Kate Middleton attends Garter Service
Prince William was well supported at his investiture as the 1000th Knight Companion of the Garter since 1348 at Windsor today.
Prince William with his father and Camilla at the Garter event
Senior Garter Knights, Prince Charles and Prince Philip (his father and grandfather), were his official supporters as the Queen draped the historic and prestigious Garter robes around him in St. George’s Chapel.
Prince Harry, Kate Middleton and Camilla at Windsor today
In the congregation were Kate Middleton his more-than-a-girlfriend, and the Duchess of Cornwall.
Although Kate outshone all others as usual, this time William was the centre of attention in his floridly magnificent medieval robes and flourish of a hat.
The ancient company (literally in many cases) made its way slowly in solemn procession from the Chapel for about a quarter of a mile, heavily guarded by police and elements of the Household Cavalry.
It is a shame that the public are not allowed to watch the service and investiture on television. At least Hello! magazine didn’t have the monopoly this time.
Perhaps the Way Forward Group could consider opening this splendid event to public view at its next meeting?
Splendid post, John!! Well said! I am also pleased to know that Prince William was supported by Prince Philip and Charles, something I had not read anywhere else. Very appropriate and I am sure the service was deeply meaningful and touching.
By Gigi on June 16th, 2008 at 4:20 pm
Thanks, Gigi, it’s a bit cheeky, but RA does stand up for the rest of us Commoners at Royal events.
By John on June 16th, 2008 at 4:25 pm
I had to stop doing my Happy Dance for a moment when I saw the first official photos of the Future Queen of England (dare I say it!) there supporting her beau.
John, allow me to clarify — just found out from another eagle- eyed Royalist that is not a black dress but rather a navy and white ensemble that Catherine (or Kate, don’t know which to call her) wore to a gallery opening last year in Dublin. The hat, however, appears to be new.
So, we can see, she is fashionable yet thrifty, and not afraid to recycle. That will certainly suit someone’s Granny to know Kate won’t be a spendthrift.
By alsgal on June 16th, 2008 at 4:29 pm
Do you think it is true that she turned down a table at Ascot? Let alone that she was really offered one?
By Anne on June 16th, 2008 at 4:31 pm
Alsgal, I didn’t know she attended a gallery in Dublin last year. Any more details?
By John on June 16th, 2008 at 4:34 pm
I’m sure she was offered a table, Anne. The story stacks up, but it would have been at a provisional stage of arrangements.
By John on June 16th, 2008 at 4:35 pm
John,
— held last April shortly before the unfortunate (but fortunately brief) breakup. Catherine was there with her mother, looking absolutely radiant (which is why I was so shocked by subsequent events) and Carole looked rather good, quite trim.
It was the opening of an art exhibit for a family friend of the Middleton’s — sorry, but the name escapes me at the moment (I’m having a senior moment, as they say
By alsgal on June 16th, 2008 at 4:43 pm
Thanks, Alsgal, I can’t remember that being reported.
“Quite trim” — is that Irish for hmmm?
By John on June 16th, 2008 at 4:48 pm
John,
—
That’s the future Queen’s mother we are talking about
William no doubt has noticed that Kate’s mother takes good care of herself — the apple doesn’t fall far from the tree being the theory.
By alsgal on June 16th, 2008 at 4:59 pm
Well Rman had brought to my attention that Hello Magazine states that she will be Ascot and it doesn’t say anything about her turning it down. But today spoke bigger folumes then the wedding last month.
By Claudius on June 16th, 2008 at 5:17 pm
John, I will send you by e-mail the pics of Catherine wearing that outfit in Dublin, they are close up pics, where you may see the detail - very elegant. I hope we can see more pics of her, if she attends the Royal Ascot and as described, within the Royal Enclosure, that would really be exiting.
By Me on June 16th, 2008 at 5:23 pm
After today, it certainly seems likely Kate will be in the Royal Enclosure at Ascot.
For a girl who does not have millions at her disposal (not yet anyway) she really does well fashion wise. But I am excited to think what they will come up with once she has access to all the best designers. I almost hate to say it, but if they could improve Camilla so much style wise, one can only imagine what they’ll do for Kate, who is such a natural beauty to begin with.
By alsgal on June 16th, 2008 at 5:25 pm
Thank you, John. It’s so great to see her there standing among her future in-laws. She looks very comfortable in this “official” setting. Seems like William prepared her very well slowly introducing her to the Family.
I guess this is the Queen’s way to get back at any media suggestion that she doesn’t approve of Kate. I’m confident to hear of an engagement by the end of this year.
By Isana on June 16th, 2008 at 5:29 pm
http://tiny.cc/cafqJ
John here is a link to some pictures of kate in Dublin last year. she is indeed wearing the same suit!
By Jackie Mccoy on June 16th, 2008 at 5:33 pm
I’ve just added a couple of great new pics to the post. Take a look.
By John on June 16th, 2008 at 5:35 pm
Thanks for the information regarding Catherine’s outfit, alsgal, now that I look more closely, it could indeed be that wonderful shade of dark navy blue. Whatever it is, she could not look more attractive! I am also pleased to learn that she has worn this outfit before, as it demonstrates a maturity and a wise management of funds and resources, qualities which are sadly wanting in many people these days. These qualities will stand Catherine in good stead in the years to come.
By Gigi on June 16th, 2008 at 5:36 pm
Hello has two new photographs of the Garter procession. One shows Prince William walking next to Charles in their regalia, and the other is an extension of the photograph of Prince Harry with Catherine. It shows Sophie, Countess of Wessex, beautifully dressed in pale blue. Of course, Catherine is the undisputed star in her lovely suit and hat, but I am also pleased to see the Countess of Wessex, mother of two small children, looking so svelte. Camilla, as ever, looks dowdy.
By Gigi on June 16th, 2008 at 5:50 pm
the suit in the photo from dublin has dots.
i don’t see dots on the suit she wore today.
By tibi on June 16th, 2008 at 6:00 pm
As is often the case, Getty Images has lots of pictures, but none of Kate, that I can see. To find, go to Gettyimages.com and enter “garter” into their search box. Of course, this will direct you to a lot of different garter pictures, notably of Dita von Teese….
By Dan on June 16th, 2008 at 6:06 pm
Gigi,
I am glad to see you and I are “on the same page” about Catherine and Sophie Wessex.
I am also a great fan of Sophie Wessex and my first thought was, how cute does she look in that suit. Young, fun, and yet dignified — and very much like Catherine will no doubt be, an absolute asset to the RF.
Sometimes Camilla washes up quite nicely, but I have to say this is not one of my favorite outfits, as I prefer to see her in the pastel hues: the pale pinks, the ice blues, the mint greens.
By alsgal on June 16th, 2008 at 6:06 pm
People magazine ( the U.S. People magazine, not the U.K. People) has an article that says Kate Middleton arrived in a Royal car with Prince Harry and Helen Asprey, and that their arrival was accompanied by a military band playing the theme from the Pirates of the Carribean.
Here is the link to that article in People: http://tinyurl.com/528lqm
By mapleleaf on June 16th, 2008 at 6:38 pm
I’ve pointed out before (during the debate over her infamous black boots) that she must be sensible to wear things frequently. I think it makes her seem a little less superficial and more responsible.
By dally on June 16th, 2008 at 6:50 pm
One thought on the boots (I know, kind of off topic):
Could she wear them frequently in order to make photos of her less valuable? (I.e., they aren’t obviously different, so the magazines will be less likely to want them?)
Just a thought. [back to lurking].
By Katie on June 16th, 2008 at 7:00 pm
The DM has up dated the article with Rebecca English as the journalist, and has more pictures.
By Me on June 16th, 2008 at 7:01 pm
Is it not a little strange that the media have not yet started their usual speculation on an engagement? Any time Kate has attended an event with William it has lead to it but this time, and after attending such an important event, the British media are saying nothing. Could they possible know something we don’t or am I just reading too much into the whole thing….LOL…..
By Ash on June 16th, 2008 at 8:11 pm
Ash, I think the media has been bitten too often by this story. They are obviously going at their own pace, but the destination is now clear — as RA has maintained for three years.
It will happen in its own time … or William’s own timetable.
By John on June 16th, 2008 at 8:29 pm
Great new photos on the Daily Mail site, but I am dismayed at the two negative, nasty comments posted there. Who are these naysayers and why doesn’t the Daily Mail screen these annoying comments? They are actually carping about an Order of Chivalry started more than 600 years ago?!
By Gigi on June 16th, 2008 at 9:55 pm
gigi - find that some just need to make a negative comments..thought kate looked lovely
as usual..
By coni on June 16th, 2008 at 11:18 pm
I wish them luck with all my heart. . . but, he just seems so sad sometimes. I hope he decides that it’s Ms. Middleton who will make him happy. I am not convinced that he is convinced.
By Ursula on June 17th, 2008 at 12:12 am
I’m not Willies biggest fan as you know but I really wish he would hurry up and announce his engagement to Catherine. Like Sophie Wessex she has a certain inborn dignity which Camilla will never have. I think Catherine looked extremely lovely in the suit and hat as did Sophie in hers. I think She is the one and all these years Willie has taken great pains to ensure she is comfortable and at ease with what her future life as his wife would be some thing neither Diana nor Sarah were afforded. For that I must give him credit.
By Trudie on June 17th, 2008 at 12:25 am
I do wonder about this fine young man too sometimes. I think he is a serious natured, sensitive sort who might simply never be capable of the carefree, happy-go-lucky nature that his younger brother seems to possess. Everyone is built differently, and as long as Wills is as happy as he’s capable of being, then that’s good enough for me.
Perhaps Kate, with her uncomplicated family life, will be able to ease some of the wounds which might be burdening his soul. Let’s hope so.
By alsgal on June 17th, 2008 at 12:30 am
True Alsgal, I think the ease of the Middletons is what keeps him there. They are a close family, ready to stickup for each other. The parents are very much in love, and the kids see this. Every mom wants their children to marry well, and I think,Will, is marrying into a great family. I hope they will continue to grow in love, and respect for each other.
By jacqueline on June 17th, 2008 at 1:44 am
John,
Thanks for posting!
I believe Will and Kate are already engaged and simply walking their own timetable.
She’s is absolutely stunning and perfect in so many different ways. Always appropriate, always breathtaking. Hard trick to pull off, don’t you think?
But, I think we will have to wait until early 2009 for an announcement (not an engagement, as that has already occurred!). And, then a summer, 2009 wedding.
Totally agree with alsgal - after Kate secures access to the best designers she will become an fashion and beauty icon. Can’t wait to see her wedding dress and, indeed, the whole aesthetics of her nuptials. With her good taste and artistic sensibility, that will be one dazzling summer wedding.
By Alicia on June 17th, 2008 at 2:36 am
I don’t see this thing that William looks sad so often. He looks serious when he is supposed too and when he isn’t comfortable, but sad? No, I can’t say I see that . I see him laughing a lot though. How differently we see things!
By dagga on June 17th, 2008 at 5:34 am
Lovely! It’s always a thrill to find Kate getting prepped up for official events. She’ll make a lovely, lovely, lovely, lovely, lovely princess… tall, elegant, charming and impeccably poised. And she looks great in that hat! It’s nice to see her fitting into the royal fold. I think this is the first time I’ve seen her interacting with Camilla and Sophie??
By frands on June 17th, 2008 at 6:18 am
She’s is absolutely stunning and perfect in so many different ways. Always appropriate, always breathtaking. Hard trick to pull off, don’t you think?
Alicia, since those attributes would only apply to one woman in a billion, they must indeed be very hard to pull off.
As to access to the best designers, doesn’t she have that already? I’m not sure some of the catwalk people could possibly make her look any better. But as a mere man, I’m no expert.
By John on June 17th, 2008 at 8:14 am
Frands, I’m told that women don’t wear hats nowadays but “substantial fascinators”, whatever they are. It’s all way too complicated for my poor brain.
By John on June 17th, 2008 at 8:17 am
Kate looks really lovely, the suit is gorgeous and doesn’t make her too thin.
I was surprised she hadn’t got something new but I think she was right, it would be hard to beat that and she had the kudos of not being a spend thrift.
John, yes she has plenty money now but her dresses are off the peg ie she just buys them in shops (i assume) but once she is royal she will also be buying bespoke outfits by top designers. That will have to bring her up a notch, not that she needs it, she outshines with youth and beauty anyway.
By Eliza on June 17th, 2008 at 9:57 am
Eliza Even Diana as POW would shop and buy off the peg. It is all in the art of knowing what looks good and suits you. Kate seems to have gotten it.
By Trudie on June 17th, 2008 at 10:32 am
Yeah Trudie, I know that, that black lace dress she wore to the Serpentine dinner the night Charles was giving his big interview, she saw on a shop window on the Kings Road and had in her wardrobe for the right event.
But still Diana also had haute couture at her disposal as will Kate.
I do agree with you, its inate style that sets them apart not the size of the purse.
As they say around here they both would look good in a binliner!!!
By Eliza on June 17th, 2008 at 11:40 am
Why so many nasty comments about Camilla?
How do you pick and choose who should have nasty comments and who should not?
By tibi on June 17th, 2008 at 1:48 pm
Tibi, we don’t pick and choose. ALL nasty comments are banned.
Personally, I never write anything nasty about anyone. One or two contributors are a little mean to Camilla but not overly brutal, like the Kate haters.
Whereas Camilla has a bit of history, which can’t be ignored, Kate has never put a foot wrong except, in the eyes of some, going out with William.
By John on June 17th, 2008 at 1:55 pm
John, having a “little mean” written about Kate would be ok. Then your site wouldn’t look so biased. It would make it a lot more interesting to read. Also, none of us is perfect - that means Kate too.
By tibi on June 17th, 2008 at 2:03 pm
We’re always biased in favour of everyone. Writing bad things about someone who behaves impeccably shows ignorance and spite in the writer. We’d rather do without them, thanks. Many of them are totally hysterical and off the wall. Why they should make the site “more interesting” is beyond me.
I’m sure you can find lots of Kate-hating sites to find interesting.
By John on June 17th, 2008 at 2:10 pm
Well said, John. I do not truly believe we RAers are “biased” in the true sense of the word. Rather, I feel we are supportive of all that is best in British life and culture. I am certainly a supporter of the Queen and the Royal Family. The reason this site is so popular and the reason this site enjoys such a degree of credibility is, I believe, because the tone of Royal Anecdotes is refreshingly positive. Negativity, especially the hard-edged variety, is counter productive and depressing. Furthermore, we have a lot of fun on this site!
By Gigi on June 17th, 2008 at 2:26 pm
Thank you, Gigi, and we do have up to 30,000 unique visitors a day. I doubt the hatey Katey forums get a fraction of that.
By John on June 17th, 2008 at 2:35 pm
I’ll put my hand up I am not a Camilla fan at all but I don’t think I ever get anywhere near the level of ranting and abusive comments that I’ve seen on some anti-Kate websites.
By Jackie Mccoy on June 17th, 2008 at 3:23 pm
I am not a Camilla fan either, Jackie McCoy, as all our dear RA clan are well aware. Nevertheless, (and there really is no way around this), Charles is married to Camilla, which makes her part of the Royal Family, and we must accept it as fact, smile and be cordial or at the very least civil. Mark you, if the day ever comes when Camilla is crowned Queen at Charles’ Coronation, it may well require copious amounts of champagne, Extra-Strength Tylenol and a tranquilizer to helpd me achieve some faint degree of cordiality, but that day is, we hope, far in the future and I may mellow.
By Gigi on June 17th, 2008 at 3:34 pm
30,000 unique visitors a day - Wow I had no idea that there were that many people visiting…..they should all come out of hiding and join in.
On the topic of Camilla, I am quite fond of her. I think she has done a marvelous job since her marriage. Having said that, I am not above critiquing her choice of clothes, her hair etc. and I as fond as I am of Kate, I’m also not above doing the same with her but I do so to both ladies with the upmost respect and without wishing either of them ill and that unfortunately can not be said of those who frequent those other sites.
By Ash on June 17th, 2008 at 3:56 pm
Ash, if “Kate Middleton” is in the title of a piece, the traffic flows like the River Nile in flood.
By John on June 17th, 2008 at 3:59 pm
I do enjoy visiting this site because Kate haters are not allowed. I have stopped visiting other sites as often because of the nasty comments. I agree the haters are very aggressive and obsessive. I think K
By maddie on June 17th, 2008 at 4:42 pm
I think Kate looked stunning and very regal. She certainly looked comfortable and looked as if she is already being groomed. PW would be a fool to let her go, but I think he already knows that.
By maddie on June 17th, 2008 at 4:45 pm
That is quite a coincidence, John, because when the engagement is announced, the Royal Anecdotes Gala Royal Engagement Tea will feature champagne flowing like the Thames at high flood!
By Gigi on June 17th, 2008 at 5:48 pm
I’ve been lurking here for quite some time and I find this site very interesting and refreshing because of it’s lack of negativity. I’ve always been a fan of the Royal family especially Princess Diana and now Prince William and Kate. I watched Princess Di and Prince Charles marry and since I’m in the USA I had to get up quite early in the morning to watch. I love Prince William and Prince Harry because they are the beloved boys of Princess Diana. I believe that William truly loves Kate and he has my great respect in that he seems to have tried his best to introduce Kate to the Royal family and all it’s pressures as gently and slowly as possible. It shows true sensitivity to what his mother went through and how he wants things to be different for Kate. I eagerly await their engagement announcement and when they do wed, should it be televised, I will once again rise early to watch!
By Leigh on June 17th, 2008 at 9:11 pm
Hi Maddie,
Must say I’m in a similar situation. I really love reading the comments from this site because I find them mature and sensible. As for some other sites… I think some mainly exist as a gathering breeding place for Kate haters. I still read them sometimes, but mainly for amusement. They remind me of sixth grade! (ok, that’s quite mean and judgmental… but that’s truly how I feel…)
I have to congratulate you for this site, John. I guess the reason why you get so many unique hits is that you paint things in a wholesome and positive light while most other sites try to find dirt or find reason to laugh and ridicule. Great job! This site has class!
By frands on June 17th, 2008 at 9:19 pm
HI Ash and all: I am one of the lurkers who are addicted to this site but have never posted anything before. I must say, I feel like I know each of you personally even though we have not formally met. This is one of my favorite spots and I will try to be more particpatory in the future, now that I know there are 30,000 others as well. Here’s a challenge to the rest of you lurkers to make your presence known!
By benny on June 17th, 2008 at 11:32 pm
Alicia the only artistic in put Kate will have in her wedding is the dress. Like all royal weddings Diana, Sarah etc the wedding will be planned by the Lord Chamberlain and dictated by the palace I think other than the dress and music All Kate will have to do is show up and look lovely.
By Trudie on June 18th, 2008 at 10:00 am
Welcome, benny! Feel free to post and join in our fun. This is a very merry group and we are always delighted to hear from another of our RA clan! During these very exciting days we have a lot to talk about and a great deal to look forward to as well.
By Gigi on June 18th, 2008 at 6:15 pm
There is a rather snarky article in the Mail re: Ms. Middleton’s and Prince Harry’s laughter during the procession. Seems to ignore the fact that the Duchess of Cornwall and Sophie Wessex were also at least smiling. Can’t post the address, but the commentator is Stephen Glover.
By Ursula on June 19th, 2008 at 12:55 am
Ursula, Stephen Glover’s piece is all about respect for institutions, with the Royal Family getting a paragraph or two. His point that if they don’t take their role seriously, no-one else will, is one I’ve made a few times on this site.
Harry can be a bit of a loose cannon sometimes and laughing at the Garter regalia was a bit odd — he must have seen them often enough. I think he was ribbing his brother, William, who took it all much more seriously, as befits a future King. I think Kate was just caught up in Harry’s mirth, which can be a bit infectious.
So, yes, Stephen Glover does make too much of it, although his basic point is a good one.
By John on June 19th, 2008 at 1:16 pm
Well said, John, I agree with you. Poise and dignity are qualities that are an absolute necessity in the Royal Family. Those qualities were missing in a number of Royals during the many centuries of the British monarchy, as recently as just prior to the reign of Queen Victoria, who fortunately had those qualities in abundance and instilled them in her children. I am very pleased that Prince William displays the dignity and sense of high purpose he must have to serve his country well as King. Clearly, he patterns himself after his Grandmother, Queen Elizabeth II, a splendid role model.
By Gigi on June 19th, 2008 at 9:59 pm