Their Royal Highnesses were all smiles upon arrival and were greeted by a large media presence as they walked the red carpet for the star-studded event.
The royals were greeted by composer Andrew Lloyd Webber and his wife.
It's been a busy couple of days for the Cambridges who both carried out separate engagements yesterday. Kate attended an athlete workshop for her patronage SpotsAid in West London, and later in the evening Prince William was the guest of honour at a gala for SkillForce. During the gala he was handed a bag of Christmas bells and joked, "I'll put them in George's pocket, we'll know where he is then." (It sounds like George is as boisterous as ever.)
In the foyer of the palladium the royal couple were greeted by pop royalty One Direction.
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| ITV News Twitter Feed |
The Duchess shook hands with Harry Styles (the envy of many young women no doubt). Afterwards Harry told a reporter "I said congratulations on the bump even though she didn't look bumpy". Fellow band member Liam Payne was a little overwhelmed and said "It's the most nervous I think I've ever been in my life".
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| Clarence House Twitter Feed |
Kate received a posy of flowers from six-year-old Charlotte Tomlinson.
William and Kate watched an array of performers including Bette Middler, Ed Sheeran, Dame Shirley Bassey, Demi Lovato and Mick Hucknall at this evening's gala hosted by Michael McIntyre.
Kate chatted with Simon Cowell and Harry Styles again after the show.
Acts the couple are particularly familiar with are also in the line up, including Ellie Goulding, who sang at William and Kate's Buckingham Palace wedding reception and performed Elton John's 'Your Song' for their first dance, and comic Jack Whitehall who went to school with the Duchess. It's very much a family event, with talent from across the entertainment industry. From singing, dancing and comedy to magic and other speciality acts, there's something for everyone to enjoy.
William greeted Ellie with a kiss.
It has long been tradition for members of the Royal family to make an appearance at the Royal Variety Performance - it dates back all the way to 1912 when the inaugural performance was watched by King George V and Queen Mary. In July 1919, a second royal show was performed and billed as a post-war celebration of peace.
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It is usually attended by the monarch and below we see the Royal family arriving for the 1947 show. Queen Elizabeth, the Queen Mother, King George VI, Princess Elizabeth, Princess Margaret and behind Elizabeth we can see a very young Prince Philip.
Indeed, the glamorous event once called for wearing a tiara. Below we see the Queen at the 1981 performance.
The Prince and Princess of Wales arriving for the event in 1984. Diana chose a chiffon dress by Bellville Sassoon.
In recent years, the Queen has taken it in turns with the Prince of Wales to attend the show, and it had been expected Her Majesty would be seated in the royal box this year, but instead she decided to pass the baton down to her grandson and his wife, demonstrating her confidence in the couple. It's the beginning of a tradition for the Cambridges, and one we will see them continue (alternating with the Prince of Wales for the near future) for a very long time to come.
The event is held in aid of the Entertainment Artistes' Benevolent Fund, of which the Queen is patron. The charity is dedicated to helping provide support for elderly, infirm or distressed members and former members of the entertainment industry.
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| EABF |
Kate's parents Mike and Carole Middleton also attended the show. Carole chose a black lace dress, quite similar to Kate's. Perhaps they chose their gowns together?
The evening's entertainment was recorded tonight and will be broadcast on ITV in December. It's something of a tradition to watch it during the festive season, and what a treat it will be to see the Cambridges in the royal box this year.
The Duchess looked beautiful in the incredibly elegant Diane von Furstenburg Zarita Gown. The black dress is fitted through the bodice, waist and thigh, and the piece opens to a sweeping fluted hem. The delicate gown, crafted from sheer lace features a v-back and is fitted with a slim band around the waist that flatters the silhouette, making it a perfect choice for the early months of pregnancy.
The evening's entertainment was recorded tonight and will be broadcast on ITV in December. It's something of a tradition to watch it during the festive season, and what a treat it will be to see the Cambridges in the royal box this year.
The Duchess looked beautiful in the incredibly elegant Diane von Furstenburg Zarita Gown. The black dress is fitted through the bodice, waist and thigh, and the piece opens to a sweeping fluted hem. The delicate gown, crafted from sheer lace features a v-back and is fitted with a slim band around the waist that flatters the silhouette, making it a perfect choice for the early months of pregnancy.
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| DVF |
It is a gorgeous choice for event, harking back to the glamour we saw members of the Royal family displaying in previous years. The gown is available for £785 at Net-A-Porter, on the DVF website and in navy at Matches.
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| DVF |
Black lace dresses proved very popular at the event. The eagle-eyed Ashley noticed a woman in the background was wearing the same dress as Kate.
The Zarita is very much a core piece in DVF's collection. Below we see the knee-length version of the dress in red and pink.
A shorter version of the Zarita dress is widely available in a selection of colourways. Nordstrom is selling the dress reduced from €296 to €236, and it's also in stock at DVF, Saks Fifth Avenue, Net-A-Porter and ShopBop.
The Duchess selected her black suede Jimmy Choo Cosmic pumps for the evening.
Kate accessorised with her Kiki McDonough Lola blue topaz hoop earrings and carried her sequin black clutch.
The dazzling earrings retail for £3,200. The blue topaz and diamond hoops in 18ct white gold added a splash of colour to the look.
The Duchess wore her hair in an elegant updo tonight and it added a very polished finish to the glamorous look. We rarely see Kate wearing her hair up - I'm so glad she did tonight and it allowed her to show off the details of her stunning gown.
You can watch a video on YouTube.
Do you like Kate's look tonight?
The Zarita is very much a core piece in DVF's collection. Below we see the knee-length version of the dress in red and pink.
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| DVF |
A shorter version of the Zarita dress is widely available in a selection of colourways. Nordstrom is selling the dress reduced from €296 to €236, and it's also in stock at DVF, Saks Fifth Avenue, Net-A-Porter and ShopBop.
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| DVF |
The Duchess selected her black suede Jimmy Choo Cosmic pumps for the evening.
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| Jimmy Choo |
Kate accessorised with her Kiki McDonough Lola blue topaz hoop earrings and carried her sequin black clutch.
The dazzling earrings retail for £3,200. The blue topaz and diamond hoops in 18ct white gold added a splash of colour to the look.
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| Kiki McDonough |
The Duchess wore her hair in an elegant updo tonight and it added a very polished finish to the glamorous look. We rarely see Kate wearing her hair up - I'm so glad she did tonight and it allowed her to show off the details of her stunning gown.
Do you like Kate's look tonight?
************
We have one other brief updated to share tonight. The Palace announced Kate, patron, will attend the East Anglia's Children's Hospices (EACH) Norfolk Capital Appeal Launch at the Norfolk Showground in Norwich on 25 November. The Duchess will meet families, volunteers and supporters of the hospice before joining the local community in watching the launch of the appeal.
No official news on William and Kate's trip to New York next month, however, we expect to hear very soon!
PERFECTION !!!!
ReplyDeleteJust stunning.... At last the hair is up in a lovely "chignon" :-)
Beautiful gown, jewels, accessories. Perfect make-up.
Loved this look on the Duchess.
Three words: Perfection, Gorgeous, Beautiful.
DeleteI soooo agree. I am sitting here and cheering this look. Love every bit of it! And my favorite earrings! Just stunning!!!!!!
DeleteAgreed Theresa. Couldn't say it any better.
DeleteYES.
DeleteLadies and Gentlemen we have an updo! :D
ReplyDeleteRing the bell Kitty! Tell the servants they will have a bowl of punch. The duchess is wearing an UPDO!
ReplyDeleteShe looks stunning :) beautiful dress, hair, make up, jewellery - all perfect!
ReplyDeleteLouise, Bath UK
Duchess Catherine looks absolutely stunning tonight -- every inch a Princess! Her gown, shoes, earrings and updo all are perfect for the event.
ReplyDeleteAlso glad to see that she is looking well!
Thanks Charlotte!!
ReplyDeleteShe looks great, great, great. Hair, dress, blings!!!! One wish: nailpolish. Please please, she needs to read your blog!:)))
I rather prefer a nude manicure I must admit!
DeleteLouise, Bath UK
I think I read somewhere that pantyhose and "non painted" nails is part of that unofficial royal protocol. (I think it's more about her personal taste, I can't recall her wearing coloured nails at all...)
DeleteCertainly Diana did not take that into consideration. She was right.
DeleteLets hope one day.....
Yeah, to quote Pirates of the Caribbean: "the code is more what you'd call "guidelines" than actual rules." I think stuff like nail polish is more personal preference :P
DeleteI thought she had a pink nail polish on for a second and was disappointed. She sometimes wears a very light sheer opalescent pink. Diana and Sarah Ferguson both wore red polish at times.
DeleteLol at the POC reference Rebecca!! I agree with you though, it's likely to be personal preference :)
DeleteLouise, Bath UK
Diana and Sarah Ferguson were in the 80s. Nude is very en vogue for this era. I think it would be a distraction to the look to see her in dark nails.
DeleteI agree, blue, I want nail polish!
DeleteOuch luxembourgermeister!:-) I don't know. I think a classic red nail is timeless like the LBD or a perfectly tailored blazer.
DeleteErika, I agree! :)
DeleteI think red nail polish would add a great splash of color. I do think long nails are hard to maintain when you love sport as Kate does. She would have to go with acrylics and then that means a lifetime of maintenance. I wish Kate would have chosen another color. I loved that lilac color in the short style of the dress. I think I am the only one according to the responses tonight. =)
DeleteI would love if she had gotten a bespoke colour of the dress as well. Like dark green maybe? (and that would also make run ins with copys less likely)
DeleteYou're not the only one... I predicted black and (somewhat) boring - pls don't all jump at the same time (take turns and wait in line politely pls). Although I would not pick lilac, but navy. And a silver sandal and maybe a beaded clutch (either navy or grey would do).
DeleteI like the hair, and the choice of earrings. I would have added a matching necklace. Or bracelet.
All considered - not bad. Elegant is a good choice of words.
I like much better the dress that Mrs Lloyd Weber is wearing. I am sure there weren't two ladies wearing that dress.
As far as nail polish goes, remember she has a very young son and she has to keep her nails short and free of all the chemicals. And personally I admire her for that.
Looks like she's feeling just fine now - judging on her numerous engagements and pretty relaxed attitude. Very pleased!
Lili
Diana wore nail polish to show she had gotten over her nervous (and much noted) habit of biting her nails. Kate doesn't have this issue and seems to prefer soft colours.
DeleteI prefer the nude nails as well. My color starts chipping within a day of a manicure.
DeleteLove the post and I love Kate's look! I think it is perfect from H to T (head to toes!) I has hoping she would have her hair up and she didn't disappoint.
ReplyDeleteI think she looks better with her hair pulled back, IMO.
I love the Jimmy Choe Shoes! I even voted for them in a certain Poll that Charlotte has!
Charlotte, do you remember how they did in the polls last year?
Kate's schedule is filling up nicely isn't it?! I love that fact that she is supporting her Patronages. And the Queen when she is going out now.
I can't wait for them to go to New York,hopefully, has Kate ever gone before do we know?
If I remember correctly, I think her California visit in 2011 was her first time in the states so I guess she hasn't been :)
DeleteI think they were referring to her trip to California as a first as a royal. I read that Catherine has visited NYC when working for her parents, but don't know how reliable that source is.
DeleteShe looks 100% stunning. So elegant. Well done, Catherine!! :)
ReplyDeleteAnd I have to agree with the humorous remark Harry Styles made:
"I said ‘congratulations on the bump’ even though she didn’t look bumpy."
I totally agree, Rebecca. Kate was stunning! I would not change a thing! I do wish her mother's dress had not been so strikingly similar. (Although Carole looked wonderful, too!)
DeleteBeautiful and gorgeous fairy tale princess! I love her dress and jewels. And William is so smart too.
ReplyDeleteThank you for this amazing post Charlotte!
Monica, France
Yay!!! What a beautiful ensemble! Stunning, gorgeous, beautiful, etc., etc., etc. She knocked it out of the park tonight folks! William is as handsome as ever too.
ReplyDeleteGreat post as usuall, Charlotte :)
ReplyDeleteKate indeed looks stunning tonight. Beautiful dress, which fitted her perfectly!! The updo adds elegance, and I love the whole look!! I was quite dissapointed by her fashion's choice for the last engagement, but tonight it's perfect!! That's my girl ;) The short versions of the dress are elegant too, and I wish I could buy it... - sigh...
On another note, One Direction's boys are REALLY casually dressed. Someone gotta tell them they're meeting their future queen!!!! LOL!
Thanks again Charlotte, for this great post. Looking forward to the next engagement.
Gorgeous look for the Duchess, and the Duke looks great, too. Quick posting!
ReplyDeleteGassssp I love it!!! That is my fav dress by far and I LOVE her updo. Gorgeous.
ReplyDeleteGorgeous Catherine---William looks good too.--like his shoes
ReplyDeleteWonderful couple.
William has new type of shoes - sude shoes! wow
DeleteYeah, don't know if I like them or not. But I like the attempt at experimenting :)
DeleteI think they are velvet. They remind me of Hugh Hefner. :(
DeleteLove it! You can see signs of a bump :)
ReplyDeleteAbsolutely stunning. She is such a beautiful stylish lady. I dont' know how she stays so slim!!!
ReplyDeleteKate's look is perfection! She has a long, elegant neck and the updo accentuates one of her best features. Hope we'll seen this hairstyle more often. She's also looking quite healthy and happy these days. Oh, and by the way, the guy accompanying her looks quite dashing also!
ReplyDeleteShe looks so confident in herself. So at ease. Amazing!
DeleteFINALLY HAIR UP ITS A MIRACLE! She looked the best she has looked in 2 years! Amazing AMAZING!
ReplyDeleteSarah USA
I think so too, Sarah. Love it!
DeleteWonderful post, Charlotte! Thank you, as always, for the historical info re: the Royal Variety Performance. I remember seeing Diana in that sweet chiffon dress. There was a photo of her dozing off at an engagement:
ReplyDeletehttp://www.people.com/people/package/gallery/0,,20543425_20543737_20980437,00.html
Shortly after, the Palace announced that she was expecting a baby (William). :o)
Catherine looked gorgeous - perfected fitted gown and a lovely chignon. I'm so happy that she's feeling better, and hope the rest of her pregnancy is illness-free.
Looking forward to the 19th!
Julie
I, too, remember that about Diana. Even when she fell asleep, she was still sitting up straight. Just beautiful.
DeleteCatherine does looks wonderful.
I remember that photo, too, Julie--so sweet! She must have re-worn the dress though if Charlotte's 1984 date is correct. William was born in 1982, I think. And I thought Diana was dozing through some boring Parliament speeches, not a program of entertainment. I hope someone can clarify my memory/misconceptions.
DeleteWhat I have heard is that she wore it more than once. And in the picture it looks like she's sitting on a stage and not in a royal box. So I don't think it was at this event she fell asleep.
DeleteCharlotte is correct on the year (1984) for the photo she posted above.
DeleteThis link was the *first* time Diana wore the gown (Nov 4, 1981). The following day, her pregnancy was announced.
http://www.gettyimages.com/detail/news-photo/princess-diana-princess-of-wales-at-the-v-a-museum-news-photo/56800211
Stunning. Beautiful. I just wish she has worn some royal jewels!
ReplyDeleteWow, seeing that photo of Diana really contrasts her to Kate. Diana always had that very shy, insecure look. Kate always looks very confident - was held high, shoulders backs, looking people in the eye. Diana is still an idol, but it's things like these that further solidify my belief that W&K are going the distance.
I agree so well. Diana had star quality, yes.. But Kate seems so secure in herself (that doesn't mean she can't look and be nervous sometimes) and she seems so calm and at ease inside. It's so comforting to see!
DeleteIs it a like for like comparison though? Diana was so much younger and even the shyest among us are usually more sure footed our early thirties.
DeleteLouise, Bath UK
No, I'm not comparing. There are a lot of differences between the two and as you say, it's not a fair comparison for either of them. I was just pointing out the difference in how secure they look in theirself. :)
DeleteAs I recall, at DoCam 1st appearance as pregnant, in the green dress with the peace symbols, she had that same shy head tilted look like DPoW had in the pics.
DeleteAnonymous 00:31, I think this is what you mean:
Deletehttp://www.zap2it.com/blogs/why_does_kate_middleton_look_so_sad_about_her_new_bangs-2012-11
Diana looked down more but she was a much more confident public speaker than Kate almost from the start. Comparisons are always fraught. What I do find odd is Kate and her mum -said to be so close - wearing almost the same dress. Same with Sophie and Kate at Rememberance which I would have thought the designer could have helped prevent.
DeleteNo one supported Diana more than I, but in no way was she a much more confident speaker at the beginning than Kate.
DeleteAlso not sure how the designer could have prevented our double vision on Remembrance Sunday. There may be such a thing as designer-client confidentiality and/or the designer may not have a clue that an off the rack purchase was made. (Sophie's coat wasn't fitted like Kate's.)
What would have gone a lot further in preventing this "not so oops" (as I call it), would have been for Sophie to re-think her new found penchant for AM, particularly on a day when she would be on the balcony with a woman who has been so closely associated with the designer since her wedding day.
Gorgeous!!
ReplyDeleteSimply elegant and stunning. Kate nailed it this time. Loved the dress, the hair and the shoes. Great look!
ReplyDeleteKiwiNic
Agreed!! A superhit!!!
DeleteI'm so happy to see her hair up. It makes her look so elegant and even more beautiful. I think this look (hair and gorgeous dress ) is my favorite ever.
ReplyDeletegreat post again!
ReplyDeleteSo...talking about the wedding reception (sort off.. :P)
I came across an old clip, and I noticed it before aswell. this is the clip where they are leaving Clarence house for the evening reception and right after Catherine is finished talking to a photographer.. it sounds like she is saying thank you to Prince Charles.. but she calls him My Lord..? Is it just me or is this what she is actually saying? I never thought this is how she would adress him.. Is this the proper way to adress him or..?
I don't know anything about that clip. But if that is what she's calling him it's more likely that it is some kind of inside joke or something :P
Deleteno it doesnt sound like a joke at al..
DeleteThats also why I;m a bit surprised.
I dont know if I can link here...Its around the 0.40 mark
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mPNQKPjnh9U
She said, "thank you very much."
DeleteI watched the clip and I didn't hear (and didn't lipread) "my lord"??
DeleteMe neither. Sounded like "thank you very much" as royalfan said
Deletethanx guys! That is indeed what she is saying.. Trouble is that once you make something thats unclear, it;s so incredibly hard to hear something else in the words haha!
DeleteBeautiful as always! This is the BEST UPDO I've ever seen on the Duchess. She should replicate that for formal events always - it's perfection. They also look very happy which is nice to see!
ReplyDeleteThat made me giggle. If she did that always, some would whinge as they do about the same-old same-old jeans, pumps and wedges.
DeleteWow in a good way! The earrings are my favorite. I get pangs of jealousy every time she wears them.
ReplyDeleteYeah. Those earings are amazing!!
DeleteThose earrings are incredible! I'd say I wish I owned them but they are so much grander than any of my clothes they would just show me up!!
DeleteLouise, Bath UK
They are my favorite earrings too. I have been waiting (perhaps not so patiently) to see them again. ;)))
DeleteI love them, too. I'm also waiting impatiently for her to wear her wedding earrings again. They are much too beautiful and special to be locked away in some archives.
DeleteI love the earrings as well. They are my birthstone. Does Catherine ever wear garnet?
DeleteThis is a beautiful gown and the up-do completes it perfectly. Kate looks happy and relaxed. Can't help saying though, it's a more upscale version of a dress I wore to a wedding two years ago, and I am 64 years old. It's a sort of everywhere, all age, safe style. I'd like to see her push the envelope more. But she does look great.
ReplyDeleteIt is definitely a safe dress. Beautiful, but one that pretty much anyone can look wearing and great for any age
DeleteIt's also very like my own 1990 wedding dress (in cream with some sequin detailing to catch the candlelight). A timeless piece. She can reprise it 30 years from now if she so chooses.
DeleteLove everything about it! Especially the bump! :)
ReplyDeleteWish she would really start showing.
DeleteI think she should have worn black open toed sandals instead of closed toe pumps. Other than that she looks divine!
ReplyDeleteLovely updo. Same it's so rare one her hair.
ReplyDeleteThe dress has very similar finishing (I mean the lace edge around the neck) to the white dress she was wearing for the annual white-tie diplomatic reception at Buckingham Palace, together with the lotus flower tiara. I can't remember if someone found out the designer. The dress is beautiful but I don't like black on a pregnant woman. I remember my mummy said it's a colour of sadness or bereavement and pregnancy it's a time to be happy. Maybe it's sounds a bit strange but I avoided black being pregnant and many of my friends too.
I wonder how would she looked in a white dress instead of the black one.
I thought the same about the white dress with the tiara.
DeleteCamilla
The funereal connection with black has been put to rest. Black is worn at weddings now--by the bridal party. It has become a colour of sophistication now that it is no longer required wear for a year after someone's death. That social norm has changed. We move on. It's now possible to be deliriously happy in black. (Yay!)
DeleteGood point, Philly. These days many people wear black at weddings, while not necessarily wearing it at funerals. The rules have changed. :)
DeleteFrom reading the previous comments, I'm in the minority here. I don't love this dress... I adore the hair and I'm in love with the earrings in a series way, but I think the dress looks "Mother of the Bride", in fact I saw several Facebook posts that said exactly that. "I bought that for my son/daughter's wedding". I also adore DVF, it is my favorite and I giggle with excitement each time I find a new DVF on sale!! But this dress is just so heavy and matronly. Don't get me wrong, she is rocking it and looks beautiful, it's just not my favorite.
ReplyDeleteLinzi Stoppard was wearing the white lace dress by Diane Von Furstenberg on the 21sth of October. So we may have look how the dress looks on the other body. I'm not sure about the short version or maybe it's just the shape of the body.
ReplyDeleteHere's a photo of Linzi Stoppard in the short version of the dress. http://www.tatler.com/bystander/events/2013/may/star-trek-into-darkness-premiere-afterparty#!/10134/image/11
DeleteSo she probably has the dress in many colours: http://www.theshoppingtrend.com/celebrity/uk-style/linzi-stoppard-white-lace-dress-glitter-bow-pumps-at-myla-party-gorgeous.html
DeleteShe looks quite lovely. The dress is nice, the earrings beautiful and her hair perfect. I love the updo's on Kate.
ReplyDeleteSo fun to see former photos of Royal visits. I even think the photo of Diana was during the performance she fell asleep at while newly pregnant.
Lovely, simply lovely. I don't think I need to add any more. :-)
ReplyDeleteGood evening lady Charlotte
ReplyDeleteThe Duchess looks amazing and there's also a somewhat regal poise about her too.
"Queen Catherine"
ABSOLUTELY STUNNING! Spot on PERFECTION!!!
ReplyDeleteShe looks fabulous and healthy. I love when she wears her hair up for formal occasions.
ReplyDeleteI have to ask an odd question, though. It looks to me like Prince William is wearing a pair of beautiful, comfortable, evening slippers in suede. Either I've never noticed him wearing slippers like this before or he's just started. Could Kate be updating his look? I think they are just perfect with a tuxedo. Good job Cambridges - you both look stunning.
While I am not a fan of lace ....hardly ever wear it myself...in the same vein as what a lot of people say...seems quite matronly....she does look extremely elegant, poised and beautiful. I like the chigon as well but it does make her look older. The blue/green shirt skirt/long skirt dress she wore a few weeks with her hair loose was much more youthful and chic. I prefer that. But this works as well.
ReplyDeleteI only have one criticism. .....does anyone else think this outfit is screaming for a tiara?? I know the event didn't call for it. But a fan girl can hope! I think she should take the event back to the upscale of the 80's and wear a tiara like the Queen did.
I think she looks matronly but that seems to be what the ladies here have been longing for. Its a nice dress but not a show stopper and chignons look good on ballerinas and older women--- nobody else.
DeleteI nearly snorted upon reading "ballerinas and older women."
DeleteI wore a chignon for my wedding (just over a year ago, at age 23), so I clearly don't agree at all, but we're all entitled to our own opinion.
Oh I disagree that chignons look betr on ballerinas and older ladies. They suit everyone and are so elegant and stylish.
DeleteDefinitely elegant and stylish, Anon 15:41. This is a classy and timeless look.
Deleteshe looks gorgeous like a true princess with her hair and dress wow!! wish she dressed like this always!
ReplyDeleteFabulous! Finally the hair is put up for a formal event. She looks terrific and the gown is lovely. Not matronly at all, but every inch appropriate for a royal. She hit a home run here! This is the duchess I want to see!
ReplyDeleteHow much fun it must be to wear a gown & jewels like that. Sigh!
Almost perfect. It IMHO wd have been much better in the bright pink color, or a bespoke color, and desperately needed a backlace. But loving her hair up, great length, and it's cold there, shoes instead of sandals was perfect.
ReplyDeleteIt IS a pretty dress, but reminiscent of the black lace Temperley dress. And, Kate has worn quite a few black cocktail dresses. A little repetitive. But, at least it's more modest than the recent blue 2 length Jenny Packham dress, that I really liked at first, but then changed my mind after I watched a video of the event. It didn't seem suitable for the 'gravitas' of the event at the Natural History Museum.
ReplyDeleteOther than needing a tiara, she looked amazing; regal even.
ReplyDeleteShe looked lovely. The dress, the hair, the earrings--all perfect.
ReplyDeleteI have a question which may be unanswerable. In the picture of the Royal Family arriving at the gala in 1947, behind Princess Margaret is a man that, to me, looks very much like group captain Peter Townsend. Do you think it could be?
Yes, it is Peter Townsend. Good catch. :))
DeleteI thought that, too. Another question - if that is Peter Townsend, is the woman who appears to be with him his wife Rosemary? In 1947 Princess Margaret was 17 years old, it was five years before the discovery of her affair with Townsend, and I think he was still married.
DeleteHe would have been there as Equerry to the King, so no reason for his wife to be there.
DeleteAnon 3:02...I'm thinking that it may be her...what about you? :) This photo is from 1959.
Deletehttp://www.gettyimages.com/detail/news-photo/rosemary-de-laszlo-former-wife-of-group-captain-peter-news-photo/3038795
Could be - thanks for the photo. Hard to tell given the different photo angles and hair styles. The picture in the following article looks a bit more like the lady at the Royal Variety Show. Scroll down to find the photo, with the English version, a rather poignant telling of the Margaret story.
Deletehttp://www.ivietnamese.com/forums/showthread.php?t=346771
Mike and Carole Middleton attended the show. I added a photo!
ReplyDeleteCarole also chose a black dress!
Great. Thank you, Charlotte. Mike is handsome and Carole looks very elegant.
DeleteCarol and Micheal looked nice. Mike looks really dapper. Even though Kate and Carol is wearing similar dresses, Kate is shining and looking regal. Carol looks really nice, don't get me wrong. But Kate is just amazing!
ReplyDeleteThe style of William's shoes is a bit odd.....I completely agree with the poster here who wrote that the neckline of Kate's dress looks very similar to the (pale blue?) one that she wore with a tiara that we glimpsed through the car window. Diana also wore a white lace dress with a very similar neckline.
ReplyDeleteOh my gosh it looks like the neckline on the white dress. I wonder if she owns this dress in a few colors?
DeleteWhat a boring choice! It's like we've seen this before on her yet this is the first time she wore it. Boring.
ReplyDeleteShe looks healthy and very healthy, very pretty as far as her complexion overall! Just not the dress.
So an odd question. I know Kate wears tights all the time with short dresses. Do you think she wears them with a long dress and closed toed shoes like tonight??? Since her legs are not showing, I wonder if she goes for comfort and opts not to wear them. Just curious what people think:)
ReplyDeleteI guess that is not for us to know :P But, I would 10 times rather have pantyhose (or even better, cotton leggins) under or my legs would sweat of. But I guess my and Kates "thigh gaps" might be different :P
DeleteAnon 1:31
DeleteI would expect that she does wear tights and some sort of foundation garment under these gowns. Most couture gowns like these have some sort of underpinning as part of the gown itself, in order to make a smooth line. But I'm sure tights or some sort of stockings are part of the outfit.
Yeah, I'd also expect her to be wearing some shapewear. Kate's itty bitty, but good foundational garments the norm for a fitted dress like this.
DeleteDuring winter, Diana reportedly wore long-john bottoms under her evening gowns. As someone who is always cold I so appreciated reading that tidbit about her.
DeleteElizabeth - Kate's gown is lined but no other underpinning. It's not couture. It's off-the-rack.
MinnFinn - Long time reader of this blog and first time posting.
Kate looks beautiful, but Kate wears lace too much. I know she loves it, but my goodness, I wish she would branch out. Like that black velvet dress from 3 years ago that she wore to an award ceremony. That was different for her. I just wish she would wear less lace. Don't get me wrong, she looks great, I am just tired of all her lace.
ReplyDeletethanks charlotte love the duchess gown she looks every inch of a queen this perfectly fitted for her plus she definitely happy and gorgeous in her lace gown love carole to and mike perfectly dashing mother and daughter shine as well william looks dapper in his suit and stunning
ReplyDeleteI am also a bit tired of seeng her in Lace and the same type of silhouettes. Also she should be allowed to borrow some jewelry from the Royal Vault or the queen should lend her some stunning jewels from her vault. Tired of seeing semi precious stones and the same repeat jewelry items especially on such formal events.
ReplyDeleteI feel like I must add to other posters hurrahs on the elegant updo, since I often chime in crankily when her hair is blowing all over or blanketing necklaces and shoulders at formal events. So, yay for you Duchess :) The gown is pretty, seems to fit perfectly, but I do wish she'd taken the chance to make it a bit younger, a bit more 'her' by the choice of a color other than black. That gown in black could have been worn by her mother or any other woman over 50 -- and appears to have been by a woman quite near her. But one of the other colors displayed above or a color made up just for her would have given it a bit of zing without at all comprimising the conservative styling she seems comfortable with.
ReplyDeleteWell, what can I say - this is a 10/10 for me!!! Stunning dress, the hair-do is PERFECT for the event and the jewelry - regal, elegant, not too much and not too little. I didn´t like the SportsAid dress at all - I felt reminded of WorldWar II dresses, no elegance, no colour, no nothing (the plum looked almost grey in most of the photos and videos) - but this look definitely made up for it.
ReplyDeletePlus, she looked really, really well and I loved that she didn´t mind showing her growing bump in a tight dress.
Thanks, Charlotte, for the many lovely photos - it´s a great post!!!!!
I thought she looked luvly. Her face shape suits updos or a short hair style. I wouldn't want her to become in a style rut with her hair up constantly like for instance princess anne is with her hair very old fashioned and same for decades. Thought carole looked luvly. Aren't they similar build? Can see where kate gets her slim but healthy frame from.
ReplyDeleteAbsolutely stunning and simply divine! The DVF gown is elegant and beautiful and looked perfect on Kate. My favorite part of Kate's look.....HER HAIR IS UP!!! Yea! I LOVE when she pulls her hair up! The earrings were gorgeous too. Kate looked happy and healthy tonight and the tiniest hint of a baby bump is beautiful. Absolute perfection tonight!
ReplyDeleteI loved the lineup for the show and am a tad bit jealous Kate was greeted by Andrew Lloyd Webber. I am a huge fan of him and his incredible talent. I'm sure it was a wonderful evening!
Catherine looked every inch a future queen. Just gorgeous. Loved the entire ensemble, and her hair was perfect.
ReplyDeleteThis is so exciting! The Duchess looked stunning! The Duke and Duchess coordinated nicely she looking ever so elegant in her form fitting lace gown and as Mr. Styles stated , she was not "looking bumpy' at all. She was also glowing!. I loved that she had her hair up and those earrings were perfect. It was lovely to see the Duchess' parents Mike and Carol Middleton out as well.
ReplyDeleteThis is Close to Perfection !!!
ReplyDeleteWhenever Kate puts her hair up, she automatically looks good (probably because she IS good looking). I cannot stand the girlie-curly-look (but of course, its not up to me :-))
The Duchess looks very elegant. This hairstyle really shows off the lovely bone structure of her face. Great to see her looking and feeling well. Love the earrings.
ReplyDeleteHow perfectly wonderful Kate looks, and how much better her choices have been this week (maybe excepting the SportsAid dress) than the first three she wore when she reappeared after her long HG confinement. The blue coat in Wales, and the whole outfits for Remembrance Sunday and tonight, are the way she should look. I love it. Even more, I love her smile. And her hair. And no slit or sandals or nail polish or queasy looks (except on the balcony), thank goodness. Our Kate is back.
ReplyDeleteJust announced---the Duke and Duchess will be in New York from 7-9 Dec.
ReplyDeleteSeems a busy 3days
It's very exciting. I'll be updating with a post covering the full itinerary this evening. :)
DeleteI love the whole look. It does seem a bit "safe" but I think that's what she is going for lately. The less attention that is drawn to her clothes, the more attention is given to the event. It is nice to see her very tiny baby bump. I do wish that she had gone with more jewelry since the dress is a tad boring. I really great necklace from the vault would have made this look a home run IMHO. I think it is odd that Kate & Carole's dresses are so similar. I'd be embarassed if my mother & I showed up at an event and our dresses were so similar.
ReplyDeleteI'm guessing it was very embarrassing for the woman who was wearing the same dress as Kate! It looked like the woman was in the receiving line so it would have been very obvious. In the video you can see her look at Kate and then back at herself.
DeleteIt's funny that posters think she's going for a "safe" look lately, when all they could comment on was how edgy the black cocktail dress with cutouts was that she wore the other night! I personally think this dress was absolutely perfect for the occasion, and for her age, stature, and position in society. She looks great in black. I don't think the teal colors look good with her skin.
I also thought the black cut-out dress was boring. I like her style from the first year of their marriage the best.
DeleteI am thinking that Kate would be more embarrassed that someone else was wearing the same dress as her. The woman in the receiving line was probably excited that she picked the same dress as a Royal. Just goes to show how anyone can wear this dress. I wonder if the next black tie event she will wear a custom made dress so no one else will have the same one:)
DeleteI agree with tgold. I liked her sleek dresses she wore in Canada.
DeleteWilliam and Kate are coming to NYC December 7-9!!!
ReplyDeleteI'm listening to "the British are coming!" stories on the evening news. :))) Wonderful!
DeleteWord is out, the Cambridges will go to the States 7-9 Dec, without George.
ReplyDeleteI am 58 yeas old and wore the short version of the DVF dress to my daughters wedding in July. I knew it when i saw the zipper and v neck on the back of the dress. Carole's dress is just a black lace dress. There are many on the racks.
ReplyDeleteI thought she looked stunning, but the dress was nothing special. I liked Carole's better.
ReplyDeleteThis is unrelated, but I read an article that Bucklebury Park recently instituted a new rule that you cannot take pictures of other people at their park, and that it is a result of that picture of Kate and George at the Park. There seems to be concern that people will be punished or inconvenienced while trying to take pictures of their own family members just because Kate and George happen to be there as well. It does seem like an unfair restriction to put on the general public in a public area. Thoughts?
ReplyDeleteAbsolutely gorgeous!
ReplyDeleteIn that case I wouldn't visit if i couldn't take pictures of my own child enjoying a day out there. Pictures are wot build memories of happy days out.
DeleteHi Charlotte, were you aware that Duchess Kate isn't the only royal who has worn this dress?
ReplyDeletePrincess Madeleine, of Sweden, wore it in navy a couple of years ago for an official portrait!
It just proves to show that its an exquisite dress :)
https://www.pinterest.com/pin/458733912013834462/