Thursday, 28 September 2017

Our Stylists' Final 'Royal Flush' Premiere Submissions! (Part 3)

After several weeks, we're on our sixth and final 'Styling Kate' post showcasing your gorgeous choices for the Duchess to wear to the glittering premiere of James Bond film Royal Flush. I have been enormously impressed by the creativity, attention to detail and consideration for royal protocol in each and every one of your looks. I've also loved seeing you all supporting each other - it's not only been immensely enjoyable, a visual feast if you will, but enriching to our community. A huge thank you to everyone who participated, it's been a wonderful distraction during this quiet time. When Kate returns to duties, she has an endless supply of stylish possibilities all prepared for her :)


NatB - "My focus will be the Royal Premiere, but with an Australian flavour. One of my favourite designers is Zimmermann. And - one of my favourite looks for Kate was the white sundress by Zimmermann that she wore on Manley beach (Sydney), then later to Wimbledon." NatB chose the Zimmermann Maples Temperance Dress in cream floral. To continue the Australian theme, it's the Oroton Estate Box Clutch. The look is completed with Kate's Prada scalloped sandals and vintage-themed earrings.


Katelyn from the South - Katelyn chose the black Alexander McQueen Draped Silk-Cady Halterneck Gown styled with Christian Louboutin Uptown pumps and the L.K. Bennett Nina Clutch. To complete the look, it's the Queen's Ruby Earrings and Diamond and Ruby bracelet.


Erika and Catherine - Erika and Catherine teamed up again for the premiere look. They both loved Kate's Alexander McQueen lavender Grecian gown from 2011, and they decided it needs to be seen again. For its second outing, the gown would be styled with Christian Louboutin disco glitter shoes, the silver 'So Kate' clutch, Diana's Amethyst Cluster Drop earrings and her double row amethyst bracelet.


K. Sophia - K. Sophia chose the Roland Mouret Addover Gown. Made from glossy claret satin, this strapless piece has an artfully draped peplum that flatters your waist and trails to the floor. The gown is teamed with Stuart Weitzman Nudist Sandals, the Petite Clutch, Queen Victoria's Ruby Earrings (so much love for these in a number of submissions) and the Queen's Diamond and Ruby bracelet.



Laura Claire - "For the film premiere, I want a full Princess moment." Laura selected a blue gown with a plunging necklace from the Ralph & Russo Spring 2017 Couture Collection styled with the Sophia Webster Coco Crystal Embellished pumps, Kate's Jenny Packham Casa clutch and the Queen's chandelier diamond earrings.


MAM in US - It's the Meadow Cropped Embroidered Tulle Top and Tule Maxi Skirt in dusty lavender by Needle and Thread. As seen on the model, it's styled with Stuart Weitzman sandals and a Jimmy Choo clutch. Kiki McDonough topaz and diamond earrings add a touch of sparkle to the ensemble.


German Girl - German Girl chose a halterneck gown from Marchesa's Spring 2018 Collection with green, pink and lavender floral overlay. The gown is teamed with Kate's Jimmy Choo Vamp Sandals and the dazzling emerald and diamond jewellery Kate wore in New York in 2014.


Shantel - "It has been a while since I've commented but I had to participate in this! I can't wait to see what everyone else comes up with. Your readers have STYLE, so this is going to be great!" For the Bond premiere, Shantel turned to Elizabeth Kennedy, choosing the Gold Embroidered Underskirt With Bi-Colored Over Dress (the front of the dress would be modified slightly for modesty). It's styled with Giuseppe Zanotti Harmony Metallic Leather Sandals, the Jimmy Choo Celeste Clutch, Sophie Bille Brahe Petite Elipse Nouveau 14-karat gold pearl earring and a Mizuki pearl gold cuff.


mandrew27 - It's the Black and Gold Beaded Short Sleeve-Tulle Gown by the one and only Jenny Packham styled with the Judith Leiber Couture Coffered Box Clutch, Kate's Prada wavy strap shoes, the Queen's Wedding Gift Bracelet and Her Majesty's Pear Drop earrings.


Meredith, Boston - "In jewel-like shades of green and blue, this shimmering Prada gown is cut from floral plissĂ©-jacquard. It has a structured V-neck bodice framed by pleats at the shoulders and waist, and a floor-sweeping skirt that fans out beautifully as you walk." It's accessorised with Kate's Gianvito Rossi Crisscross Ankle-Wrap Sandals, the Jimmy Choo Vivien Clutch and Her Majesty's Brazilian Aquamarine earrings and bracelet.


Kerrie from Indiana - Kerrie chose the vibrant bright plum Jenny Packham Beaded Cutout Gown (the cutouts would be lined with a nude fabric). The Queen's Chandelier earrings and the Baguette and Brilliant bracelet add a sparkling finish to the look.


Rebecca From Across The Pond - It's the Temperley London Long Toledo Dress styled with Kate's Prada cut out pumps, black beaded Magid clutch, the Queen's Diamond Drop earrings and the statement Andamooka Opal Necklace. Kate's hair would be worn partially up with the Queen's wheat brooches holding it in place.


Patricia I - Patricia opted for the Chiara Boni La Petite Robe Every Long Loop-Neck Column Gown featuring a loop sculpted neckline and back. It would be worn with Kate's Oscar de la Renta Cabrina pumps, Kate's Jimmy Choo Vivien Clutch and Diana's Saudi Sapphire bracelet and earrings.


Mr D, United Kingdom - Mr D opted for a Peter Langner A-line gown with a motif on the front in mikado from the designer's Spring/Summer 2017 collection. The soft pink gown is styled with Jimmy Choo Platinum Ice Dusty Glitter Emily Sandals and the L.K. Bennett Natalie Raffia Clutch. The look is completed with jewels in the form of the Queen's South African Necklace and Bracelet and the Queen Mother's Diamond Flower Earrings.


Sonne - It's the Xscape Embroidered Mermaid Gown in wine and gold teamed with the bordeaux Oscar de la Renta Karlina pumps, the L.K. Bennett Champagne Cecilia clutch and the Queen's diamond chandelier earrings.


Julie from STL - Julie would love to see Kate wearing the Sachin & Babi Dharma evening gown in satin taffeta with floral-print. The gown features a plunging neckline and a full A line skirt.


Anne from Texas - "For the movie premiere, I'd like to see Kate repeat one of my favorite gowns - the black velvet strapless Alexander McQueen from the Sun Military Awards in December of 2011. I'd love to see her repeat her black Jimmy Choo cosmic shoes. I'd add a new clutch (the same I suggested for Ascot) - the Kate Spade Evening Belles Zurie with Flower Gem Clutch. Most importantly, I think it is time for Kate to let us all see Princess Diana's famous seven strand diamond and sapphire pearl choker - I'd love to see Kate wear this piece that has something of Princess Diana and the Queen Mother (though maybe it is being saved for Harry's future wife). I'd add some new jewelry as well - the Kiki McDonough Pearl and Diamond Drop Earrings."


Francis - Like Anne, Francis would love to see Kate's black velvet McQueen gown again (modified to remove the frill overlay). It's accessorised with the Queen's Pear Drop Diamond Earrings, Queen Mary's Diamond Bar Choker Bracelet and the Nizam of Hyderabad Necklace. Francis added she would complete the look with "the simplest of black bags she owns, the simplest of black shoes in her closet."




Rachel - Rachel chose the ornate Marchesa Embellished tulle-trimmed silk-satin gown from the Pre-Fall 2017 Collection inspired by FabergĂ© eggs. Intricately embellished with scores of tonal-pink crystals and beads, this silk-satin gown is trimmed with tulle to create the illusion of an off-the-shoulder neckline. It's teamed with the Stuart Weitzman Nudistsong Sandals and pink diamond earrings and bracelet.


Christine from NJ - Christine chose the same storm blue satin Marchesa gown as Rachel, teamed with Kate's much-loved Jimmy Choo Vamp Sandals, Kiki McDonough Lola Green Amethyst Hoops set in 18ct yellow gold and Kate's Wilbur and Gussie Gold Glitter Clutch.



Julia B - "Elegantly showcasing Jenny Packham's love affair with embellishment, this exquisite evening gown sees dusty blue lace adorned with shimmering sequins." The gown is accessorised with Jimmy Choo Emily pumps, the Queen's Diamond Chandelier Earrings and Queen Mary's Diamond Bar Choker Bracelet.


Elle - It's the popular Roland Mouret Addover Gown in claret satin. Elle added: "Of couse, I'm assuming this is a winter premiere – November perhaps? – and that Kate has been given Diana’s Ribbed Collar Necklace and Earrings – they are modern and would suit the dress well. Kate wears her Jimmy Choo Silver Vamp Sandals and carries a black clutch. I picked the un-ID’d one she carried at the Private Mayfair Club event (10/11/12). I wanted to add another texture – velvet – versus the Anya Hindmarch satin. Let’s face it – she needs another strapless gown and a premiere is a perfect event for her to look uber fabulous in many ways."



Emily from Illinois - "Antonio Berardi's forest-green gown is blended with stretch to beautifully hug and accentuate your curves. Lined in silk-blend, it's impeccably cut to fit close through the bodice before flaring out to a fluted skirt." It's accessorised with the Jimmy Choo Vamp Sandals, Kate's Jenny Packham Casa clutch and art deco jewellery.


Florida Girl - It's the very regal Slate blue silk flower embellished flared gown from Marchesa with Gianvito Rossi Lurex Portofino Sandals, a No 1 Jenny Packham clutch, Kate's art deco bracelet and Kate's dazzling pink diamond earrings.


Rhonda - Rhonda submitted her choices via email choosing the navy Armani Collezioni Low Back Tank Gown with Kate's Jimmy Choo Vamp Sandals, the Queen Mother's Sapphire Drop Earrings and Diana's Sapphire and Diamond Cluster Link Bracelet.


Franziska - Franziska chose the Prada Embellished Wool and Silk-Blend Gown in antique rose with an array of light-catching red beads that frame the neckline. It's styled with Kate's L.K. Bennett Agata Sandals, red Miu Miu clutch and Simone Rocha beaded earrings.


Paola Magi - Paola selected a sweeping strapless red Valentino gown, to be worn with red Gianvito Rossi shoes and a statement necklace with quite the history; it once belonged to Marie Antoinette. "An historically important natural pearl, diamond and ruby necklace, pearls circa 1780, necklace made in 1849. Provenance : Archduchess Maria Antonia of Austria, later Marie Antoinette, Queen of France and Navarre (1755-1793), Queen consort of King Louis XVI (1754-1793), daughter of Emperor Francis I and Empress Maria Theresa of Austria."


If you submitted a look and it isn't presented here, don't hesitate to let me know and I'll add it as soon as possible! Until next year, this 'Styling Kate' series has been enormous fun :)

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In other news, the Duchess sent a message of support marking her patronage SportsAid's Week. In the message, the Duchess praised the ‘commitment and dedication’ shown by the country’s brightest sporting prospects. 



“The most talented young athletes throughout the United Kingdom show great levels of commitment and dedication as they aim to bring sporting success to our country in future years. The early part of this journey is a challenging one. Many of the athletes are still in education and reliant on their family for all the support a young sportsperson needs to allow them to train and compete.
 “SportsAid supports over 1,000 athletes every year from more than 60 different sports, and as Patron, I am very proud of the impact SportsAid has on these young people, helping to relieve the different pressures they each may face, while also giving them the self-belief and motivation to continue to pursue their ambitions.
“This year’s SportsAid Week will be an exciting few days and a great opportunity for everyone to show their support for our next generation of athletes.”

How is the Duchess at present? During a presentation ceremony and reception celebrating the Metropolitan and City Police Orphans Fund, which he supports as patron, Prince William met 98-year-old Doris Orrell who suffered with the same illness when she was expecting. William asked Mrs Orrell, "Did it get worse with each pregnancy?" and was told it did. The 98-year-old said her doctor advised her to try "dry biscuits" and the Duke replied that ginger was supposed to help with the condition. Prince William said: "Ginger biscuits - but there's not much ginger can do to stop that - we've done all that." Doris wished Kate well and William told her: "She is feeling better, thank you." We'll keep you updated on any news or updates regarding the Duchess and hope she is improving and hopefully over the worst of it.

Wednesday, 20 September 2017

Duchess Kate to Return to Engagements for World Mental Health Day & Our Stylists' Premiere Looks (Part 2)

Good evening, dear readers,

We're back with news Kensington Palace confirmed Kate will join William and Harry on 10 October, World Mental Health Day, at Buckingham Palace to celebrate the contribution of those working in the mental-health sector across the UK. The event will recognise the progress, hard work and dedication of those determined to raise awareness of mental health issues over many years. The Palace added: "It will also provide an opportunity for Their Royal Highnesses to thank those from the sector for the support they provide to so many going through difficult times in their lives."


News of the event broke yesterday, when an invitee who works in the field of mental health shared his invitation on Twitter. With the engagement common knowledge on social media it's possible this was one of the reasons for confirming, however, I don't believe they would have mentioned Kate unless it's thought there's a strong possibility she'll be there.


With the Duchess unwell, Kensington Palace have been taking planned events on a case-by-case basis. The news is the first indication Kate is beginning to feel a little better. Perhaps based on the patterns of her previous pregnancies, it's felt she will be well enough to resume engagements in October. I understand there is to be a continued firm focus on mental health with the next stage of Heads Together getting underway. Kate will want to be very much involved in that and in carrying out their intended schedule for the campaign, if she's well enough. More from royal reporter Victoria Murphy:

Victoria Murphy Twitter Feed

Events marking World Mental Health Day are becoming a staple for the Cambridges. In 2015 they marked the day at an event hosted by the organisation MIND at London's Harrow College.


In 2016, the royal trio marked the day with a special Heads Together event. They had the opportunity to meet with people who had received help from a relative, colleague or friend in crucial moments in their lives, and the person who provided that support. They also gave a joint speech on the campaign which was in its very early stages at the time.


With today's news, one imagines the November tour will likely go ahead as scheduled. We'll keep you updated on further calendar changes.

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Next, we're taking a look at the second portion of submissions for the Duchess to wear to the royal premiere of James Bond movie Royal Flush. In previous years, we focused on white-tie affairs such as state banquets (something we'll likely return to next year). It's been tremendously interesting to see your take on black tie, and the looks fit in incredibly well with the movie and the general theme!


Bluefire - Bluefire chose a Rosa Clará long tailored gown with a boat neckline and a scene-stealing jewelled back (we show the front of the dress in red, as a product shot wasn't available in the chosen colourway). To finish the look it's Stuart Weitzman Sensual Sandals and the Tory Burch Jamie Bag.


Alaina from NJ - A navy embellished gown from Marchesa Notte with a scoop back is styled with Kate's Gianvito Rossi Suede Mary Jane Pumps. Alaina accessorised with the dazzling Annoushka Dusty Diamonds Topaz Drop Earrings and a London blue topaz bracelet.


Darla - Darla selected a strapless Carolina Herrera gown with a fitted bodice, pockets and a flowing skirt from the Bridal Spring 2018 Collection. We've seen Kate take gowns from Bridal collections before and have them customised in bespoke colours - exactly what Darla would do - in sapphire blue. Diana's seven strand pearl and sapphire choker adds a serious injection of regal sparkle.


Lily - "The white version of Roland Mouret's Cheveley gown would look simply stunning on Kate." The Pre-Fall 2017 floor-length gown is styled with Jimmy Choo Collar Stiletto Sandals, Forest Of Chintz Ocean Mini Audiere blue clutch and the earrings and bracelet from Princess Diana's Oman Sapphire and Diamond suite.


Downton Abbey Fan - The After Six Satin & Chiffon Gown, described as "Radiant satin highlights every curve in the tailored keyhole bodice of this memorable gown, balanced by an airy A-line skirt". Downton Abbey Fan accessorised with Kate's Jimmy Choo Vamp Sandals, the L.K. Bennett Frances Blue Satin Clutch, The Queen's Diamond Cluster earrings and wedding gift bracelet.


Louise, London - "For the evening event, because it is a film premiere rather than a state event, I'd like to see Kate wear something more like her pre-engagement style." The look features the turquoise Matthew Williamson One-shoulder pleated silk-chiffon gown, Kate's cream Prada sandals, Kiki green tourmaline and kunzite earrings, Queen Mary's diamond bangles worn on Kate's left wrist and the Dolce & Gabbana painted wood clutch.


Bluhare - "William will not be wearing a tux at my event. He will be wearing a black or very dark grey suit, with black shoes, and a tie that contrasts with Kate's outfit." Bluhare chose a black dress with a sparkling pop of pink by Carmen Marc Valvo. The sleeveless cocktail length dress features a full skirt. Bluhare accessorised the piece with Christian Louboutin Marylineska Eelskin & Leather Ankle-Strap Sandals, a hot pink Chanel clutch and pink sapphire earrings. The look is completed with black satin short gloves.


Little Miss Sunshine - "I decided to go for a different colour palette than Kate's usual evening looks, and combine it with the Temple of Heaven earrings she already owns." Little Miss Sunshine selected the Roland Mouret Addover Gown in pink acetate from the 2017 Pre-Fall collection with the L.K. Bennett Lindy clutch, Ralph Lauren Tarah sandals and yellow gold cuff from Johannes Hunter jewellers.


S. from E. - "I wanted to give the outfit for a James Bond premiere a patriotic touch by adding a sparkly union jack clutch from McQueen. Since this is not as formal as a state banquet, a slit in the dress is totally appropriate and adds some va-va-voom." We see a red off-the-shoulder jersey gown from David's Bridal with Kate's Jimmy Choo Dart Sandals and the Duchess of Teck earrings.


Snarrbucks - Snarrbucks chose the Carmen Marc Valvo Floral Halter Neck Floor-Length Gown, Stuart Weitzman Nudist Goosebump Suede Sandals, the Bottega Veneta Woven Satin Clutch and Queen Victoria's Crown Ruby earrings.


Julie from NC - "A burgundy Cameron Blake lace A-line gown with lace slight cap sleeves, lace sweetheart neckline, ruched crisscross bodice accented with hand-beaded applique at side." Julie styled it with Gianvito Rossi Mesh Ankle Strap Pumps and a dazzling statement necklace. Julie added "Earrings are custom made to include one of the pink round stone at top rolled by leaves drop to match the necklace".


Deb from Brazil - "Playing stylist is so much fun, I really wanted to take part in it. However, I have very little free time. I wish I had more time to look for accessories, shoes, etc, but unfortunately, I can't." Deb chose a flowing burgundy one-shoulder Elie Saab gown for the premiere from the Ready-to-Wear Fall 2014 Collection.


Royalfan - Royalfan selected the Carolina Herrera Sequined Illusion Tulle Gown with a v neckline and keyhole back. The gown is styled with Stuart Weitzman Nudistsong Sandals, a royal blue clutch and Harry Winston jewels.


Tammy from California - "The dress: I know it's very simple, but with ruffles and lace being all the rage I think the clean lines are elegant". We have the Alfred Sung Strapless High/Low Sateen Twill Gown, the Christian Louboutin Douce Du Desert Ankle Tie Pump and antique bohemian garnet earrings.


Ballina from Austria - Ballina would love to see Kate wearing the slinky emerald green Galvan Halteneck Silk-Satin Gown. The gown with a self-tie halterneck and sharp, cutaway shoulders is teamed with the Rupert Sanderson Pinka pumps, a Judith Leiber Couture clutch and pink fringed earrings by Katerina Makriyianni.


Indigoisle - Indigoisle picked a gown by Jenny Packham for the premiere. "Cut from figure-skimming dusty-blue crepe, this ethereal gown is detailed with an off-white lace and sheer beige tulle bodice sprinkled with sparkling crystals and sequins." It's accessorised with the Sophia Webster Clara embellished gold-tone box clutch and Kiki Blue Topaz and Diamond Drop earrings.



Mary from CR - Mary would love to see the return of the beautiful grecian lavender Alexander McQueen gown Kate wore for a BAFTA event in Los Angeles in 2011. She accessorised it with Gianvito Rossi Glam Twist sandals and the Queen's Amethyst earrings.


Smiley - "I picked a golden dress as Kate cannot wear this colour for tiara occasions like state banquets because all the tiaras, earrings, necklaces, etc from the royal collection are silver or white gold so this would not match at all." Smiley chose the Zuhair Murad Embroidered Cap-Sleeve Flared Gown, Kate's brown Emmy Shoes pumps, Kate's Catherine Zoraida 'Spread your Wings' bracelet and Kiki Smoky Quartz and Diamond Cushion Drop earrings.


KM Fan - KM Fan also looked to the amazing Zuhair Murad - choosing the One-shoulder embellished tulle and silk-blend chiffon gown. It's styled with the Jimmy Choo Marianne Glittered Leather Sandals and the Celeste clutch. The look is completed with antique sapphire earrings.


BethNY - It's the very princessy Monique Lhuillier One Shoulder Asymmetrical Gown: "Rendered in baby blue silk, this one shouldered gown features a high low cascading skirt and delicate floral embroidery." It's paired with the Gianvito Rossi Portofino Suede Ankle-Strap Sandals, Kate's black McQueen clutch, the Queen's wedding gift bracelet and Carole Middleton's blue topaz chandelier earrings by Robinson Pelham.


Inez from Sweden - "In my mind I was picturing the premiere in the winter so I wanted to go for a wintery theme. Perhaps the premiere of the next Fantastic Beasts movie." Inez would love to see Kate in a full-length version of the black floral print Paolo Sebastian dress below with Gianvito Rossi Suede pumps, the L.K. Bennett Nina clutch and the Queen's Pear Drop earrings.


Gabi K - Gabi presented her look in a graphic featuring a sleeveless Balenciaga gown with peplum detail, Kate's Jimmy Choo Vamp pumps, a black Prada clutch, the Queen's (enormously popular) wedding gift bracelet and Robinson Pelham earrings.


Please don't hesitate to let me know if any pieces in your look are incorrect. We'll look at all remaining looks in Part 3 :)

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