Tuesday 25 September 2018

The Duchess of Sussex Goes Solo for 'Oceania' Opening

The Duchess of Sussex spent the evening at the Royal Academy of Arts for the opening of 'Oceania'.


It's been an incredible week filled with milestones for the Duchess; Meghan unveiled and launched her first solo project 'Together' with the inspirational women of the Hubb Community Kitchen. The event saw Meghan deliver a flawless first speech, during which she noted the importance of celebrating "what connects us rather than what divides us". Tonight, she ticked off another royal box - her first solo engagement as a member of the royal family at the Royal Academy, one of the Queen's patronages.


There was a large press pack in attendance, Meghan took a moment to wave at those waiting. Reporter Rebecca English said: "What a difference turning to the cameras and acknowledging them can make to a picture. It was really nice to see tonight."


The Duchess was greeted by representatives upon arrival.


Kensington Palace shared this photo of the Royal Academy.


‘Oceania’ is the first ever major survey of Oceanic art to be held in the United Kingdom. The exhibition celebrates the art of Melanesia, Micronesia and Polynesia, encompassing the vast Pacific region including New Guinea, Easter Island, Hawaii and New Zealand. ‘Oceania’ brings together around 200 works from public collections worldwide, spanning over 500 years.


The Mail reports: "While being introduced to a Māori guest Meghan did a 'hongi' a traditional greeting of rubbing noses. Meghan performed a hongi with several of her hosts, including New Zealand's high commissioner Sir Jerry Mateparae."


The Duchess enjoyed a tour of Oceania and viewed exhibits from different regions including, New Zealand, Fiji, Tonga and Australia.


With just three weeks to go until Harry and Meghan's sixteen day tours kicks off, it seems a very fitting choice to include the Commonwealth in Meghan's first solo engagement.


Meghan met the exhibition’s curators and artists as well as descendants linked to the works displayed.


Meghan was joined by 800 guests at the event.


She enjoyed a short performance by Ngāti Rānana, a Māori cultural group based in London. It aims to provide 'an environment to teach, learn and participate in Māori culture and to promote New Zealand.


Oceania coincides with the 250th anniversary of the Royal Academy, which was founded in 1768 - the same year Captain James Cook set out on his first Endeavour expedition.


More from the Royal Academy of Arts:

'The year is 1768, and Britain is in the throes of the Age of Enlightenment. As a group of artists agrees to found the Royal Academy, Captain James Cook sets sail on a voyage of discovery to track the transit of Venus and search for terra australis incognita – the unknown southern continent, as Europeans called it. What Cook and his crew encounter on arrival is a vast number of island civilisations covering almost a third of the world’s surface: from Tahiti in Polynesia, to the scattered archipelagos and islands of Melanesia and Micronesia.'

The exhibition was organised around three main themes. Voyaging looks at life on the water as revealed through the stories of indigenous navigation. Place-making explores the settlement of communities and Encounter focuses on trade and exchange in Pacific cultures. Below, Niuean artist John Pule’s 10-metre-wide, 2.7-metre-high odyssey Kehe tau hauaga foou (To all new arrivals).


From The Telegraph's review: "A great cascading tidal wave of blue greets visitors to the Royal Academy’s latest exhibition, the first ever survey of Oceanic art held in Britain. This blue tsunami is an enormous ultramarine embroidered textile, 36ft long, dominating the central octagonal hall at Burlington House. Suspended high above our heads, it flows down before “splashing” onto the ground, its chevron-like pattern evoking the rippling surface of the sea. The dazzling “textile drop” is an artwork by Mata Aho, a collective of four Maori women inspired by traditional Polynesian textile art. It is also a warning. Woven out of pieces of ordinary tarpaulin, it offers a frightening vision of a plastic ocean, clogged with human junk, threatening to overwhelm us as sea-levels continue to rise."


Below, an iconic navigational chart from the Marshall Islands. It is described as "deceptively simple: this knotted grid of sticks was not intended as a literal map but was deployed as a mnemonic device to unlock the wealth of intangible knowledge required for long-distance voyaging. Using visual and sensory cues from the atmosphere, highly skilled priest-navigators learned to “read” their way through the constantly shifting landscape of the ocean; fixing a star or constellation as a point of reference in the sky, they were able to carve out pathways to arrive at their destination".


Contemporary pieces on display include 'In Pursuit of Venus' by New Zealand artist Lisa Reihana.


More from the academy. "Inspired by a set of early 19th-century French wallpaper panels, Reihana reconfigures their Eurocentric vision of an exotic and largely acquiescent Pacific paradise with a series of vignettes that celebrate the agency and customary knowledge of contemporary Islanders."


In the video below, the artist talks to curator Rhana Devenport about the panoramic video which formed part of her exhibition, representing New Zealand at the 2017 Venice Biennale.


More from The Mail Online:

'While given a tour of the exhibit Meghan viewed many of the 200 artefacts on show at the exhibition and told New Zealand video artist Lisa Reihani 'It's so special. It's spectacular.'
The Duchess said it was a perfect introduction to the region she and Harry will be visiting next month.
'It's a great introduction to the sights and sounds of that part of the world,' she added. 
Carmel Sepuloni, New Zealand's associate minister of arts, culture and heritage, told them: 'What a great honour it is to have Her Royal Highness to attend this event as her first solo duty as a member of the Royal Family.' 

A drawing of a tattoo sketched by one of the earliest Māori visitors to Britain.


A 19th-century Fijian necklace of carved whale ivory pendants suspended from lengths of plaited coconut fibre cord. Rare and valuable, the necklace would have been worn by a leader or chief of high status. The ivory of sperm whales was coveted in the ritual gift economy of Western Polynesia. Access to this resource was restricted and crafted only by specialist artists. Whales were deemed divine beings and not hunted.


The Duchess views the necklace.


This figure of a Polynesian deity, known as A’a, is one of the British Museum’s most famous Oceanic artefacts. A’a was created on the island of Rurutu, in the late 16th or 17th century. "A’a was admired by a number of influential artists such as Pablo Picasso and Henry Moore. Both artists acquired casts of the figure and the British Museum presented Moore with a bronze of A’a on his 80th birthday. In 2015, a tiny red feather was discovered, caught on a splinter of wood inside the cavity. Red feathers were considered sacred across Polynesia, so its presence is further evidence of the significance of this extraordinary figure."


'Publicity material for the show warns visitors that it “includes many objects that Pacific Islanders consider living treasures”, saying “some may pay their respects and make offerings through the duration of the exhibition”. Christopher Le Brun, president of the RA, said the exhibition “deliberately avoids showing Oceania through European eyes”.
Professor Nicholas Thomas, director of the Museum of Anthropology and Archaeology in  Cambridge and co-curator of the RA show, said the strength of the exhibition lay with a “sea change in scholarship. Academics and curators no longer think we're the experts, and that we should gather together objects that interest us and write labels about them,” he said. We now assume we’ve got an awful lot to learn from the communities from which these pieces are collected.'

‘Oceania’ will run at the Royal Academy of Arts from 29th September – 10th December 2018. It is an absolutely fascinating and hugely educational exhibition. If you would like to book tickets, click here to visit the Royal Academy of Arts website. The Oceania catalogue is available for pre-order on the Online Shop website.


Before departing, the Duchess received a posy from Rima and Kotai, whose father was involved in the exhibition.


Meghan departing.


And that's another successful milestone for Meghan!


The Duchess was elegant in Givenchy tonight.


Meghan's dress is a bespoke version of the Black Velvet-Appliquéd Midi Dress with pleated sheer sleeves (with thanks to Meghan's Fashion).


Below, the shorter version of the Givenchy Velvet-Appliqued Dress. Made in Italy, it's described as "Givenchy's black minidress is tailored with a crepe bodice and sheer blouson plissé sleeves. This style is appliquéd at the front with a triangular panel of plush velvet."

Meghan is wearing her Aquazzura Deneuve Pumps. Made in Italy, the stiletto heels are described as "A pert bow perched at the back ties together the chic detailing of a pointy-toe pump featuring side cutouts and a super slim stiletto." They are also available in red at Nordstrom.



Meghan carried her black Givenchy clutch.


And accessorised with her Birks Snowstorm Diamond Earrings. The $12,000 pair are described as "Inspired by the icy beauty of Canadian winters, these 2.15ct diamond earrings are crafted in 18kt white gold."


A closer look at the earrings.


Today marks exactly one year since Meghan joined Harry for their first official joint appearance at the Invictus games in Toronto. Little did we know then that just twelve months later Meghan would be an established working royal and the couple would be just weeks away from marking the Invictus Games again - this time as a married couple representing Her Majesty in the Commonwealth. What a year it's been!


A reminder Meghan features in 'Queen of the World' on ITV at 9.15 pm tonight.

115 comments:

  1. She really looks beautiful! Her pink lipstick and her gorgeous hair make her look just stunning, and I never use that word. Looking forward to seeing more of the dress. And those diamond earrings. :)

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  2. She obviously loves black, much like me:)

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    1. Love black me too!

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    2. So do I....her dress is beautiful, love the velvet applique and addition of the belt(also velvet?) And the high slit makes the midi length work with those gorgeous shoes. She also appears engaged and very much at ease at this event; it's easy to forget that she's only been a working royal for 4 months!

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  3. I want to like this but the velvet (?) panel makes it look like graduation outfit.

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  4. Looks like this dress

    https://www.givenchy.com/america/en/midi-dress-with-pleated-sleeves/BW209810EF-001.html?cgid=DRESSES_W#start=1


    Sorry but hate that triangular panel to me looks like something worn for graduation without that panel I would really like it

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    1. For me, that detail gives more life to it.:)

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    2. I agree, Beth. Graduation gown came to my mind as well. I like the shorter version better, just lighter feeling.

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    3. I was getting choir robe vibes. The dress is nice, but I don’t care for the velvet panel.

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    4. Tammy from California26 September 2018 at 01:06

      I agree Beth. This dress was a miss for me.

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  5. gorgeous make up but I really really wish she could have worn a different color.

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  6. She looks stunning!

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  7. Meghan has been quite the busy bee lately. I'm having a hard time keeping up Lol! This is such a great event and I'm glad that she is attending, I'm looking forward to seeing some lovely pieces from the exhibition.

    I didn't get a chance to say this before but I will now, Meghan and her mom Doria have just been the picture of class and grace. I was so moved when I saw Doria attending the launch of the cookbook last week. The love and joy shared amongst the women was truly uplifting and heart-warming to me :)

    On a fashion note, I wish that Meghan didn't wear black today. I don't really get the deal with wearing black for evening events.
    Black can be elegant when worn once in a while but it's starting to get a little boring for me because Meghan wears it so often. Hoping to see some lovely colour on the upcoming tour (just my 2 cents).

    Love Avee in SA

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  8. I'm REALLY digging the more glamorous make-up approach tonite! Perfect for the event.

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  9. She's just gorgeous one of my favorite outfits

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  10. Beautiful and elegant as always!

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  11. Elegant in her simplicity, as always. The earrings and shoes are the perfect accessories to complete the fashion statement. I have come to expect nothing less from her classic style choices.

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  12. She is absolutely fabulous. I love the dress, the shoes, the hair, the make-up... Everything! I like the dress, the velvet makes it more elegant, and soooo classy. The makeup is perfect for the event, and those shoes, such a good choice. Tonight, Meghan is an "art masterpiece" herself! (curiosity...Is she wearing tights?)

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    1. No, i don't think she is

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    2. Definitely not wearing stockings. I saw a close up picture of the shoes and it was very obvious.

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  13. Love her outfit,it's clear she wants to put the focus on the event.
    I will return to comment about that event,when Charlotte will post more info.

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    1. I agree. It's interesting thinking back to the cookbook launch where we were so much more taken by the event itself rather than her clothes (black then too, except the coat) and maybe she is attempting to get that level of interest in the events that she attends

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  14. The Duchess looks lovely. The dress is not for me, and another colour would have been nice. She still looks well groomed. Her makeup is just so natural looking not to much around her eyes, very soft looking. But those shoes are to die for, just love them. So nice to see her out and about I think she is doing really well.

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  15. My first thought, "what a lovely dress" my second thought, "why black?". The long sleeves, midi length and crew neckline is a lot of black. Much more somber than what each of us has in our closets that we would describe as a LBD.

    I think this dress is perfect for Festival of Remembrance on November 10th. I wish she would have chosen something different for the Oceania exhibition which celebrates the art of Melanesia, Micronesia and Polynesia, encompassing the vast Pacific region including New Guinea, Easter Island, Hawaii and New Zealand. All very colorful regions.

    My 2-cents. Love the dress - not for this occasion.

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    1. I like your idea of her having worn something from or indicative of the Oceania region vrry much.

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    2. I agree that color would have been a nice touch for this engagement. I appreciate that she likes to wear black and her choices are sophisticated, but I also think that wearing it so often will take away from the more solemn official engagements.

      And at the risk of sounding like a broken record, I think mixing in a recycle here and there would be a wise move, especially when the Queen and other senior royal ladies do so quite often.

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    3. She has worn the shoes before. The pants she wore yesterday, she has also worn before. Also, a lot of her clothes, jewelry & shoes, she owned & wore, prior to Harry. Considering, Meghan has only been officially a royal for 4 months, she’s done plenty of rewear.
      Dena

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    4. Yes I agree I wish she would recycle a few things. I am losing track of the earlier stuff she wore and I know there were a couple of things there that I did want to buy. So a few recycles would be good.

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    5. I am with you Dena. We are talking about a woman who is a royal for 4 months.

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  16. My goodness, this girl has style. And a great deal of confidence. Rebecca English’s comment about how Meghan took a moment to acknowledge and wave to the waiting reporters is huge. It has always bothered me when I hear of the other senior Royals being less than courteous...

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  17. I appreciate her professional approach to her wardrobe, and I share her lean toward black formal wear. Over 2 weeks of multiple events, I expect that we will see more variation during the tour. Like a tux, these outfits can be worn multiple times and serve a function. She was not there to compete with the marvelous colors of the art and artifacts, after all. Great year -- she and her relationship with Harry have given me a lot of joy and relief from the grind of the news this year. And since coming across this site, I have gotten lots of pleasure and information from you, too, Charlotte. So THANKS!

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  18. What a cool exhibit. I love that it is Oceania through their eyes not through European eyes. Can't wait to check it out. I like the black dress. It's a good go to color for evening events. Meghan looks very pulled together. I wonder if the British designers are feeling a little left out of her closet these days?

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  19. Love this look. I find black to be super classic and a great fall back. The velvet details give it some interest, as well as the slit, the sheer sleeves, and the belt. She looks great. Love that shot of her holding the flowers.

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  20. Love the lipstick! Way to go Megs!!

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  21. Love her sleek hair, Wow she’s sophisticated, totally opposite of all the other women Harry dated, just can’t say enough about how lucky Harry is!

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  22. Love this engagement, looks totally up my alley!!!

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  23. Wow! That's an incredible exhibit. I'm so sad I can't see it. I'll see if they will ship the exhibition catalog to the States.

    I agree up thread with BethW that the velvet inset is reminiscent of a graduation gown. Also, the dress is a lot of black. When she first got out of her car, I thought she was wearing a long black winter coat. I like the mini dress version better. Less somber and more celebratory. She is glowing even in the midst of the wall of black though.

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    1. I agree as well, that this dress is looking more and more like a graduation gown to me. But overall, I do like her polished appearance. I hope she spruces up her wardrobe for the tour,Its starting to get tiring looking at her similar color/design wardrobe,XOXO Siddhi

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    2. Siddhi, I can't wait for the tour wardrobe. I can't imagine it will only be black/ neutrals as she needs to be seen in the crowds and pop out in the photographs. Also, I'm sure she will source local designers and I'm excited to see what she picks. I know we aren't supposed to compare but for me, it will be interesting to see the vibe of Meghan's tour wardrobe as opposed to Kate's Australia/ New Zealand tour wardrobe.

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  24. Shantel (@FashionandFaith)25 September 2018 at 21:56

    I really want to see this exhibit! That blue textile is amazing. Is it weird that I think a similar textile would make a fabulous midi skirt? "In Pursuit of Venus" is breathtaking. I love the focus on the perspective of the people of Oceania. It's just incredible!

    Now, on to Meghan. Glamorous. Gorgeous. Graceful. I love the look! I do see what some people are saying as far as the panel giving off a "graduation" vibe (at first glance it does look like she's just been given her Master's Hood), but it works for her. Let's be honest: there is very little that doesn't work for her! Ha! She seemed genuinely engaged, happy to be there, and I love that she closed her own car door and looked ever so ladylike when she did it (great photo choice, Charlotte!).

    I'd say this first solo engagement is a success. On to the next! #HitTheGroundRunningAndDontStop

    Shantel
    Minnesota, USA

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    1. I think the textile idea you have is great! And if that is possible, she should wear that for the New Zealand visit.

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  25. I love her work ethic.

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  26. The art exhibition sounds quite interesting, thanks for the article. Incredible that only one year ago today, Meghan was still working on Suits and introduced to the world as Prince Harry’s girlfriend at Invictus Games. Now they’re married & Meghan has just completed her 1st solo official royal engagement, wow!

    It seems to me, that Meghan is trying to keep the focus on the events, as it should be. I thought she looked confident & head-to-toe gorgeous! There’s never the same reference & details about what the male members are wearing in comparison to the ad-nauseam nitpicking about the female members of the Royal Family. That’s why I like that this blog provides so much interesting information other than what was worn. Thanks.

    Dena

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  27. So extraordinary! What I love about your posts Charlotte is that they give us all as readers a glimpse into what the Duchess saw, who she met, and why the event matters to the Royal Family at this time. Thank you, thank you, thank you!

    And, of course, these posts give us a glimpse into what she wore. All I can say is, she looks absolutely breathtaking. Givenchy is stealing my fashion attention one fabulous look at a time!

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    1. Totally agree,the blog is awesome because of this!
      It's not only for fashion!
      That's why I come and comment here:)
      Thanks Charlotte,your work is stunning!

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  28. Meghan looks stunning! The dress,earrings, shoes--simply perfect! I love the bouquet as well.

    No PPO helping with the car door at arrival. I wonder if this is Meghan's preference?

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    1. I thought the same thing. Funny that she closed the car door herself. Not what one would expect from a Royal but very endearing.

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  29. Meghan looked stunning and appeared to handle her first solo event with great aplomb. The dress is not my favorite look of hers, but a few photos gave me the impression that this could very well be one that doesn’t photograph well from every angle, but possibly IRL might actually be beautiful. Can’t wait for the commonwealth tour to start!

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  30. Wow, it's already (and only) been a year since Meghan's first official outing as Harry's girlfriend? It boggles my mind how much has been crammed into one year. I know I keep saying it, but I really am impressed with the amount of work she's done in this year. In my opinion, this is what being a working royal means. I'd had my reservations about Meghan at the very first (especially when those weird photos surfaced of her with Harry at a beach wedding), but she's really won me over and continued to impress me.

    I know everyone has their own opinion on the senior royals' relationship with the press, but I really think Rebecca English's comment about Meghan's acknowledgment says it all (and then some!). I'm firmly in the camp of the other senior royals needing to take a page from Meghan's book on this.

    More black, yes, but Meghan looks elegant -- and again, remember that she probably wanted to commission a beginning set of work outfits back when she was still engaged. I'm sure we'll see a bit more color from her as the years go by. Probably not a ton of color, as Meghan obviously likes black, but some. Her upcoming tour wardrobe will really be a time to showcase color, if she's going to.

    My only qualm about this outfit is the length -- I prefer the shorter version on the model and think Meghan could've gotten away with that, as well. I also prefer her hair wavy/curly, but the makeup is gorgeous and those earrings are pretty.

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  31. She looks stunning tonight. There is such a difference in her make up today, she is glowing and radiant. I felt yesterday, she was washed out with all the dark colors and hair. I love this dress, it’s so elegant and appropriate. For some reason, I don’t mind the black this time but I would like to see color for her daytime events. Sinead

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  32. Very classy! I like the proportions of the shorter dress better. And I think this would make a lovely evening look with a long skirt. But still, a great look. Love that Meghan mixes up hair textures.

    On another note, where on earth is Surfer Girl? Haven't seen a post from you in a while, SG!

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    1. I'm not Surfer Girl - but wanted to agree with you. When I saw the shorter, shift style dress, I thought, that's cute! More so than the midi style Meg has on (yes, I called her Meg). :-)

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    2. Rhonda - Wisconsin26 September 2018 at 03:22

      Hi Heather. Surfer Girl is taking a break. I know that we all miss her deeply.

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    3. I do believe currently mid calf fashion is on trend as it is all over high end retail stores. I also think for an evening event it appears more formal as the gentlemen were in tux. Meghan could appear in a potato sack and look fabulous!

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    4. I love longer looks. I think it's the line of the garment that does it for me. And Meghan is walking proof that mid calf lengths definitely don't have to look frumpy!

      But what I think is great is that she acknowledges the cameras and waves. It makes her look a bit more approachable.

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  33. Oh, to view this wonderful art exhibit. It would be marvelous if the Royal Academy sent the exhibit to the States next year.

    I knew before logging on today that Meghan would be wearing black - her go-to color. I do so wish she would choose some other colors. Black is not the only neutral out there! That said, I liked the dress although I wish she had chosen the pleated sleeves to give it more interest. But, she looked beautifully polished tonight. Is she letting her hair grow? It looks lovely!

    On a side note - I ordered my Together cookbook today and another to gift a friend. Also, thank you, once again, Charlotte, for all your work in making this site enjoyable and informative.

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  34. Meghan the Duchess of Sussex is a beautiful woman, but she consistently wears IMO the most unflattering and hideous dresses and blouses. Her coats and jewelry are always stylish and her handbags and shoes are "to die for" but unless she (again IMO) wears trouser suits she mostly fails miserably. This dress is another ill fitted one that just overwhelms her adorable figure. I am totally befuddled by her choices. I say if she likes trouser suits wear them and skip the dresses unless it is a very formal engagement. Givenchy is not doing her any favors with these sort of ill fitting styles. I think about the gorgeous McCartney she wore as compared to her wedding gown or that wonderful ensemble she wore to Ireland with the green skirt compared to the that ugly dress she wore to the christening. She has access to ALL of the most fabulous designers in the world and she's picked Givenchy. ?????

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    1. I don’t see where the dress is ill fitting at all. It certainly can’t be expected to be super skin tight like her “Suits” dresses, with not a wrinkle or fold. . On the contrary, I think it is one of the better fitting dresses she has worn. At first look I was disappointed to see black again, but after noticing the details of the dress, the front panel, sheer sleeves, etc., I vote it a definite thumbs up.

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    2. Nicole from France27 September 2018 at 12:56

      Excuse me, did I read well ? Givenchy beeing unable to fit a dress correctly ? I suppose. You would prefer Erdem, who is hardly able to choose a correct print for the clothes he makes, not speaking of the design ..... just for’information, apparently tight fitting clothes are running off of fashion .....

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    3. Meghan is wearing this dress because SHE likes it. Her clothes are tailored the way SHE wishes. I don’t agree that they are ugly or ill fitting—perhaps her taste differs from yours. Shouldn’t be “befuddling” really.

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  35. What a lovely exhibit and I think it was a great choice for a first solo outing for Meghan. She always looks so engaged with whatever she’s doing.
    Fashion-wise, I think she looks great. I just don’t like the velvet panel.

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  36. A wonderful first solo engagement. I love that the event ties in directly with the upcoming tour. Great way to build excitement and interest for both the Royal Academy’s exhibit and interest in the upcoming tour.

    I think Meghan looked fantastic tonight. The dress maybe new, but everything else was a recycle. This is a great standard LBD and I am sure we will see it again. I suspect we are seeing a lot of new clothing, mainly because she’s new to the role. I know I buy new clothes when I change jobs or get a new position. Something about starting fresh. The black does not bother me at all. It seems like many other guests were also dressed in semi-dressy attire, so Meghan fit right in. It will be interesting to see how many more engagements Meghan has before the tour. I am guessing she will have a lot of packing and studying to do in the next several weeks.

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  37. Charlotte, thank you so much for giving us some history and background on the events Meghan attends. I especially appreciate this insight into the fabulous Oceanic art, and the photos that let us appreciate a few of these amazing pieces. I think Meghan looks very classy for this event.

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  38. Elegant, effortless, A+++. The perfect Duchess.

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  39. Intrigued By Royals26 September 2018 at 00:22

    I usually would complain about another black outfit, but I really like this dress! The velvet panel creates interest and paired with belt and shoes it is a spectacular look for the Duchess!

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  40. Perhaps it's a small thing, but I absolutely love that the Duchess wears both her wedding and engagement rings. :)

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    1. Nancy, I have always assumed most women wear both if they have an engagement ring. Maybe your experience is different?

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  41. This exhibit looks fascinating, thanks for the details Charlotte!
    I'm underwhelmed by the dress but think Meghan looks beautiful. I think a color (sea colors?) would've worked better for this event; black is safe, though. I also agree with another comment re: ill-fitting dresses & Meghan - sometimes she chooses things that aren't very flattering, and this is less so than the blue ruffle dress. This is a classy look, but her proportions - long legs v torso - are better suited for shorter dresses, in my opinion.

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  42. Oh i love the history of the oceanic heart art i love meghan shade of make up and lipstick she look lovely she engage what she doing

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  43. Amazing event and classy appearance from the duchess!

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  44. Thanks for the information on the art exhibition, Charlotte. It looks fascinating, and I would love to see it. I think the Givenchy dress fits Meghan very well. The collar, shoulder, sleeves and hips sit beautifully on her figure. I see the "ill-fitting" comment applied to numerous Meghan;s choices, and I just don't understand where all these charges of "ill-fitting" come from. Could someone please point out where something doesn't fit? Midi dresses are not everyone's cup of tea, but not liking the look of the length on someone would not make something ill-fitting. Going back to the wedding dress, many also said it was ill-fitting, comparing it to Kate's dress which fit her like a glove. The fit of Kate's dress was exquisite, but I think Meghan's dress was not intended to hug the body, but fall away from it. In fact, the dress almost looks nun-like. To get to my point, when observations are made that Meghan's clothes don't fit her, what do they mean? If a style is not meant to hug the body, then the way it looks doesn't mean it doesn't fit. All that being said, I'm in the camp of wishing Meghan had worn a colour. However, I imagined the dress in a colour, say red, or rust, and the change would really make Meghan stand out, and perhaps all we would see would be the dress because it would stand out so much. I thought Meghan herself looked beautiful as usual, and love the bouquet she received. It looked really exotic and didn't contain the usual types of flowers.

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  45. Joanne in California26 September 2018 at 02:23

    I really like this outfit on her....beautiful/classy. She has just been doing so much in such a short time! She really has hit the ground running. Can't wait to see her during their tour.

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  46. This look is a 1000 percent success. She looks sophisticated and regal, very much like Crown Princess Mary of Denmark. Meghan wears clothes that are confident and simple. I could imagine wearing this to any non-formal evening event here in Washington; at an art gallery or charity dinner, or the theatre. She looks like real people. I only wish this show could travel to the United States. I wish I could see it.

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  47. Another wonderful blog. Charlotte, I have learned so much. Thank you! Your blog is like coming to a history class. Fantastic! I just absorbed the info. The Duchess of Sussex showed such confidence and professionalism today, and really looked lovely doing it. She really seems to like black but don’t be too disappointed, she’ll lighten things up. Remember when she stepped out in bright yellow😁

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  48. Agreed. She looks very classy. Great outfit. And I learned some about Oceanic art. I loved the Maori hongi greeting. I wonder if Americans could adopt that greeting. Might make us more united b/c nose to nose is intimate! I also think she's pregnant. Just a guess by looking at her torso in a few photos.

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    1. I think she is probably pregnant too.

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  49. Just out of curiosity, why did she not go with Harry? I know being new to the royal family must be tough, but I'd love to give it a try!! ;-)

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  50. Meghan’s makeup looks especially fabulous tonight! Not super in love with the dress but those shoes are my fave!!!! Too bad they are so expensive!!! She is rocking this life!!!!

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  51. Thank you for the lovely post, Charlotte, and for all your hard work! The exhibition must be so exciting and special. Doing "hongi" is definitely good practice before the up-coming tour!
    As for the dress, I don't like it as such but I do like how Meghan looks in it.
    Seeing the gentleman who welcomed Meghan, I immediately recognised him from several events with the Duchess of Cambridge and it made me think how nice it would be to see the sisters-in-law at a similar event together!

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  52. She looks beyond gorgeous I love givenchy pieces on her. I love that she wears Canadian birks earrings too they are very beautiful I'm so proud of meghsn snd glad this solo engagement went so well she's very regal Harry is a lucky man hope we see a baby soon it will be one of the cutest on the planet

    Thanks Charlotte

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  53. I actually really love this outfit (I often find her clothes ill-fitting). It does come off a little "space suit" at times, but overall I think Meghan looks really chic and - my god- I've seen those earrings before, but they really sparkle tonight and I'm a bit envious. Well done tonight, Meghan. I do hope Rebecca English's comment wasn't meant to be a dig at Kate or even the rest of the royals.

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  54. Mollie, from what I have been reading, part of the Royal training is to prepare individuals, like both Duchesses, to do solo engagements. The Duchess of Cambridge went through the same training and started to taking solo engagements. Princes William and Harry, may, at times, have conflicting schedules with their wives agenda, and the wives can go solo. Also, it is probably a good evaluation to see how a person, in training, handles him or herself WITHOUT on site guidance or supervision. IMO, the Duchess of Sussex did very well today. She even closed her own car door.

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    1. Hi Marcia, Thanks. Agreed that she did very well!! And I just read about her closing her own car door. Good for her.

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  55. @CeeCee @10:57. I don’t think so. I’ve seen the Duchess of Cambridge turn to wave at the cameras. Not every time, but she’s done it before. The Duchess of Sussex probably won’t do it every time. However, the Duchess of Sussex, being an actress, and being comfortable in front of a camera, makes it easier for her to make that kind of gesture.

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    1. Yep, having been in front of a camera, she's a natural!!

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  56. Theresa - Austin, Texas26 September 2018 at 14:02

    Charlotte....I saw a tweet yesterday from a royal reporter (and now it's all over the news) about how they had never seen a royal close their own car door. I recall when Kate was new to her royal duties seeing a video (I think you had posted it) of her closing her own car door, too. It stuck in my mind because I knew that the car doors are always closed by someone else. Do you remember this or have a video an engagement where this happened? Thanks so much!

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    1. Hello, yes Kate and other royals have done it. The story has become a source of great amusement on Twitter today :)

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    2. I would be willing to bet that the one royal who never, ever, closes his own door is the Prince of Wales.

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    3. Theresa - Austin, Texas26 September 2018 at 19:01

      I commented on Twitter to Victoria Murphy that I had seen a video of Kate doing it. She asked if I could tell her which video/engagement it was, but I couldn't remember. Do you recall a specific one that I can respond to her with?

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    4. Theresa - Austin, Texas26 September 2018 at 20:45

      Charlotte...I just saw a couple of tweets that have videos of Kate shutting her own car door. Victoria Murphy was included in those tweets, so she has those video clips now.

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    5. And don't forget - remember the photo of her picking up the water bottle that had perhaps fallen outside of the car?

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  57. Just perfect, all of it. Good for her. The dress is lovely, it looks nothing like a graduation gown. The earrings and shoes are fantastic. She handled herself with poise and grace - well done indeed!!

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    1. I wish my graduation gown looked like this..........

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    2. It’s the use of velvet in that shape it brought memories of getting my doctorate. As I said I would love the dress if it was all one fabric without that triangular velvet panel. And just because I don’t love the dress, it doesn’t mean I don’t love and respect Meghan. She is doing an amazing job. But I don’t need to love every fashion choice, in order to respect the job she is doing so well

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  58. I love the dress but think the shoes are a bit twee. I am a fuddy duddy when it comes to shoes and would not touch a bow with a barge pole. But overall I think the whole look is one of utmost sophistication. I don't think Meghan has ever worn something that is anything but sophisticated, to me at least. One may not *like* her clothes or like the fact that she wears a lot black or that she sticks to plain neutral shades but you can't deny that everything she wears is chic and sophisticated. I absolutely love her sense of style and her color palette. My own style is very very much like this. Just with one less zero behind every article I buy LOL.
    I went ahead and bought that all saints ridley sweater - love love love it. Can't wait to wear it when it gets cold here.

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    1. I agree about Meghan being chic and sophisticated, she has a very clear cut vision of a working woman's wardrobe, and so far I like it very much. Probably the two words we will never read about her is matronly and girlish.

      And now I not only envy your bag collection but that sweater...:)

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    2. Nicole from France27 September 2018 at 12:50

      Rosman , I entirely agree with you, some of Meghan’s clothes I do not like completely , but I always like the classy and sophisticated look , and the feeling she gives that she is the one who made the choice and not an aide or a stylist, besides she always favours beautifull materials , a thing I am quite susceptible to .... hope we can see you wearing the sweater .....

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  59. I really like her hair straight, looks very elegant. And I love those shoes! She is doing a great job.

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  60. Anyone wishes to watch "Queen of the world 1"? Here is the link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SkIlZxZBpRQ&feature=youtu.be

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  61. Congrats to the Duchess of Sussex. She has officially joined other Royals in “closing her own car door”. Further proof that she does NOT think “she is better than anyone else”. Thanks, Charlotte for confirming this little detail.

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  62. There are more comments talking about Kate than Meghan on this site that I had to make sure I was on the right site.

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  63. Meghan has a lovely figure, an amazing confidence and a clear ease with people. This dress is not flattering. Still, it looks like the exhibit was really a success and she charmed everyone:)

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  64. Charlotte- since this is a site about Meghan and there is a separate one for Kate can you ask your commenters to express their Kate comments on the other relevant site. This thread in particular has so many comments on Kate that makes me wonder who this blog is about. Also can we please stop comparing the 2 women. The same folks who cry foul when Meghan is praised and they think its an implicit put down of Kate now are wanting to vompare tour wardrobes. This really takes away from the joy of reading this blog. Its the same commenters that seem to want to find faults with Meghan in every blog post here despite the substance of her engagements. If you dont like her at all why bother reading about her?

    Pri

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    1. Since I was the one who made the comment about comparing the tour wardrobes, I must be the "commenters" to which you are referring. That's just a thing I find interesting. Its not to put one down and raise the other one up. I love clothes and I find what one chooses to wear for specific occasions interesting. That's basically why I'm on these blogs. So, where there will be a lot of similarities between the tours, I'll find it interesting how each lady chose to dress for certain events. I don't expect anyone else to have the same interest.

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    2. Its one thing to be interested in the clothes and another to invite unnecessary comparisons between the two women. This is just inviting veiled criticism and unpleasant comments and this is despite Charlotte mentioning not to compare the women. Also it appears to me that comparisons on certain topics are not welcome by the same set of folks and other comparisons are okay. You can’t pick and choose. I’d rather prefer to read about Meghan on this blog and thats why i come to this blog.
      Pri

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    3. I really don't know what you are talking about, so all I can think is that you are confusing me with someone else or we are having some sort of language barrier. Just to be very clear about this, I have zero intention of coming over here and comparing the clothes. It's something I'll do in my head all by myself. I just said I was looking forward to doing so.

      I will point out that you defended Rosman's right to express her opinion over on Duchess Kate, so apparently it is only ok to express one's opinion over there, or only Rosman, not me, can express an opinion or it's only ok to express an opinion that is critical of Kate which is what Rosman's comment was. That's picking and chosing from my point of view.

      Lastly, Charlotte published my comments. If she had a problem with anything I was saying, she would not have allowed it. I don't know why you feel you need to police comments Charlotte has obviously approved.

      I really don't have any idea what you mean by " the same set of folks" which must be me not welcoming certain comparisons but welcoming others. Honestly, I think you have me confused with another poster.

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  65. Thank you for a well put together blog, Charlotte. There is so much information of the event the Duchess participated in, I for one have learnt a lot on the Royal Academy of Arts thanks to your informative page.

    The Duchess is doing really well. She is a woman of substance

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  66. I am big fan of Meghan dressing sense. She always wear gentle and beautful dresses and this time she looking fabulous with her black dress.

    Thanks!
    embroidery patches for clothes
    leather vest back patches

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  67. Hello! I'm the person who commented a couple of weeks back regarding the importance of including macrons when writing Māori words - so sorry that my comment came through as anonymous! I just wanted to say how amazing it is to see that you've taken it on board. I particularly love the thought that, when it comes to this issue of cultural respect, you are clearly more enlightened than Kensington Palace. Can't wait to read your coverage of the tour! :-)

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  68. Just had to note, I love this dress! Meghan looks so professional and regal. Can't believe, we now know, she was pregnant here!

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Welcome to Mad About Meghan! We do so look forward to reading your thoughts. Constructive, fair debate is always encouraged. Hateful, derogatory terms and insults are not welcome here. This space focuses on Harry and Meghan, not any other member of the Royal family. It's not the place to discuss politics either. Thank you for reading, we look forward to your comments :)