First Portrait of The Duchess of Cambridge Revealed

The Duchess of Cambridge reached another royal milestone this morning as her first official portrait was unveiled at the National Portrait Gallery. Catherine, along with her husband Prince William and the Middleton family attended a private viewing at the London gallery, which the duchess is a patron of. After a brief viewing, the royal couple were joined by the artist, Paul Emsley, and his wife and daughter.

By now it it is no secret that reviews have been mixed (to put it politely), with a comment by Robin Simon, editor of the British Art Journal an Daily Mail art critic, among the harshest – “Fortunately, the Duchess of Cambridge looks nothing like this in real life. I’m really sad to say this is a rotten portrait.”

To some extent, I agree with that comment. The portrait ages Kate quite a number of years and the shadowing under the eyes takes away from the radiant look we often see plastered on her face. To be honest, it kind of looks like she had a long, sleepless night before hitting the art studio.

Emsley explained, “The Duchess explained  to me that she would like to be portrayed naturally – her  natural self as opposed to her official self.” While Kate dubbed the art, “absolutely brilliant.”

For me, the best part of the outing was the hair – bangs be gone! Her part is back to normal!

AFP

And let’s also give a warm welcome to the return of the funny face!

AFP

All in and all, an exciting morning for the mother-to-be. I know we are all thrilled to see her looking so well. Is that a hint of a baby bump I spy? Yay!

What are your thoughts on the portrait? Leave some comments!

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.”

Rex/E!Online

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.

Evening StandardCopetti/Photofab / Rex

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

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..

AP

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 UK, The 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 Post – Kate Middleton Visit To Lucien Freud Exhibit Marks Duchess’ First Solo Appearance

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

Week in Review: Jan. 30 – Feb. 4, 2012

I think I spoke too soon when I said there was a lull in royal news as there was no shortage of stories this past week! With the very special occasion happening on Monday, wanted to recap the week’s happenings. I, for one, was thrilled with the endless stories on Prince Harry in the last few days..so let’s get to it!

The Diamond Jubilee

This Monday, February 6, marks the date that Princess Elizabeth officially became Queen Elizabeth. As you can imagine, there are endless articles, photo galleries and videos being released leading up to the big day; will post more on that later, but for now here are some headlines surrounding the celebrations..

• Church of England: Prayers and Liturgical Resources – the official prayer to be used in the Church of England during the Diamond Jubilee year was released.
• The Daily Express: The Queen’s 60 Glorious Years in Pictures to be Celebrated in Public Display – photos of The Queen’s 60 years on the throne are now on display at Windsor Castle. Entrance to the exhibit entitled: The Queen: 60 Photographs for 60 Years, is included in the price of general admission to Windsor Castle.
• The Telegraph: The Queen plants Diamond Jubilee tree in Sandringham – earlier this week, Queen Elizabeth II and Princess Anne planted an oak tree at Sandringham Estate, which will be at the center of the new 20-acre Jubilee Wood, honoring the milestone.
• ABC News: Spice Girls Reuniting for Queen Elizabeth II Celebration? – one of my favorite stories surrounding the Diamond Jubilee this week; there is talks of the Spice Girls reuniting for the June 4 celebrations. What better time to reunite the leaders of the “Girl Power” movement than for Her Majesty’s Diamond Jubilee? That has girl power written all over it..

Queen Elizabeth II and The Duke of Edinburgh

• The Today Show: Harry: Queen’s Secret to Success is Husband – segment surrounding comments from Prince Harry on what keeps The Queen going at her age. His answer? The support of her husband, The Duke of Edinburgh. Commentary from Camilla Tominey.
• CBS This Morning: British princes open up about their grandparents – further praise from Prince Harry and Prince William on their grandmother’s relationship with her husband and the major milestone she is approaching. Commentary from Victoria Arbiter.

The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge

After a quiet holiday in the Caribbean with Catherine’s family, the dynamic duo took the media by storm this week with announcements and their general fabulousness. We are happy to have them back!

• People: William & Kate’s Patter of Little Feet: A Cocker Spaniel – after several weeks of speculation, it was confirmed that William & Kate have adopted a puppy. The Duke and Duchess welcomed a Cocker Spaniel to their growing family, despite rumors it was a Labrador. The media had a field day headlines alluding to a “new addition” and as above, “little feet” joining the household. Not just yet everyone!
• CNN: Tension Over Prince William in Falklands – After a relaxing getaway with the in-laws, Prince William departed for his six-week stint in the Falkland Islands. As reported by Max Foster, the deployment came with no shortage of tension, as Argentina cranks up the heat on future discussions regarding the territory.
• The Associated Foreign Press: With William abroad, Kate plans first solo engagement – finally, the announcement observers have been waiting for – no, not the pregnancy..the other announcement – The Duchess of Cambridge has made official plans on her solo charitable engagements. Catherine will visit The National Portrait Gallery on Feb. 8, followed by a Valentine’s Day visit to Liverpool to tour the Alder Hey Children’s Hospital and Action on Addiction. 
• The Telegraph: Duchess of Cambridge meets recovering addicts on secret visit to treatment centre – In order to spend quality time learning about her chosen patronage, Catherine paid a secret visit to Action on Addiction on Thursday.

Prince Harry

My favorite royal was out and about this week; from news on his Diamond Jubilee tour itinerary and his participation in the Walking with the Wound organization. 

• CBS News: Prince Harry to play beach volleyball during overseas trip, reportedly wants to race Usain Bolt – Harry’s Caribbean and South American tour is heating up – and getting athletic. The Prince is looking to challenge Olympian Usain Bolt to a race while he visits the runner’s home country of Jamaica. Harry is never one to a shy away from a challenge – or a silly moment – and a race against the fastest man in the world would certainly be a sight to see. In keeping with the Olympic spirit, Harry will also participate in a beach volleyball match in Brazil. The Palace said that Harry’s first solo tour will “combine sports, military exercises and meetings with school children and locals.”
• The Telegraph: Prince Harry walks away from Everest expedition – as suspected, Prince Harry’s familial and military obligations will keep him from joining the Walking with the Wounded on their expedition to climb Mount Everest.
• Sentebale: Prince Harry to play in the Sentebale Royal Salute Polo Cup 2012 – Harry will join Prince Seeiso of Lesotho in the third Sentebale Polo Cup match in support of the Princes’ charity.
• The Daily Mail: Prince Harry hooded and ‘beaten’ in hostage training exercise ahead of Afghanistan helicopter deployment – Prince Harry underwent brutal training exercises as part of his Apache helicopter duties in preparation for a possible deployment to Afghanistan.

Additional Dates: Prince Harry supported Walking with the Wounded on Feb. 3 as they launched their Everest expedition. On Feb. 10 & 11, Harry will be at the Newbury Racecourse.

Spotlight On: National Portrait Gallery

What is the National Portrait Gallery?

The National Portrait Gallery promotes the understanding and appreciation of not only portraits, but those artists who have contributed to British history and culture through way of art. According to the web site, the aim of the organization is “to bring history to life through its extensive display, exhibition, research, learning, outreach, publishing and digital programmes.” This national museum looks to be at the foreground of portraiture research and bringing understanding to its visitors and the media.

The Gallery was established in 1856 and currently has the world’s most extensive collection of portraits. The Collection is in London with several other other locations throughout the United Kingdom.

Why is the National Portrait Gallery of Interest to Catherine?

It is no secret that Catherine has a deep rooted understanding of the arts and as she studied history of art at St. Andrews in Scotland. The National Portrait Gallery aims to promote the history of art and how portraiture has greatly impacted British culture and history. Catherine will make the perfect Royal Patron for an organization such as this since not only does she have an understanding for the cause, but it is ingrained into who she is; Catherine will be able to speak from the heart on behalf of the gallery.

How Can I Support the National Portrait Gallery?

The National Portrait Gallery depends on the support of not only its Members and benefactors, but individual visitors, trust and other foundations. The gallery funds 60% of the operational funds and asks for donations to keep this piece of history open and available to all who wish to visit.

As an individual supporter, you can become a Member, Associate or Patron of the gallery to provide continual support of its legacy, all the while enjoying exclusive benefits. The National Portrait Gallery also accepts gifts of all sizes from its visitors as well as help with conservation. Corporations, foundations and trusts can also pledge their help. To find out more, please visit the support page on the web site.

If you are on Twitter, please follow the National Portrait Gallery: @NPGLondon.