The Arboretum has only been open for a year, so its plans for 100 forests in the area are in the very early stages. To help them on their way just a little, the Duke and Duchess planted an English oak tree.
The couple were assisted by twin brothers Oliver and Sebastian Lye. Sebastian has Down Syndrome and also has a visual impairment and is hearing impaired. He recently received a little legend award for achievement whilst dealing with adversity. Their mother is going through an ongoing battle with cancer, so this morning provided an opportunity for the family to relax and enjoy meeting the royals.
William and Kate were quite taken with the twins.
Kate chatted with the boys.
A look at the plaque.
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| Damien Smith Twitter Feed |
Afterwards, the couple met with local groups of children and their parents.
Kate joined children in the Pod Playground.
The Duke and Duchess then moved to Parliament House, where Prime Minister Abbott hosted a reception in the Great Hall. Prince William changed his tie for this event. Perhaps it was down to a coffee spill or he felt it more fitting to wear a more formal tie.
Six hundred guests were in attendance.
In his speech Prince William said:
'Reluctantly Catherine, George and I leave Australia tomorrow. Thank you for the warmth and generosity that has been shown to us throughout our visit. We go away with wonderful memories, and George goes away with his cuddly wombat which he has taken to chewing so lovingly.'
William also revealed he, Kate and Harry will take part in next years Gallipoli centenary celebrations. At the moment nothing is confirmed, however it seems likely the trio will travel to Turkey next April.
A look inside the Great Hall before the reception began.
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| Gordon Rayner Twitter Feed |
Prince William with Prime Minister Tony Abbott.
Kate chatted with the Prime Minister's wife Maggie.
William and Kate signed the visitors book.
Afterwards, the couple visited the National Portrait Gallery, where they viewed an exhibition of artworks and met some of the subjects of portraits, all of whom - naturally - are well-known Australians who are highly accomplished in their respective fields.
The couple viewed a beautiful of portrait of Crown Princess Mary of Denmark. Mary is Australian and was born in Tasmania. The portrait is by Jiawei Shen and depicts the princess posing in Copenhagen Cathedral in 2004. Shen often juxtaposes contradictory elements in his paintings to indicate his sitter's history or situation. He based the princess alongside a column based on the architecture of Amalienborg Palace in Copenhagen. In the background lies the Sydney Opera House. I absolutely adore this portrait of Mary. The formality of it, magnificent teal gown, statement earrings and the insignia of the Knight of the Order of the Elephant.
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| National Portrait Gallery |
As many of you know, the Duchess is patron of the National Portrait Gallery in London and has carried out a number of public and private visits there, so this visit was a particularly special one for her.
One of our readers Elkie was outside the gallery today and shared this terrific photo she took. Elkie said there was "definitely a buzz in the air. They're such a lovely couple".
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| Photo: Elkie |
Kate's garment appears to be a bespoke version of two Catherine Walkers. First, the Evelyn Coatdress. It is described as: "The sharp and precisely cut shoulders of this grass green Venetian wool coatdress are softened by the sinuous neckline and full A-line skirt with hand pick stitching". As you can see the neckline on Kate's had been altered.
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| Catherine Walker |
One of our readers correctly noted similarities between Kate's garment and the Lara Coatdress. As you can see it features the same zipper and high neck.
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| Catherine Walker |
The Duchess wore the same vivid green in Cambridge, New Zealand. On that occasion it worked very well - readers will recall the piece was by Canadian designer Erdem.
Kate wore her favourite L.K. Bennett Sledge Pumps.
Kate accessorised with her emerald and diamond earrings.
And her Cartier Watch.
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| Cartier |
You can watch Prince William's full speech here.
We'll be back with another post later, when the Duke and Duchess attend a reception at Government House at 6 p.m. local time. We can expect to see the Duchess in a formal dress; I'm hoping for a full-length gown but we'll have to wait and see :)
Wow! This coat dress is stunning! My favorite for sure this tour. So perfect!
ReplyDeleteSurprisingly... mod?
ReplyDeleteI love the pic of Kate in the Pod Playground. Just her legs and that beautiful green coat. So joyfu!
ReplyDeleteThe original Evelyn coatdress is quite striking. I so wish she'd just picked that. Instead, I'm left wondering what she was thinking?!
ReplyDeleteI love the original too and I think it would have been a very striking look combined with a plain white silk top under it.
DeleteI believe Kate's goal was to dress safely and appropriately, rather than to have the emphasis be on her wardrobe. And IMO she succeeded.
I totally agree! She's only 32 years old! I understand she is a Duchess and representing the royal family, but does that prevent her from dressing with an occasional contemporary flair? The original coat would still have been proper and regal, while giving her some semblance of youth. Rather, she looks like she's about 50.
DeleteI agree! The original neckline was much more attractive.
DeleteDitto everybody. I like the original much better as well.
DeleteFrankly, I don't know why she picked this one as it's so close to the other green coat she wore in NZ.
Me too. Open neckline. Nice top underneath. Maybe a killer necklace. As it is, it's a bit boring.
DeleteAnnie
Ny, USA
agrre with you all. the original evelyn model is a little bit too much ladylike for me, but it works much better that this hybrid thing!
Deletei am sorry but this dress/coat is horrible!. It is a big no for me.
ReplyDeleteThis dress is awful,,it looks like a space suit with the funny high high neck and the belt!
ReplyDeletei agree. i am way beyond disappointed. kate please stop dressing hrh queen elizabeth--she is 88.
DeleteOh, Siddhii! You comment is making me laugh so hard LOL
DeleteHer Maj wouldn't be caught dead in it, anonymous.
DeleteGorgeous in green! Love it.
ReplyDeleteOnce again, representing HRH, Queen Elizabeth II, regally. I love how modest her clothing is; classic cuts that can be worn over and over and never goes out of style and more importantly not trendy.
ReplyDeleteSo true. Her taste level is perfection. Such a great lesson to all the little girls (and big ones like me!) who follow her - that fashion and good taste can go hand in hand.
DeleteYes!
DeleteLove the color and overall style, but I think the sleeves should've been shortened and the neckline unzipped a little.
ReplyDeleteShe may be balancing things out , since she wore the deep V yesterday. It's really a dull boring look, like the other high up zipped coat. I'm surprised she's wearing those LK Bennett shoes again.
ReplyDeleteI actually love this coat, but it's too similar to the other bright green coat Kate wore in New Zealand.
ReplyDeleteI really like the color but I feel like for the weather (it pretty hot there) it seems a little too 'heavy'. I agree that the neckline is too high. Other than that, I think it was great.
ReplyDeleteCanberra is not hot today, remember Australia is in early Autumn and Canberra is known for its icy winds.
DeleteSince Kate reported she was "sweltering", I think perhaps the icy winds bowed before royalty. But I expect that is why she chose the heavier fabric. I'd have like the unbelted style much better. Did William say she looked like a pickle today?
DeleteThe more I look at it, the worse it gets! That neckline with the long sleeves, full skirt, wide belt and too bright color is just horrible. I'm headed to bed and hoping when I get up in the morning that I will see something truly lovely from the later reception to erase the memory of this from my mind.
ReplyDeleteWow not loving this look at all. Maybe if the coat were unzipped it would have had a different look but alas this looks like something omeone's grandmother would wear. The original version of it is beautiful and I think Kate would have looked great in it. She could have had the sheer paneling sewed up so that it was just the neckline that was exposed. Sometimes Kate dresses so much older than her age. She can be royal and chic at the same time. Going back and looking at some of the clothes Kate wore after she got married were just stunning and so trendy. Now I feel like she's in a style rut and not really sure where she's at being a wife and a new mother. Like she's not sure if it's still appropriate to show a little skin or cover up. In my opinion it seems like she goes through periods of unsureness with her wardrobe. One day it's the short wispy dresses and high heels and the next it buttoned up from head to toe. I think by 32 you should be sure of yourself and what you like in your style. Lower hemlines yes but not matronly frumpy clothing that covers you up. Now don't jump down my throat. It's just my opinion.
ReplyDeleteI don't have a child myself but I know it can be exhausting but there's plenty of new mothers out there who still look trendy. Kate especially could since she has full time help.
Yes she does have help but still is a very hands on mommy. And with a 9 month old who is teething you have no idea what it is like. And I think once they are back where they are staying W&K take over tending to George. Kate made a state during one of their walkabouts that her & William are always there to put him to bed, except the two nights they were away.
DeleteI don't particularly like the coat (although it isn't the worse she's ever worn either, IMO). But here's something to consider: Kate is probably still trying to find her "new" style. I completely agree that her earlier choices (in particular right after the wedding) were way better and fully appropriate - without being boring. Her Canadian/US tour was "dressed to perfection". I don't think she's made a single faux-pas on that tour: dresses were stylish but fully appropriate, classic but not boring, she picked some local designers - and you truly could not find a fault with any of them. She also looked comfortable in them - totally at ease.
DeleteIn my mind, a few things have changed since: she is now fully aware of the ridiculous scrutiny her sartorial choices are under, she has probably changed her stylist (or advisor - as may be) and she is now a mother and under the queen's "supervision" (I am convinced Buckingham Palace is aware that Kate is the most popular royal by a mile). And so she is still trying to find her new style - and she flips (and sometime flops) through some options.
At her age it's actually not unusual, in particular with a change of status. I will confess that exactly at 32 I had my own "transformation" driven by rather different expectations, environment and... age. so why don't we give her a couple of years to get comfortable in her new "place"?
On the hemlines, by the way, I think she's doing just the right thing. The dresses / coats she was wearing during pregnancy were too short, regardless of the look of her legs... inspiration should come from Christine Laguarde and not Christina Aguilera when you are in a public role. Just my 2 cents.
I have all the confidence she'll find her own (again) soon....
I second your post. Perfectly said, and I agree entirely. It's a difficult transitional age for a lot of women for lots of reasons, clothing included.
DeleteAh... indeed... The Candian tour (yes, I am from Canada) - she was dressed to perfection - as you say. Charlotte, we should revive those photos... and maybe do a "tour comparison" between the three she's been on so far? What do you think of that, eh? Something interesting - and perhaps someting to consider for a "poll"???
DeleteI really do not like this look. I thought her first Catherine Walker look was awesome. This dress looks like it doesn't fit her well. A bit too Kermit the Frog green for me. The emerald earrings though are gorgeous!!
ReplyDeleteThe last couple of days she has not made some good choices in my opinion. Though I am a fan of this colour, this dress looks too big on her and just swallows her thin frame. Let's hope she ups her game tonight.
ReplyDeleteI love everything she wears... some more than others...but that is personal taste.
ReplyDeleteShe has the height and wonderful physique to make anything she wears look good.
How fortunate!!!
A beautiful ensemble!!!
Looking back at those pictures I liked the woman in the purple dress a lot better. It should have been reversed Kate would have looked great in that dress and the other woman would have looked great in Kate's dress.
ReplyDeleteThe woman in the purple dress is ACT (Australian Capital Territory) Chief Minister Katy Gallagher, I agree she looks very stylish - as does Kate!
DeleteI thought that purple dress with black ribbon was a great choice too! I liked that woman's necklace and earrings as well - it's getting my vote for best dress on the tour!
DeleteThe purple dress is by Melbourne designer Anna Thomas: http://www.annathomas.com.au/
DeleteSo did I.
DeleteThank you for the Anna Thomas info.
The belt looks super cheap and the overall look is not flattering nor stylish. It is a pretty color.
ReplyDeleteI actually love the piece and how it looks on her–almost as much as the earlier corn blue coat. It's also a great color green for her royal persona (but not for an ordinary, everyday person event). Silvia
ReplyDeleteKate is amazing - but this is not one of my favorite looks either. It looks like the pattern that's waiting to be made into a coat. The top-stitching around the front zipper makes it look yucky IMO. That neckline is a hot mess. However - in spite of that she still looks amazing! Every outfit she's worn this trip has been fantastic.
ReplyDeleteI sooooo love your blog and you have done an outstanding job (you must be tired!) for all these weeks.
My fingers are crossed for a gown tonight! Come on! One gown should be a MUST! :)
I like the outfit of the day! Very professional.
ReplyDeleteI think some people might think it looks too matronly, but we must remember, the woman is at work. There is dress code, etc and she is representing a nation.
I like this look. Green is certainly appropriate for the occasion! I have been under the impression, especially looking at the clothing on children, that Canberra is cool. Therefore a coat or coat dress. I love the seaming; Kate has worn garments with very interesting seams several times on this trip. And I always like pick stitching. I do think the curve of the original garment might have been kept at the top, but in general I like this very much.
ReplyDeleteThe serious faces no doubt reflect the death in the Shand family, as well as whatever was occurring at the time. I wonder whether their shared interest in animal protection made William and Mark Shand colleagues as well as step relatives.
I love the full skirt and belt, but not the neckline. I'd love to see it with a modification of the original (not so low and open.)
ReplyDeleteThanks for all your hard work keeping us updated. I can imagine these posts take a lot of time to put together. I do appreciate them! I'm a bit surprised at how critical people are of Kate's choices. I think people need to remember the balance she has to strike every time she steps outside for one of these engagements.
ReplyDeleteIn regards to the comments about Kate's outfit being too hot for the climate. Australia's climate varies greatly, it is much hotter in the centre and North than in the southern States. Canberra particularly is known as being cold, whilst the forecast maximum temperature is 20 degrees celsius today, at 10:00am in the morning at the time of the Royal visit to the Arboretum it was probably still only about 12 degrees. Also local media commented that the site of the Arboretum is on the hill and is known to be very windy, which fortunately it wasn't today. So I think Kate was dressed very appropriately for the weather and occassion. I loved the photos of her engaging with the children in the playground, particularly the one of her standing inside of the Banksia pod sculpture.
ReplyDeleteThank you anon 3:41.
DeleteAustralia is notorious for variations in climate from coast to coast; But even more notorious for it's climate variation throughout the day in just the one place.
We need to layer here. Cool mornings. Really really hot afternoons (compliments of our blazing sun and high UV.) And chilly evenings.
This made me think that Kate was somewhat unprepared for our climate.
I have actually loved most of her outfits on this tour, but today I have considered that she could have been more prepared for the "practicality" of the engagements.
Yesterday she suffered the same fate. By afternoon it was hot in the sun despite temperatures only reaching low 20's C. Obviously Kate began to feel hot.
I would have loved more dress/coat combinations. Peel off the top layer and reveal a lovely dress underneath! Far more practical.
Personally I love the green colour. Emerald green is always dazzling; but yes maybe not zipped up so high.
I adore green on Kate.
The high waisted/asymmetrical cut is actually quite common with Kate. A look back into her wardrobe reflects this is a cut she frequents. I think it is to give her a bit more shape, as she is quite straight and not curvaceous. I don't think it has anything to do with "maternity wear".
The glow on the couple's faces is our searing sun causing a "sun kiss". Even with low temperatures, our sun is quite damaging even in winter. More so than the tropics.
Maybe next time?
I think she looks beautiful---hair is gorgeous, nice makeup, nice jewelry. But the color is one she's repeated several times before and all 4 bright green pieces are so similar. Why bother to have so many similar pieces in the same color? But I actually whispered "yuck" to myself when I first saw the pictures. I did not even see the belt or shoes at first. My eyes didn't make it past the puckered zipper on the bodice. And OMG someone added shoulder pads. The edges of the pads are clearly visible in several pictures. The quality of the last few garments has been appalling and slightly embarrassing. I personally don't like the style at all. A miss for me. She would've been better off to repeat the green DVF dress she wore in California. But I don't want to be too negative. The Duchess does look gorgeous.
ReplyDeleteIn other news, I wonder if they'll make any public acknowledgment about Camilla's brother?
Don't really care for the neckline or belt on this one. However, her emerald earrings are lovely and I'm always happy when she wears them.
ReplyDeleteI know this is about Catherine, but William looks nice today. I like that he changed his tie lol! Anyone know what kind of watch he wears? (Sorry, I can't sleep and there's not much on tv at this hour lol!!!)
ReplyDeleteI wonder too, maybe it is the watch Kate had made for him a few years ago.
DeleteHaven't we seen this before? Argh! This looks surprisingly like the green coat she wore earlier in the tour. How many green coats does one woman need?! I have no problem with it, but am getting a little bored with the color green and the same shade of green on the same tour is a bit silly in my book, especially since both were new items.
ReplyDeleteThere are so many colours to choose and many shades of green too . At first glance I thought it was the Erdem coat she wore earlier in NZ, the colour being so strikingly close shade in green.
ReplyDeleteLike the style of the coat , but the same colour twice. No No ! For me.
I'm on my way to the National Portrait Gallery. Will try and catch a glimpse of William and Kate if I can. I love the green dress, very appropriate for the National Arboretum. It's a beautiful day in Canberra, about 20 degrees and sunny.
ReplyDeleteNot a fan of this outfit at all. I hate to say it, but this tour has been somewhat lackluster for me from a fashion perspective. I haven't been a fan of the jewelry choices, and was really hoping to see a lot of new NZ and Australian designers to shake things up a bit and to add some fun and new additions to her wardrobe. Too many repeats on earrings, clutches, shoes, etc.
ReplyDelete-Britt from South Carolina.
I totally agree Britt. I too expected way more. The only thing that she has changed is the HEMLINE
DeleteIf she was going to do this shade of green again why not repeat the DVF from Canada tour/Zara wedding? It is the exact same colour.
ReplyDeleteIt is not her greatest look of the tour, but it is not disastrous. The color is vivid, so she can be seen from a distance by the crowds and she looks elegant and appropriate (except perhaps a bit hot). I don't like her Catherine Walker choices over all, but I've seen much worse.
ReplyDeleteI like the color and the over all shape of the coat with the nipped in waist and full skirt, but what is going on with that neckline? It is way too old for her and way too buttoned up for the weather. The original neckline would have been so much more flattering on her.
ReplyDeleteI think Kate looks just great! It must be challenging to dress to please everyone, so I think she has to mix it up. That original " sinuous" neckline looks ridiculous to me.
ReplyDeleteCharlotte I love this shade of green. I see the duchess does as well. I sent you an email yesterday hope you got it? Cheers.
ReplyDeleteI forgot to say I adore that painting of princess mary. just beautiful!
DeleteThis is a MISS for me too. Can you imagine how BEAUTIFUL this coat dress would have looked if it had a boat neck collar projecting out in a Jackie Kennedy esque way? This is too stiff. I also think that overall the Duchess in this tour fared a B+ grade for me. Not even an A.
ReplyDeleteShe could have done way better in her choices of outfits. This color also reminds me of the Erdem coat.
No burgundy, no Coffee brown, no rich Maroon, No shade of purple!! oh c'mon!!
The only colors the duchess favors are different shades of blue and green.
That also makes me think that she must have chosen the colors of her outfits to go with her BLUE SAPPHIRE, GREEN EMERALD AND PEARL EARRINGS.
Did you ever think that she might not like the other colors?
DeleteI did thank you Mellie, I've passed your details on and will be in touch shortly :)
ReplyDeleteThe royals are spending the morning with the prime minister and official people at Parliament House. What would you choose?? Catherine looks lovely, professional and appropriate.
ReplyDeleteDoes anyone know exactly what color Kate's eyes are? I believe they are green so that could be why she wears greens and blues so much. Those colors bring out her beautiful eye color. Any thoughts on this theory ladies? Kathryn
DeleteShe does have lovely green eyes and wearing green brings them out. My husband has bought me so many green tops and sweaters because he likes how they bring out my own green eyes. I get it. But, it gets repetitive when it's the same shade of green.
DeleteI don't know. At least with the Erdem, she won't have to worry about St. Paddy's Day again.
ReplyDeleteThink we will see the Wattle brooch, but not a long dress tonight..
I am so disgusted with my daughter. She called tonight and was talking about their trip to Canberra last weekend I asked if she knew W&C were there. She did, but said," We're not royalists,Mom. I told her a few pictures couldn't hurt..
Marg
Charlotte, I am with you: the other green coat was so much better!
ReplyDeleteWith so many beautifull broaches in the Royal Family, this would have been the perfect opportunity to showcase one. Had the Duchess' hair been pulled back, a jeweled pin would have been diplayed nicely. Thank you for your great posts!
ReplyDeleteI quite agree. That would have fixed this by giving it something special.
DeletePerhaps the distress noted in Kate's demeanor is about Camilla's brother?
ReplyDeleteShe looks just right for the occasionhttp, flow of the skirt is so feminine.
Interestingly Kate has not changed outfits for the visit to Parliament House this afternoon, but William has changed his tie!! He was wearing a lovely silver one this morning and his now wearing yet another maroon coloured one. I think the silver one complemented Kate's green dress better. The Canberra Times live royal tour blog has photos of the 2 ties and some funny comments.
ReplyDeleteJayne from Australia
I like it. I've liked all the outfits. The Duchess, let's be honest, would look stunningly gorgeous in a bin bag. Think of the pressure she must be under; I imagine that, just as commenters on this blog have different tastes, so must be the press, the courtiers, her hosts, her family, etc. I may be a bit older than some commenters so more comfortable with less "trendy" and more "classic" shapes.
ReplyDeleteI actually liked the color and thought the fullness below the waist very appropriate for leaning over and shoveling dirt to plant a tree. I also liked the way the zipper was covered as opposed to the way the Erdem coat zipper was exposed. I thought the exposed zipper on the Erdem coat cheapened the look. I loved the emerald earrings with the coatdress. Will she wear a cocktail dress at the 6:15 pm reception? I'm disappointed that there has not been one formal dinner during the whole tour. I keep remembering Princess Diana wearing the choker as a headband for the formal evening in Australia. Maybe next time! :-)
ReplyDeleteHow in the world did Kate get into that pod thing on the pkayground!? Is there an entry on the other side?? I do think thst some of Kate's choices have had a rather severe, "Military uniform" feel to them that is so different from her usual feminine creative style. Also, does her generation wear brooches much? Clearly, Kate seems to be a minimalist when it comes to jewelry.
DeleteKate's green coat dress really seems much closer to the Catherine Walker "Lara" coat, raglan sleeves, raised neckline, princess seaming, zipper closure. The pieces of the coat have been altered to flare out from the waist down turning the skirt from fitted to full. And, of course, an added self-fabric belt. http://www.catherinewalker.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/Lara2.jpg
ReplyDeleteThank you, what an excellent find!
DeleteI really, really, like this look actually (more so than the other green coat!)- while the neckline is conservative, I think it is very chic, which I think Kate has been trying "more of" on this tour. My only problem is that- the Duchess seems (or at least in my mind) to try very hard to not come off wasteful, and re-uses outfits often to make herself more "down to earth"...I think the two extremely similar, new, coats on the same tour really undermines this goal.
ReplyDeleteI also have to compliment her on how composed she is without her clutch ;) I've long felt she carries clutches so often (and especially while pregnant) to minimize awkwardness with her hands, but she seems to hold herself quite the same without a clutch as well!
Ugg. I usually LOVE Kate's coats, but not this tour. The first red coat was stellar, and since it's been very boring and too zipped up. To me, these are "tired mommy" clothes. (And I don't fault her for that, but rather think its wonderful she is so hands on. But maybe next time, take along someone to help with wardrobe)
ReplyDeleteAnnie
my usa
I love the color but hate, hate, hate the zipper...
ReplyDelete
ReplyDeleteAbsolutely love it!!!! Why would they have changed the schedule...this is very irregular to do???
Love the colour but perhaps Kate should have used a different colour belt to break the look up a bit... And this seems more suited to the cold English weather.
ReplyDeleteBut still, she carried it off :)
How many trees now? Have we once seen William lift a shovel ? He seems ok with standing back and watching Kate work. HA!
ReplyDeleteThose sweet little boys taking their watering job so seriously...and their mother so ill.
What a long, sad trip home they will have. William probably knew Camilla's brother at least as well as Diana's.Do we know where the funeral will be? Surely not New York?
Hopefully, that bouncing baby boy will keep them smiling.
Marg
Marg.
DeleteI think we're only getting what the media want us to see.
Kate shovelling is far more interesting to the public than William.
I'm sure he's doing his bit.
The media is just not captivated by him doing so.
I agree with you Marg! I thought it was just me who thought that in every tree planting picture, William was standing aside watching. While I agree that it may be media choice, I'm sure ONE publication would show him digging. The headline would read, "The People's King: Prince William Plants Trees of Hope Down Under" or something to that effect. :) I am surprised that they haven't visited the ANZAC Memorial in Sydney. I was able to visit about four years ago on holiday there, and found it quite fascinating. Nonetheless, Australia is beautiful and everyone should visit. It's spectacular!
DeleteHi everyone,
ReplyDeleteSince I'm from Canada - I'm going to put this question out there :) Did you like Kate's wardrobe from the Canadian tour better than this one? She had a lot more dresses, change of clothes, and a bit more modern and fun. Charlotte may still have some of these pictures on her blog - take a peek.
Thanks,
Linda - Canada
Yes. But loved the yellow dress Kate arrived in in Sydney. Honestly, there is a more modern/minimalist aesthetic here that the yellow dress just "Nailed It!". Not to say that Canada is not modern. This is climate driven fashion. It is warmer, more relaxed, more abstract. For example, beautiful as the McQueen knitted sailor-inspired dress is, it just would have looked a bit out of place. But you are quite right. BETter in Canada, better in NZ.
DeleteYes. Is this tour the Queen's influence at play? Better in NZ, too. Best in show for Oz: yellow dress Kate arrived in in Sydney. This Oz tour was not much fun, and definitely not as much fun as NZ. And I'm Australian.
DeleteCheers.
I agree the yellow dress was fun and spot on. I also loved the blue McQueen coat dress however it it received mixed reviews. I haven't cared for the green coat dresses.
DeleteLinda - Canada
Hello Linda from Canada. Off the top of my head, I felt that too many of her Canadian outfits were cream/nude in colour. And a lot of the dresses were of a similar design (a slin, office style design)
DeleteLove this outfit. I don't think the pictures do it justice. I was watching the live coverage here in Australia and she just stood out in the crowd in this. She was dressed appropriately for the nature of the day.
ReplyDeleteI agree--have been watching on TV here in UK and on the bigger pictures it looks superb.
DeleteI won't be popular saying this, but in my opinion she has chosen each time clothes that are suitable and has looked beautiful and George has been the added bonus
Kermit in Canberra...no, I don' t like that coat.
ReplyDeleteThere is no handbag today. Why not? And what should be in there anyway?
I don't understand why she has different clothes that look the exact same (this and the Erdem). I don't see the point of a belt that's the exact same color as the rest of the coat.
ReplyDeleteI actually like this coat and think it could be worn better if she had her hair half up, which was wonderful yesterday. If it was a violet or salmon color, anything than what she's already worn on this tour. Gawd, she's so dull...
I like the coat, it reminds me of the sixties, especially with that large belt. The original collar is much better; they should have found a compromise between the one on Kate's coat and the original one, which would make it perfect for me. ;-)
ReplyDeleteI am sorry to hear of the sudden death of Camilla's brother Mark. I read some articles about him which gave me the impression of a man who enjoyed life to the fullest. I really like Camilla, because she seems to have a good sense of humour and presumably she shares that with her brother. It must be a terrible loss for her, they seemed to be quite close.
Good morning everyone! Only 2 days left what a pity. I agree with lots of people here, Iam not a fan of this outfit, I grew a bit tired of these coatdresses, I cant see her point wearing such when every other woman wear a dress, even she admitted sweltering. I prefered the original dress with that sinious neckline, that should have been such a fashion hit particularly after visiting the Danish princess portrait:-))), she should take fashion advice from nooone except going back to her old version during the Canada tour. She was perfect then nowadays a bit try hard for me. I do not get why buying 2 similarcolour coats though it will be useful for St. Patricks day, good to know PC foots the bill.:-))
ReplyDeleteI keep seeing some baby bump...
ReplyDeleteAnd dresses and coats all slightly loose on the belly to hide it...
I see the same thing...I also see that pregnancy glow...especially yesterday....
DeleteI do too! I think they will announce the pregnancy for their third anniversary, right after they leave for England.
DeleteGlad to hear someone sees it too!
DeleteMaybe she just gained weight but only there? And it can't be coincidence that ALL of her dresses and coats are either
High-waisted
Loose
Frumpy around the waist
Every time she clutches her hands on the front you see an unexpected volume.
The first picture on the Uluru post for example.
And the picture in the poppy dress holding the toy dinosaur - the toy pressed her dress against the leg, revealing curves..
...And maybe it's water weight? It has been about 19 days....maybe...it's pre-menstrual??
DeleteEvery day during this tour I've looked forward see what Kate wore. Today- not!
ReplyDeleteCoat too heavy, too pea green, too buttoned up - it's not ANZAC day yet, too Northern Hemisphere. Great for England's green and pleasant land in the spring? The only green like that in Oz is on parrots, people's suburban lawns in the winter, and lawn bowling greens. Well, no one is perfect, and we all have hits and misses. It's just that Kate is usually such a gifted dresser that the bar is now placed so high. Loved her in pink yesterday... but not rapt in the two looks for Uluru.
I'm afraid I join the vast majority with saying I really do not like this coat at all. The styling of it is just too closed up and conservative for me. Not flattering in my opinion. I don't like the color either, though I quite liked the Erdem green. A big, big miss for me.
ReplyDeleteI'm also a bit disappointed the Duchess didn't choose a few more local designers, either in New Zealand or in Australia. Although I really loved quite a few of the outfits, now we are coming sadly to an end of the tour, I do feel there was maybe some sparkle missing in some way from all the coats. The dresses were much better. Just my opinion, of course :-)
When I first see this coat I thought it would be the same she wore in New Zealand, and now again. But it wasn't. Today I like the colour much better than in NZ. And I was happy to see that it wasn't the same coat than in NZ, because today the coat was much better. I very like the A-line. It suits her so well. And the neckline was much better than the other. I like the look of today, and you could see that it was from Catherine Walker, same style... nice. I like the look, but I think there are some other of the tour which are much better than today. All in all it was a very nice choice, but not the best of the tour.
ReplyDeleteI´ve said it time and again: I prefer the "fitted" clothes much more, be it dresses, skirts, jackets, whatever. They are just way more elegant on her! But I can see why the Duchess sort of "clings" to this kind of dress style: it´s certainly much easier to move in this kind of dress than in a "fitted" one. Think of having to bend down to greet a child or walking or sitting down. All a "no-brainer" because it gives you much more "space" to do it. Especially when it´s hot, a fitted dress let´s you sweat much more. With this outfit, I think I would have just "unzipped" the coat (it looks really nice that way actually on the photo from the collection) as soon as it became warm underneath - but we don´t know what she was wearing underneath (or wasn´t..) so I´m sure she must have been sweating.... Not a nice feeling during any official engagement, I can tell you....
ReplyDeleteThe tailoring /silhouette of the coat is perfection, but I agree that another colour would have suited her better. Looking forward to see what she wears tonight!
ReplyDeleteYesterday's news explained why the "concerned" faces.
ReplyDeleteOf course this is not something one gets over in a day.
However, I feel the "mood" is a little skewed today as well.
Such a huge contrast to what we've been seeing as of late.
I'm wondering whether Mark Shand's passing is not the only thing occupying their minds.
They're still managing awfully well regardless.
I'm really surprised she kept the coat on for the reception. In my opinion, it is a wrong move, giving the impression she was in a hurry to leave... She must have worn a dress underneath it ? What an odd move, though I have noticed she sometimes doesn't take her coat off when she visits hospices, which I don't think very natural. But it seems even worse at an official reception.
ReplyDeleteI'm rather disappointed at that.
You know what would have really changed my opinion of this coat? The Wattle!!
ReplyDeletePlease. For those who keep referring to this outfit as a "coat".
ReplyDeleteIt is not.
It is purely a "dress" which happens to have fastening at the front to 2/3 of the way down.
As a dress - it is lovely (bar the high collar) with a perfectly flared skirt.
Kate rarely wears coats in the chilly London weather; I doubt she'll be wearing a coat in this milder climate with sun
blazing down.
it is a dress, but unfortunately looks like a coat! you expect her to get it down in a moment, that's why it looks so strange. I can't if it has been designed having in mind the two models mentioned in the post, but I can tell that either the evelyn dress and the lara coat are fine , in ther own way .... but the mixing of the two has made a little disaster. the duchess is so beautiful, she can carry out whatever she wants but that dress coat for me remains a fisco
Deletegabriella, italy
I think Kate looks good. Not her best outfit ever, but hey, we can't all wear a stellar outfit every single day, can we? I do agree she should have worn a brooch (I think I have made the same comment on many other outfits she has worn the last few weeks), especially since she did not wear a necklace today.
ReplyDeleteLove the green......she is standing out in the crowd!
I too LOVE the color. I think the style is very pretty, except maybe too much of a coverup for the weather!
ReplyDeletemapia
I don't understand why she kept the coat on if she was roasting. I presume she had a nice dress on underneath and her personal secretary/assistant would have been able to hold the coat for her.
ReplyDeleteI love it! The color is great on her, and I think the dress is fabulous! In my opinion, Duchess Catherine is pure class, and I have loved this entire tour!!
ReplyDeleteElizabeth from USA
I like the color and the flared skirt, and also the style of the top, but I would have had it unzipped a little. I thought the "sinuous neckline" of the first coat this bespoke piece is based on was ugly--who would that have flattered?--all eyes would have been on the neckline and none on the face of the woman wearing it. This color, even if it is a close echo of the other coat-dress, was completely lovely on Catherine. She looked great today. I liked both William's ties, but it would be fun to know why he changed--he doesn't usually.
ReplyDeleteMarci from Salt Lake
Why doesn't she hire a stylist. She really needs one. She just plays it safe all the time and it is boring. A nice brooch would have added a little flair to this matronly outfit. Fashion wise, I would give her a C+ for this tour.
ReplyDeleteNot her best look. She looks best in a slimmer, pencil skirt. I'm not particularly a fan of these long, billowy skirts on anyone. Even on the tallest, thinnest person, they add weight and bulk.
ReplyDeleteAnd you're right, Charlotte. I saw that first picture and thought how hot that must be. It looks absolutely sweltering.
Just not a fan of this look.
I like this coat better than the green one she wore in New Zealand, which looked too pajama-onesy to me, but I agree with all the comments that the neck is too high and zipped up. A coat dress also looks too heavy and warm for the occasion. I am glad that she chose to wear it with nude pumps tho and not black, or worse, green. Sometimes her outfits/shoes are a little too matchy-matchy for my taste. But as always, she looks stunning!
ReplyDeleteGreen is one of the official colors of Australia, which is why I believe she chose to wear it again.
ReplyDeleteJust a thought, but do you think William changed tie at the last minute when perhaps told the Prime Minister's tie was almost the exact same tie he was wearing that day? Maybe his staff keep an extra tie on hand for something like that. Just wondering...
ReplyDeleteThe green's a fabulous shade. She stands out in the crowd and looks very 'royal'. Though the style is quite conservative, the coat looks appropriate for her status.
ReplyDeleteI am taken by how much William sounds like Diana! Not in the voice but in the cadence and stresses he uses. Amazing! I can hear Diana through him.
ReplyDeleteThanks for another interesting post!! I am sad this tour has come to an end, but I am sure the Cambridges are looking forward to returning home and getting back to their normal routine. I have loved seeing our favorite couple in action - I think Will and Kate have done a great job!! I also loved all the warm family moments, the cute moments between the couple and of course lots of videos and photos of Georgie! I must agree that I really don't like Kate's outfit - I do love her emerald earrings though....
ReplyDeleteI was looking at some pics of that day, I found one where you can see Kate bending on her knees receiving flowers from a little girl (i thin iy was in the Parlament builduing) AND peeping at the dress underneath the coat: it's again the one she wore under the green Erdem.
ReplyDeleteSo we know that the Walker is a coat as well, hope Kate one day will learn she can unzip her coat during inside engagements
Gabriella, italy
all the pictures are looking very good and the information is also good.
ReplyDeleteBridal Shop Prague & Svatby v Praze
The earrings Mary is wearing are very similar to the earrings Catherine recently wore to the Spectre premiere.
ReplyDelete