Saturday 21 April 2018

The Queen's Birthday Party: Harry and Meghan Celebrate the Monarch's 92nd Birthday!

On Her Majesty's 92nd birthday, members of the British Royal family gathered at the Royal Albert Hall for the Queen's Birthday Party - a night of music, song and celebration in honour of our beloved Monarch.


The concert comes at the end of a historic week which saw many Commonwealth leaders in London for the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting. The Royal family were out in force for an array of receptions, meetings, audiences and a glittering State dinner.  During her speech at the dinner the Queen said it remains a "great pleasure and honour to serve you" and to observe "with pride and satisfaction that this is a flourishing network". At the end of the summit, leaders decided Prince Charles will succeed his mother as Head of the Commonwealth.


Attendance was not announced before the concert, however, many of us felt sure Meghan would join Harry. It's been an important week for the couple, which saw Harry named Commonwealth Youth Ambassador and President of the Queen's Commonwealth Trust. The Trust is the major beneficiary of tonight's concert. The roles will see the couple focus on highlighting young people and building links and initiatives at home and abroad. Of course, most importantly, Harry is incredibly close to his grandmother and Meghan, who has spent quite a bit of time with the monarch, described her as "incredible".


Harry and Meghan arrived with Prince William. Kate and William are expecting their third child any day now.


Today marks 71 years since the Queen, on her 21st birthday, committed her life to the Commonwealth during a broadcast made from Cape Town. "I declare before you all that my whole life whether it be long or short shall be devoted to your service and the service of our great imperial family to which we all belong." Harry referenced his grandmother's work during his CHOGM speech on Monday: "'On the day of her 21st birthday, the then Princess Elizabeth gave an extraordinary radio address from Cape Town. With an eye on the future, and an already unflinching sense of duty, she made a commitment. She said that whether her life be long or short, it would be dedicated to the service of the people of the Commonwealth. All of us here today can be grateful that it is a long life the Queen is still enjoying. Her Majesty's commitment has meant that the Commonwealth is a thriving family of nations, a common link between nearly two-and-a-half billion people, and a defender of democracy, justice and peace."


What followed, as we all know, was a lifetime of boundless service, duty and devotion. At 92, the Queen will not travel to another Commonwealth country again nor is it likely she will ever attend another CHOGM. In addition to celebrating her birthday, the focus tonight was very much on her life's work across the Commonwealth and is in many ways a fond farewell.


Harry and Meghan take their seats.


Applause as Her Majesty arrives.


The family were out in force to mark the occasion.


Meghan chatting with Princess Anne's husband Sir Timothy Laurence. During a recent interview he was asked if he had any advice for Meghan. He replied: "She's absolutely great and she certainly doesn't need any advice from me, but the simplest advice for all of us is 'just be yourself'. If she does that, she'll be fine,"


With celebratory performances by acts from across the world and stars from around the Commonwealth, it was the perfect end to the landmark week.


There was music from across the decades of Her Majesty’s reign. The George Formby Society captured the sound of the 1930s with a ukulele ensemble number; from the 1940s there were musical numbers from Oklahoma!; superstar tenor Alfie Boe celebrated the sound of Benny Goodman and the Swing era of the 1950s; and Sir Tom Jones sang hits from the 1960s. As well as their new collaboration, Sting & Shaggy sang numbers from the 1970s and 80s; and South African vocal group Ladysmith Black Mambazo performed tracks from the 1990s. Craig David presented a medley of hits from the noughties to present day, and stars Anne Marie and Shawn Mendes brought things right up to date with their hits 'Ciao Adios' and 'In My Blood'.


Harry and Meghan enjoying the concert.


More on the performances:

Performing much-loved songs from musicals Oklahoma!My Fair Lady and Top Hat were classically-trained singer and Call the Midwife actor Helen George; Welsh star of stage and screen, Luke Evans; and actor and 2008 Strictly Come Dancing champion Tom Chambers. Many of the performers were accompanied by the BBC Concert Orchestra, conducted by Musical Director Steve Sidwell.

Royal Central posted this screenshot of Harry and Meghan listening to Sting and Shaggy.


Harry and Meghan chatting.

Embed from Getty Images

Prince Harry took to the stage and spoke about the Queen's Commonwealth Trust."Tonight we are celebrating The Queen's Birthday but Your Majesty, if you do not mind me saying, you are not someone who is easy to buy gifts for. But I think we have the perfect present," Prince Harry said. ‘This organisation, in your name, will provide a platform for those working to make a difference in their communities across 53 countries. Happy Birthday Your Majesty.’


Sixteen-year-old Donel Mangena, a contestant on talent show The Voice, received a letter from Prince Harry asking him to perform tonight. Harry and Meghan posed backstage with the talented singer after the show.


Performers including Luke Evans, Kylie Minogue and Tom Jones sang What a Wonderful World followed by Happy Birthday.


At the end of the night, Prince Charles wishes "mummy" a Happy Birthday and asked for three cheers.


Balloons filled the stage.


A video.


You can view the entire concert below.


Sending Her Majesty the happiest of birthday wishes!


Meghan looked every inch the future royal in the Stella McCartney Blue Cape Dress (with thanks to the lovely ladies at What Meghan Wore). The stretch cady cape sleeved dress in midnight tone features a high neckline and concealed zip at back. It seems the piece has been sold out for some time. A similar McCartney cape dress remains available at Neiman Marcus and Harrods. The choice hits all the right notes for me; a very elegant understated look and a perfect choice for the occasion.


The designer confirmed via Twitter.


Meghan carried the gorgeous Naeem Khan Leo clutch (Meghan's starsign is Leo). The $1,490 Zodiac clutch is described as "Acrylic evening clutch with plated brass inlay and Swarovski crystals" (with many thanks to Laura).


A look at the mirrored interior.


Meghan wore her Manolo Blahnik BB pumps in navy.



The talented What Meghan Wore received confirmation Meghan wore the £225 Shaun Leane Vermeil Talon earrings. Described as:"A strikingly elegant piece from the Signature Tusk Collection, these iconic double sided talon earrings in silver are the perfect balance of elegance and edge."


The brand also confirmed Meghan wore their Gold Diamond Signature Cuff and their Serpents Trace Bracelet which is not available yet.


If you're just joining us, Meghan was in a summery Self-Portrait dress for an Invictus reception this morning. Click here to view the post.


On Monday, Prince Harry and Meghan will attend the 25th Anniversary Memorial Service to celebrate the life and legacy of Stephen Lawrence.

153 comments:

  1. Meghan and Harry look sooooooo good!
    And Happy 92nd Birthday to Her Majesty!! 👑

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  2. Wow. Meghan finally looks as future duchess and I hope that she keeps this style!

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    1. That's what I just thought. Yes, this is the right style choice for a future duchess.

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    2. I totally agree with you Karolina! I wasn't keen on the bodice of the green dress she wore earlier today (I thought it was a bit too plungy in too many places), but tonight she looks truly, magnificently regal without losing her style. Woo-hoo!

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    3. I agree too, what a wonderful dress!
      And happy birthday to Her Majesty!

      Silvia

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  3. Eve from Germany21 April 2018 at 20:12

    Neat bun (lovely)- and could this be Roland Mouret (which was tipped as the designer of the wedding dress by latest speculations)? Exciting!!

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    1. When I first saw the dress, Roland Mouret was my guess, too, Eve!

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    2. I just saw that it is from Stella McCartney!

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    3. It is Stella Mc Carthney though.

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    4. The dress is STELLA MC CARTNEY.

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    5. Dolphin Tuscany Italy21 April 2018 at 21:19

      Is a Stella McCartney dress

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    6. Eve, I am with you. Roland Mouret has been good friend with Meghan for sometime! He’s my guess for THE DRESS!

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  4. Her clutch! 😍 Those bracelets! 😍

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    1. It's got a little handle! I love it.

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    2. The clutch is just amnazing,fantastic cape-dress,very stylish Meghan!!!!!

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    3. The clutch is very nice. As it should be. It rolls in at approximately $1,500 US dollars.

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  5. Wow! This is excellent!

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  6. Ooh, I love the dress!! So stylish and classic but not boring all at the same time. Love the hair and makeup. I like that she wore her own bracelets(I assume). The purse is cool-seems to be trademark Meghan. And pantyhose! But the shoes-not a good match. I would maybe go with some sort of metallic bronze to pick up on the purse and the jewelry? But excited to see her there, again joining in family activities.

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    1. Agree about the shoes, but otherwise perfect.

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    2. I see what you mean about the shoes, but it could be the lighting. Personally, I like the outfit just the way it is because the bag and bracelets really pop against the blue. Looking forward to getting a better look at the dress on a larger screen.

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    3. You're right! She wears pantyhose! Hurray!!!

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    4. She looks lovely and I am very happy with the hose too!

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    5. To be clear, I think pantyhose/tights are evil! I wore a pair several weeks ago and hated my life. But, although Meghan doesn't wear them often, she does wear them when appropriate.

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    6. I know what you mean they are evil indeed lol, but yes tonight they were really appropriate :)

      Silvia

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    7. Evil?? I am laughing to learn that such nearly invisible hosiery, which makes feet and legs look lovely, can be considered evil! How styles change.

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  7. Wow! A wonderfully surprising choice. She looks divine.

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  8. How wonderful that Meghan is included in all the festivities and initiatives! It’s such a great introduction for her to the public in her new role as a royal and Prince Harry’s wife.

    I love this outfit! It’s keeping with her style too. Id love to see what others are wearing but it looks like she’ll be at the right level of dress.

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  9. OHMYGOD. Meghan looks gorgeous!!! And look at Harry’s proud face! Wow, Meghan came to slay!! I’m so glad she was included in the evening...and I can only hope that Meghan and Harry are seated right up front next to the queen and C&C and nasty princess Michael is about 10 rows back (boo hiss). Okay, sorry, it just threw me seeing her in the background of one of the pics!

    Back to my regularly scheduled swooning over Meghan and Harry lol.

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    1. You took the words right out of my mouth, including the OHMYGOD!! What impresses me so much about Meghan's style is how comfortable she looks dressed up or dressed down, she just seems so comfortable in her own skin (and of course Harry's love) and it really shows!

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    2. Lauri, you nailed it. She seems authentic and deeply beautiful, inside and out, no matter what she is wearing. And Harry is just glowing. Hooray!

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    3. I do like seeing the change in Harry. He seems so much happier these days and it's lovely to see.

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  10. P.S. I’ve caught my breath now and have to add that I am in love with Meghan’s box purse. She has the best purse and shoe game!! The only thing missing for me is a bit of sparkle or jewelry. A creamy row of pearls would look gorgeous or maybe a diamond bracelet or hair pin or brooch. But really, I’m not complaining!!

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    1. I crave some sparkle too. Maybe it’s not her style or she’s waiting till she’s officially a royal? She looks fab though, even without jewels.

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    2. A nice pair of bling earrings would have been perfect. Not too big but enough to add a bit of sparkle.

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  11. I just love the Queen is 92 and still dedicated to serving her public. It is excellent H&M can be there to celebrate her and learn from her example.

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  12. Please forgive me, but I have to say that Her Majesty looks stunning! I live her dress and she looks just beautiful.

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    1. Yes, it even is a different cut than her usual ones. A little 60s.

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    2. What an incridible lady!God bless her!!!!

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    3. I agree Anon! Her Majesty looks stunning and this gold dress is to die for!! I just can't believe that she's 92!!! She is inspiring me to make sure that I take good care of myself so that I can continue to be as vibrant and active as she is at her age! I'd also like to add how grownup Lady Louise is looking tonight, she's growing up to be quite the elegant young lady.

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    4. Yes! The Queen looks fantastic! I like Meghan’s cape dress—it reminds me of a red dress Melania Trump wore last year. As an aside, Beatrice looks amazing in purple and Sophie is rocking the jumpsuit!

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    5. Yes! The Queen does look fabulous! Happy Birthday HRH!!

      Thanks Charlotte for including a photo of her and I love the side by side of her when she first declared she would dedicate her life to service. Such a great lady.

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  13. Susan in Florida21 April 2018 at 20:36

    The cape dress looks great on her! I live near fancy West Palm Beach and have seen women wearing these dresses. They are VERY chic and elegant. I am delighted that Miss Meghan was included for this event. God Bless the Queen, she’s amazing at age 92.

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  14. I like to imagine that part of that standing "O" was for Meghan.
    Shoe match? I'd have to look at different views in various lighting and angles. It may be ok.

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    1. I definitely think the lighting is playing games with the shoe color. I'm sure they were much better in person.

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  15. Susan in Florida21 April 2018 at 20:40

    Love this dress! I live near fancy West Palm Beach, I have seen this dress style in real life. it is VERY elegant and chic! I am very happy Miss Meghan was included in this event. God Bless the Queen on her birthday.

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  16. Susan in Florida21 April 2018 at 20:44

    She looks great !! I live near the very fancy Palm Beach area, and have seen this dress style three times in real life. VERY elegant and chic. I am thrilled that Miss Meghan was included in the Queen’s birthday Party. God Bless the Queen.

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  17. Eugenie with Jack! In the Royal Box! Now Bea looks alone.
    Is that Louise in a dark sleeveless dress? So grown up!

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  18. Her Majesty is the centre of attention,so this outfit is perfect!

    I'm in love with her clutch(by NAEEM KHAN)

    Please click here:https://naeemkhan.com/collections/zodiac

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  19. Eve from Germany21 April 2018 at 21:06

    According to "WhatMeghanWore" it´s Stella McCartney! ("the Women's Blue Stella Cape Dress"). Really a very sophisticated look, especially because it´s not floor length!

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  20. Wow, we are really being treated a diverse array of looks this week! I love everything about this outfit - especially the bag! So happy to see Meghan being included in all these events. I do miss seeing Kate out and about too, though! Hope she delivers that baby soon!

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  21. Upstate Diva USA21 April 2018 at 21:24

    Jack was there with Eugenie, so I think the Center box was for HM , her ‘kidz’, the grans and all partners. Only the pregnant Zara (and Mike) and Kate and the sub-teen James were absent. Plus recovering Phil, of course. Super cool to see them all together. I personally enjoy seeing Princess Alexandra (in the next box with her brother and the other branches). I think that the Margaret branch was on the other side — I think I saw Sarah Chatto in the front row. Every one is a joy to see (except Princess Michael— I always have a hiss for her!). Meghan looks beautiful and happy.

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  22. I love that look! Queen Letizia wore an olive green cape dress just last year? I wonder if it is the same designer?

    BTW, Charlotte, you are amazing!!!! This hasn't even made the news feed yet!

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    1. Anonymous in Colorado21 April 2018 at 23:43

      I came here to say that I'm getting Queen Letizia vibes! Meghan looks absolutely amazing!! Happiest Birthday wishes to HM!!

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    2. Yes, this is a chapter straight from Queen Letizia’s style book, but with Meghan’s flair (those bracelets, the bag, and her chic bun). Love!!

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  23. The designer is Stella McCartney. I predict that Meghan will be wearing a design by McCartney on her wedding day.

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  24. The dress and bag are sensational, but I find the shoes, while individually lovely, an oddly sensible or boring choice for such a snappy dresser as Meghan. The shoe styles she wore to recent daytime engagements would have suited this evening ensemble a little better.

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  25. Wow lovely look! Love the cape with the sheath dress. Totally her style and totally right for the occasion. Awesome.
    And whatever kind of pantyhose she wears, LOVE them too and totally would buy the brand! Unlike Kate who often goes for somewhat dark hosiery nowdays these are perfectly clear with a nice little shine on them. Gorgeous.

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    1. Don't you think it is one piece? Knowing Stella's fashion a bit I am pretty sure. Besides she named it a cape dress not a cape and a dress. ;-)

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    2. Susan in Florida22 April 2018 at 03:36

      It’s one piece

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  26. Happy birthday to the Queen. She is soooo blessed at 92; still serving her country. Awesome! Ms Markle and Prince Harry look happy and matched perfectly. I really appreciate the advice given to Ms Markle, in an interview, by Princess Anne’s husband. In the simplest form, he advised Ms Markle and the rest of us, “just be yourself”. I couldn’t agree more. The Royals and most of the people in the world have some type of career protocol to follow, and probably a dress code. But at the end of the day, what really matters is you’ve been true to yourself. Charlotte, you’re the best. Thank you for posting “the advice”.

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  27. Nylons! Wow, Meghan looks beautiful, and perfect for the Queen's birthday concert. Looking forward to more pictures. (Wonder who is keeping Kate company tonight. I'm beginning to think the wedding date may have been set, though not announced, before she knew she was pregnant.)

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    1. How could that be? They announced their egagement 27th of November whereas the pregnancy was announced beginning of September. And after the engagement announcement it took them some time (to find a date) before they announced the wedding date.

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    2. But Harry and Meghan weren`t engaged until a couple of months after they announced Kate`s pregnancy. And Kate would`ve known about her pregnancy for a while before they announced it.

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    3. Harry and Meghan announced to the world on the 27th of November but I am sure immediate family knew long before then when they would be getting engaged and married. I’m sure plans were being made long before they made their public announcement. Isn’t that what you mean Patricia?

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    4. Remember H & M’s wedding is about them, not the DOC. She is not important enough in the big picture to warrant them selecting their wedding date around her due date. I’m sure she will be fine to attend the wedding, just may not go the full distance at the reception. My brother’s wedding was 4 weeks after the birth of my 2nd child and I had to travel to attend. Was challenging but do-able.

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    5. You are both right, of course, assuming there was not a long delay in announcing Harry and Meghan's engagement. I was just wondering about the closeness of the baby's birth and the wedding.

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    6. Yes, Jackie M, that's what I had in mind, though it is a bit of a stretch, I admit. Alison, Kate has been a loving sister to Harry through thick and thin, and I am sure her comfort is important to him. I can imagine her assuring him and Meghan that she will be fine, and no doubt she will, but the time is growing shorter than I originally thought it would be, given a vague due date in April. April is rapidly waning!

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  28. She looks nice aside from those dreadful shoes she's wearing. I hate them.

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  29. Lol, I just had a crazy thought. Reading through these posts and seeing people refer to Harry and Meghan as H&M made me think - wouldn`t it be so funny if Meghan chose H&M to make her wedding dress? :) They have made gorgeous ball gowns for CP Victoria but I know that it is waaay out there, probably not even in the runnings, to think that H&M would make Meghan`s wedding dress. It is still rather funny to think about though. :)

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    1. There's been a lot of talk over who is going to design her dress, from Burberry to Victoria Beckham to Alexander McQueen...I'm curious myself to see who she chooses. I'm sure it'll be beautiful whoever she decides to design the dress.

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  30. Absolutely love this look on MM (not a huge fan of the purse, it feels a little out of place). So glad she chose Stella McCartney which has such beautiful tailoring and looks stunning on her!

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  31. Stunning look for MM tonight! So glad she is wearing Stella McCartney, her designs are tailored and will look amazing on Megan. Agree she would be a fab choice to design the wedding gown.

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  32. When I first learned Harry was serious about Megan, this is the type of look I envisioned for her. She looks stunning!

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  33. This is the perfect selection of evening dress for this occasion. She looks wonderful and very comfortable. Spot on that she put her hair back in a bun and I find her Leo clutch to be the perfect accessory. The gold and crystals give her a little shine. Well done Meghan!

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  34. Forgot to add - HM really stole the show - as she should. What a lovely dress. She looks as though we still has many more good years ahead. Very impressive.

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  35. I love this elegant outfit. From head to toe Meghan looked every inch a royal. Happy Birthday to the Queen. She looked lovely.

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  36. This past week has given us a true picture of Meghan's personal style. I love that she chooses different designers and wears all with great ease and confidence. I am so pleased that she copies no one and resists the need to fall into the "royal dressing code" what ever that is imagined by the readers to be in the year 2018. Everything she has worn reflects a modern professional women for our times and more importantly reflects who Meghan is. More importantly, the photos reflect true happiness on Harry's face. He I'm sure is absolutely delighted to have his love by his side.

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    1. Exactly. I agree! No criticism of any Royal woman intended, just that Meghan brings a fresh perspective to the family.

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    2. I agree USA granny, she has her own style and looks wonderful in it.

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    3. There is a royal dress code for the wives of the heirs to the throne. Meghan is so far down in the hierarchy that she has more leyway in what she can wear.

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    4. I believe that in the years ahead the so called "royal dress code" will go the way of the wind. We will see the young royals of the British family follow suit and dress much the same as the rest of European Royalty.
      Current standards I believe are purely in deference to the Queen.

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    5. Again, I agree USA Granny, if there is one reason I would refuse to marry a prince- pantyhose. I hate pantyhose and wearing hats and fascinators. Personally I think it should be up to the woman in question if they want to wear a hat or not.This is just my opinion by the way I am not saying Meghan should not wear hats. I just hate rules which force women to do things and yet men don't go under the same stifling rules.

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  37. OOOOOH! SO Excited!!!! I haven't even Read The Post!!! Just saw the 1st Pic & Almost Jumped Up & Down!!!! This Is Sooooo Exciting!!! She Looks So Royal & So Amazing!!!! Absolutely Unbelievably Chic!!!! Phew! Need to Calm Down & go back & read The Post properly! Did I Say I'm So Excited & That She Looks Amazing!!!!! lol lol lol :) Oh, & They look Amazing Together both in Blue!!! :) xoxo

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    1. Becca, tell us the truth... are you excited? Lol!

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  38. This is exactly the kind of look I’ve been waiting to see from Meghan. Gorgeous and so sophisticated!!! I’m in love with those bracelets and her bag. I didn’t have time to comment on this morning’s post, but I thought she looked very professional then, too. A great day of choices from Meghan. So glad she was included in tonight’s celebration, and I hope we continue to see this amazingly elegant style from her going forward! It’s perfect for her role AND very Meghan, too! Totally a win tonight. And the Queen looked great, too!

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  39. Oh The Arrival Pic in The Car is a Riot!!! Who's The 3rd Wheel Now????? William!! lol :) Instead of Will, Harry & Kate.... Tonight, it's Will, Harry & Meghan!!! lol :) I just got a kick out of that! :) xo

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    1. I loved that pic too. I was thinking that I bet William enjoyed being the 3rd wheel & is happy his brother has found his life partner. Isn't it funny how the spotlight is on when their wives are with them. Not much news about William attending tonight but if Kate were with him it would be all over the news. I think he likes not being the center of attention. He seems to be enjoying himself.

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  40. Perfection! Absolute Perfection! Still too flustered for details..... :) xo

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  41. Such an emotional Evening & Tribute to The Queen! She is just Such an Incredible Woman & Monarch!! I love how her smile is just as bright with wonder, just as it was as a little girl! She is so lovely inside & out! Happy Birthday Your Majesty & God Save The Queen!!!! xoxo

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  42. Seeing Harry & Meghan tonight will hold me until The Wedding! Absolute Perfection! They are Such a lovely Couple, clearly inside & out! :) xoxo

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  43. WOW! I absolutely love this on her. I was so happy when Kate wore her pink cape dress and I love seeing Meghan in one, too. It is very modern and elegant. It fits her minimalist style while still being regal and a touch dramatic! And I love the gold accents with the purse and the bangles. The gold clutch with the Leo star sign is very cute. I think she totally knocked it out of the park here and I hope this is the style she continues to bring to things. It reminds me of Raina or Letizia.

    I've been so impressed with how swiftly Meghan has taken to royal life. She makes it look effortless (though I know it is not!). Seeing her included in a celebration like this before the wedding speaks to the royal family's regard for her and her willingness to jump right in. Way to go, Meghan!

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  44. Well blow me down! Go Meggan Go!!!

    This! Is what I’ve been waiting to see!!! That LBD, the green print (I wear summery dresses with blazers all the time I love it and a good way to use them year round) and this blue cape dresss.... divine!

    I love it. More royal, less Hollywood. :)

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  45. I think I'm satisfied, too! I just hope the earrings from today's events are identified soon by people who know such things. I loved the green dress, and MM looked perfect in the evening cape dress. Both dresses were surprises but beyond expectations. I'm also a Leo so perhaps she'll give me that purse when she's tired of it. The whole family looked wonderful and happy, and the Queen looked beautiful. She really is beautiful and I am in awe over early photos of her. Wish we ha a blog on her starting in the 1950s. :)

    Now to wait for the baby. MM has done a great job of keeping our mind off of the wait. I think Philip would be nice for a boy. And speaking of similar names, just read a credible report that Pippa is 3 months' pregnant. 2018 will have babies and weddings---and I hope that's all.

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  46. Normally I look at everyone else’s comments before I comment. But tonight I cannot wait. Meghan looked amazing. That dress, wow! I have few dress-up occasions in my life, but now I desperately want one so that I can find a dress like this. So elegant.

    Absolutely. Completely. Stunning. WOW!

    And what an amazing birthday celebration for the Queen. She looked great and so very happy. I’m American - but a lifelong fan of the BRF (thanks to my mother), so to me, Elizabeth is Queen and has been for as long as I can remember.

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  47. Perfectly lovely in every way! And it is so nice to see the happiness in Harry - in both of them of course, but Harry has had his share of misery in his life! HM is wonderful beyond words. My own dear 90 year old mother and I were oo-ing and ah-ing over the pictures. (Mother is still thin as a stick, sharp as a tack and has skin that HM would envy. I envy Mom's skin.!)

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  48. Jessica in Los Angeles22 April 2018 at 02:33

    I thought Meghan looked lovely tonight!

    I thought the photo of the three of them in the car was a bit humorous, as it’s been Harry as the third wheel for years! But tonight was William’s turn to tag along. :)

    I have always thought the seating arrangements are strange because everyone is sat from most to least “important”. I don’t think I’d like feeling like my older brother is more important than me just because he was born first! But maybe they’re just used to it.

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    1. I have had to come to terms with the issue of seating arrangements---William in put ahead of his aunt and uncles because he's next in line for the throne. With the possible exception of Andrew, I think everyone realizes that is just the "job" and that it has nothing to do with real family dynamics. I'm sure Andrew's daughters don't enjoy seeing William's and Harry's wives put ahead of the, but the Queen is such a terrific mother and grandmother that it seems to all be OK behind the scenes. Just my thoughts.

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    2. 🌸 exactly, Allison. It is like honoring rank in the military.

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  49. Yes, Dee: As we say in the USA, “you hit the nail on the head”; as I always said, in time, Ms Markle would show “more Royal, less Hollywood”. Thanks Charlotte; another great post and it felt as if I celebrated this special birthday with the queen. ‘Long Live The Queen’. 👑🎂🍾🙏🏽👏🏽

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  50. Tammy from California22 April 2018 at 04:57

    Her majesty still has one of the most beautiful smiles in all the world. Happy, happy birthday to someone I admire so, so much. Many more.

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    1. Such a delightful genuine smile & her eyes literally sparkle! :)

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  51. I wondered why Prince Edward was sitting behind Meghan and Harry at the concert, and then I realized he had given his chair to his daughter, Lady Louise. Maybe her attendance was decided late, but she looked lovely. Most of the royal ladies were in\ blue, purple, or lavender except the Queen herself in gold. Beautiful cocktail dresses.

    I thought it was poignant that Barbara Bush's funeral fell on the same day as the Queen's birthday celebration, and I expect the Queen felt that, too. They were both 92. I remember that when the Queen visited the Bushes at the White House, Barbara Bush took her outside to see the burn marks on the White House walls, which had been stripped for re-painting. The burns on the stone are from the British attack during the War of 1812, and they are the reason the White House is painted white. The Queen remarked that the attack on Washington was retribution for US attacks in Canada. Barbara Bush enjoyed telling that story. I think she and the Queen were good colleagues. The Queen has known thirteen or fourteen American presidents.

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    1. As I watched the beautiful & fitting Funeral for Barbara Bush, I was thinking about to Queen too! I'm so glad you brought it up. Two ladies that really were & always will be timeless! :)

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  52. I’m not normally a big fan of Stella’s designs but I love this dress on Meghan. The shoes don’t seem like a great match, but I suspect it may be the lighting. Love love love the purse!

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  53. I wore a cape dress to a black tie wedding in NYC last year (Rent the Runway, baby) and I loved it. Classic but with an interesting twist. I love this one too, and the one we saw on Kate previously. I also wore mine with a low bun but I didn’t have a chunk of bang hanging down...not sure how I feel about the hair tonight! Gorgeous clutch.

    The people who are upset by a “low cut dress” this afternoon and psyched to see panty hose truly crack me up. Women don’t have to cover themselves up to accommodate old fashioned views. When was the last time we got to criticize a man for showing too much skin? Oh what’s that, never? Because men have never expected to flawlessly alternate between sexy and covered up to suit the whim of women? Cool, then I’m gonna stop bothering to force that on my fellow ladies - especially one as entertainingly fashionable as Meghan. Let’s please leave those “rules” where they belong, in 1950. How much skin a woman is showing is a sign of what makes her feel happy to wear, not her respect for the bystander.

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    1. Because showing skin is not an option for men in either their work or dress clothes?

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    2. I don't think of pantyhose as covering up; it's just a dressier and more polished look. Sometimes bare legs are fine and sometimes not.

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    3. 🌸 rf, I agree. I think of wearing pantyhose exactly like I think of wearing foundation in make-up. I think that not wearing pantyhose is distracting. Not everyone has perfect skin on their legs just as not every has flawless skin on their faces. Thus foundation. Thus pantyhose.

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    4. Exactly! Foundation 👍

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    5. Anon 08:06: I realise this comment is a few days old, but I am still thinking about it so I decided to comment myself.
      Men have very few options of what is considered appropriate in that field of work. Even fewer than women. Imagine Charles, Wiliam or Harry appearing in shorts, or leaving shirt buttons open- the backlash would be particularly bad as it would be seen as diminishing/disrespecting the occasion or cause.
      I personally think there is a big difference if Meghan visits a charity, commemoration or a more business like occasion or if she is at concert or a state dinner etc. The second type of engagement is one to be all dolled up and deep necklines are absolutely fine. The first type of engagements are not the ones where I want to wonder if someone wears a bra.
      For example: Louise‘s jumpsuit at the Queen’s concert was very sexy but at this particular occasion absolutely appropriate.
      C.

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  54. 💐🎂🎉 HAPPY BIRTHDAY QUEEN ELIZABETH

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  55. 🌸 I think Meghan’s dress, shoes and hair were perfect for the evening. Not a fan of the purse, no offense. I didn’t like it at all. Do we know whose bracelets and earrings she wore? Hopefully we’ll see those bracelets again as they looked like real gold.
    I would like to see her wear a lot more times that bracelet she wore to the Invictus games when she wore the jeans. That is a really cute bracelet.
    She repeated the shoes so yay to that. :)

    Loved, loved, loved Sir Timothy Laurence’s simple but true advice. From what I see and read, I really like like he and Anne. :)

    The Queen looked like she was thoroughly enjoying
    the evening. 😊

    Shout out to Prince Phillip. (He Just has to be a DKB, MAM reader. You know. Now that he’s retired. :)

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  56. 🌸 It speaks volumes about the Queen how every member of her family just unabashedly loves, adores respects and enjoys her. That would be laudable in any family but she is also a Queen to her family and the world. Not the easiest of roles. Hugs to you Your Majesty. 💐

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  57. 🌸 I wonder if it ever crossed Meghan’s mind as she took her seat, that just a little over two years ago she would have been thrilled and excited about playing the Royal Albert theatre in any production as an actress and now....... she is seated in the Royal box as a Senior Royal with the Queen and the Royal family.

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    1. Interesting observations Surfer Girl! I bet she pinches herself often at her luck of finding her "Prince", figuratively and literally! She really does seem to be made for this life, with her engaging smile, empathetic ear and passion for service.

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    2. I mean Wow! It really is pretty much a "pinchable moment"! :)

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    3. Lol. SG, I had a similar thought!

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    4. 🌸 rf. no surprise. 😊

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  58. Wow, what a cool look! I really like that clutch too—very cool and I like that it has a mirrored interior. I don’t think I commented on the earlier post from the Invictus Games reception but I thought Meghan looked nice there too. I’m a fan of the blazer over a summer dress look. That’s something I would wear. I don’t know what it is, but wearing a good blazer makes me feel confident and ready to get stuff done!

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  59. Seeing Meghan and her prince is good together i love the cape dress today i love the queen outfit too they kook devine

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  60. I saw that the earrings wore with the green dress were identified; they look really special! I went to the company link to see more but apparently the size of the center diamond can vary. Also, MM wore a ring with a little pink stone and a partial row of diamonds with the green dress. She has a nice collection of pretty jewelry!

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    1. 🌸 Yep, Allison. Meghan is amassing a “large” collection of “small” jewelry. :)
      And about those earrings, I don’t like it when they say “price upon request” at places like Cartier, lol.

      I hope we get an I.D. on the earrings and the bracelets.
      And, I hope we start seeing frequent repeats on the jewelry, bags, shoes, etc. :)

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    2. Perhaps it's "price upon request" so that they know their potential customer is sitting down. LOLOLOL.

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  61. I'm wonder why isn't Prince Edward sitting next to Sophie and his daughter (it seems we rarely see him and Sophie together at events)? And why is his daughter more in the spotlight (directly behind HM) than others? The sitting arrangements seem very odd especially given the reason for the evening.

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    1. Perhaps Edward switched seats so his lovely daughter, Lady Louise, could enjoy a grown-up moment. She's becoming quite the young lady and I've noticed she's joining in a few more 'adult events' with the family. Nice to see.

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    2. Love Meghan's look! Excellent choice for the event. I'm a 'jewelry girl' so I'd love to see some sparkle on Meghan. A simple gold chain or a single strand of pearls would look lovely with the beautiful cape dress. She doesn't strike me as the type for lots of bling but opts for a lighter easy/breezy style. I would like to see a bit larger earring though. As I've said before, I think Meghan's trademark will be her handbags. She nailed it again tonight with that fantastic zodiac clutch!

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  62. 🌸 okay. so far, Meghan has

    *met all the members of Harry’s family. Diana’s side included pretty much.

    *met the Royal household (at Christmas)

    *made friends with The Church, the Archbishop of Canterbury and the Head of Westminster Abbey.

    *met the leaders of the Commonwealth

    *obtained a Commonwealth leadership role via Harry

    *obtained a Royal passport to the world essentially

    *sat in on the Royal Forum of the Royal Foundation Trust.

    *spent Christmas at Sandringham as family

    *attended the Queen’s birthday party as family

    *made other inroads in unprecedented inclusion and attendance within the Royal history

    *called their “our little cottage” at Kensington Palace home now for almost two years. (I hope Gus is totally enjoying it now.🐾)

    *“been all over the place” as Harry said.

    *befriended Sarah Chapman (excellent skincare, check)

    *obviously also found excellent haircare (whoever that may be).

    *probably taken over every available closet at Kensington Palace, sans Apartment 1A

    *oh, has gotten engaged and is planning a Royal wedding

    And, all this in less than two years. Hopefully that gives MANY others hope for miracles.

    *and Harry, smiles and says “Amen” to all of the above. Harry and Meghan are undeniably efficient and detailed planners. It is truly noteworthy. And, they aren’t even truly “settled” yet.

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  63. I'm wondering if it's even possible for Megan to disappoint me in what she wears. This woman has such great style, and always, without fail, look impeccably dressed. I just love her style, and she wears it so well. That clutch is to die for. She reminds me a lot of Amal Clooney with her style - always spot on and elegant with a surprise accessory that says "wow". It looks to have been a wonderful evening of celebration. The queen too looked fabulous. I love her dress and her smile. thanks for an excellent post!

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  64. Just noticing how Meghan at the two “formal” events which are closer to her wedding date and in the presence of the queen, she has styled herself in what people might call the Royal Look, including hose and hat. In retrospect, how modest and “ of the people” her styling at her first engagements now seem. Is it possible that in her “ introduction to the country” tour, Meghan was very aware that she is not a royal yet, and styled herself according? Not that I expect her style aesthetic would change after she is officially Royal, as is shown by her impeccable and very Meghaneaque styling at the two formal Commonwealth events.

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  65. I noticed that Sophie was showing a lot of "skin," and Eugenie's dress was sleeveless. Horrors. I guess the difference is that it was a formal occasion but it's something to remember the next time we see MM's shoulders. :)

    I think the arrangement of Sophie an their daughter must have been because this is a first for her at age 14.

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    1. Haha!! I loved Sophie's outfit! Formal and fancy but very up to date. She rocked it! I am sure I am in the minority but I can't figure out who dresses Louise. She always dresses like a middle aged frumpy matron/7 year old. Yes, she's a 'child' but I work with tweens her age and no one dresses like that. She seems so sweet, so I'm not sure if she's just super naive or just no one cares to help style her a bit.

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    2. Katie, I doubt that Louise has had much say over her own wardrobe. I've always suspected that Sophie has dressed her daughter in a very old fashioned manner in order to impress the Queen.

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    3. I love Sophie's outfit also.

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    4. 🌸 probably so, rf. Hope Louise won’t be burdened by that style once she’s an adult. Don’t know though, mom’s styles have a tendency to linger. I hope not though for Louise’s sake. :)

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    5. Perhaps Louise will follow Zara's lead ........ 😉😁😃😀😄

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  66. Meghan, these last 3 engagements you've knocked it out of the park (to use an American baseball term)! ❤ Love seeing her so classy and royal.

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  67. I read an interview with MM's 19-year-old niece, one of two daughters of the half-sister. She is telling the Markle family to stop criticizing Meghan and tells how, with the apparent approval of the half-sister's mother, with whom this niece lives, that the half-sister has always hated MM and just wanted her to not be there. One thing that is interesting is that this niece, and the older one, who is a lawyer and "close" too MM, have not denied that they received in invitation. I hope they are both going.
    This article also states that the Suits cast members were invited, the vet who took care of Guy is invited, Serena is invited---if MM leaves anyone out, I believe that she has good reason. It is hard to grow up with so many "family" members who add nothing positive to your life. Again, she is a strong person. I have so much respect for her mom, and not so much for her dad.

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  68. I love everything from head to toe this outfit give it a class and an incredible elegance
    They are so cute to have matched their outfits with Harry, but the pda me miss a little

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    1. Eve from Germany23 April 2018 at 14:56

      Faiza, I agree, "class" and "elegance" - and still with "a twist" (cape dress!), perfect combination!!!
      And yes to the "pda"!! ;-)))) (Me, too!!)

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  69. SG---I was indeed not happy to get "Price on request" from Cartier. :)

    Here is the beautiful, albeit little, ring that MM wore with the green dress: http://meghansmirror.com/product/natalie-marie-morganite-ring/

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  70. I forgot to say that I love these bags and her jewels
    Especially those of tonight

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  71. I just wore my cape sweater today & now feel so stylish! Little did I know it was the thing! Meghan reminds me of Queen Letizia in her cape dress.

    https://www.google.com/amp/s/www.express.co.uk/life-style/style/921007/queen-letizia-spain-news-pictures-sport-awards-madrid/amp

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  72. Oh, I read the Clooneys were coming to the wedding! Seems MM uses Amal's hair stylist. Hope what I'm reading is true. :)

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  73. Happy Birthday Queen Elizabeth II. You and this name had been alive through so many generations; you are a living history. Wishing Prince Philip a quick and healthy recovery, hope to view both of you together in the near future.

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  74. If Megan's jewelry is from the Signature Tusk Collection, I'm guessing it's a gift from Harry. Perhaps evoking a memory from their first trip together?

    BTW, I love the pieces!

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  75. Now that I have seen the names of Meghan's accessories, which include lions (her Zodiac sign), snakes, tusks and talons, I wonder whether she was honoring William's dedication to protecting wildlife. He was shown at a forum this week, along with Boris Johnson and Commonwealth leaders, discussing the subject. Wasn't one of Harry and Meghan suggested gift charities also a wildlife organization? Perhaps that, too, was a choice made in agreement with William. More symbolic dressing by Meghan, I suspect. Maybe the Queen's flowery dress and pearls from the sea continued her emphasis on the environment during the CHOGM week. I hope so; they were also beautiful.

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    1. 🌸 I had noticed that correlation of those three pieces also, Patricia I. Definitely a curiosity. And, she wore those little diamond earrings the other night that were snake like. She wore those when she carried the purse with the snake thingy on it.

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  76. Thought Meghan looked quite serene tonight. With only weeks away from the wedding, and a run of non stop activities, Meghan seems to be taking it all all in her stride !
    I love the cape dress, nothing over the top, yet stylish and fitting of the occasion. Her jewellery subtle with a twist and something out the 'norm'. I hadn't heard of Signature Tusk Collection, I love that Meghan is introducing us to jewellery collections we might not have ever heard of, had she not worn their pieces.
    Thank you Charlotte for such a detailed post. Between Meghan and Kate, these ladies are keeping you busy, and I'm grateful of the up to the minute details :-)

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  77. the most elegant she has ever looked wow

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