Sophie Gets Fashion Forward

If you follow me on Twitter, you are well aware that I am a major fan of The Countess of Wessex. Sophie is elegant, beautiful and in my opinion, does not get nearly enough credit. It also doesn’t hurt that she is a former public relations pro,  – us publicists have to stick together.

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Altough a patronage announcement from The Countess of Wessex may not be considered breaking regal news, I’m taking advantage of any tidbit on her so I can finally dedicate a post to her. Yesterday, it was revealed that the the fashion forward wife of Prince Edward would become patron of the London College of Fashion. What is the big news surrounding the announcement? This is the first patronage for the LCF. Over the next three years, Sophie will work hand-in-hand with the school to promote its ‘Better Lives’ campaign, awarding scholarships, working female prisoners to get their fashion on and participating in projects with schoolchildren.

This patronage is a right royal fit for The Countess of Wessex – lots of little Sophie-inspired schoolchildren running around will not be a bad thing! Hopefully this news marks the first of many stories to come on the fabulous Sophie.

Dressing Kate: NYFW 2013

New York Fashion Week 2013 has come and gone and with that comes about a thousand looks that The Duchess of Cambridge could walk off the runway in. We all know Kate looks great in just about everything she puts on; I say “just” because who can forget the blue Erdem dress from Trooping The Colour last year? Believe me, I’m trying to. However, dressing a pregnant Kate is quite different from dressing an incredibly fit Kate.

 I’ve picked out looks from the newly debuted fall collections that would look stunning on the fashionable duchess and the baking royal biscuit. (Trying to avoid the term “baby bump” as much as possible to spare @Heather84A a heart attack). I know she will no longer be pregnant come the fall, but let’s be honest – I would be here all day selecting pieces she would look stunning in on a regular basis. The entire Badgley Mischka, J Mendel Monique Lhuillier and Naeem Kahn collections come to mind..

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Badgley Mischka

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Carolina Herrera – love Kate in red!

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Tory Burch – the coat

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Wouldn’t be a Kate fashion post without Jenny Packham, right? This coat is to die for

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Can Kate please go back to the South Pacific and wear this Jenny Packham gown?

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J Mendel – we all know how much I love Kate in a classic white coat!

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Monique Lhuillier – THIS is the money dress. This needs to happen. Get St. James’s Palace on the line, stat.

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Another absolutely perfect Monique Lhuillier gown

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Naeem Khan – for early in the pregnancy, the print wouldn’t look too flattering with a big belly

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A little bit of a risk for HRH with this Nicole Miller dress. Again, great for early on in the pregnancy!

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Oscar de la Renta.. you cannot go wrong with Oscar. Kate cannot go wrong with red. Win win!

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Rachel Roy – would be something different for Kate, but I do love this color.

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Ralph Lauren – a designer Kate should be wearing more of. Classic, elegant..perfection.

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Rebecca Minkoff – the coat.

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Tadashi Shoji..we don’t really see Kate in velvet, could look beautiful on her.

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Venexia..LOVE.

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Again, a bit of a risk for her but you cannot go wrong in Vera Wang! This would be lovely for a royal engagement late in the pregnancy.

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This Zac Posen jacket looks a lot like something we would normally see Kate in. Get in the royal closet, please!

Which of these looks would you like to see Kate in? Who is your favorite designer for the pregnant duchess? Leave some comments!

The Olympics: So Many Activities My Head is Spinning

As predicted, I have been completely glued to the Olympics since Friday night – I think my family, friends and coworkers are slightly concerned. Shedding a tiny tear after yesterday’s big swim from the American men was probably the breaking point for everyone. Yea, I just admitted that. #SorryImNotSorry

Trying to keep up with blogging about the Games would be like trying to catch Michael Phelps on the final 50 of that 4×200 relay yesterday – never going to happen. So, I’m just going to have fun with it. On another note, I’m finding it pretty difficult to get super excited about royal watching because Team USA is absolutely killing it and that’s more exciting than anything.

However, a big congratulations to Zara Phillips and Team GB on yesterday’s silver medal in equestrian eventing. The first royal to win a medal at the Olympics – that’s a pretty big deal! What made it even more special – her mother and former Olympian, Princess Anne, presented the medals.

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As suspected, Zara’s family came out to support her on all competition days. Yes, William and Kate held hands and looked lovingly into each other’s eyes. They’re a married couple – isn’t that expected? It was certainly adorable..but headline grabbing? Not sold on that one.

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Oh, and Prince Harry was there too. Looking swoon-worhty as usual.

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Then, Team GB’s most regal ambassadors stopped by the Olympic Village, causing more excitement than when Ryan Lochte walks around shirtless.

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Stuffed Kangaroo, file under things I’d never thought I’d see Prince Harry playing with. It does appear to be a blonde kangaroo, though..

In between spending some quality time with horses and kangaroos, The Duchess of Cambridge got her glam on and headed to attend the United Kingdom’s Creative Industries Reception at the Royal Academy of Arts. Kate recycled the dove grey Roksanda Illincic dress she wore last summer in Los Angeles. This time, she represented ‘Team Up-Do.’On an unrelated note, whenever I see Kate with her hair up this MadTV skit immediately runs through my mind. “You think a lotta men can’t handle the regalness of an up-do?” Bottom line – she looked STUNNING…

But not as stunning as these guys…

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As someone who grew up in a swim cap and goggles, I can never tear myself away from competitive swimming..National Championships, World Championships..year round I watch it all with extreme enthusiasm. That being said, there is abolsutely no sporting event I enjoy more than Olympic swimming.

Team USA has been kicking fin in the pool since Saturday, but Tuesday brought the best moment of the Olympics, care of USA Swimming – Michael Phelps is the most decorated Olympian ever. With the help of Ryan Lochte, Conor Dwyer and Ricky Berens, Phelps landed his 19th Olympic medal – a gold in the Men’s 4×200 relay.

That’s how America gets things done.

Congratulations Michael & TEAM USA!

Put Me in Coach, I’m Ready to Play!

As if the Summer Olympics were not exciting enough, the International Olympic Committee honored London with hosting duties this year. Then, as if of two weeks of non-stop television coverage of my favorite city in the world wasn’t enough, the young royals stepped up to the plate as Team GB Olympic Ambassadors. Bottom line, if I could take two weeks off from work to do nothing but watch the Games..I would. Okay, if I’m wishing for things just give me a first class ticket to London with VIP passes to all of the main events.

So, if Aladdin’s magic lamp appeared on my front porch today and Genie sent me off to London, what events would I want complete access to? Lucky for me, William, Catherine and Harry made that decision very easy as the palace released the complete list of the events they will be attending yesterday.

To kick things off, Queen Elizabeth II will officially open the 2012 Summer Olympic Games at Friday’s opening ceremony, accompanied by senior members of the firm. This would actually be the perfect occasion for William to wear his signature navy suit and maroon tie that he wears 99% of the time. (Sorry Will!) I am also really hoping to see Kate in red – what do you think?

Over the next couple of weeks, the three musketeers will be actively participating in all aspects of the Games, from attending sporting events to meeting athletes and behind-the-scenes workers in the Olympic Village. If you’re looking to catch a glimpse of the young royals, look no further than the following itinerary:

Prince Harry

• 30 July – Equestrian events at Greenwich, men’s 10m diving and visit Team GB House

• 31 July – Equestrian events at Greenwich and awarding of medals, visit the Athletes’ Village

• 2 August –  School Games reception at Clarence House

• 3 August –  Equestrian, Greenwich

• 5 August –  Athletics and men’s 100m final, Olympic Park

• 8 August –  Beach Volleyball, Horseguards Parade

• 9 August – Team GB visit. Athletics, Olympic Park

• 12 August –  Closing Ceremony

Prince William

• 28 July/29 July – Equestrian events at Greenwich

• 29 July – Team GB Football at Wembley

• 30 July – Equestrian events at Greenwich and visit Team GB House

• 31 July – Equestrian events at Greenwich and awarding of medals, visit the Athletes’ Village

• 2 – August Tennis at Wimbledon

• 3 – August Equestrian dressage, Greenwich. Swimming, Olympic Park

• 5 – August Athletics including men’s 100m final at Olympic Park

Catherine

• 30 July – Equestrian events, Greenwich. Reception at The Royal Academy of Arts

• 2 August –  Tennis at Wimbledon

• 3 August –  Swimming at Olympic Park

• 4 August – Hockey at Olympic Park

• 5 August – Athletics at Olympic Park and Gymnastics and visit Team GB House

• 6 August –  Sailing, Weymouth.

• 9 August – Synchronised Swimming, Olympic Park

• 11 August – Men’s 10m Diving, Olympic Park.

• 12 August – Closing Ceremony

As you can see, you are bound to catch Princes William and Harry and Duchess Catherine on almost any given day throughout the Olympics. Although Harry and Catherine will be among the family members in attendance for the closing ceremony and at this point, William will not.

 Prince Charles and his wife, The Duchess of Cornwall, will also take part in the sporting festivities at the end of July, including cycling, badminton and equestrian.

Don’t forget – Zara Phillips will be competing as part of Team GB’s equestrian team, so you will also see her mother, Princess Anne, showing her support.

 Of course, all royal appearances are subject to change. Prince Harry could always end up whisking away the losing pair at women’s volleyball on a romantic getaway and never returning. William could decide to jump back in the pool and try to make it as a professional water polo player. Kate could pick up a hockey stick and trade in royal life for the chance at gold. One out of the three has the potential to actually happen.

And if we are all very lucky, maybe there will be a repeat of my favorite royal moment of 2012.

 

Chris Jackson, Getty Images

 
 
 

Today’s News: Kate Looks Great, Harry Has Date

For the sake of a good rhyme, I am really glad Harry and Kate have both had outings over the past 24 hours!

Last night, Prince Harry hit the IMAX screening of ”The Dark Knight Rises” in London alongside his cousin Princess Eugenie..and some blonde chick. Before I go any further, a huge thanks to @HWalesWatch, the ultimate in Prince Harry news. She never misses a beat!

 Prince hottie looked dashing in a dark blue suit and crisp white shirt, while Eugenie, accompanied by boyfriend Jack Brooksbank, rocked a trendy dress and enviable black jacket. I can imagine Christian Bale is used to undivided attention from the ladies at events such as this, but it doesn’t surprise me to hear Harry “stole the show.”

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After the premiere, the royal cousins hit the after party at  Freemason’s Hall and continued the party at the Salon where Harry was seen leaving in the wee hours of the morning. Now, a night on the town is not uncommon when it comes to Harry – so, what’s the twist? The 27-year-old bachelor was not flying solo as he made his way through the city on Wendesday night, he had a petite blonde in tow. Although the Daily Mail originally reported his date was model Cara Delevingne, it was later announce that the Burberry model was not, in fact, the woman making hearts break around the world.

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So, who is the girl who’s demise I’m currently plotting? TBD. And no, I’m not serious when I say that. But seriously, who did her hair? Yikes. *UPDATE: @HWalesWatch, @RoyalForumMoron I.D. Harry’s lady as Cressida Bonas as of Thursday afternoon.

Onto a woman with seriously covetable hair, The Duchess of Cambridge. Catherine hit the National Portrait Gallery to preview the Road to 2012: Aiming High exhibit. The visit marked the beginning of many upcoming appearances for Kate in her role as an Olympic Ambassador; the visit also served as double duty as she is also a patron of the gallery. The exhibit showcases showcased world-class Olympic and Paralympic athletes, the behind-the-scenes team and even a black and white photograph of Catherine herself, playing hockey with Team GB.

As much as I would absolutely love to see this exhibit, I am thrilled with one other thing I saw today – Kate’s outfit. Holy electric blue Stella McCartney dress! I really adored this dress on Kate – bright, youthful, flattering and looked fantastic paired with black Prada pumps. Although the dress was a winner, it was the accessories that generated the most buzz – the 30-year-old royal sported the Trinity necklace by Cartier, price tag: £49,000. WOWZA. The 18K pink, yellow and white gold diamond piece (thanks @thecambridges for the description), was perfectly Olympic-themed as it beautifully displayed five rings – four smaller and one large hoop at the bottom. Also on point with the premise of the day? The fashionable duchess donned by the designer of Team GB’s Olympic kits.

James Whatling / Splash News/E! News

Jorge Herrera/WireImage/People

Catch me if you can…

Time to play a game of royal catch up! I was absolutely shocked when I logged on to write this post and realized my last was on May 4..that is just unacceptable! If it helps, I was spending a lot of that time doing British related things. I would also like to thank the firm for having some of their busiest weeks while I was too preoccupied to blog about it all.

May 7 – Prince Harry Visits Washington D.C.

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Prince Harry just can’t stay away from the United States! The young, philanthropic royal spent the day in the nation’s capital to accept 2012 Award for Distinguished Humanitarian Leadership from The Atlantic Council. Harry was awarded the honor for his work with servicemen and women; I am sure you are all familiar with Captain Wales’ charitable work with Walking with the Wounded. Prince Harry accepted the award on behalf of his brother, Prince William, who was not in attendance. General Colin Powell introduced the tuxedo-clad prince, making note of all the single, young ladies present for the event and praising him for his work both on and off the battlefield. Perhaps my favorite moment from his introduction came when he said, ”Clearly the loving effort Diana made to teach her sons the importance of serving others has touched the heart and souls of her two sons and continues her legacy.” During Harry’s remarkable and inspiring speech, he did appear nervous, but had the audience laughing and most likely even crying as he praised his fellow soldiers. The Telegraph has a video of Harry’s speech, or you can read the transcript at PrinceofWales.gov.

Prior to the evening’s black-tie festivities, Prince Harry hit the British Ambassador’s residence to mingle with American and British disable athletes who participated in the Warrior Games. The Vice President’s wife, Dr. Jill Biden, was also in attendance for the event where Prince Harry got down and dirty, planting a ceremonial tree.

The Daily Mail

May 8 – The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge Attend a “Secret” Dinner

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On May 8, Prince William and Catherine stepped out at Claridge’s hotel in Mayfair for a private reception at the Thirty Club, where William was due to make a speech. Once again, it was his wife who stole the show in a jaw-dropping cream dress and my favorite Jimmy Choo sparkling sandals. From the moment she stepped out of the car, this high-slit Roland Mouret floor-length gown became one of my top Kate looks of all time. Paired with the sky-high stilettos, dropped diamond earrings and glittered clutch, Kate proved to be flawless once again. Thank goodness she had the sense to stay away from colored drinks that evening.

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May 10 – Prince Charles, Weatherman?

In a moment of pure hilarity, Prince Charles visited BBC Scotland and took his turn at presenting the day’s weather report. Although the short script was pre-written, that did not stop The Prince of Wales from making viewers laugh during his hour-long visit to the Pacific Quay headquarters. If you feel like having a giggle, I would suggest checking out the video from BBC.

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Remember when I said the cream floor-length was my new favorite Kate look? Yea, scratch that. Mini-Middletons were having heart attacks all across the globe when The Duchess of Cambridge, alongside her husband The Duke of Cambridge, stepped out for the Team GB London 2012 event in this Jenny Packham evening gown. After months of begging via Twitter, Kate followers got what we wished for – a bright color and hair up! Kate, have you been following the #teambrightcolors #teamhairup hashtags? As the icing on the decadent cake, Kate even strapped on my favorite Jimmy Choo sparklers for the gala at Royal Albert Hall. As Olympic Ambassadors for this summer’s Games, William and Catherine spent the evening with fellow ambassadors and Olympic and Paralympic athletes. Prince William made his way to the podium for an inspiring speech, chock full of humor and well wishes for Team GB.

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May 13 – Audi Polo Challenge

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Over the past week we had them separately, but on this Sunday afternoon in Ascot, the three musketeers reunited for the Audi Polo Challenge. Princes William and Harry took to the field for the charity polo match, but it was the newest member of the family who had all eyes on him – Lupo. The royal pup, accompanied by his mum The Duchess of Cambridge, played on the sidelines before presenting congratulations to the brothers after their win. In another teal number, this time from Libuela, Kate and Lupo had heads turning at Coworth Park.

US Weekly

May 18 - Sovereigns’ Lunch at Windsor Castle

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On Friday, royals and representatives of monarchies from 26 countries flocked to Windsor Castle for the Sovereigns’ Lunch in honor of Queen Elizabeth II’s Diamond Jubilee. Although the meeting was not without controversy (is that even possible when diplomats from around the world gather in one room?) The British Royal Family seemed to enjoy themselves and looked fabulous while doing so. The Queen looked lovely as always in a pale blue number, while once again The Duchess of Cambridge had fashionistas spinning with her nearly $2,000 pale pink Emilia Wickstead’s knee-length dress. Once again, I would like to thank Kate for throwing a splash of color into her wardrobe! I am convinced she is reading our Twitter feeds – weren’t we all just thinking pink not too long ago? I must say, if you’re going to go High Street for an occasion, this would be the one; the international luncheon gave the new royal a chance to converse with fellow royals from around the globe unlike ever before. Prince William and Prince Harry, along with their cousins Princesses Beatrice and Eugenie, were among the young members of the firm on hand.

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That evening, Prince Charles and The Duchess of Cornwall hosted the ensemble of royals for a dinner reception at Buckingham Palace.

Okay, now I am exhausted…the royals sure know how to keep a girl busy.

*Sources: BBC, PrinceofWales.gov, E! Online, The British Monarchy, The Daily Mail, The Telegraph

Happy Anniversary William and Catherine!

I know everyone is saying this today, but wow..can you believe it has been a year?! It feels like yesterday I was up at 3:00 am, crying my eyes out. Yes, I cried – don’t tell me you didn’t too! And then I went to work with puffy eyes; I may have been a little late that day (don’t worry, i was given the ok to watch the kiss before heading in).

Today, William and Catherine, now known as The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, celebrate their first year of marriage..after nearly a decade of dating. I don’t think anyone ever had any doubts that they would coast through their first year, happier than ever. To honor the special day, I am taking a “Will & Kate” approach to this blog post – simple. Word around town is that the young royal couple will be keeping it low key and carefree today – very true to form. I am sure many bloggers/royal watchers will be commemorating the day with lists of favorite moments and such, so I would like to share with you my top William and Catherine moment from their first year of wedded bliss..

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The above picture, taken after the dragon boat races Dalvay-by-the-Sea on Prince Edward Island, completely captures the essence of William and Catherine’s relationship – and the reason why we all adore them. During their first royal tour together just a few months into their marriage, the competitive lovebirds showed their skills in a friendly race, followed by this absolutely adorable moment. This photo embodies the playfulness, compassion, adoration and total love these two have for each other. I also think it displays what a seemingly normal couple they are; a trait that royal fans everywhere admire and can relate to. Sure, she wears tiaras, he will one day be a king and they save the save the world in their spare time..but deep down they are just a regular, married couple – right?

Anniversary Gifts…

The customary first wedding anniversary gift is paper, so why not give William and Kate the best kind of paper…MONEY! As most of you know, in lieu of wedding gifts the philanthropic duo asked guests to donate to The Prince William & Miss Catherine Middleton Charitable Gift Fund, which raised approximately $1.7 million for 26 charitable organizations that are special to The Foundation of Prince William and Prince Harry.

As I did for Catherine’s 30th birthday this past January, I encourage those who would like to give the couple who has everything an anniversary gift, to donate to one of their many chosen charities, including:

Tusk Trust, Centre Point UKThe Art Room, East Anglia’s Children’s Hospices, Action on Addiction,  The National Portrait Gallery and The Scout Association. To learn about other causes close to the couple’s hearts you can visit The Foundation of Prince William and Prince Harry.

Best Wishes from the Fans..

Two nights before the big day I had an idea.. wouldn’t it be nice to have William and Catherine supporters share their hopes for their favorite couple? Yes, the chances of Will and Kate actually seeing these thoughts are one in a million, but is always nice to put good vibes out into the universe and dream that they come true. So, I posed the following question to my royal Twitter family – “What is your wish for Will & Kate during their second year of marriage?

@jennkamienski – a happy marriage like mine

@thecambridges - Happy Anniversary, Will and Kate. May the second year (and many those to come) bring just as much love, warmth and success as the first.

@RoyallyKate - Happy one year anniversary, Will and Kate! You’ve all brightened the lives and opened the hearts of many this past year. I wish you so many more years to come, and endless and indefatigable amounts of love and support to come your way in the future. Here’s to a successful year for a beautiful couple! We love you!

@FabulousKate13 - I wish them another enchanting, amazing, and successful year. May the years to come only bring them happiness and joy. Xx

@Kates_Wardrobe – 4 Kate : an outfit by unexpected designer Ford, Westwood, Saab

@RoyalKateDebate - Congratulation Will and Kate on a wonderful first year of marriage. Your love for each other has captured the world’s imagination. Thank you for sharing your day with us. My wish is that you continue to have the strength in your relationship that you have shown in the past 10 years.

@HRH_KLynch - I wish happiness for the both bc will deserves it. And healthy babies!

@allthingsregal - Hmmmm… dare I say a baby willkat?

@nina_lux - Besides happiness, more time together, a bb and world domination? Not much

@ARightRoyalBlog - Wish people would stop clicking on pap shots of them.

@Royaljournalist - Hoping for twinsc called prince George and princess Victoria.

@MPHenriksen - Wills stays in the military. They have a baby or at least Kate is preggers by the end of yr two.

@HuffPostStyle – Kate to take more fashion risks!

 @Kimmi1287 - I’m thinking the one with the real love and respect not for money and tv

@RoyallyObsessed - BBBBAAAAABBBBBIIIIEEEESSSSS

@shan_harrison - I wish for William and Kate to have another year of wedded bliss… And to get another puppy

My wish for William & Catherine’s second year of marriage – that the guiding hand doesn’t fade away and they continue to look as happy as they do in the above photo. Oh, and I wouldn’t mind a royal bun in the oven (would that be considered a scone ;) ?!). And for Kate to add some bright colors to her wardrobe. And Will should find some new suits. But mostly, keep doing what you’re doing young, beloved royals! xoxo

Happy Anniversary William and Catherine! Thanks for being so fabulous and sharing your love story with the world. 

Duchess Catherine Shines at National Portrait Gallery

Tonight marked The Duchess of Cambridge’s first solo public engagement in her role as a royal. Catherine attended the National Portrait Gallery preview of  Lucian Freud Portraits at the gallery, one of her newly chosen patronages. The new exhibit at the National Portrait Gallery highlights more than 100 works of art from Lucian Freud, who passed away last year. Need a refresher on Catherine’s cause? Learn more about the gallery and how you can help support Catherine’s cause here.

Let’s be honest, most people stare at their Twitter feeds rolling in for the answer to one simple question: What was she wearing? Nearly a year into her royal marriage, we are used to seeing gorgeous frocks from a handful of designers – Alexander McQueen, Jenny Packham and Alice Temperley – but this evening, the always elegant royal surprised us all by stepping out in Jesire number. After much questioning in the twitterverse as to wear Kopy Kates could find the fabulous frock,  Richard Palmer (@RoyalReporter) shared word from the palace that the label had gone into liquidation. Although it may not be easy to replicate, this has quickly taken a spot as one of my favorite looks from the stylish duchess thus far. Simple, understated and elegant, Catherine paired the gray, belted, cold-weather coat dress with sky high pumps and sparkling jewels. I love that she stepped out of the box for her this milestone appearance; the above-the-knee full skirt was complemented by an over-sized collar. One thing is for sure – royal watchers have yet to see the newly minted royal in heels this high! I spy a platform! High shoes for a highly important woman of the world :)

Now, let’s get to those photos!

Meeting Freud's daughter

*Photo Credit: AFP, Getty Images

For additional fabulous photos, please visit The Huffington PostKate Middleton Visit To Lucien Freud Exhibit Marks Duchess’ First Solo Appearance

What did you think of Catherine’s look? Leave comments!