As part of the ongoing Heads Together campaign, Prince William was interviewed by Alastair Campbell for British GQ. The spread features a black and white photograph of the Cambridges relaxing at Kensington Palace as they watch George, Charlotte and Lupo play. The photo was taken in April by Norman Jean Roy.
British GQ/Norman Jean Roy
A second black and white image showing William with George and Charlotte is also included.
British GQ/Norman Jean Roy
British GQ shared the following background on the interview "As part of the ongoing Heads Together campaign, Prince William, the Duke of Cambridge has opened up about his mental health and discussed the death of his mother with GQ's Alastair Campbell, a self-described "old leftie Republican". In a wide-ranging conversation the Duke reveals his determination to get the nation talking more about emotions and feelings." The cover leads with "William, A Prince In His Prime".
Several extracts from the interview have been published and can be read in their entirety here. William spoke about a number of issues including missing his mother:
"I would like to have had her advice. I would love her to have met Catherine and to have seen the children grow up. It makes me sad that she won’t, that they will never know her."
On the imminent 20th anniversary of his mother's death:
“I am in a better place about it than I have been for a long time, where I can talk about her more openly, talk about her more honestly, and I can remember her better, and publicly talk about her better. It has taken me almost 20 years to get to that stage. I still find it difficult now because at the time it was so raw. And also it is not like most people’s grief, because everyone else knows about it, everyone knows the story, everyone knows her. It is a different situation for most people who lose someone they love, it can be hidden away or they can choose if they want to share their story.”
William discussed the importance of family "I could not do my job without the stability of the family. Stability at home is so important to me. I want to bring up my children in a happy, stable, secure world and that is so important to both of us as parents. I want George to grow up in a real, living environment, I don’t want him growing up behind palace walls, he has to be out there. The media make it harder but I will fight for them to have a normal life."
On the ultimate goal of the Heads Together campaign:
"Smashing the taboo is our biggest aim. We cannot go anywhere much until that is done. People can’t access services till they feel less ashamed, so we must tackle the taboo, the stigma, for goodness sake, this is the 21st century. "I've been really shocked how many people live in fear and in silence because of their mental illness. I just don't understand it. I know I come across as quite reserved and shy, I don’t always have my emotions brewing, but behind closed doors I think about the issues, I get very passionate about things. I rely on people around me for opinions, and I am a great believer in communication on these issues.
"I cannot understand how families, even behind closed doors, still find it so hard to talk about it. I am shocked we are so worried about saying anything about the true feelings we have. Because mental illness is inside our heads, invisible, it means others tread so carefully, and people don’t know what to say, whereas if you have a broken leg in plaster, everyone knows what to say."
Of course many of you may recall Alastair Capbell contributed to the #OktoSay series. Best known for his role as former British Prime Minister Tony Blair’s spokesman, press secretary and director of communications and strategy. Alastair has campaigned relentlessly to end stigma around mental health. In his film, Alastair talked to his partner Fiona about his psychotic nervous breakdown in 1986, his addiction issues and the chronic depression he has experienced over the years. He says: "The thing I always do now, I always say to you when I feel the depression coming on, even if it’s only mild, and it used to be I would just go into lockdown, now the first thing I say is: 'I think I’m getting depressed again."
Norman Jean Roy is a Canadian born portrait photographer. His portraits have appeared on the covers and pages of Vogue, Vanity Fair, GQ, Harper's Bazaar, and Rolling Stone. His varied career has seen him shooting portraits of everyone from Justin Trudeau to Ed Sheeran, Nicole Kidman and Reese Witherspoon. He has shot advertising campaigns for Oscar de la Renta, L'Oreal and Neiman Marcus.
The Duchess was casually attired for the photo in a sweater and jeans.
The 'heather midnight' piece features rib trim at the neck, a rolled edge at the cuffs and hem and is described as "semi-fitted". For US readers take 30% off purchases at J Crew with discount code SWEET. The piece is also available in an array of colours at Net-A-Porter.
J Crew
We can see Kate wore her Mappin &Webb Empress Pendant and possibly the matching earrings.
It's always a treat to see a new family photo of the Cambridges and to see efforts for Heads Together continuing. What do you think of the interview thus far? The full interview appears in the July 2017 issue of British GQ, available on newsstands and as a download from 1 June.
If you're just joining us, we posted a new post last night wrapping up Pippa's wedding and fashion related nuggets. You can view it here!
Hello and Happy Sunday, dear readers, it's been just over a week since Pippa and James Matthews' beautiful Berkshire wedding. During that time a host of information covering everything from Pippa's tiara to Kate's artwork has been reported on. Before we start a new week, I thought it might be fun to recap those nuggets of information.
The Tiara
One of the most talked about elements of Pippa's bridal look was the Robinson Pelham 'Maidenhair Fern' tiara with matching headpiece.
Vogue spoke to Robinson Pelham co-founders Zoe Benyon and Vanessa Chilton who provided information and photos: "Pippa wore a maidenhair fern tiara and matching headpiece, crafted with diamonds and 18-karat white gold. Milliner Stephen Jones designed a veil that wouldn't steal focus from either, and Robinson Pelham ensured both items would complement her lace dress. "It’s all about balance," Benyon says. "You do not want the dress and tiara to fight, so one has to take a back seat." Perhaps more importantly, they were tailored to Pippa herself. "Tiaras are like sunglasses; not every one suits every shape of face," Benyon adds. For example, a low-height tiara will flatter a slimmer face, she explains, while a taller version is ideal for those with strong cheekbones; a round or heart-shape face would benefit from height at the center."
The accompanying headpiece.
Kate's Special Sketch
Whilst it was reported the Duchess would not have an official role at her sister's wedding, she did have much to do. Kate acted as an "unofficial matron of honour" carrying out the usual duties associated with the role, from adjusting the train of the dress to looking after the pageboys and bridesmaids. The Duchess also read a prayer. Kate also contributed in another way - creating a sketch of St Mark's Church for the wedding's order of service. Reverend Nick Wynne-Jones, who officiated at the ceremony, said it was a 'lovely piece'. The Mail reports James Matthews also gave her talent a mention in his speech, saying: "To Pippa’s sister, such ability – a beautiful drawing of St Mark’s church in the order of service." With thanks to the lovely Sara for the photo.
The Cherry Blossom Fairy Tale
The reception was one of the most mysterious and intriguing aspects of the wedding without question, as not one single photo from inside the marquee showing guests has been leaked. It was, however, a delight to see floral designer Djordje Varda share several images on Instagram with the caption: "Let me tell you the story about a special wedding for very special and lovely people…..The Cherry Blossom Fairy Tale."
Beautiful floral arrangements.
A Pronovias Gown?
Guests changed into evening looks for the reception and the bride was no exception. According to various reports, there was a sea of glittering evening gowns. Mirka Federer's make-up artist Nariman shared this photo of her glamorous look for the event. It offers a feel of the evening.
Hello! reports Pippa's second wedding gown was created by Spanish bridal brand Pronovias. "The gown was a white, flowing dress which was surely a show-stopping look for the evening supper and party. Pronovias is yet to confirm they designed the dress, but Pippa will no doubt add to their already long list of famous clientele. Models Bar Rafaelli and Camilla Alves are big fans of the brand. Opting for a flowing Pronovias dress will have enabled Pippa to join in with dancing at her reception."
We don't know what Kate wore for the reception; I suspect an elegant gown by one of her tried and trusted designers with her hair down. It would be very interesting to know as one wonders how Kate's "off duty" evening style differs to her "professional wardrobe".
I had a quick glance over several of Kate's favoured designers of late and noticed myriad looks which would have been perfect for the event. I thought the Marchesa Notte Off Shoulder Lace Gown would have been a splendid choice; I adore how the beaded appliqués trim the waist. Perhaps it could be styled with her wedding earrings? The Duchess has also been loving the midi dress look and if she opted to wear the dazzling Kiki McDonough morganite earrings from the ceremony, the Temperley London Midi Onyx Wedding Dress could have worked very well.
What do you think Kate wore for the reception?
Menu & Invitations
A guest at the reception posted a look at the invitations for the evening party (one imagines these were separate to invitations for the church service). Pippa and James opted for a very simple, classic white invitation with understated green floral details.
Menu cards from the reception were personalised with the name of each guest and revealed a series of culinary delights. More from Hello!:
'The newlyweds, their family and friends began their three-course meal with Berkshire Mayfly Trout, served with marinated cucumber, confit tomatoes, horseradish cream and sauce vierge. For their main course, the couple chose a cannon of Herdwick lamb, served with lamb shoulder tortellini, aubergine puree, Yorkshire asparagus and a black olive jus. Dessert was a Glen Affric cranachan cheesecake, accompanied by a Highland whiskey honey – a clear nod to James's family ties to Scotland. The Matthews family own Affric Lodge, a large Scottish mansion which sits in a 10,000 acre estate in Glen Affric, about 15 miles from Loch Ness – and Pippa and James are set to spend a few days there following on from their tropical honeymoon in French Polynesia. The drinks menu featured Chassagne-Montrachet, 2015, Domaine Bernard Moreau, Chateau Palmer 1998 Margaux, and Affric Trait 10 year Highlands Malt.'
Apparently, Pippa and James have called in lawyers to try to keep details from the wedding under wraps. The eBay user who attempted to sell the menus has removed the listing, the florist has removed photos of the floral arrangements and guests who posted invitations have all removed them from their social media accounts in recent days. Personally, I thought it a tad over zealous to take such action as in the case of the florist she was showcasing her work and guests posting invitations were probably just incredibly excited. If possible non-disclosure agreements were signed and the aforementioned parties were in breach of course the reaction could be understandable.
Fan Art
It's been lovely to see all the creative illustrations and sketches. I love this sketch of Kate with George and Charlotte by the talented Naseeba Khader.
This illustration of Pippa and James kissing surrounded by pageboys and bridesmaids by Amelia Noyes is beautifully done.
Will we see reception photos?
That is THE question, isn't it? In this age of social media, it's quite something to see not one photo has found its way to the internet from the reception. I suspect given how public the arrivals/departures at the church were, they wanted the events afterwards to be away from the spotlight. Of course, I could be completely wrong on this one, I just fail to see the incentive to share more of their big day with the public. If there is an exclusive, it would almost certainly be with the likes of Hello! or People.
The Honeymoon
Entertainment Tonight has published a selection of photos of the happy couple enjoying their tropical honeymoon. The couple were photographed strolling along the beach holding hands. You can view the story with photos here. Pippa wore the very pretty Kate Spade New York Lantern Poplin Flounce Sundress in the photos (with thanks to Perth Fashion). It is described as: "A slender band of ladder stitching accents the fitted bodice of a sprightly poplin sundress cast in a bold quatrefoil print. Soft gathers at the inset waist and hem create breeze-catching flounce at the short skirt." It's available at Nordstrom.
Nordstrom
Entertainment Tonight reports: "Pippa Middleton and James Matthews pulled out all the stops for their May 20 wedding -- and their honeymoon was no different! The newlyweds jetted off to Tetiaroa this week, a private and elite group of islands in French Polynesia, where they're staying at The Brando, an exclusive resort on the island once owned by Marlon Brando. When not enjoying their reported $3,000 per night accommodations, Middleton and Matthews were spotted enjoying the island's beautiful beaches." An overview of the Island - it looks heavenly!
UPDATE: It appears the photos of Pippa and James on honeymoon have been removed from ET.
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In the second portion of our post we have several fashion related updates to share concerning pieces and brands favoured by the Duchess. One of Kate's most popular pieces last year was undoubtedly the Preen Finella Midi Dress; in fact Kate loved it so much she purchased it in two colours. The garment remains available in red in limited sizing at Net-A-Porter.
Undoubtedly, the brand has experienced the 'Kate Effect' and saw demand for the Finella soar after the Duchess wore it in Canada last year. For the Spring/Summer season they have re-released the piece with a ruffled skirt. The Palmer dress is described: "Preen by Thornton Bregazzi re-imagines its best-selling 'Finella' dress - made famous by the Duchess of Cambridge - into the 'Palmer' for Spring '17. Cut from vibrant fuchsia stretch-crepe, it has an asymmetric neckline, neatly folded pleats and a full midi skirt. You'll love how it nips you in at the waist."
In our last post, we mentioned updates to Kate's green Dolce & Gabbana dress. The dress Kate wore in forest-green crepe and georgette is now available and appropriately renamed the 'Middleton'. The dress has puffed sleeves, a pretty bow tie and white buttons, evocative of styles from the '40s. It's available at Net-A-Porter.
At present, the Duchess has nothing scheduled on her calendar, although I wouldn't be at all surprised to see that change over the next couple of days. With heightened security concerns in the UK, it's also possible we'll see an increased frequency in unannounced events. For our readers in Manchester, our thoughts and prayers are with you during this shocking and heartbreaking time. X
Fresh from a weekend of celebrations for Pippa's wedding in Bucklebury, the Duchess of Cambridge returned to duties today, joining the Queen and other members of the royal family for the Royal Horticultural Society's Chelsea Flower Show.
The Duchess arriving.
Established in 1913, on the grounds of the Royal Hospital Chelsea in London, the RHS Chelsea Flower Show has become one of the world’s greatest showcases for horticultural excellence, attracting visitors and exhibitors from across the globe.
Since its beginning, the show has gone from strength to strength. It has grown from 244 exhibitors in 1913 to over 500 today, including gardens, nurseries, floristry, educational displays and trade stands. Today the show attracts 165,000 visitors.
The Chelsea Flower Show is a staple on the royal calendar thanks to Her Majesty's patronage of the Royal Horticultural Society, and the show has been attended by countless royals over the years. Since the Queen's ascension to the throne in 1952, she has only missed it five times. Below, a smashing photo of the smiling Queen.
Other members of the royal family in attendance included the Duke of Edinburgh, the Earl and Countess of Wessex, Princess Eugenie, Princess Beatrice, the Duke and Duchess of Gloucester, Prince and Princess Michael of Kent and Princess Alexandra.
The Cambridges made their debut at the event last year, I think it likely it will become a semi-regular fixture on their schedules.
Kate talking to an exhibitor.
Kate was accompanied by Rebecca Deacon.
The Queen viewed many of the stands and gardens which make up this year's show.
Her Majesty met staff and organisers.
The royals toured the beautiful display of gardens.
Kate visited The David Austen Rose exhibit where she saw the 'William and Catherine Rose' named in 2012 for The Royal Wedding.
A closer look at the rose.
It is always a complete joy to see the magnificent gardens at Chelsea. This year, another selection of horticultural delights have been brought to life.
The RHS Greening Grey Britain Garden 2017 by Professor Nigel Dunnett – set within an urban landscape, the garden features a tower block and street art for the first time at Chelsea. Packed with 'take home' ideas the garden is a living encyclopedia of solutions to bring horticulture to any urban environment. A combined private and communal space it blends ornamental horticulture with edible planting in an inspiring setting.
The CWGC Centenary Garden is a reflective garden commemorating 100 years of the Commonwealth War Graves Commission designed on a circular theme and featuring a convex mirror and soft, flower-filled planting. More from the RHS "In 2017 the Commonwealth War Graves Commission (CWGC) celebrates 100 years since its foundation by Royal Charter. It continues to care for 1.7 million war dead in more than 150 countries. The CWGC Centenary Garden is designed to honour the fallen, and to celebrate the CWGC’s century of gardening excellence and the artisan skills still employed by its staff around the world."
The Duchess enjoyed a tour of the CWGC Centenary Garden.
Princess Alexandra also visited the garden. I think you'll agree she's an impeccably elegant lady.
The Anneka Rice Colour Cutting Garden is described as a "luscious patchwork of colour and texture dedicated to cut-and-come-again plants, this garden overflows with the joy of summer".
The Poetry Lovers Garden by Fiona Cadwallader is one of my favourites this year. "Rooftop-pruned lime trees reference the garden’s inspiration – Samuel Taylor Coleridge’s romantic poem This Lime Tree Bower My Prison. The garden alludes to a world beyond while creating a meditative space in which nature, the poem and the imagination come together. References found in the poem include ivy-clad dry-stone walls, a waterfall in the form of a stainless-steel water feature, and beanflowers, while polished concrete represents ease, modernity and reflection. Gates offer a hint of escape into a less-secluded world and the pleasures of human contact. All these elements conjure the uplifting spirituality of the dramatic conclusion of the poem, leaving the viewer afloat on the power of the imagination."
The Silk Road Garden, Chengdu, China is a garden of contrasts, with colourful sloping beds of rhodoendrons and peonies on one side and foliage, shrubs and grasses on the other intersected by a spine of red blades representing the mountainous landscape of the Sichuan Province.
The Duchess meets Mary Berry and Chris Evans at The Chris Evans Taste Garden.
The Mail reports "Presenter Chris Evans offered Kate a cherry tomato from his Radio Two 'taste garden' at Chelsea Flower Show. Despite dropping it on the decking, the royal was happy to pop it in her mouth and munch away. After the snack, she told the Radio 2 DJ: 'It's delicious and sweet.' And on the show itself, she added: 'I loved it. I'm just getting into gardening with the children. Describing her own growing efforts, she said: 'It makes such a difference when you take it from the ground."
The Earl and Countess of Wessex meeting Mary Berry. Sophie wore a pink bell sleeve Valentino dress.
The Duke of Edinburgh was in great spirits as always.
The Great Pavilion is a kaleidoscope of colour.
A gorgeous selection of daffodils.
And a nod to the royal visit :)
The beautiful bouquets created for the royals.
A variety of well known faces attended the press day from Mary Berry (pictured earlier in the day before she changed and greeted Kate) in the aptly named Liberty Wrap Dress in Cerise Garden by one of Kate's favourite brands Really Wild, to model Kelly Brook in the white lace For Love & Lemons Rosalita Dress and the fabulous Dame Judi Dench.
The Duchess was aptly attired for the flower show in a new floral dress by French brand Rochas (with thanks to Japanese Ginger). The Floral Printed Silk Crepe de Chine Dress features a fitted waist, flared skirt and silk lining. Made in Italy, the piece is "Rochas emerald and off-white". As of writing, the dress is available in very limited sizes (reduced by up to 60%) at The Outnet. It originally retailed for $2633.
The Outnet
The dress is from the designer's Pre-Fall 2016 Collection.
The Outnet
Rochas is a fashion, beauty, and perfume house founded in 1925 by French designer Marcel Rochas the first designer of 2/3-length coats and skirts with pockets. It is currently owned by the multinational Inter Parfums. Rochas' clients include Nicole Kidman, Jennifer Aniston, Kirsten Dunst, Kate Bosworth, Jennifer Lopez, Rachel Weisz, and Sarah Jessica Parker.
Kate accessorised with her £125 Monica Vinader Siren Wire Earrings. They are described as "These simple, sophisticated earrings are great for everyday wear. The organic, irregular shaped multi-faceted Green Onyx gemstone is encased in 18ct Gold Plated Vermeil on Sterling Silver."
Monica Vinader
Kate wore her hair in a ponytail which perfectly showcased the dress and earrings.
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To celebrate Children's Hospice Week, the Duchess has released a video message praising the extraordinary "dedication" and "inspirational" staff and volunteers. In the message, the Duchess highlights the fact there are more than 49,000 children and young people across the U.K. with life-limiting conditions. As patron of East Anglia's Children's Hospices, Kate noted the "incredible difference" it makes to families. "They deliver first-class care in a safe environment that feels as close to home as possible, full of colour, warmth, love and support". The video features the track Lego House by EACH ambassador Ed Sheeran.
The Duchess added:
"Today as we mark the beginning of Children's Hospice Week - I hope you will join me in shining a light on the dedicated and inspirational staff and volunteers, and the lifeline services they provide for children and their families. The work they do is extraordinary, and it really does make a world of difference."
Barbara Gelb, chief executive of Together For Short Lives, said the organisation is thrilled to have Kate's support "The Duchess's words, and her amazing support for Children's Hospice Week since 2013, have been transformational, helping to raise awareness of the needs of seriously ill children and families and to show that help is at hand. Families coming to terms with the heart-breaking news that their child will die young often say that it is the most isolating time and they simply don't know where to turn for help. That's why the Duchess's words are so poignant - it's a clear message that help is available from the remarkable children's hospice and palliative care services right across the UK. This support can make a world of difference for families."
In an interview with The Mirror, Isabella's family discuss the progress she has made thanks to EACH:
"Little Isabella, from Dereham in Norfolk, has up to three tonic-clonic seizures – a type of generalised seizure that affects the entire brain – and takes four anti-convulsant medicines twice a day. She had the seizures mostly in her sleep, so Michala and dad Roger have a camera in her bedroom to keep check. Although the seizures have reduced in frequency over the last few years, they appear to have become more violent. After undergoing unsuccessful surgery in 2015, the family hit an all-time low and 42-year-old Michala was diagnosed with depression.
But Isabella has since made progress, with new medication giving her more freedom and more mobility than ever before. However, she still needs constant supervision. Support from East Anglia Children's Hospices (EACH) has also helped her to learn and develop life and social skills, through creative activities such as painting.
Michala says: “I can’t imagine what life would be like without the care and support from EACH. It gives us the time to do things with our other girls - simple things like going to the park, baking cakes, going for a picnic or to the seaside - things which are a challenge for all of us to do with Isabella."
Children's Hospice Week runs from today until 28 May. This year, the focus is on "turning up the volume" on children's palliative care to raise awareness about the number and needs of children with life-limiting conditions and to celebrate all the lifeline services that children and families rely on. The goal is to amplify families' voices and change people's perceptions about some of the myths surrounding children's palliative care. If you wish to find out more or donate please click here.
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Finally, an update on the green Dolce & Gabbana dress Kate wore in Canada last September.
Middleton Maven shared news it has been re-released in several colourways and prints. The Short-Sleeved Fluted-Hem Cady Dress works particularly well in powder blue with pink trim. It is described: "It's the powder-blue hue and calf-skimming length that makes Dolce & Gabbana's stretch-cady dress so perfect for summer parties. Pale-pink chiffon trims the short sleeves and fluted hem, while slender neckline ties and decorative cream buttons enhance the ladylike appeal. Contrast the powdery hue with gleaming gold sandals." We know the Duchess loves having her favourite pieces in multiple colours - I think this would be a fabulous addition and perfect for a summer engagement. It's available at Matches.
The dress is also available in the pastel hue Hydrangea Print and in 'Bread Print' taken from the designers' bold picture of Italian heritage for the SS17 Collection.
And that's a wrap for today. I expect we'll hear an engagement announcement for the Duchess shortly.
