Sunday 21 May 2017

Meghan in Black Gown as she Joins her Prince for Pippa's Wedding Reception

The society wedding of the year took place yesterday when Pippa Middleton and James Matthews exchanged vows at St. Mark's, Englefield surrounded by family and friends. We were very much hoping to see Meghan accompany Harry to the ceremony, instead Harry arrived with William. Following the wedding, Harry drove back to Kensington Palace to get his girlfriend to take her to the glittering reception. At this point, it's looking unlikely we'll see any photos from the reception, however this snap of the couple en route to the party offers a little glimpse.

The Sun reports Meghan was invited to the entire event, however Harry and Meghan wanted to ensure they didn't upstage the bride (reporters remain varied across the media as to whether Meghan was invited to the ceremony).

'The pair were seen grinning as they made a subtle entrance in the nick of time to catch the spectacular Spitfire display. A source said: “Harry is extremely fond of his sister-in-law. They had a wonderful time at Kate and William’s wedding. “He knew this was all about Pippa’s big day and he and Meghan jointly decided they didn’t want to upstage her.
 “Harry went all the way to London to get Meghan and bring her to the party. He was determined not to upstage Pippa but also really wanted them to enjoy the wedding together,. He left as discreetly as possible and travelled with her all the way back up, showing just how serious he is about her. He didn’t want Meghan having to arrive along, without him alongside her, at the reception.”

Prince Harry arriving with Prince William. They exchanged smiles and jokes as they made their way to the church. A couple of tweeters mentioned it almost looked like William could have been saying "You're next Harry" :)


The bride looked beautiful in a Giles Deacon gown, below the beaming happy couple after the ceremony.


The Sun reports Meghan was elegant in a floor-length black dress, sunglasses and a white jacket for the lavish reception on the grounds of the Middleton family home in Bucklebury. "Music could be heard belting out from the glass marquee from a live band on Saturday evening, including jazz renditions of Call on Me by Eric Prydz and The White Stripes banger Seven Nation Army. Best man Spencer Matthews, the younger brother of groom James, could be heard earning rounds of applause speech which took place at the late hour of 11pm." Below, a look at the Spitfire flypast guests enjoyed after a lavish dinner taken by @journalistemily.



The Mail reports William, Kate, Harry, Meghan and of course the bride and groom danced the night away until 4 a.m at the striking glass marquee erected on the Middleton property. "Hundreds of VIP guests watched as footage of Pippa Middleton and her new husband was beamed onto the back of her family's £6million Berkshire mansion in a dazzling display during the reception on Saturday night. The newlyweds' faces were projected onto the windows of Bucklebury Manor along with psychedelic lights and, at one point, what appeared to be the silhouette of a shapely dancing woman against a green background. At one point James was shown in his hunting gear - an apparent nod to his lengthy campaign to win the affections of his bride - as guests partied until 4am."


It very much sounds like a wonderful evening was enjoyed by all. It's wonderful to see Meghan by Harry's side for the reception - it was also an excellent opportunity for her to get to know and meet more of their circle of friends. Guests changed into glamorous evening looks for the reception, I'm sure Meghan's gown was the epitome of elegance. All in all it was a lovely wedding. I don't know about you, but I'm certainly thinking another royal wedding would be simply fabulous *hint hint Harry* :). We leave you with another look at Mr and Mrs Matthews!


Friday 19 May 2017

Meghan Enjoys Beauty Treatments in Soho Ahead of Pippa's Wedding!

It's the weekend we've been discussing for months! Meghan arrived at Heathrow Airport from Toronto on Tuesday night and was whisked straight to Kensington Palace where she is staying with Prince Harry this week ahead of the couple attending the wedding of Pippa Middleton and James Matthews in Berkshire tomorrow. Meghan was photographed today leaving a spa in Soho following beauty treatments including a soft pink manicure.

Mail Online

More from the Mail Online:

'Although anticipation is building over the dress Pippa will wear for her wedding to James Matthews, there is just as much buzz around the outfit the American will don. But so far her plans have been kept under wraps, although it is understood she will wear a hat. 
Meanwhile, the Church of England has confirmed Ms Markle and Prince Harry could wed at Westminster Abbey if they were to get married. But the Prince would still require the Queen’s permission and it is believed the Archbishop of Canterbury would need to provide a special licence for any potential nuptials. Well-placed sources say the relationship is extremely serious, and that Meghan’s invitation to Pippa’s wedding is the ultimate endorsement, meaning she could be a potential princess.'

Meghan opted for a casual look with, a baseball cap, leggings and a jacket. Meghan carried the Mulberry Clifton Rosewater Small Classic Grain bag. The £725 piece is described: "The Clifton is a compact, understated shoulder bag that cleverly camouflages an organiser's paradise underneath its neat exterior. Internal compartments provide ample room for essentials, and the chain strap can be adjusted and styled in different ways. Signature press studs and a subtle Mulberry logo are the final embellishments."

Mulberry

With thanks to Meghan's Mirror Meghan's trainers are the Nike Flex style. They are available at 6 p.m. for $56.

Meghan on the cover of several of tomorrow's newspapers (with some rather "rear" focused headlines..).


Of course we're all looking forward to (hopefully) seeing what Meghan wears tomorrow. The Telegraph's Bethan Holt writes:

'Meghan Markle has reportedly arrived in London ahead of her appearance at Pippa Middleton's wedding to James Matthews on Saturday. Her invite to the society wedding of the year is the latest sign of her growing closeness to Prince Harry- and the Middleton-Cambridge clan. Her attendance at the ceremony, due to take place at St Mark's church in Englefield, Berkshire, will also add a new sartorial element to the day besides the sleek Middleton triumvirate of Pippa, Carole and Kate. As a relatively little-known style entity, Markle's choice of lookwill be a key moment in her gradual transition from  philanthropic, social-media star to de facto member of the royal family.'

According to Lainey Gossip, Meghan has had several fittings for the event:

'According to E! News, Meghan will be at the ceremony, the reception, and the after-party; in other words, she’s invited to all parts of the wedding, not just the reception as was initially suggested. E! News is also reporting that Meghan’s had two fittings in Toronto for the event.'

Whilst we still don't know for certain if we'll see Meghan at the ceremony, I think it's safe to say she'll likely opt for an elegant, classic look most likely teamed with a hat for the occasion. For Meghan's first polo appearance she opted for the Antonio Berardi Double Breasted Sleeveless Dress.



Below we see the feminine Brocade Insert Pencil Dress by the designer. This dress would look amazing with the right hat.

Meghan is very close friends with designer Misha Nonoo, according to the Telegraph: "Misha Nonoo, the wife of Old Etonian Alexander Gilkes, has been credited for introducing Markle to Prince Harry so it would only be natural for Markle to replay the favour by wearing a piece from Nonoo's collection which she shows in New York." Perhaps the designer will create a bespoke look?


Another brand Meghan favours is 'label of the moment', Self Portrait. Their much-loved Azaelea dress would be a lovely choice with a crisp jacket.


Do you have any style predictions for Meghan tomorrow?

Sunday 7 May 2017

Harry and Meghan Hug for Second Polo Appearance!

What a treat this weekend has been! Meghan Markle made her second polo appearance as Harry participated in the Audi Polo at Coworth Park once again today. Our favourite photographer James Whatling covered the event and managed to capture fantastic snaps of the happy couple hugging before the game commenced. I'm not one to jump the gun, but I think you'll agree, it's very clear to see they are very much in love.


Harry slipped away from the crowd to share a moment with Meghan who likely gave him words of encouragement ahead of the game.


Yesterday, Meghan was much more visible alongside spectators including Prince Harry's confidant and mentor Mark Dyer. She was all smiles as she cheered on her Prince in a very stylish Antonio Berardi high-low dress and a crisp white blazer. It's excellent to see her there again supporting Harry - they are clearly prioritising spending time together and making their "long distance" relationship work.


Prince Harry was joined by Prince William today. They played in support of two charities particularly close to William's heart - Tusk Trust and Royal Marsden.


They were delighted to lead their team to victory in front a star-studded crowd.


Stars in attendance included Luke Evans and Emma Stone.


Meghan wore a tan trench coat and a white dress underneath.


As photos are incredibly limited, it's difficult to positively identify Meghan's pieces, however the team at Meghan's Mirror believe she wore the Burberry Silk Bishop Sleeved Trench. Crafted from lightweight silk and dyed in classic beige, the trench is belted at the waist. It's currently available at StyleBop. We know Meghan is a huge fan of Burberry and a classic trench is another stylish addition to her wardrobe.


Meghan sported her Oliver Peoples The Row O Malley NYC Sunglasses. They are described as "A collaboration between two American labels celebrated for subtle sophistication, Oliver Peoples The Row designs feminine renditions of iconic frame silhouettes, all featuring custom lenses crafted of colored mineral glass." They retail for $450 at Barneys


The cover of The Sun features a very romantic photo of Meghan and Harry sharing a kiss.

Our reader Bluhare referenced this excellent tweet from royal account The Regal Look. We hear your sentiments and echo them :)

The Regal Look Twitter Feed

The Telegraph reports Meghan will be at the entirety of Pippa Middleton's wedding on Saturday, 20 May. We can look forward to seeing the couple together there :)

Saturday 6 May 2017

Meghan Makes Her Polo Debut as She Cheers on Her Prince!

We have been eagerly awaiting Harry and Meghan's public debut in the UK, so as you can imagine it was delightful to see Meghan cheering on her prince at the polo this evening. Prince Harry travelled to Canada to spend Easter with his girlfriend, and now Meghan is in England making a very public show of support!


This will have been something which was carefully considered; polo appearances have been a staple when it comes to seeing royal couples together pre-engagement - photos of the Duchess of Cambridge at William's polo matches provided some of the best photos we saw before 2010. Prince Harry's first serious love, Chelsy Davy, was a regular on the polo scene during their relationship. Meghan looked proud as she clapped and cheered, and she chatted to other spectators.


The expression on Meghan's face in this photo perfectly sums up her excitement :)


The Telegraph reports:

'If ever proof was needed that Miss Markle is here to stay, then her decision to attend the polo, a sport so dear to the heart of Prince Harry, is it.
This was the first time that Prince Harry and Miss Markle have  been present at a public event together, the couple having previously been keen to avoid the cameras. Miss Markle’s appearance in the Royal box at Coworth Park, near Ascot in Berkshire, will inevitably spark further and excited speculation that the couple will one day wed - and possibly soon.'

Prince Harry participated in the Audi Polo Challenge at Coworth Polo Park in Ascot, Berkshire. 


Proceeds from the match go to two charities very close to his heart, Sentebale and WellChild. Of course, Harry's work with the latter organisation has garnered quite a few headlines this week. At the WellChild awards last October, Harry met a very special little boy, Ollie Carroll, who received the Inspirational Child Award. Harry was reunited with Ollie at Great Ormond Street Hospital where he spent an hour "making memories" with the terminally ill boy who suffers from Batten disease, which has led to him lose the ability to speak and walk. Ollie's mother Lucy described the private visit as"truly magical" and said a "bond was made". Polo matches William and Harry have participated in over the past decade have seen £10 million donated to organisations.


The couple are set to attend Pippa Middleton and James Matthew's wedding in Bucklebury on 20 May. It has been widely speculated Meghan will not be present at the ceremony - instead attending the reception. One royal watcher told the Telegraph: "This polo trip might just take a bit of the heat out of Meghan’s appearance at Pippa’s wedding."


A smiling Prince Harry poses for a photo with actor Matt Smith, who is becoming best known for playing Prince Philip in The Crown.


Write Royalty on Twitter made a very interesting observation on the man standing next to Meghan, who is actually Mark Dyer, long described as one of the most influential figures in Harry's life and often dubbed "a second father". Captain Dyer, a former Welsh Guards officer, worked as an equerry for Prince Charles in the '90s. He regularly drove to Eton to take William out for lunch and advised Harry about Sandhurst. Mark founded the management company MDM Bars and Pubs in 2009 and runs two public houses, the Sand’s End and the Brown Cow, in south-west London, both frequented by Prince Harry. When Mark married Amanda Kline, a Texan heiress, in 2010, Harry was an usher. Penny Juror once said Mark made such an impact because "he brought a touch of normality and simplicity". Harry and Mark remain incredibly close to this day and I think it very telling indeed Harry wanted Mark by Meghan's side today.


Meghan, who is on a break from filming Suits, looked effortlessly chic in a crisp white blazer and a navy midi dress.


The navy Antonio Berardi Double Breasted Sleeveless Dress (with thanks to the talented Laura). The $2965 dress features distinctive button detailing, high-low detail, a roundneck, faux flap pockets and back zip closure. It's available in limited sizing at Saks Fifth Avenue reduced to $1617.

Saks

Net-A-Porter stocks the dress in pink and describes it as "Antonio Berardi's Spring '17 collection is awash with saccharine shades. Tailored from fuchsia stretch-cady, this dress is peppered with masculine touches - the double-breasted front is a nod to classic suiting. It falls to an asymmetric hem that moves beautifully with each step".

Net-A-Porter

Meghan also wore the Aritzia Babaton Keith Jacket (another brilliant ID by Meghan's Mirror). It is described as "This take on the tailored blazer does away with a standard collar and plays with architectural tailoring. The Japanese basketweave fabric is textural and fluid, emphasizing the weighted drape." It retails for $195.

Aritzia
Meghan carried a polka dot clutch.


Hopefully this is the first of many polo appearances for Meghan :)

A special thank you to the wonderful James Whatling for his work today. This will potentially be a very memorable day in time to come. 

Tuesday 2 May 2017

Meet Meghan: One Young World - "They Are The Change"

Today we're beginning a new series on the blog that I've been completing research for in recent weeks. The idea for 'Meet Meghan' sprang to mind when several of you told me you didn't actually know anything about her apart from reports in various media outlets concerning her relationship with Harry. We'll be looking at an assortment of topics from her biography, career, interests, writing and style. Our first post is focused on Meghan's involvement with One Young World - an area which I think tells us a lot about her and one which would be of immense importance should she become a member of the Royal family one day.


Meghan's interests span a number of areas including gender-equality, modern day slavery, children, poverty and health. Her interests are rooted in her childhood when her parents exposed her to the realities of extreme poverty in countries such as Jamaica. Her activism began at just 11 when she forced a soap manufacturer to change an advert which implied women belong in the kitchen. Meghan wrote to a host of high-profile figures including then First Lady Hilary Clinton. Markle is a graduate of the prestigious Northwestern University theatre department, and also holds a bachelor's degree in International Relations from NU. Having worked at the US Embassy in Buenos Aires in 2002, humanitarian issues have always been on her mind. When she landed the role of Rachel Zane on Suits, it provided a platform for her to take on roles in areas of interest she felt passionate about supporting.


When asked how she balances fame and charity work, in a piece for her now defunct lifestyle website the Tig, she wrote:

"My life shifts from refugee camps to red carpets, I choose them both because these worlds can, in fact, coexist. I’ve never wanted to be a lady who lunches – I’ve always wanted to be a woman who works. And this type of work is what feeds my soul, and fuels my purpose."

Meghan is a counsellor for international charity One Young World, joining recognised leaders such as Prime Minister of Canada Justin Trudeau,  Kofi Annan, Bill Clinton, Crown Prince Haakon and Crown Princess Mette-Marit of Norway in the role. One Young World counsellors lend their global stature to the delegates' views and inspire them to create positive change. The organisation was founded in 2009 by David Jones and Kate Robertson. They are a UK-based charity that gathers together the brightest young leaders from around the world, empowering them to make lasting connections to create positive change. An annual summit is held, during which the most valuable young talent from global and national companies, NGOs, universities and other forward-thinking organisations are joined by world leaders to act as One Young World counsellors.


When asked why she joined the organisation, Meghan said:

'When I was asked to be a Counsellor at One Young World, my response was a resounding “yes.” One Young World invites young adults from all over the world who are actively working to transform the socio-political landscape by being the greater good. They are delegates who are speaking out against human rights violations, environmental crises, gender equality issues, discrimination and injustice. They are the change.'

Meghan participated in the One Young World 2014 Summit where she joined a panel for the 'Bridging the Gap' session. The panel was composed of Beth Comstock, Michelle Phan, Maya Sanbar, Sabine Chalmers and Sheryl Sandberg. Meghan discussed the need "for men to stand up and empower women. You need men to effect that change because at the end of the day, I think what scares people is this idea female empowerment is somehow threatening. No it's not. You empower women, you empower the community".


Meghan revealed that she vowed not to film scenes in a towel and encourages women in the industry to champion gender equality.

"In the show for example this season every script seemed to begin with Rachel enters wearing a towel and I said no, I’m not doing it anymore, I’m not doing it,” she said during a debate on gender equality. So I rang the creator and I was like, it’s just gratuitous, we get it, we’ve already seen it once. So I think at a certain point you feel empowered enough to just say no.
I think it’s a challenging thing to do if you don’t know your worth and your value for wanting to speak up. When you’re an auditioning actress years ago so hungry for work, of course you’re willing do things like that. For me, speaking up and being able to say I’m not going to do that anymore, has been a big shift for me personally."

A very special moment in the summit came when Meghan introduced a young Eritrean acitvist, Luwam, who literally ran from bullets to gain her freedom from slavery. Meghan described meeting her as "very emotional because it's just so humbling and she's just so incredible".


Meghan greets One Young World founder Kate Robertson at the Canadian Parliament ahead of the One Young World summit on Ottawa last year.


Meghan with Canadian House of Commons speaker, Geoff Regan.


Arriving for the 2016 opening ceremony with fellow Counsellor, UN Ambassador and good friend James Chau.


The summit gathered 1,300 young leaders from 196 countries around the world to discuss worldwide challenges alongside world leaders from across the globe, and to generate innovative solutions to the world's most pressing issues. The summit was opened by Prime Minister of Canada Justin Trudeau, who used the One Young World opening ceremony to launch his Prime Minister’s youth council of fifteen young Canadians, and called on the young leaders present to "make good use of your new global community [at One Young World] and do something great with it". Below, PM Trudeau and Meghan discussing politics and social issues.


In Ottawa, Meghan met Thuli Madonsela, a senior South African lawyer who recently won the Forbes Africa Person of the Year. Speaking to People she said: "What struck me about her was her personality, compassion and her brain. She is extremely bright. I wanted to know why she was involved in helping young people to discover themselves. She encountered some forms of discrimination and awkward moments. When she had this platform, she thought it was her job to make it easier for other young people to discover themselves and lead their fullest life. Apart from being smart, she’s a very balanced, mature, original thinker."


In March, a new photoshoot of the global leaders who attended the One Young World summit in Ottawa was released in Vanity Fair. Below, Meghan with Mary Robinson, former President of Ireland and former United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, poet Fatima Bhutto, and women’s rights activist Loujain al-Hathloul, all posed against the backdrop of the Ottawa skyline. In a crisp white dress and Aquazzura pumps, Meghan was in good company alongside the renowned leaders and activists.


One Young World is a wonderful organisation which has attracted support from world leaders, well-known philanthropists and celebrities. Seeing Meghan's involvement, and in particular hearing her views on empowerment, offers an interesting insight into her humanitarian work. In our next post in the series we'll be looking at her other philanthropic efforts.