Royal parade on opening day at Ascot
Royal Ascot opened today with a cracking card of great racing and star performers.
The procession of Royal Landau at Royal Ascot today
As usual it was opened by the Royal procession of carriages along the course from Windsor, led by the Queen and Prince Philip, who seemed in great form.
The Queen and Prince Philip in the first carriage
The second of the four Landaus carried the Prince of Wales and the Duchess of Cornwall together with Princess Beatrice and Princess Eugenie. I’m told that all three ladies wore hats by Philip Treacy. Can that be a record? Even so, they all looked a little glum in that carriage.
Prince Charles and Camilla with Beatrice and Eugenie
Apart from the Princesses, none of the younger Royals was present, although Zara Phillips is expected. Princess Anne arrived on foot rather than in a carriage.
Perhaps Kate Middleton and even Chelsy Davy will be along on Ladies Day.
They all look great, John!! I love that blue outfit Princess Eugenie is wearing! It is a little hard to tell, from the carriage photo, what color Camilla is wearing. Is it pale blue, can anyone discern? I LOVE Royal Ascot!
By Gigi on June 17th, 2008 at 2:33 pm
I hate to disagree with Gigi but the pic of PE and PB in the DM is terrible. Makes them look a little frumpy. I do love the hats though. I wish we were more into hats in the US.
By dally on June 17th, 2008 at 3:10 pm
Yes John DM has a picture of Zara wearing and interesting hat…..
By Jackie Mccoy on June 17th, 2008 at 3:18 pm
Where do you see photos of them in the Daily Mail? I looked at the online site and never saw any Ascot pics. I agree with you about hats. I miss the days when we all were properly attired. Everyone is so casual these days that it is quite dreary. People actually think it is ok for them to go to church in t-shirts, skimpy tops, shorts, jeans and flipflops! I find it distasteful and declasse, especially when the same folks dress to the nines to go clubbing.
By Gigi on June 17th, 2008 at 3:20 pm
Daily, I found the Ascot photos, in the DM.
Zara’s outfit is not to my taste, but she cuts a dash anyway. I think Princess Eugenie and Princess Beatrice are very nicely turned out and I think that shade of pale green is very attractive on Camilla. My favorite outfit so far is the one worn by the Queen! She looks simply wonderful! I do hope that we get to see more photos of the ladies of the Royal Family later on, and also photos of Catherine Middleton and Chelsy Davy. If anyone sees any on another site, please post a link. 
By Gigi on June 17th, 2008 at 3:27 pm
Yes, Jackie, I’ve just watched Zara being interviewed on the BBC. It’s certainly a very big pink hat — I suppose it’s a fascinator? She seemed very down about Toytown.
Incidentally, the Queen’s horse Instalment is about to run in the Coventry Stakes at 16-1. Get your bets on now.
I just landed Henry the Navigator in the big one. What a horse!
By John on June 17th, 2008 at 3:27 pm
Who owns Henry the Navigator, John? I hope the Queen’s horse wins the Coventry Stakes!!
By Gigi on June 17th, 2008 at 3:44 pm
Unfortunately, the Queen’s horse ran like a 16-1 chance and finished nowhere.
Henry the Navigator is owned by Mrs J. Magnier.
By John on June 17th, 2008 at 3:56 pm
Ok, I guess I should take back my frumpy comment, I think my issue was that the jackets don’t seem to fit very well (too tight on the upper arms), however it could be the fabric.
By dally on June 17th, 2008 at 3:58 pm
There’s lots of pics in rex features and getty images.
By Me on June 17th, 2008 at 4:20 pm
A wonderful photo of Charles and Zara: http://tinyurl.com/6d69wa
By Ash on June 17th, 2008 at 4:32 pm
I hate to be cruel and comparing, but none of the young Royal ladies can match the figure cut by Catherine at the garter ceremony yesterday. You’ve all seen the picture I’m talking about. I’m not speaking about her weight (I’m definitely NOT a size-zero advocate) but her poise and bearing. Honestly, does she ever take a bad picture?
I like Zara’s hat but the skirt is too girlish for it. She’s all Audrey Hepburn up top but all Valley Grrl below, and it adds two stone to her frame (OK, I’m talking about weight, but why wear something that ADDS pounds?) The same goes for Eugenie’s. They should all avoid ballooning skirts above the knee, as the rules advise. Then again, Beatrice’s outfit doesn’t fit properly; its too bulky and ages her about fifteen years. She looks like a wannabe of Camilla, who herself looks rather sharp. Perhaps the papers just use the most unflattering photos? Or maybe B and E just need to learn to stand up straight. Of course, standing up straight in heels on grass isn’t easy. (Not that I would know…)
OK, ladies, let me have it!
By Dan on June 17th, 2008 at 4:32 pm
In other words and really the public wants to see Catherine Middleton at the Royal Ascot, and better yet in the Royal Enclosure/Box.
By Me on June 17th, 2008 at 4:44 pm
When is Ladies Day? I wonder Will Catherine and Chelsy will attend.
By Rman on June 17th, 2008 at 4:47 pm
You’re right, Dan. With the exception of the Queen, they all look gruesome to me. As I said earlier to Eliza, the catwalk people are not going to improve Kate Middleton’s appearance no matter how much she spends.
I think the younger Royals are mesmerized by the big names, without reference to what they actually deliver. Display and uniqueness is not necessarily the best option.
By John on June 17th, 2008 at 4:48 pm
I think it’s Friday, Rman. If not, then it’s Thursday.
By John on June 17th, 2008 at 4:50 pm
It would be something if Kate attends Royal Ascot on William’s birthday along with him, since his birthda is on Saturday and that’s the last day of Royal Ascot.
By Claudius on June 17th, 2008 at 4:57 pm
If I may continue to drool, I think that photo of Catherine on the steps of the Galilee Porch (full-length side view, looking over her shoulder) will be considered one of the signature images of her pre-engagement days). OK, enough about that…
If she does show up at Ascot, I hope she teaches the assembled the difference between a stylishly whimsical hat and a simply silly one. In the case of B & E and the Countess of Wessex, the hats are wearing them, not the other way around.
By Dan on June 17th, 2008 at 4:57 pm
Yep, Midsummer Day — what a day to have a birthday. A date for a King, methinks.
By John on June 17th, 2008 at 5:01 pm
Dan,
I’m not a size zero advocate either, but I have to say I agree with you one hundred percent. Beatrice and Eugenie are reasonably attractive young ladies who rather unfortunately seem to have inherited the dress sense of their mother. However, there is no need to acquire an eating disorder when decent tailor would suffice!
Indeed Catherine is rather graceful, so perhaps it is unfair to compare a mare to a thoroughbred? I, too, was disappointed that she didn’t make an appearance but something tells me we will see her there next year — perhaps even riding in a carriage with Camilla.
Who looked quite good in mint green, I thought. Stick with the pastels, Camilla, they will never let one down!
By alsgal on June 17th, 2008 at 5:02 pm
Four more days to go, Alsgal. Kate could yet make an appearance on Ladies’ Day — or one of the other three. The Queen will be there for all five.
By John on June 17th, 2008 at 5:04 pm
Some photos: http://tinyurl.com/6cwbhu
By Ash on June 17th, 2008 at 5:14 pm
Hello Everyone just a heads up that Ladies Day is Thursday 19th!!
By Jackie Mccoy on June 17th, 2008 at 5:16 pm
Wonderful photos, Ash, thanks so much for the link! I LOVE the photos of Zara greeting her Uncle Charles! Charles always dearly wanted a daughter and it appears as if he has an affectionate relationship with his niece. I agree with John and Dan that Catherine eclipses all in her figure and her style, her ability to choose clothing that suits her and the occasion and her unique manner of wearing clothes. That said, we must remember that Princess Beatrice and Princess Eugenie are relatively young girls who perhaps have not yet settled into a style of dressing that suits them. Both of the Princesses, who are very attractive in my view, are a larger body type than Catherine Middleton, and their sizes and body compositions are ones that make certain styles which are very popular just now difficult to wear well. that said, they are always attractively turned out and are very goodlooking young ladies. Every time I see Zara, I am struck by her facial features and the bone structure in her face. I doubt that we have had a member of the Royal Family with such striking facial features in my lifetime! As for Camilla, she does indeed look best in pastels and this pale green is perfect for her.
Thanks, Jackie McCoy, for the heads up! I shall be doing some volunteer hours Thursday morning but shall glue myself to RA as soon as I get home.
By Gigi on June 17th, 2008 at 5:38 pm
I actually find Zara’s hat very pretty though the rest of her outfit is not very flattering but it’s very “Zara”. She always had a stye of her own.
I often wonder about Beatrice and Eugenie. Do they not have someone who advises them about fashion? It’s one thing that a young girl might get lost how to dress elegantly for a formal occasion (there are no pics of regal outfits in fashion magazines after all), it’s quite another that the royal household allows them to look unfortunately dressed most of the time. I thought the Royals have “stylists” (though I’m sure they are called differently).
The Queen looks regal as always but I do not remember to have ever seen her looking anything but. Camilla also looks good. She choses very well usually.
By Isana on June 17th, 2008 at 6:12 pm
B & E, being teenagers, are not likely to follow advice from the “elders” in their family, or anyone else, for that matter. And I am reminded how awkward Diana looked during her early “L’il Bo Peep in polka dots” phase. Wasn’t she only 19-20 at the time?
It makes it all the more striking how Catherine always seems to get it right on her own. Then again, remember how much older she is than Diana was in the beginning (all of 6 years, but important ones). The maturity and confidence that Catherine has gained on her own—which impact her bearing as much as, if not more than, her supermodel looks and figure—portend a brighter future for her, no matter what it holds. One gets the sense that she’s well prepared, or, pardon the pun, well suited!
By Dan on June 17th, 2008 at 6:36 pm
Well said, Dan, I agree with you. Regarding Princess Beatrice and Princess Eugenie, I doubt that Prince Andrew, Duke of York and the Duchess of York have the incomes to provide fashion coordinators for their daughters, nor to treat them very often to fashions from exclusive custom designer clothing lines. There is a huge difference between the income of the York household and that of Camilla and Charles at Clarence House. Catherine Middleton has the rare quality of being so very photogenic, combined with a lovely face and figure, that she could wear a flour sack and look chic. I also agree that giving fashion advice to young ladies of the ages of Princess Beatrice and Princess Eugenie is only for the strong and courageous and should not be attempted under any circumstances except by their Mother!
By Gigi on June 17th, 2008 at 7:24 pm
Ascot must be the one place on Earth where the queen’s hat is the simplest one around!
By Aunt Pierre on June 17th, 2008 at 7:43 pm
The Daily Mail mini-story on Zara’s kiss for Prince Charles at Ascot twice refers to her as Princess Zara. Being the daughter of a Princess, she isn’t one in her own right. Do you think it’s an error on the DM’s part, or an indication of Zara’s increasing visible role in Family matters?
It used to be we hardly ever saw her, let alone as a feature story.
While she would never do such a thing, is it in the Queen’s prerogative to change the rules in order to give daughters of Princesses such a title, or is that beyond even the Queen’s ability? It is a bit olde worlde to allow titles to pass only in the male line but not the female line.
By Dan on June 17th, 2008 at 8:11 pm
Then again, the whole concept of hereditary titles is Old Worlde. I suppose that’s the dilemma: to update the tradition, you’d have to get rid of it.
By Dan on June 17th, 2008 at 8:22 pm
Dan, this is some rookie reporter writing this. By the time it reaches tomorrow’s paper it will have been edited and fact-checked.
It’s always interesting to see the original text typed in by reporters and it’s amazing how much they get wrong.
By John on June 17th, 2008 at 8:25 pm
However, if the Queen of England wishes her granddaughter Zara Philips to be given the title and style of Princess of the United Kingdom, as was done for Princess Eugenie and Princess Beatrice, such is within the Queen’s power to do so, is it not, John? If I had MY way, Zara would be Princess Zara and Peter and Autumn Philips would be would be the Earl and Countess of something grand and intrinsically Olde England. In my opinion, that should be attended to in as expeditious a manner as possible. However, the Queen is unlikely to be interested in my opinion.
By Gigi on June 17th, 2008 at 8:43 pm
Oh I love the pageantry of it all! I love the hats no matter how large, weird or silly they come. Somehow I don’t care much about Princesses Beatrice & Eugenie’s looks… it’s Zara, Kate and Chelsy I really look forward to. They’re the ladies that can potentially wow the crowd and truly be fashion icons. So I want them to look good.
Anyhow, do you really think Kate or Chelsy will make appearance? I don’t remember either of the girls attending in previous years, which makes me wonder why people are even expecting them…
By frands on June 17th, 2008 at 9:07 pm
It’s probably just wishful thinking, frands
But still, it would be nice to see them, particularly as it’s been reported that Catherine is a keen racing enthusiast.
Photographs of the event today in the DT are fantastic, although I do wonder why out of all the photos they could have chosen, some of the photos don’t appear to be the most flattering (Camilla looking unhappy, Beatrice looking a bit toothy.) Any thoughts on this, perhaps a journalistic bias of sorts?
By alsgal on June 17th, 2008 at 9:18 pm
I don’t know Gigi I seem to remember reading somewhere that Beatrice had purchased a 4m pounds property in England to live in while she studies.
Found the link.
http://tiny.cc/80Ow0
If her family can afford properties like that I am sure they could afford to pay for some style advice. I agree that when Diana first started off she looked a mess until the stylists got hold of her, much like Chelsea Clinton…. Maybe Beatrice and Eugiene will get it right one day. I dread looking back at photographs in my youth.
Oh and if this article is to believe http://tiny.cc/w9339
Kate has a little help in looking as fantstic as she does on a daily basis. Belive me if I could afford it I would seek style & splash out on beautiful clothing also also!!
By Jackie Mccoy on June 17th, 2008 at 9:18 pm
I have some very interesting news! If the Daily Mail is to be believed, it’s very possible that Mrs. Carole Middleton will be in the royal box at Ascot on Ladies Day.
There is a new article in the Daily Mail which says that Mrs. Middleton was invited to the royal box for Ladies Day. The DM claims that this information comes from Ascot sources. If this turns out to be the truth, then an engagement between William and Kate is a forgone conclusion. Here is the link to the article:
http://tinyurl.com/5khbg7
John, do you have any sources that could possibly verify this bit of news? I would dearly love to know if it’s really true, or just another journalistic flight of fancy from the Daily Mail!
By mapleleaf on June 18th, 2008 at 12:10 am
I forgot to mention that that article said that Kate would NOT be present, just Mrs. Carole Middleton.
By mapleleaf on June 18th, 2008 at 12:11 am
I was so excited, I forgot to mention that the article is from Richard Kay. He seems to be fairly reliable, but I will definitely have to wait and see. If Kay is actually right about this, I will celebrate for sure.
By mapleleaf on June 18th, 2008 at 12:13 am
Mapleleaf,
It would appear, if this is true, that all systems are go for a Royal wedding, sooner rather then later!
Amazing news, as one is inclined to believe the likes of Richard Kay as opposed to someone such as Katie Nicholls …
By alsgal on June 18th, 2008 at 12:18 am
Well, well, well! The plot thickens! This is news indeed!
By Gigi on June 18th, 2008 at 12:55 am
I agree with you, Dan. The head shot of Zara Phillips is absolutely stunning. Zara could be the new face for Chanel No. 5!
Camilla’s pale green coat/dress is the perfect backdrop for the beautiful emerald brooch she’s wearing - one of the Queen Mother’s I presume?
Gigi, aren’t Beatrice and Eugenie Princesses of the United Kingdom because they are grand-daughters of the Soverign in the male line? The Queen would be overriding the Letters Patent of 1917, if she made Zara a Princess of the United Kingdom. I agree with you that the Queen can do just about anything she wants, but Her Majesty is also a stickler for tradition. I don’t believe Queen Elizabeth would bypass the rules just to make her grand-daughter, Zara, a Princess. Besides, Zara is probably the last person in the world who would want to be known as Princess Zara.
By Arthur on June 18th, 2008 at 1:24 am
If the DM story about Mrs. Carole Middleton is true, I only hope Mrs. Middleton locates the loo, before entering the Royal Box. We wouldn’t want Mrs. Middleton to make an awful faux pas and ask “Where is the toilet?”
By Arthur on June 18th, 2008 at 1:31 am
Arthur, you are too funny
but I do get the sense that after 60+ years of marriage to the Duke the Queen is perhaps accustomed to a very direct style of communicating and might even find it refreshing!
By alsgal on June 18th, 2008 at 1:39 am
I do hope Kate will attend with her. If this is true.
By Claudius on June 18th, 2008 at 2:47 am
I thought Eugenie was in the doghouse but you haven’t commented.
By Mary on June 18th, 2008 at 3:54 am
It would be lovely to have Carole and Catherine Middleton both attending Ladies Day.
Hopefully it would set to rest once and for all the vile rumors that Mrs Middleton isn’t lady-like enough.
By Evelyn on June 18th, 2008 at 3:58 am
The papers are also taking to calling Sophie, Princess Sophie again incorrect. Her title is actually HRH Princess Edward, Countess of Wessex. Zara doesn’t need to becalled Princess Zara by any decree she is a Princess within her family.
By Trudie on June 18th, 2008 at 10:10 am
Mapleleaf, this is from “Ascot sources” and even Richard Kay is hesitant to say it will definitely happen. We shall have to wait and see.
By John on June 18th, 2008 at 10:25 am
Dan and others, the confusion over “Princess Zara” may have been due to the presence of the Aga Khan’s daughter, Princess Zahra.
Fancy being upstaged by a foreigner at Royal Ascot.
By John on June 18th, 2008 at 10:27 am
Actually, Trudie, Sophie is HRH and the wife of Prince Edward, son of the Monarch. She would certainly be in her rights to style a Princess … Countess is such a lowly rank.
By John on June 18th, 2008 at 10:29 am
Off topic, but Rex Features has new pics of Kate and Pippa out and about in London dated June 17…
Kate & Pippa, June 17
By frands on June 18th, 2008 at 11:15 am
Hello!
I heard that there was a dress code enforced at Ascot. However, I saw some pictures yesterday that seemed to “flaunt” the code a bit.
What exactly is the code and how do they enforce it with so many people in attendance?
Thanks!
By Anne on June 18th, 2008 at 11:29 am
Anne, to get to the various enclosures you have to go through a gate and show your pass, at that stage you could be stopped if the person felt that you didn’t comply with the dress code.
I suppose the royal enclosure is policed the most but Eugenie didn’t have go through because she came via the procession and just arrived there. I don’t imagine anyone was going to go to her and tap her on the shoulder!
I am not a size zero fan either unlike Wallis Simpson I do think you can be too thin ( I would concur on the ‘ or can’t be too rich’ part!) but clothes do hang better on those who are are long and lean.
Kate could of course choose an outfit that doesn’t flatter her but chances are most things will suit her, Beatrice and Eugenie unfortunately for them do not have that kind of figure and I definitely think they could do with some styling. The clothes they choose never do anything for them and only make them look old before their time. Neither of them looked well at Ascot.
Zara’s hat was lovely and i liked the blouse but the waist of the skirt was too high and made her look dumpy - something she is not.
Only a willowy model could have gotten away with it.
By Eliza on June 18th, 2008 at 12:30 pm
Thank you Eliza! You are fantastic! I live in Kentucky so the most exciting thing we have is the Kentucky Derby - which I am proud of - but doesn’t quite compare to Royal Ascot.
The hats simply amaze me! What makes a hat a fascinator (sp?) by the way?
The outfits… well, it seems there are questionable outfits everywhere. Aside from non-flattering choices for various figures, I sometimes wonder what happened to modesty and sense of style. I mean, I don’t expect people to be frumpy or wear doilies around their necks, but for goodness sakes! I’m just glad that I didn’t see pictures similar to the ones for the other big race… I can’t remember the name of it, but it was a few months ago. I recall a lot of news stories commenting on how bad it was and photos of women who were quite proud to wear ill-fitting and barely there outfits. Quite sad…
By Anne on June 18th, 2008 at 1:22 pm
I think you mean the Grand National, Anne. It’s held at Liverpool, home to the WAGS (footballers’ wives and girlfriends). I remember the whole ghastly Colleen Rooney and her overweight entourage turned out in force. They were so outrageously awful, the press concentrated entirely on them.
By contrast, Royal Ascot is dominated by the upper crust, so standards are much higher, especially in the Royal Enclosure. The course is also owned by the Queen, so it’s her week, and everyone puts on a show for her sake.
By John on June 18th, 2008 at 1:36 pm
Ah! Thanks for the clarification John.
Do you think Royal Ascot (as it is) will be carried on by the younger Royals? Style and all?
By Anne on June 18th, 2008 at 1:40 pm
The Daily Mail has some good photos of Prince Harry marching in the parade in Edinburgh as a memorial tribute to soldiers who died fighting in Afghanistan. The story relates that the crowds that lined the parade route shouted “Well done!” as the soldiers marched past.
By Gigi on June 18th, 2008 at 1:49 pm
Oh, yes, Anne. It’s a fixture of the summer sporting season. The Queen has recently spent half a billion dollars refurbishing the whole course. It’s popular worldwide, and not only because of My Fair Lady.
By John on June 18th, 2008 at 1:49 pm
What time does Ascot begin? Any news about Mrs. Middleton being in attendance?
By Anne on June 18th, 2008 at 2:00 pm
“Every duke and earl and peer is here
Everyone who should be here is here.
What a smashing, positively dashing
Spectacle: the Ascot op’ning day…”
–Ascot Gavotte, from “My Fair Lady”
By Gigi on June 18th, 2008 at 2:00 pm
Gigi, there’s a Sky News video in The Times.
http://tinyurl.com/6qzffs
By John on June 18th, 2008 at 2:03 pm
Thanks so much, John! I just watched it and they looked wonderful marching to the pipes blowing. It is very touching and very appropriate.
By Gigi on June 18th, 2008 at 2:22 pm
“Come on, Dover, move yer bloomin’ arse!”
-Eliza Doolittle, from “My Fair Lady”
By Arthur on June 18th, 2008 at 2:52 pm
Well, Arthur, Duke of Marmalade did just that in today’s big race, much to my good fortune. To have bagged both big race winners on the first two days is a very nice treat.
Mind you, if you back anything trained at Ballydoyle by Aiden O’Brien this year you can’t go wrong.
By John on June 18th, 2008 at 3:01 pm
That’s great, John. Perhaps you should begin posting racing tips on Royal Anecdotes. Imagine how many hits that will bring to your website.
I love the name, Duke of Marmalade. Do you think the Queen would bestow the title “Duchess of Marmalade” on our dear friend Gigi? It would be an appropriate honour for Gigi, who organizes all those marvelous Royal Anecdotes Teas.
By Arthur on June 18th, 2008 at 3:27 pm
Arthur, I’ve just backed my third winner out of three. Mr Aviator in the Royal Hunt Cup. You’ll never guess the price: 25-1. I’m on a roll.
Good idea. We should bestow the courtesy title of Duchess of Marmalade on our dear Texan cheerleader, Gigi. Will she accept it though?
By John on June 18th, 2008 at 3:31 pm
I certainly will accept the courtesy title of Duchess of Marmalade, with the greatest of pleasure!!
Thank you so much, Arthur and John! I also love the name and I adore marmalade! 
Well done, John, for your superb choices and wins! Three of three is quite a success!
By Gigi on June 18th, 2008 at 6:12 pm
The telegraph are also reporting on Carole Middleton accepting an invitation from the Queen. It does re-hash the Daily Mail story but this would be very interesting turn of events if she does attend and has a meeting with the Queen…. especially given all of the hooplah about Kate not accepting the invitation to host a table. John don’t you think if the story is true about Carole attending Ascot that it would cause a lot more fuss than Kate hosting a table?? This is all very odd… I wonder if this will turn into a Ascotgate… much like the Phillipsgate wedding!
http://tiny.cc/mu9Tv
By Jackie Mccoy on June 18th, 2008 at 6:16 pm
Gigi, you are a good sport. Few women would accept being married to a horse.
However, as Royal Anecdotes’ first ennoblement we must raise a glass to you in tribute.
Royal Anecdotians, pray be upstanding for a toast to Her Grace the Duchess of Marmalade, formerly known as Gigi of Texas. May her days be long and her progeny all Derby winners.
Three hearty cheers for our new Duchess. Hip, hip …
By John on June 18th, 2008 at 6:42 pm
Horray!
By Jackie Mccoy on June 18th, 2008 at 7:03 pm
Congrats on your new title, Gigi, Duchess of Marmelade!
By Evelyn on June 18th, 2008 at 8:45 pm
Thank you very much, John, Jackie McCoy, Arthur and all our dear RA Clan! I appreciate the kind wishes and the enoblement immensely! I also must say that I have no problems whatsoever being married to a horse, as I have adored every horse I have ever known, including the stallion who stepped on my thumb and permanently cracked the nail. He professed himself to be extremely contrite and I gave him his apple and his carrots nonetheless.
Since the handsome horse, the Duke of Marmelade, resides in the UK and my handsome human husband resides with me here in Texas, let us all hope I am not charged with bigamy! 
By Gigi on June 18th, 2008 at 8:51 pm
Thank you so much, Evelyn!
By Gigi on June 18th, 2008 at 8:52 pm
Check out the Ascot pics on Rex features. The Queen looks stunning in violet and Camilla and Sophie also look lovely.
By Dot on June 18th, 2008 at 9:36 pm
Gigi, when I suggested the title Duchess of Marmalade, I never intended to imply marriage to a horse! Marmalade made me think of all the sweet treats you fix for Royal Anecdotes Teas. You are the epitome of a lady and I would never associate you with a horse. Please forgive me.
By Arthur on June 18th, 2008 at 10:59 pm
LOL My dear Arthur, don’t worry, I think it is hilarious and quite a lovely idea to have a racehorse (or any horse, for that matter) as a close relative! Also, I love the name Duke of Marmalade and think that being the Duchess of Marmalade is quite a charming honor.
We must not take things too literally, after all, especially since we are frequently imbibling virtual champagne, tea and cakes in cyber teas! 
Also, it made me think about how much I loved orange marmalade on muffins during the summer days of my childhood which I spent at the lake house of my dear Great Aunt Mary. Many thanks for your very kind words, Arthur, I appreciate them very much.
By Gigi on June 19th, 2008 at 2:39 am
John you misread my post!!! I said that Sophie’s proper title is HRH Princess Edward Countess of Wessex
By Trudie on June 19th, 2008 at 10:43 am
You’re right, Trudie, you did and you are quite right. Many apologies.
By John on June 19th, 2008 at 12:31 pm
Just spotted Peter and Autumn in the Royal carriage procession for Ladies’ Day. Autumn looks very presentable I must say.
Let’s hope she hasn’t flogged the occasion to a downmarket celebrity mag.
By John on June 19th, 2008 at 1:19 pm
you are hilarious.
I guess the fallout over the mag pics is pretty much over??
By Anne on June 19th, 2008 at 1:35 pm
Any sighting yet of Mrs. Middleton in the Royal Enclosure?
Could it be possible, and this is just a theory — so please bear with me here — that this rumour was planted by a friend of William’s to discredit Richard Kay, who some feel was not discreet enough about his relationship with the late Diana?
Theories and conspiracies aside, the Queen looks smashing today, absolutely lovely in every way!
By alsgal on June 19th, 2008 at 3:07 pm
Is there a link to the Rex photos? I can’t seem to get to it.
Thanks!
By Anne on June 19th, 2008 at 3:51 pm
Some photos from today: http://tinyurl.com/5e27c4
By Ash on June 19th, 2008 at 4:05 pm
Sorry Anne didn’t see your post till after I had posted mine link to Rex : http://tinyurl.com/63v6ty
By Ash on June 19th, 2008 at 4:07 pm
Well, it looks like there isn’t any Middleton in attendance today (day 3). I guess that rumor was too radical to be real in the first place.
By frands on June 19th, 2008 at 4:12 pm
Thank you Ash!
Fantastic photos!
By Anne on June 19th, 2008 at 4:12 pm
I thought that she would be there or her mother but there still two day left so maybe she’ll go on Saturday which is William’s birthday or maybe tomorrow.
By Rman on June 19th, 2008 at 4:30 pm
No sign yet of Carole Middleton. But that’s not a surprise. The press is kept clear of the Royal Box, except for views from the outside, and there are few of those this year.
The Telegraph piece was merely a hack of Richard Kay’s in the Mail, so tells us nothing new.
The quoted “Ascot sources” may be a catering manager who has been given a confidential guest list and has a link with a reporter as a sideline. Or anyone with access for that matter.
The story does sound plausible to me. The Queen will recognize the spiteful treatment Kate and her mother receive daily from a bunch of sub-aristo groupies who have nothing better to do than follow William around and pour bile onto anyone who gets ahead of them.
I do hope this proves to be true and Carole gets her presentation before the Queen. She seems like a decent sort to me.
By John on June 19th, 2008 at 4:59 pm
Alsgal, a conspiracy too far, if you ask me?
Do you read a lot of John Le Carre?
By John on June 19th, 2008 at 5:01 pm
John,
I absolutely agree that Carole is by anyone else’s standards (other then the sub-aristocratic set you speak of) a rather impressive woman. Self-made, and has never taken a dime from the public purse. Somehow these snotty sorts seem to think by living off “the family purse” they are somehow better, which really leaves me wondering why being born in the right bed (to put it vulgarly and I do apologise) is considered more desirable?
Has anyone happened to visit the website of the Middleton’s successful online business, Party Pieces? It said they started in 1987, which is apparently the same year that Catherine’s younger brother James was born.
Now, imagine if you will, the courage and determination it took for Carole to get a family business off the ground with a newborn baby and two daughters, the eldest of whom was only five at the time. The fact that she worked so hard to give her children a better life then she had probably known really almost brings a tear to me eye. How is that not admirable for a mother to want to give her child every opportunity in the world?
For those naysayers who harp on and on (and on) about Catherine’s work ethic, I say, look at the fine example she was exposed to growing up. Does anyone seriously believe she will end up slacking off? Just my two cents, but I certainly don’t.
By alsgal on June 19th, 2008 at 5:14 pm
Sorry, John I realised I missed your previous post.
John LeCarre not so much, but I am a major Agatha Christie fan — so perhaps, “the caterer did it?”
By alsgal on June 19th, 2008 at 5:17 pm
Alsgal, I agree with all you write about Carole Middleton. Character is what counts in the end.
By John on June 19th, 2008 at 5:21 pm
Princess Beatrice and Eugiene look a lot better fashion wise today… I didn’t so much like Autumn’s hat, I felt like it was way too big for her head and covered her face. I too also hope that Carole Middleton is granted an audience with the Queen. Maybe Saturday will be the day… I wonder what Kate and Prince William will do for his birthday!
By Jackie Mccoy on June 19th, 2008 at 5:26 pm
Jackie, I may be slightly out of touch here, but the Saturday of the June Ascot meeting was always known as Ascot Heath, not Royal Ascot. However, this year the Queen is said to be going, so it will be Royal Ascot after all.
I’m glad of that because Ascot Heath was always such an anticlimax.
Carole may well have already met the Queen. I can’t imagine her turning down an invitation.
By John on June 19th, 2008 at 5:30 pm
I must say some of the hats left me gasping for breath, I was laughing so hard! I particularly liked the one of the bath!
By NCKat on June 19th, 2008 at 5:31 pm
Surely the Queen and Carole Middleton met at William’s passing out of Sandhurst, where they were all in attendance? Of course, an invitation to Ascot is more official and significant than a passing greeting at a graduation.
By Dan on June 19th, 2008 at 5:49 pm
Some more photos: http://tinyurl.com/6yy6vv
I have to say I’m not a fan of what Autumn is wearing.
By Ash on June 19th, 2008 at 6:06 pm
Dan, apparently they didn’t meet at Sandhurst.
Ash, great shots. Helen Mirren presented one of the prizes and her hat blew off. Not very regal.
By John on June 19th, 2008 at 6:10 pm
This may be a dumb question, but does hat size matter?
There was a photo of a lady with a VERY large hat that looked like a cake which had been sliced into. How does one manage to see the race over such hats? Or, is it more about show and mingling at that point? (thanks for the link, btw!)
By Anne on June 19th, 2008 at 7:11 pm
Actually, if I’m thinking of the same hat, the hat represented Stilton cheese.
By Evelyn on June 19th, 2008 at 7:47 pm
I think for those sorts of hats Anne it might just be for show and some attention! Possibly with the aim of making it onto the news, knowing that the more ridiculous the hat the more likely a newspaper is to take notice!! I think Evely was right it was a Stilton Cheese hat
By Jackie Mccoy on June 19th, 2008 at 7:56 pm
Stilton is my favourite cheese apart from Swiss Emmenthal. That must have been a wonderful hat.
By John on June 19th, 2008 at 8:00 pm
Thank you for the clarification. I have never heard of Stilton cheese. Suppose I ought to try it now
By Anne on June 19th, 2008 at 8:13 pm
Anne, it’s a blue cheese from the Midlands of England. Wonderful with port. A classic.
By John on June 19th, 2008 at 8:17 pm
Sounds delicious! Too bad I’ll have to wait a few months to eat it. Once I can though, I’ll remember your advice and have a special treat!
By Anne on June 19th, 2008 at 8:28 pm
I have to say that Autumns outfit and hat were hideous for such a pretty woman, they didn’t flatter her at all.
On another note John Sophie fits the title Princess much better than Countess. Again HM was the fashion winner hands down her powder blue hat and coat were divine.
By Trudie on June 19th, 2008 at 11:01 pm
I thought Autumn Phillips looked stunning. I love that combination of fuschia and gray.
By Ursula on June 20th, 2008 at 12:23 am
I personally think the Stilton cheese hat stinks, compared to some of the other hats I’ve seen this week at Royal Ascot.
Trudie, I agree with you that the Queen was the fashion winner today; however, I thought her hat was a little boring for ladies day. It was a nice hat, just too plain. I would have preferred something more elaborate with feathers or flowers, perhaps both. After all, aren’t the hats the real reason we want to see so may pictures from Royal Ascot?
By Arthur on June 20th, 2008 at 12:48 am
I read that there were serious bets that the Queen would wear a fascinator for Ladies’ Day. Perhaps she’ll surprise everyone and wear one tomorrow.
By Evelyn on June 20th, 2008 at 1:03 am
Evelyn, I think it would be fascinating if Her Majesty wore a fascinator tomorrow.
By Arthur on June 20th, 2008 at 1:13 am
I too would love to see HM wear a fascinator however, I hope it doesn’t resemble the one Cammy wore that looked like she fell into a pile of weeds that attached themselves to her hair. I really think some of the younger royals such as Beatrice and Eugenie look extremely fresh and modern. Now if only they could learn how to dress.
By Trudie on June 20th, 2008 at 2:02 am
I also thought that Autumn Phillips looked lovely in her grey and cerise. Further, the shape of Autumn’s face was further flattered by the size and shape of her hat. I did not expect to see the Queen in a fascinator because she favors classic styles in clothing, which ideally suit her. I must confess that I do not find Camilla’s penchant for wildly feathered fascinators to be very attractive.
By Gigi on June 20th, 2008 at 2:34 am
I don’t think a fascinator is out of the question. The Queen did wear one to Peter & Autumn’s wedding.
By Evelyn on June 20th, 2008 at 2:39 am
No fascinator today (Friday) for the Queen. The BBC experts didn’t expect one at all.
No Royal stories around either. I’m taking the rest of the day off to watch the racing.
By John on June 20th, 2008 at 1:48 pm
have fun!
By Anne on June 20th, 2008 at 1:54 pm
Excellent notion, John, and do let us know how your horses do!
By Gigi on June 20th, 2008 at 2:26 pm
Yes have fun John and hopefully there will be some Royal news tomorrow with pictures of William and Kate having fun on his birthday!!!
By Jackie Mccoy on June 20th, 2008 at 3:20 pm
have been offline for just a few days and seems i’ve missed a few things..congrats gigi..or should i now address you as “duchess gigi”
was there ever a sighting of carole middleton at ascot or of kate??
By coni on June 20th, 2008 at 3:31 pm
I haven’t heard anything about either Coni and I guess there is only tomorrow but John I think mentioned earlier that tomorrow is not a big day so wouldn’t expect them to be there. On another note I found this article on another website! Nothing ground breaking just a light read!
http://tiny.cc/0VBsM
By Jackie Mccoy on June 20th, 2008 at 3:54 pm
John did mention that the Queen was planning to be at Ascot tomorrow, which is not usual for her. Could she have decided to do that because it was the only day that Prince William could attend? And perhaps Prince Harry, and Catherine, and….
We’ll just have to wait and see.
By Evelyn on June 20th, 2008 at 8:33 pm
It looks like Her Majesty borrowed Gigi’s gardening hat to wear today, Friday, at Royal Ascot.
By Arthur on June 20th, 2008 at 11:33 pm
Here’s a new artical from The Telegraph. “If Kate Middleton wants to marry Prince William, she’ll get him.”
http://tinyurl.com/4fxb77
By Rman on June 20th, 2008 at 11:42 pm
Gee Kate isn’t even engaged yet and the Courtiers are sharpening their knives for her. I just hope she is wiser than Sarah was in fending them off. They all bowed and scraped and offered advise hoping she would hang herself which she eventually did. It doesn’t matter if the Family deems her suitable to their minds those crusty old snobs feel they know best about what is suitable. Kate here is some advise smile say thankyou then run to William if you think something doesn’t seem right He or another born royal knows the rules.
By Trudie on June 21st, 2008 at 12:23 am
i thought the article Rman referenced was seriously flawed and kept bringing up touchpoints mentioned to “remind” people that Catherine really is NOT for William. Unbelievable - as for the “looking like a crow” the more the naysayers keep “saying” her suit was black and not dark navy blue - the more people will believe it.
(You know believe the first thing you hear and forget the rest mentality)
Sad to see - really.
By geli on June 21st, 2008 at 1:51 am
It seemed to be a rather a scathing article in the Telegraph which did not portray Catherine in a very flattering light, or perhaps I am being overly sensitive.
I would cancel my subscription to the DT tomorrow, but I read the dern thing online! Perhaps I was incorrect in thinking the DT was a real paper and not a tabloid. This article sounded as snarky as anything in the Daily Mail.
By alsgal on June 21st, 2008 at 2:45 am
Rman the Telegraph article repeats what John has been saying for a while now, that there is an anti-Kate movement which is gaining vocal steam, which is why John has expressed that it would be better to announce the engagement sooner rather than later. He has also said that William is very strong willed and will make an announcement when he feels good an ready. It does leave Kate exposed to possibly another 6 to 8 months of sniggering, nasty remarks from courtiers and outlandish claims from the press but what will be will be….
By jackie Mccoy on June 21st, 2008 at 3:48 am
…and I don’t see any possibility that Prince William will be able to announce an engagement until his 2 months in the Royal Navy is completed, which will be early August. I guess I don’t expect an August announcement either. It would be nice if both William and Catherine would spend a week at Balmoral this summer. In her preparation for full inclusion in the Royal Family, it might be good for her to experience that before they’re married.
By Evelyn on June 21st, 2008 at 4:20 am
My dear Arthur, The Queen may borrow my gardening hat anytime she wishes, but I fear it is rather a plain affair, dark saddle brown corded straw secured with leather lariat style strings. It is definitely not fine enough, nor fashionable enough for the Queen to wear anywhere, let alone Ascot!
Currently, I am in a snit with the Telegraph due to their mean-spirited article about Catherine Middleton. What on earth ails these people, anyway? I neither understand nor admire their attitudes. They have been stricken forthwith from the Royal Anecdotes Gala Teas guestlist, sine die! Actions have consequences and I am quite put out! 
By Gigi on June 21st, 2008 at 4:31 am
Well I personally put the blame on William for all this. Cammy was somewhat accepted by the courtiers when Chucky declared her non-negotiable if He doesn’t want to propose just yet and if he really has love for Kate then that declaration should silence all those petty jealous fools for taking their fantasy Prince. As for the Courtiers they also took cheap shots at Harry a born royal!!! they really need one of Gigi’s teas to chill and let the RA group give them an earful. It appears that if you don’t have a personality the Courtiers love it when it shines through they hate it I personally loved the shots of Harry and Kate laughing and totally at ease.
By Trudie on June 21st, 2008 at 7:49 am
Hello again everyone. I agree with Trudie about the photos of Prince Harry and Catherine being nice…seriously though are we 100% certain that they were laughing at Prince William or were people - including Catherine and the Duchess of Cornwall and their private secretary just laughing at something Prince Harry might have said.
By geli on June 21st, 2008 at 8:22 am
Rman, the Telegraph article is a good summing up of what we’ve been saying here for ages. So, yes, 10 out of 10.
Ingrid Seward is quoted as saying, “Nobody outside the inner circle really knows what’s going to happen.” That’s where we actually are — although there are lots of signals.
And, as the unnamed Peer of the Realm says, “He has to marry her now or he’ll be accused of stealing her twenties.”
By John on June 21st, 2008 at 11:18 am
Well, Gigi, I’m sure there are many people who would feel honoured to borrow the Duchess of Marmalade’s old straw hat.
By John on June 21st, 2008 at 11:24 am
Jackie i’m in agreement with you in your comment regarding the anti Kate movement is starting to get louder and stronger within the press just of late. These is a negative article on Kate, maybe someone is leaking it out to snub engagement stories coming out in the press. The palace would more than likely want to keep anything a secret if there is an engagement on the way soon.
By Belinda on June 21st, 2008 at 11:59 am
Belinda, I think the Telegraph article is broadly neutral and correctly sums up what’s going on outside and inside Palace walls.
In our recent piece “The new narrative for Kate Middleton”, I tried to assess the growing anti-Kate faction among courtiers. There always has been a hatey-Katie tendency among the trust-fund set and other teenage girls who idolize William.
The snarky comment about her looking like a crow in black, fails to grasp that by looking different, she stood out from the crowd. I don’t remember any of the other faces there, but I do remember Kate’s. It was a masterclass in how to grab the attention without really trying.
By John on June 21st, 2008 at 12:11 pm
I have the impression that the snarkiness from some quarters gets louder the more likely it seems that Kate will indeed marry William. The “courtiers” would not bother to gossip about her if she was merely a temporary fixture in William’s life. Looks to me like some have finally realised that their daughters/sisters/grand-daughters etc. will not stand a chance at all to get the Prince. None of the points raised “against” her has any validity though. I’m sure had she worn pastel colours, she’d have been accused of dressing “like a Royal” already. To accuse her not to know how to handle herself is really ridiculous. Harry, Camilla and Sophie were all smiling and laughing, too. I guess they don’t know the Royal protocol either and have a lot to learn then.
Still, it can only be good for Kate to experience this now before she starts to relie on some of those “courtiers” who’d surely be all smiles and nicie-nice towards her in person.
By Isana on June 21st, 2008 at 12:55 pm
Isana, I’m sure Helene Asprey, as well as Jamie Lowther Pinkerton, will provide good advice for Kate, as well as the Queen and the Duke of Edinburgh, who gave a lot of support to Diana — he had been the butt of snide jokes himself before and after his marriage.
She will be very aware of the Byzantine nature of the crowd that always swirls around Royalty.
By John on June 21st, 2008 at 1:05 pm
That is a good point, John. I recall that Prince Philip, whose Royal heritage is just as authentic as that of the Queen, was looked down upon and criticized in the early years of his marriage by those pretentious palace courtiers, none of whom are Royal and all of whom think they have plenipotentiary powers for some reason. I really must wonder, not for the first time, just who these employees think they are! Nothing they say will upset Prince Harry, who is so good natured and seems able to deflect petty jealousies with his humor and quite irresistible charm. Catherine, however, is another case entirely, as she has not been brought up surrounded by toxic palace intrigue and will perhaps not understand how to diffuse potential problems before they escalate. If Prince William does not put the courtiers in their places, I hope Charles will step forward and ‘lay down the law’ as they say here. Now is the highest time, in my view.
By Gigi on June 21st, 2008 at 1:41 pm
You’re right, Gigi, we await development with interest.
We’ve just had great excitement at Royal Ascot a few minutes ago as the Queen’s horse Free Agent won the Chesham. HM hasn’t had a winner at her own meeting this century, and she was bobbing up and down with excitement. It was a joy to see.
The horse was in last place with two furlongs to go and came through the middle like a champion. He’s entered for the Derby next year and the 2000 Guineas, so we’ve all got our fingers crossed.
In the absence of any emergency, that will be top of the news tonight.
By John on June 21st, 2008 at 1:57 pm
From photos at Getty, it looks like the Queen is wearing what I’d call “royal blue” today. I’d guess that having one of her horses in a race today is the reason the Queen attended Saturday at Royal Ascot.
By Evelyn on June 21st, 2008 at 2:23 pm
When the Queen’s horse wins, does Her Majesty present the winning trophy to herself?
By Arthur on June 21st, 2008 at 3:04 pm
Arthur, the Queen only presents the trophy for the big Group 1 race of the day. The Chesham had Richard Dunwoody, a retired jockey to present it. And a very good job he did too in the rather daunting circumstances.
By John on June 21st, 2008 at 3:25 pm
Gigi I fear Charles will not step in and lay down the law!!! He wouldn’t do it for Diana when they they did the same to her. Charles only cares about Charles and as long as they suck up to him make his life easy forget it. I think the family should as a whole let these self important snobs realize they are nothing more than servants who work for them not the other way around. Which is no small wonder 3 out of the four marriages ended in Divorce.
By Trudie on June 21st, 2008 at 3:55 pm
KM has a very clever dress sense. At PW passing out at Sandringham she wore a red coat and black hat that matched his uniform and at the Garter ceremony she also matched him even with a white curlicue faux plume on her hat. They look like a pair that should be together . She must have a great sense of humor to pass this off and still look like her own beautiful self
By Dot on June 21st, 2008 at 4:27 pm
I have always thought that wearing the red coat and black hat at William Passing-Out was such a nice gesture from Kate. It is such a pity that the press turned it into her trying to steal the attention, of course these are the same people who now say that she needs to add colour to her wardrobe and should of worn something bright to The Garter Ceremony.
By Ash on June 21st, 2008 at 9:09 pm
It really doesn’t matter what Kate wears, says or attempts there is nothing worse than old fashioned jealousy. Kate bagged the Prince and the old guard that wanted their daughters, granddaughter etc to marry him or date him to enhance there social cachet are green with envy as are the posters on the other boards where Kate bashing is a favorite pasttime.
By Trudie on June 22nd, 2008 at 1:19 am
I must agree, Trudie. John was right yet again when he sounded the warning some months ago. The Green-Eyed Monster has reared it’s ugly head and the long knives are out.
I cannot adequately express how unattractive such petty jealousies are, in anyone, but especially in those who ought to be supportive of the Crown and Prince William. I find this backbiting to be unseemly, unsavory and distinctly unBritish.
By Gigi on June 22nd, 2008 at 3:56 am
The Telegraph article just makes Kate look bad to those who are neither Kate fan or Anti-Kate people thats just my opinion. The palace should put a stop to them, because they could do some serious damage to both Kate & William. The Middletons didn’t show up then at Ascot?
By Belinda on June 22nd, 2008 at 7:07 am
Let us hope that instead of making Catherine look bad, the Telegraph article merely makes the Telegraph look bad! Poetic justice indeed!
By Gigi on June 22nd, 2008 at 2:24 pm
I didn’t see pics of the Middletons at Ascot but then I didn’t expect to. Any meeting between them and the Queen would surely take place behind closed doors at the Palace not in a public arena.
A lot of the boards are now also bashing her parents saying they are pretentious and acting royal. I have yet to see pics of them beyond the few published in the last five years and you can count them on one hand. I feel sorry for the family as much as Kate. People really don’t much about them except that they are a close family. It really is shameful that the class system and all the snobbish boorish behavior that goes with it are so alive and well in this century.
By Trudie on June 23rd, 2008 at 2:41 am
It is shameful, Trudie, but it is a problem that exists all over Europe and America, not merely in Britain. At some point and for some reason, some people shed the civility, discretion, poise and maturity that used to be the cornerstone of polite society. Oddly, in a cultural disconnect that utterly baffles me, these lapses have spread to well-bred, well-educated people who ought to know better than to indulge in boorish behavior that demeans them. Some of the things I hear, see and read on a weekly basis, out and about, simply floor me and if you think I am shocked, listen carefully and you will hear my parents and grandparents spinning in their graves!
By Gigi on June 23rd, 2008 at 12:45 pm
Gigi, as the Australians say, it’s the tallest poppy in the field that’s the first to be cut down.
Kate does seem to have the temperament to withstand the rabble rants without turning a hair, and not to get carried away with her status after she’s married.
By John on June 23rd, 2008 at 1:00 pm
Well said, John! By the way, I replied to your comment on the Prince William turns 26 thread a few minutes ago and my comment, though submitted, has not appeared. Did it get vacuumed into a black hole, do you suppose?
By Gigi on June 23rd, 2008 at 1:54 pm
Gigi, it’s not in the mod panel. You must have hit a traffic spike which zapped it. I always use a small text editor for comments, so if a comment doesn’t go through, I can just copy it on again.
By John on June 23rd, 2008 at 3:04 pm
Oh dear, that sounds too high tech for my very modest computer skills. Thanks anyway, John.
I think you are right about the traffic spike because when I hit “submit comment”, Aunt Pierre’s Midsummer’s Day a la wikipedia came up, so our two comments must have collided in mid-cyber space. I am astounded the collision did not produce a shower of shooting stars in the galaxy. 
By Gigi on June 23rd, 2008 at 3:11 pm