Styling Kate: Your Wimbledon Submissions (Part 1)

Happy Friday!

We're back with an update on the King's Cup Regatta, but before we get to that, here's our first batch of stylists' looks suggesting possibilities for the Duchess to wear to Wimbledon. I was intrigued to see choices for a daywear event, as we've largely focused on white-tie banquets in previous years and as always you all shared stylish, elegant ideas perfect for a day of summer tennis at the iconic tournament. I've always enjoyed Kate's choices for Wimbledon; she's worn a selection of beautiful dresses in recent years in particular. I think many of you feel the same and selected silhouettes and designs we know Kate favours. There are also fabulous looks featuring separates and jumpsuits, and of course eye-catching accessories and drool-worthy shoe choices.

Miol Mór - Through her fabulous blog Subliminal Insouciance, Miol Mór shared the very first submission for this year's Styling Kate activity. "For this Dress the Duchess Challenge I picked a dress from the 2019 Maticevski Spring Collection which, again, is white based albeit, this time, with the barest of blue and lavender accents. The jewelry is amethyst, as are the lenses of the Bottega Veneta sunglasses (You might have heard my squee when I found them, it was indecently loud ~ sorry for that!). An Eli Saab scarf because I just love how it brings all the colors together, plus black-and-white shoes (internet) and handbag (Staud).  Having my fingers tightly crossed that this latest try will get me the craved invitation to the Tournament! And if so, I'll be wearing ...the Badgley Mischka ensemble...perhaps."

Kelly C - "I told myself I was gonna sleep on my outfit choice before posting but I just couldn’t wait! This was so much fun last year so I’m excited to do it again this year! Anyways, my choice seems to be right up Kate’s alley but I don’t think Wimbledon is the place that we’re gonna see her try a new style." Kelly chose the LK Bennett Glenda Wallpaper Print Cotton Midi dress which is described as a nod to the classic fifties sun dress. It's styled with Alexandre Birman Clarita Tie Strap Sandals, the Strathberry Midi Tote in navy, Kate's Cartier watch, and Kiki pearl drops with blue topaz studs and diamonds.

Lady West - "I chose a white dress from Elie Tahari along with Jimmy Choos and Kiki McDonough earrings. The Jimmy Choos are a cobalt blue. I've noticed that Catherine has several pairs of green Kiki earrings. I'm suggesting the green with the white dress and blue shoes to highlight the Wimbleton bow she wears to the matches."

Ruth - Ruth chose Roland Mouret's soft pink Ardmore panelle asymmetric crepe midi dress from the pre-AW19 Collection. A vibrant splash of colour in the form of pink neon Steve Madden Daisy pumps, a pink croc bag and Kiki McDonough special edition morganite earrings in white diamond flower design complete the look.

Alaina from NJ - Alaina styled a separates look for the Duchess featuring a straight cut sleeveless H&M blouse, Erdem's Zennia rose-print jacquard flounced midi skirt. The look is accessorised with Kate's Schutz Dollie sandals, the Loewe Gate Crossbody Bag, Kate's Mappin and Webb pendant and Kiki morganite earrings.

Katie Beth - Katie Beth would love to see Kate wearing LK Bennett's striped Maria Blue Cream dress featuring fitted long sleeves in soft, premium jersey. The dress is styled with the colourful Nine West Pruce Ankle Strap Sandals is raspberry, Kate Spade's Romy medium satchel, Links of London sterling silver and pave round stud earrings and their Hope sterling double drop necklace. Kate's Ray Ban wayfarers complete the look.

Pam from Boston - "This comes at a time of year that's busy for me unfortunately and I don't have a lot of time to really look, so I went directly to one of the designers that I love - Erdem. If not always the designs themselves, I do love the patterns (for the most part) but they tend to be large and dark, not appropriate for Wimbledon, so I went there looking to see if there isn't something in a lighter color and a smaller print, and happily found the very pretty Finn Dress Floral Embroidered Crepe.  I think this dress is very Kate....the neckline, the cap sleeves. I would shorten it somewhat to make it a bit more summery. Other than that I think it's perfect for Wimbledon." The dress is styled with Sam Edelman Botanical Gardens sandals, a Botkier handbag without the shoulder straps and Kate's Ray Ban wayfarers.

Camilla from Italy - "My suggestion for a day at Wimbledon: the bespoke Alexander McQueen white eyelet suit dress (v-neck, short sleeves, little peplum, full skirt, belt) Kate wore in Singapore during the 2012 tour. I find this the most perfect of her dresses for Wimbledon, for I think it has it all: it's white, light, feminine, elegant but not too stiff, appropriate for a Patron but also easy for a fan having fun watching sport, and the full skirt reminds one of vintage tennis skirts. It's perfectly tailored but a very summery and comfortable cotton, so both royal and sporty. To be accessorized with purple and green, Wimbledon's colours, and obviously her official brooch."

Miss Lucas - "I loved this year's blue dress so much that I decided she should make that she should wear more of the same and since I also love vintage Kate I love this 40's inspired dress by Bernadette." The Florence gingham silk satin midi dress is styled with a pair of Kate's green Kiki earrings, Christian Louboutin Décolleté 554 85 suede pumps and the Palmette embellished clutch to echo the green hues of Wimbledon.

April Girl - April Girl chose the asymmetric multi striped Raya dress from Reiss. The flowing midi dress is teamed with Alexandre Birman Clarita Bow-Embellished sandals, Aspinal of London's small quilted Lottie bag, Kate's Oscar de la Renta Pearl Sun Star earrings and her Cartier watch. Kate's hair would be styled in a sleek ponytail.

Anonymous - "The beautiful eyelet dress that the Duchess wore at the zoo in Sydney with Prince William and Prince George, with a pair of her beautiful green gem earrings as a bid to the colours of Wimbledon."

Sonja from Bavaria - Sonja chose a white Ted Baker skater dress with floral embroidery because "it's the best colour against the lawn". The dress is accessorised with Kate's Catherine Zoraida Double Leaf earrings, a matching bracelet by the jeweller, a splash of vibrant colour with Kate's red Miu Miu bag and the Aldo Nicholes block heel shoes the Duchess debuted at the tournament this year.

Meredith in Boston - We chatted about our stylists opting for a look that would be very fresh for the Duchess. Meredith was the first this year to select a jumpsuit for Kate. "I would love to see Kate try the jumpsuit trend. This flowing Erdem in a striking print looks like a dress at first glance. I would pair it with her Victoria Beckham Quincy “Wimbledon bag,” Office Nina block heel sandals and Bulgari sunglasses, and Diana’s sapphire and diamond earrings."

Louise London - Louise would love to see Kate in the the Diane von Furstenberg Eloise printed silk crepe wrap maxi dress. The abstract print design is teamed with flamingo pink Alexandra Birman Clarita sandals, and the medium laser cut Alaia tote. The look is completed with pieces of jewellery from Asprey including Kate's Oak Leaf earrings, and charm necklace with the addition of the blue butterfly charm.

Caroline in Montana - Caroline chose a sleeveless soft pink and white stripe dress by one of Kate's go-to designers, Emilia Wickstead, for the tournament. It's accessorised with Kiki morganite cushion cut earrings, Kate's black Stuart Weitzman clutch, Prada cutout pumps, Cartier watch, black sunglasses and Kate's Wimbledon bow. The Duchess would wear her hair down in a centre part.

Ana B from Brazil - Ana selected a colourful, floral red and green Dolce & Gabbana dress with a square neckline and pleated skirt. It's styled with a pair of Schutz block heel sandals, the Gucci Bamboo top handle bag and completed with a pair of Effy diamond and emerald hoop earrings.

Kristen in Austin - "I would love to see her in a jumpsuit, because I think she could pull it off. Wimbledon would be a good place to try something a little more fun and carefree." The LK Bennett navy and white Diana jumpsuit would be worn with Kate's Superga Cotu sneakers, Victoria Beckham Quincy bag, Cartier watch and Asprey jewellery.

If you would still like to post a look, you can do so until Monday by leaving a comment on this post.

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Next Friday morning, the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge will go head to head for the inaugural King's Cup Regatta in support of eight charitable causes. 

The Palace revealed: "The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge will compete against one another and six other teams in state of the art Fast-40 boats. The regatta will include a number of races, and will begin at 1000hrs. The winning team will be awarded The King’s Cup trophy at a public prize giving ceremony in the early afternoon, held at the SailGP Race Village along Cowes seafront towards Egypt Point. The King’s Cup, of which Land Rover is Presenting Partner, will take place ahead of the inaugural Cowes SailGP and Cowes Week. Members of the public are invited to watch the race from the SailGP Race Village, which will be free to access and include a 500-seater grandstand. Footage from the race will play on large screens with live commentary, and there will be a number of activities for families to enjoy along the waterfront."

Today, the Palace confirmed Kate's boat will sail on behalf of her early years initiative with the Royal Foundation and William's in support of his patronage Child Bereavement UK. They will be joined by six well-known faces from television and sport, including British adventurer Bear Grylls.

More from The King's Cup website:

'The Duke’s four causes include Child Bereavement UK, Centrepoint, London’s Air Ambulance Charity 30th Anniversary Campaign, and Tusk. His Royal Highness will compete on behalf of Child Bereavement UK; Fara Williams will represent Centrepoint; Dan Snow will compete on behalf of London’s Air Ambulance Charity; and Bear Grylls will represent Tusk. 

The Duchess will support four of her patronages: Action on Addiction, Place2Be, the Anna Freud National Centre for Children and Families, and The Royal Foundation in connection with Her Royal Highness’s work on Early Years. The Duchess will compete on behalf of The Royal Foundation, and will be joined by John Bishop for Action on Addiction, Katie Thistleton for Place2Be, and Helen Glover for the Anna Freud Centre.'

 It should be a terrific day in aid of very worthy causes.

Styling Kate: It's Time to Style Kate for a Day at Wimbledon!

It's that time of year again! With the Cambridges currently holidaying in Mustique and the August summer break ahead, it's the perfect time of year to ask you to indulge your inner stylist and create your dream look for the Duchess. The annual blog activity has seen readers submit a plethora of stunning looks for red carpet events, Royal Ascot and several State banquets. This year, I thought it would be fun to choose a daywear event. This year, we're going to choose looks for Wimbledon.

Wimbledon is a wonderful opportunity for guests to select a stylish ensemble for a day of courtside action. The fortnight of tennis is one of Kate's summer calendar highlights, and she tends to choose midi and knee length dresses from her favourite designers. As matches can take a number of hours, comfort is key. Is there a particular designer you would like to see Kate wear? Wimbledon White or a splash of vibrant colour? A simple elegant dress, or a separates look? Perhaps a trousers look or jumpsuit? Accessories are key during the tournament. A chic handbag and stylish sunglasses can pull a whole look together.

You can choose high street or designer, or mix and match pieces from Kate's closet.

With the Duchess presenting the winner's trophy at the men's final this year in her role as patron, stylists need to choose a look suitable for attending a luncheon, meeting players, then attending the match with presenting duties at the end.

Brands and Designers:

A sample list of brands and designers if searching for inspiration:

Net-A-Porter The Outnet Nordstrom John Lewis Harrods Neiman Marcus

LK Bennett Topshop Whistles Reiss Hobbs London GOAT Really Wild Clothing

& Other Stories J Crew Roland Mouret Alexander McQueen Catherine Walker

Jimmy Choo Gianvito Rossi Office Kiki McDonough Links of London Robinson Pelham

Aspinal of London ShopBop Saks Fifth Avenue Temperley London Asos 


Before You Get Started:

• Leave a comment with your suggestions. Please include links to the designer/retailer in order for me to obtain images and to share your selection.
• I would be very grateful if you could include the colour of your accessories, as links to retailers can often land on shoes, etc where several colours are available.
• Don't forget to leave a name or a moniker in order to ensure I can appropriately credit your look.
• The look can simply consist of one item, for example, a dress. If you wish, however, you can include footwear, jewellery, sunglasses, a clutch, bag, etc. It can be as simple or as detailed as you want. Remember you're the stylist!
• Feel free to choose pieces already in Kate's closet.
• Please submit one look only.
• Submissions for the post showcasing all looks will be accepted until midnight on Monday, 5 August.

Happy styling. I am very excited to see your submissions :)

The Duchess Brings Back Barbara Casasola Dress for Action Awareness Week Gala Dinner

Following an away day in Cumbria yesterday, it was back to London for the Duchess of Cambridge this evening for the first annual gala dinner in recognition of Addiction Awareness Week, hosted by Action on Addiction and chef Skye Gyngell.

The Duchess was in attendance in her role as patron of Action on Addiction. The national charity offers high quality, effective residential rehab and community based addiction treatment. They provide residential and day treatment for addictions to drugs, alcohol, gambling and other behaviours. The charity offers life-saving treatment to individuals and families at its flagship treatment centre, Clouds House in Wiltshire, and its community-based treatment centres in Essex and Liverpool. It also offers education to degree level at the Centre for Addiction Treatment Studies and funds and promotes research into effective responses to addiction. Action on Addiction is the only UK addiction charity that works across all the areas of research, treatment, family support and professional education.

Ahead of the engagement Kensington Palace touched on Kate's work with the organisation and the role it's played in preparations for her upcoming project focused on supporting children in their earliest years. "Her Royal Highness’s experience with Action on Addiction has helped lay the groundwork for her work and understanding on mental health, and is currently helping inform her work in developing a major project around support for children in their earliest years. Experiences in these earliest moments, before the age of five, are proven to have significant impact on adult lives, including resilience and the ability to cope with adversity."

The Duchess meeting guests.

Before the dinner, Kate met Action on Addiction clients Jay, Otty and Melanie who are working as apprentices in the kitchen, and worked with Spring Restaurant’s head chef and owner Skye Gyngell to prepare the evening’s meal.

The dinner was held at Spring Restaurant in Somerset House, a commanding Georgian building on the Thames.

The restaurant is known for bringing "warmth and elegance within a beautiful dining space set in the New Wing of the iconic Somerset House, in the arts and cultural heart of London. At Spring food is celebrated for its conviviality and the joyfulness of sharing seasonal produce. Cooking is heartfelt, wholesome, produce driven, and cooked by a team of people who are passionate about what they do and who feel truly privileged to work with beautiful ingredients."

Skye Gyngell, originally from Australia, is now one of Britain's most acclaimed chefs. Following years of training in Sydney and Paris, she moved to London where she became known for her elegant cooking and seasonal dishes. In addition to penning several cookbooks, Skye opened Spring in 2014.

The Duchess gave a short speech in which she described her work with Action on Addiction as the "catalyst" for her interest in early childhood development.

The video below features footage of the speech.

Kate's full speech:

'Action on Addiction was one of my very first patronages, and as such, it is very close to my heart. I’m hugely passionate about the support it provides, especially for parents,children and families who suffer from, or through, addiction. And in some ways, it was the catalyst for my interest in early childhood development too.
For the last few years, I’ve been focusing on the importance of prevention:how can we all really support the earliest years of life, build foundations, and help avoid adversity later on in life. Having met so many people who’ve suffered from addiction, I have seen over and over again that, sadly, the root cause can so often be traced right back to the very earliest years of someone’s life.

Trauma experienced in early childhood, in some cases, as a result of separation, abandonment, abuse, or even emotional neglect, can have a lasting effect. What we experience during our earliest years, even while we’re still in the womb, shapes the developing brain. It is therefore vital that we support everyone who cares for children in those formative years, especially if we want to help with the inter-generational cycle of addiction. Sadly, for many who are suffering with addiction, they just don’t receive the help they need early enough. They have already reached crisis point before they find the support they need.

What’s remarkable about Action on Addiction is that it goes beyond helping those who are suffering on the courageous journey into recovery – it also lends direct support to the children and families affected by addiction – for as long as it takes.

This evening’s dinner not only marks ‘Addiction Awareness Week’, but it also provides an opportunity for us all to remember the vital work being done to help all those affected by addiction feel able to access help, hope and freedom from their addiction. There was never a more important time for Action on Addiction to succeed. And I, for one, could not be more delighted to support such a special organisation.

Graham, I look forward to working together, and, as your Patron, doing all I can, to help your important mission in the future.'

The Duchess with Action on Addiction Chief Executive Graham Beech.

Embed from Getty Images

Addiction Awareness Week (10-16 June) aims to bring addiction out of the shadows and to encourage those battling addiction and their loved ones to discuss the elements and challenges involved. It is hoped awareness will be raised across the UK and more individuals in need of support will learn about the availability and services offered by organisations such as Action on Addiction .

A recent YouGov poll revealed 60 percent of people know an addict, whilst 27 percent say they have a relative with an addiction. I was shocked to see a recent BBC Panorama investigation found just 14 out of 100 alcoholic products included proper guidance and health advice recommending the maximum number of units men and women should consume weekly. I've long thought labeling within the alcohol industry certainly needs to be addressed as does the self-regulatory system.

Below, a searingly honest account of living with a relative in the grip of addiction from MP Caroline Flint: Click here to read the full piece on The Guardian's website.

'Addiction is a life-threatening condition. It affects those around the addict who may never have touched a drink or taken drugs. As a child, I lived with an addict – my mother, Wendy.

She was hardworking, great fun and loving. But I saw her struggle during, and in the aftermath of, failed relationships, with three children in tow. As a child, I could start the day loving my mum and end it hating her. Alcohol changes people. Addiction invades the homes of rich and poor alike. Its effects are far-reaching and its causes run deep. From mental health, abuse, debt and homelessness the daily challenges of living with addiction are multiple and complex.

Looking back, I think my mum turned to drink because of low self-esteem. She didn’t deserve to be alone. She deserved to value herself more. As a child, I had no idea who knew that we had this problem under our roof. You didn’t talk about it to friends. I hoped no one at school knew. It was a secret problem. Our problem. And, even as a child, we knew it had to stay hidden.

My mum did know she had a problem. We once had a family meeting arranged by a social worker. My mum chose the meeting place – the local pub. It wasn’t a success. But she tried. She attended Alcoholics Anonymous and other groups; she even spent time in hospital. Years later, I found a diary from 1986. For months she wrote a daily entry: “1, 2, 3 …” Wendy was trying to stay sober to support me during my pregnancy. On Day 86, the entries stopped.'

Moving onto Kate's style tonight.

The Duchess brought back the very popular off-the-shoulder mesh-paneled dress she debuted in 2016 for the Art Fund Awards by London based, Brazilian designer Barbara Casasola.

The $2,210 midi dress is cut from figure-sculpting stretch-jersey and paneled with sheer mesh inserts for a sporty feel. Made in Italy, it it designed to create a flattering, feminine silhouette.

The dress is from the designer's minimalist Spring 2016 Collection.

Kate styled the dress with the drool-worthy Jimmy Choo Romy 100 Silver and Dusk Blue Fireball pumps she wore for the BAFTAs. The $725 style are described as: "The classic Romy heel gets a contemporary update in silver and dusk blue fireball glitter dégradé. Leather lined with a leather sole, the 100mm heel height creates a leg-lengthening effect."

In fact, my only quibble with this look is the shoes rather outrank the dress in terms of formality and sheer sparkle factor. The Choos are screaming 'Take me to the ball'. I love them both separately, but I do think the dress worked better with the sandals the first time round.

Laura quickly identified Kate's clutch as the Wilbur & Gussie Charlie Steel Classic Silk Clutch. The light grey bag features a silver crystal bee brooch.

And Kiki McDonough hoop earrings.

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Blue Peter fans are in for a special royal surprise tomorrow! Kensington Palace just confirmed the Duchess has filmed an appearance for the landmark CBBC show which will air tomorrow at 5.30 pm.

Duchess Kate has taped an appearance on iconic British children’s show #BluePeter to launch a competition as part of her mission to get more children and families outdoors🌿🍃

In the episode Kate goes pond-dipping with local school kids, which she says is “right up my street.” pic.twitter.com/TZvN4RLUZ2

— Omid Scobie (@scobie) June 12, 2019

Kate joined a group of children for den building and pond-dipping, which she described as "massively up her street". The Duchess is wearing her Troy London Tracker jacket and Superga Cotu shoes in 'Sherwood Gum' (with thanks to Middleton Maven).

More from The Telegraph:

'The Duchess, who last month unveiled her “back to nature” garden at Chelsea Flower Show, is taking part in a special segment to be broadcast on Blue Peter on Thursday night to make the case for spending "ten to 15 minutes" playing outside as often as possible. 

She will also launch a “once-in-a-lifetime” competition for young viewers to design a sculpture to put in her garden at RHS Wisley in September, with two runners-up invited to design their own activity cards to help their peers into the garden.

The programme will see the Duchess speak about the importance of outdoor play, confessing her own children Prince George, Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis are “dragged outside” come “rain or shine”.

“It encourages creativity, confidence and even a short amount of time - 10-15 minutes outside - makes a huge difference to physical well-being but also to our mental well-being,” she said, in discussion with presenter Lindsey Russell.

A seven-and-a-half minute segment of the show, which is broadcast on CBBC, sees the Duchess introduced as a "gold Blue Peter badge-holder” before taking part in three outdoor activities children can try at home'

I'll post the full segment once it becomes available.

We'll almost certainly see the Duchess at Windsor on Monday for this year's Order of the Garter. There's going to be quite the turnout with Queen Letizia of Spain and Queen Maxima of the Netherlands expected to support their husbands. King Felipe became a Stranger Knight of the Order in 2017 and King Willem-Alexander was appointed a supernumerary Knight last October. Royal Ascot kicks off next Tuesday, it's possible we'll see the Cambridges there on one of the days.

The Cambridges Join The Queen For Easter Service

It's been a glorious Easter weekend, the sun is shining, spring flowers are in full bloom and in keeping with tradition, the Queen and a large gathering of family members attended church service at St George's Chapel, Windsor Castle. As hoped for, the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge joined the monarch this morning.

It marks the third consecutive year the couple have attended the Windsor service.

It's been a quiet month for the Cambridges, who have been enjoying George and Charlotte's Easter break at their country home, Anmer Hall, in Norfolk. They were spotted at the nearby Burnham Horse Trials with the Tindalls. Mike and Zara were also in attendance today. The family will return to Kensington Palace after the weekend ahead of term commencing at Thomas's Battersea on Wednesday, and Charlotte's nursery Willcocks. Before that, Louis will celebrate his first birthday on Tuesday. The Duchess will resume duties on Thursday, with an appearance at the ANZAC Day service at Westminster Abbey.

On Easter Sunday last year, Kate told a group of little girls George and Charlotte had a ball at an Easter egg hunt that morning; I'm sure the Cambridge children did the same today.

Today has additional significance for the Royal family, as it's Her Majesty's 93rd birthday.

A curtsy from the Duchess.

Just days away from welcoming Baby Sussex, Prince Harry was in fine form chatting to Zara and Autumn Phillips.

An arrival video of the royal party. Prince Andrew, Princess Beatrice and the Wessexes and Princess Anne's family were also present.

St George's Chapel is a 14th century building located in the lower ward of the castle.

The chapel has been the site of many royal weddings, including the weddings of the Duke and Duchess of Sussex and Princess Eugenie and Jack Brooksbank last year. The chapel is also home to the annual Order of the Garter ceremony held in June. Within the Chapel are the tombs of ten monarchs, including Henry VIII and his third wife Jane Seymour, and Charles I.

More on the history of the chapel:

'In 1348, King Edward III founded two new religious colleges: St Stephen's at Westminster and St George's at Windsor. The new college at Windsor was attached to the Chapel of St Edward the Confessor which had been constructed by Henry III in the early thirteenth century. The chapel was then rededicated to the Blessed Virgin Mary, St Edward the Confessor and St George the Martyr. Edward III also built the Aerary Porch in 1353–1354. It was used as the entrance to the new college.

The Quire of St George's Chapel, by Charles Wild, from W.H. Pyne's Royal Residences, 1818. St George's Chapel became the Mother Church of the Order of the Garter, and a special service is still held in the chapel every June and is attended by the members of the order. Their heraldic banners hang above the upper stalls of the choir where they have a seat for life.'

The Evening Standard reports:

'In his sermon, the Dean did not mention the royal birthday but discussed the Easter message of love and the terrible fire at Notre-Dame Cathedral in Paris last week. He also read from Easter poetry by the Christian socialist Charles Kingsley, author of The Water Babies, whose birth 200 years ago will be celebrated in June.

After the service, the Queen and her family went for drinks in the Deanery before leaving from separate exits. As the monarch returned to her car at the Galilee Porch, the crowd -members of the public let in to watch and some of the congregation - sang Happy Birthday, as she was given flowers by two boys, Rufus Travers-Brown and Edward Bland, the sons of lay clerks (adult choristers) at the chapel.'

The Duke and Duchess departing.

In his Easter message this year, Prince Charles called for an end to the "pervasive horror" of knife crime. More from the Telegraph:

'Writing of Easter as a celebration of the triumph of lightness over dark, Prince Charles has now called for those who commit “brutal deeds” to be brought to their senses through justice and the “extraordinary power” and gift of forgiveness.

Saying “there are times when it can feel as if the light has gone out of the world and darkness reigns, the Prince, who will one day be head of the Church of England, says: “Easter gives us hope. Throughout my own life, it has been a humbling experience to meet and to listen to people who have suffered the most terrible personal tragedies,” he writes.

“The way they have grieved and turned their grief into action to help others in the most extraordinary way is an example of the light overcoming the darkness. Recently, Prince Harry and I brought together some of those who have been affected by knife crime to see what more could be done to tackle this pervasive horror. Listening to those who have suffered from such attacks filled us both with immense sadness.

“But their remarkable determination to move forward and address the causes of such crime and to find solutions was, for me, yet another example of the light shining in the darkness.” He adds: “Of course, those who commit such brutal deeds need to face up to their crimes through being brought to justice.

“However, very often it is not the punishment that brings them to their senses and changes them, but rather the extraordinary power of the forgiveness from those they have hurt.”

In 2017 and 2018, the Duchess repeated classic Catherine Walker coats for Easter Sunday.

Today, Kate brought back her very popular dove grey Alexander McQueen coat, first worn for Easter Sunday service at St Andrew's Cathedral, Sydney, in 2014. Several of you mentioned you would love to see the elegant piece again. It's a great choice for the occasion.

Kate repeated the matching grey Jane Taylor hat.

Kate accessorised with her gorgeous Robinson Pelham wedding earrings. Michael and Carole Middleton had the earrings commissioned as a gift in 2011. Their design is derived from the acorn and oak leaves which form part of the Middleton family coat of arms, and they perfectly complement the 'Halo' tiara, echoing the scroll elements in the design. The £15K earrings are made of 18 karat white gold and diamonds in the form of a curled diamond set oak leaf top and a pear-shaped diamond set drop with a central articulated pave set diamond acorn.

And her Acorn brooch. Kate's worn the piece on a number of occasions since 2012. I expect it's also a Robinson Pelham piece.

A closer look at the brooch from Christmas Day 2015.

Kate teamed the look with the soft grey Emmy London Rebecca Cinder Pointed Court shoes and matching clutch.

Below, a wooden egg with a portrait of HM given to the monarch by the Ambassador of Ukraine, Volodymyr Khandogiy. It's one of a number of ornate eggs she's been given over the years. Wishing the Queen the happiest of birthdays! I'm sure it will be a splendid day surrounded by loved ones.

We'll see you tomorrow or Tuesday for Prince Louis' first birthday photos. Wishing you all a very Happy Easter :)