Duchess in a very similar look. (With thanks to Julie)

There is a very enjoyable slideshow of these photos here. I will update if more photos emerge.

Sources (LynnNews.co.uk, What Kate Wore facebook,)

Duchess Kate's first Christmas with the royals

Merry Christmas Kate fans,
Duchess Kate enjoyed a very busy Christmas morning, beginning the day by attending an early church service with the Queen. She then joined the royals for a Christmas morning walk. Kate looked beautiful in a grey coat teamed with her Aquatalia black boots. Her hair was worn in a demi chignon.

The family then gathered for their walk from the Sandringham estate to the local Church, St. Mary Magdalene. Prince Charles led the group, traditionally Prince Philip leads the family. 

Alan Davidson/Daily Mail

It is an important event for Kate as it marks her first Christmas service with the royals.

The press spent their Christmas morning waiting for Kate :)

Kate with the Princes. I love how Prince Harry is always beside Kate. In fact the entire royal family looked very happy.

The service lasted forty minutes, Afterwards the Duchess greeted the crowd who were simply delighted to meet her. 

One could say the Duchess was mobbed, She looked incredibly happy and undaunted by the turnout.

A smiling Kate is presented with a rose by a child in the crowd.

Alan Davidson/Daily Mail

Kate looked beautiful in a deep purple hat by Jane Corbett and a matching coat by an unnamed independent British dressmaker. With it's funnell neck and angled pockets, Kate looked elegant as always. A royal spokesperson said 'The Duchess is keen to use independent British dressmakers, whose skill and craftmanship she admires'. Once the designer is revealed he/she is expected to become a household name.

Duchess Kate's elegant black suede shoes were custom made by Mascaro. (With many thanks to What Kate Wore) The closest pair available from the brand right now are the Mascaro Black Suede Pumps. With a 4 inch heels and 2 inch platform, the pumps have a square toe. They are available for $325. It has been reported that the shoes will be reissued. 

Kate completed the look with a clutch made from the same material as her hat, black gloves and charcoal tights Love her lipstick!

You may have noticed Kate's beautiful new green amethyst drop earrings. I think they were a Christmas present, probably from William. They have been ID'd by the wonderful My Small Obsessions and Thea as the Kiki McDonough 18ct Gold and Diamond Earrings. They are available in citrine for €2,2271.00. They are described as

'Make a satorial sparkle with these 18ct gold, citrine and diamond earrings by Kiki McDonough. It will make a precious gift for any style savvy women. These diamond pave small hoop earrings are set in 18ct gold'.

After Christmas lunch William (looking very smart indeed) and Harry went to visit Prince Philip with their cousins without Kate, She spent the afternoon with senior royals. During the Queen's televised Christmas speech she described the royal wedding as 'a personal reminder of loved ones as the world goes through difficult times'.

Finally two very festive looking dogs waiting outside the church at Sandringham this morning. Enjoy your Christmas lunch :)

Sources (Daily mail, Daylife.com, Twitter)

How Kate spent Christmas eve, Prince Philip's health scare and Happy Christmas

Hello Royal Watchers,
I was quite sad to hear about Prince Philip being airlifted to hospital from Sandringham last night. The ninety year old Prince underwent a minimally invasive procedure to treat a blocked coronary artery. The Queen and their children have been to visit him. The press reported he had a good night'. Hopefully he might be able to return to Sandringham for the festivities. Such a sad event especially at Christmas. Wishing Prince Philip a quick and full recovery.


The Royals arriving at Papworth Hospital this morning

Duchess Kate and Prince Harry spent the afternoon watching Prince William playing football (wearing his Aston Villa socks :)) He played a great game and his team won. The younger royals did not visit Philip, I expect they did not want too much press surrounding the hospital. 

William looking fit during the match.

The trio arrived at Sandringham before 4 p.m. It is royal protocol for junior royals to arrive first. They will then gather for tea and open presents. Kate reportedly bought Harry a 'grow your own girlfriend' kit :). The royals favour cheaper, fun gifts as opposed to expensive ones. They will then proceed to the hall for drinks. Next they return to their rooms for baths and a change of clothes. (Any of you who have seen Downton Abbey know the drill :)) 


Kate will then change into an evening gown for dinner. Afterwards the women enjoy a coffee while the men enjoy something stronger. 


A list of the Royals attending.....

Tomorrow Kate has no less than five outfit changes. Christmas day begins with a full English breakfast, before Kate's first outing to the Church of St. Mary Magdalene for the annual service. The family will be greeted by at least a thousand well wishers. Upon their return it's lunchtime, Kate will reportedly be seated next to Harry as she's a newcomer and well.....Harry is simply fun to be around. 

The Queen's speech takes place at 3 p.m. and will be focused on the importance of family. You can take a look at the preview here. In the afternoon it is a much more relaxed affair with the royals going for a walk or watching tv.

I would like to wish each and every one of you and your families a very happy and peaceful Christmas. I hope you're all spending it with loved ones and have a wonderful time. I look forward to another year of following Kate with all of you.


Unless new photos surface, See you in the morning :)

The Cambridges bring Christmas spirit to homeless charity Centrepoint

The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge paid a Christmas visit to charity for the homeless Centrepoint's Camberwell Foyer. It is the couples final public engagement before they set off to to spend Christmas at Sandringham with no less than twenty five other members of the royal family.

Pop Sugar

William has been patron of Centrepoint since 2005. The charity holds a special place in his heart, as children William and Harry paid private visits with the late Diana who was patron from 1992 until her death. I've noticed William is eager to keep his mother's work alive and continue with the same passion. In an attempt to highlight the issue of homelessness the Prince spent a night on the streets in 2009. With Kate by his side, I think they will do an enormous amount of good work in terms of raising awareness and vital funding.

As you know I like to include information about the organisation William and Kate are working with. I've written briefly about the work The Tusk Trust and the Royal Marsden Hospital does but I must admit I found the stories from Centrepoint particularly touching. Working with homeless people aged 16-25 the stories are quite harrowing. I'd like to briefly share Sam's Story.

At just 16, Sam arrived at an emergency hostel in her school uniform. Despite being exhausted and tearful Sam said she 'would rather sleep on the streets than go home'. Sam then revealed the truth about her home life. Her stepfather had been beating her, 'with a spoon, knife, anything he could get hold of'. Sam was treated like an unpaid servant in the house and sexually abused. Deeply traumatised a specialist at Centrepoint slowly helped her to regain her confidence. Sam is now studying for her A levels and planning a career in journalism knowing she has the full support of Centrepoint behind her.

Words cannot describe the invaluable work Centrepoint do. If you wish to find out more or donate (It's not too late to donate to their Christmas appeal) please Click here.

The couple donned their aprons for a healthy living cookery class. Making festive favourites like mince pies and gingerbread men. Sky news cleverly described the lesson as  'Mince pies by royal appointment'. :)

There was entertainment in store for the Cambridges in the form of a performace by 'Centrepoint's Got Talent'. One lucky contestant got her photo taken with the royal pair, while William threw a few shapes! You can watch videos here and here.

William also revealed future plans about the couple having children telling future nurse Olivia he would send his future children to her and she could discipline them :)

I don't know about you, but I'm still astonished at how beautiful Kate looked at the Sun Military Awards (For those of you in the UK the awards are televised on ITV at 8.30 tonight) and she she didn't let us down in the fashion stakes today (And it's great to see William out of his navy suit) Looking chic and casual in the Ralph Lauren Blue Label Long Sleeved Turtleneck Dress. (With many thanks to the wonderful Susan from What Kate Wore for such a quick ID) The dress is currently on sale reduced from $398 to $159. It is described as

"A timeless long sleeved turtleneck dress is rendered in our softest blend of wool and cashmere for elegant style".


Kate is wearing the dress in Olive Mel.

It is also available in Charcoal grey heather and Polo black.

Kate wore a black belt with her dress and completed the look with black tights and her black suede knee high Aquatalia Rumba boots.

Kate kept her jewellery simple, opting to wear her lovely Kiki McDonough Grace Earrings.

Kate is now preparing for her first Christmas with the royals and away from the Middletons. The Queen has already arrived in Sandringham via train so it's safe to see the festivities have begun. Yesterday Kate was spotted in her local Waitrose, near Kensington. (With thanks to the wonderful Julie) wearing skinny jeans and brown boots. And again today for last minute retail therapy on the fulham road. Perhaps picking up some last minute necessities?

Since William and Kate are not releasing their Christmas card, I thought you might like to see Westminster Abbey didn't forget the couple when creating theirs. :) 

Source (Daily Mail, What Kate Wore facebook,)

Kate sparkles at the Sun Military Awards in strapless McQueen gown

The Cambridges and Prince Harry added a touch of royal glamour on the red carpet tonight for the Sun Military Awards at the Imperial War Museum. The young royals were photographed earlier today arriving for a pre Christmas lunch with The Queen. Despite huge numbers of photographers surrounding the event, Kate never looked more beautiful and appeared to be completely at ease, It's safe to say she is a natural. The event is a celebration of the nations heroes and Kate's presence is no doubt an added bonus for the nominees. 

PA

The Sun Military Awards (also known as the Millies) is an annual awards ceremony which honours members of the British Armed Forces. The awards were created by Prince Charles. Categories include 'Best Recruit', 'Life Saver Award' and 'Overcoming Adversity'. Prestigious guests at the event include Prime Minister David Cameron, Kate spent a while chatting with his wife Samantha Cameron.



William, Kate and Harry  presented awards during the event, The Prince's reportedly chose who to present too. To see more photos of Kate presenting the award for 'Most outstanding soldier' click here. A very special moment for the winner.

Prince Harry recently returned from Afghanistan and made a touching speech.

"I am a young army officer, a serving soldier, like my brother, I share many of the same hopes, same aspirations, to go on operations, the same fears, as all who serve our Queen and country"

PA

Judging by Kate's hair and make up earlier today, Her eyebrows look sensational, I knew that we were in for a treat tonight in terms of fashion and as always Kate didn't disappoint. Looking beautiful in a black Alexander McQueen strapless velvet gown, this is one of Kate's defining fashion moments. I'm going to say (after the wedding) this is Kate's best look this year. Originally half of the skirt is sheer however it  was altered for Kate. Despite being 5'10 Kate had to hold the dress up during her walk in. It was available here for €4,270. It is described as

"Velvet is a huge trend for FW11, and Alexander McQueen's black strapless gown is a spectacular way to work it into your evening portfolio. Sweetheart neckline, boned bodice with underwired cups, half scalloped trip at skirt, concealed zip fastening at back".

Looking at Kate's dress from the back, we can see the same concealed zip.

The lovely ladies over at What Kate Wore commented on the similarities between Kate's dress and the black gown Diana wore for her first public engagement in 1981. 

I'm sure you all noticed Kate's beautiful, very high, black suede pumps.

We think Kate wore the stylish Jimmy Choos cosmic shoes. (With many thanks to Ashley who swiftly ID'd them) 
'The striking closed toe with 120mm heels is available in the softest suede'. The shoes are available for €525 here. 

Kate's bag is the Pretty Ballerina Velvet Clutch Bag (With thanks to Vera from WKW facebook) The bag has an oversized bow. It is currently out of stock but was on sale for €111.

Aside form the earrings, Kate wore jewellery she received as a wedding gift. The statement diamond and ruby necklace is dazzling. With a bracelet it's the first time we've seen Kate draped in jewels and I think we all agree Kate dazzled tonight.

The trio left the ceremony in high spirits. Tonight is the night Kate came into her own, After the wedding it was her best look this year. I look forward to seeing more looks like this...

source (Daily Mail, The Sun, What Kate Wore facebook)

William and Kate enjoy pre Christmas lunch with the Royals

With less than a week until Christmas day, I think it's safe to assume we are all feeling quite festive. Even the Royal family are getting into the spirit. Earlier today The Queen hosted a pre Christmas lunch at Buckingham Palace. Guests included The Cambridges, Prince Harry, Prince Charles and the Duchess of Cornwall.

Roland Hoskins

William and Kate looked excited and happy as they arrived they photographed arriving at the palace. I love that William chose to drive himself instead of using a chauffeur, We can see what appears to be a hat box or a gift in the back of the car.....

Roland Hoskins

As you can see Kate looks stunning (obviously already prepared for tonight's event) The Duchess is wearing a fitted red coat, quite possibly her L.K. Bennett ami. Kate is wearing a black lace top or dress underneath.

The lunch is perhaps an informal beginning to the largest gathering of royals in years, with 27 members of the family attending this year. I'm delighted to see these new photos of Kate looking so happy. 


Love their expressions in this one :)

Roland Hoskins

Judging by Kate's hair, I know she is going to look amazing at the Sun Military Awards tonight.


See you in a few hours for the next post :)


Source (Daily Mail)

The Cambridges to visit South Pacific for Queen's Diamond Jubilee, Kate latest purchases revealed including her 'Rachel Berry' dress

I have some interesting stories to share with you today, however there's one in particular that takes precedence. I was absolutely delighted to hear that William and Kate will be visiting Malaysia, Singapore, the Solomon Islands and Tuvalu next year as part of the Royal world tour to mark the Queen's Diamond Jubilee. I had expected the young couple would of course take part but I did not anticipate these locations. The Royal family are being sent across the globe, covering countries in the commonwealth from New Zealand to Canada. Here's a look at where each of the royals will be heading, and yes prince Harry got the 'fun' locations. :)

It has been reported that the Tuvalu, a tiny group of Islands in the South Pacific, was chosen for the Cambridges as Royal aides knew William and Kate will most likely attract the biggest press following. Sadly a state of emergency was declared in Tuvalu recently when it's population of 10,400 was left with only a weeks supply of drinking water. This visit will highlight the Islands while honouring the Queen's Diamond Jubilee. The couple have been promised a 'welcome they will not forget'.

This will be a very special trip for Duchess Kate. I am looking forward to seeing what she wears. I expect she will choose a local designer like Erdem in Canada. We may even see pieces from her honeymoon wardrobe. In the meantime 'The Cut' have dressed Kate for the occasion. :) (With thanks to What Kate Wore)

In my last post, I wrote about shopping at the Fifi Wilson Chelsea store. The stunning pieces Kate purchased have been identified by the very talented Kate Spotter, who was kind enough to share the information. Firstly my personal favourite piece from Kate's purchases the stylish  Midnight Klynn Eyelet Dress. I can see Kate teaming this with her black suede boots and black tights for a daytime look. The dress is £380.80 and is described as 

"This midnight wool mix gorgeously amazing Eyelet Milly dress is nothing less than bliss. Beautiful gold eyelet loops decorate the front of this snug cut knee length piece of heaven. A timeless dress that is an absolute must have".

You can also buy the dress here and here. The dress is also available in cranberry and is on sale here.

Glee's 'Rachel Berry' wearing the dress via fashion of glee.

Kate bought the Milly Midnight Fitted Meredith Patch Blazer. I could also see her wearing it during her time in Sandringham over Christmas. It is also £380.80 and is described as

"A gorgeous blazer that will go over any outfit whether casual or elegant, look fashionable and keep you cosy at the same time? This midnight corduroy fitted milly patch blazer will give you all of the above. The warm brown leather patches on each elbow and chunky golden buttons add glam to the casual look".

Kate's third and final Milly purchase is the Milly Midnight Danna Low Waist Trousers. Again choosing 'midnight', Kate could easily pair the blazer with the dress for an engagement or with with the pants for a casual look. The pants are £263.20 with chunky buttons on the front two pockets, the inner lining is yellow and midnight patterned silk.

Duchess Kate completed her shopping trip by choosing a bracelet (as yet unidentified) and two dresses from Roberto Collina including a cable knit dress.

Looking forward to seeing Kate wearing her purchases, all excellent choices. I will update when the other items are confirmed. Apologies if anyone had problems with the site last night, I wanted to 'tidy up' the look of the blog! :)

Sources (Kate Spotter via Facebook, the cut, What Kate Wore, The Telegraph, Daily Mail, Milly)

Three upcoming engagements announced, Where Kate shopped today, Kate's boots ID's and more

I have excellent news regarding 'Kate sightings' with three upcoming engagements planned. I had read we would not be seeing the Duchess until Christmas at Sandringham, luckily that rumour is completely false. Next Monday, December 19th William, Kate and Harry will attend the The Sun Military Awards. Just two weeks ago Royal aides said they were undecided about whether or not the young royal would attend due to controversy surround News International and the Leveson Inquiry. (I'm sure you all heard about the phone hacking scandal) After much consideration aides decided the soldiers, sailmen and airmen honoured would be 'let down' if the Cambridge's and Harry did not attend.

On December 21st William and Kate will make a special visit to Centrepoint an organization that helps homeless people aged 18-25. This is a cause close to William's heart. As children he and Harry made private visits to Centrepoint with Diana, who was a patron from 1992. Again, we see William taking on his mother's role and sharing it with Kate. On their visit the couple will take part in a healthy cooking lesson and take in a performace of 'Centrepoint's got talent'. Looking forward to this one in particular, So close to Christmas it will give members of the organisation a much needed morale boost.

On January 8th the Cambridge's will attend the premiere of Steven Speilberg's 'War Horse' in Leicester Square. No doubt Kate will choose a fabulous dress for the occasion. Plenty to look forward to. I will be covering them all with a post and photos as soon as they are available.

Speaking of Kate sighting, The Duchess was spotted shopping in the trendy Fifi Wilson in Chelsea. No word on what Kate bought but possibly something for her upcoming appearances? or a Christmas present for Pippa? Their stock is quite youthful and they have brands such as By Malene Birger which Kate loves.

One of Duchess Kate's favourite items has finally been officially ID'd. We often see Kate in her favourite flat black suede boots which up to this point we all thought were the Aquatalia Cookies. Thanks to the investigative work of Bella, Get What Kate Wore and Anne Marie the boots have been confirmed as the Russell and Bromley 'Charge it' boots. The boots are unavailable for now but I will let you know if they come back into stock


The 'Charge it' boots

Kate most recently wore them while shopping at Zara.

As you all know early next year William be posted in the Falklands for six weeks, 8,000 miles away from Kate. It has been reported that during this time Charles and Camilla have invited Kate to stay with them. A source said 


"Kate gets on well with the in laws, especially Camilla who is another outsider who has been accepted into the royal family. There is little doubt she will spent time with Charles and Camilla during that time".


It will certainly be interesting to see if this happens. I think it will be a difficult time for Kate being separated from William for so long.


Finally for today, Kate graces the cover of Hello's Christmas edition. Lovely photo.

Sources (Hello, What Kate Wore facebook, Royal Reporter via Twitter)