Wednesday 17 October 2018

It's Two Dresses & A Pasta Necklace for Meghan as Royal Mania Hits Melbourne!

The Duke and Duchess of Sussex travelled to Melbourne this morning for a packed day of engagements.


One of Harry and Meghan's key objectives during the tour is to meet as many people as possible. It seemed fitting to begin the day with a walkabout at the Royal Botanic Gardens where a rapturous welcome awaited them.


Meghan was given an abundance of flowers and toys for Baby Sussex.


Thousands gathered to see the couple.


Gavin woke up “with a cough” and quite simply had to stay at home from school today. He decided to make a pasta necklace for Meghan.


Not only did Gavin get the opportunity to give the necklace to the Duchess, she was so impressed she decided it was the perfect addition to her ensemble.


The Telegraph reports:

Despite the royal couple arriving 20 minutes late for their first engagement of the day, having struggled with traffic from the airport, the crowd of about 5,000 showed no sign of running out of enthusiasm.
Rhys Pratt, eight, from Melbourne begged his mother Naomi to allow him to take the day off school he even diligently made a flag bearing the colours of the the county of Sussex. Rhys said: “I wanted to come here so badly but my mum said I had to go to school. “My dad is from Yorkshire in England and I really love Harry and Meghan so after I promised to make a flag to give to them my mum said she would take me.” The Duke told the schoolboy his creation was “cool” and thanked him for coming to meet him. Rhys said: “Everybody in Melbourne loves Harry and Meghan and all my friends will be so jealous I got to meet them.”
After spending 25 minutes talking to well-wishers and taking an array of gifts including cuddly toys, flags, newspaper cuttings and handmade trinkets, the Duke and Duchess stopped to play with five and a half month old Harriet Bonaddido and talk to her mum, Jessica. The 28-year-old said: “As soon as I introduced my daughter to Harry he said ‘that’s a great name’. “Maybe they will choose it for their own child which would be fun. “Meghan was right behind him and was playfully tickling her toes and said how sweet it was that I’d brought her out today." 
The popularity of royal couple among Australians has been in no doubt since they landed on Monday. Just hours later they shared the news that they were expecting their first child, due to be born in the Spring'.

A very excited fan broke down in tears after meeting Harry. 9 News reports: "She tearfully threw her arms around him as he flashed her a charming grin. The woman was holding a hand-made sign explaining how long she had been waiting for this moment. "Been here since 4am. Loved you since I was eight," her sign read."


They were welcomed by Governor Linda Dessau and her husband Anthony Howard.


From there, the Duke and Duchess walked to Government House for a reception.


A diverse group of young Victorian leaders and community members attended the reception.


A fabulous shot from the event.


An arrival video.


 A demonstration of various sporting activities took place in the grounds, with ambassadors from the This Girl Can campaign. This Girl Can is very much about embracing physical activity in a way that suits you. "Whether it’s a little or a lot, what matters is getting some movement into your day."


Meghan joined in a handball demonstration.


Harry and Meghan demonstrated a scaled, miniature Formula 1 car designed and made by Trinity Grammar students, which won the 2017 F1 in Schools World Championship.


The Duchess got quite the surprise when she launched the car :)


People reports:

“I did not expect that!” she exclaimed of their speedy takeoff while laughing at her own jumpy reaction.
Meanwhile, Harry looked as happy as a child in a toy store, beaming at the cars and laughed at his wife’s startled reaction. “Wasn’t quite expecting that,” he joked to her. Harry even fist-pumped when they were first invited to try the cars.'

Government House is ‘one of the largest and most beautiful mansion houses in Australia’ and is considered to be one of the finest examples of 19th-century residential architecture, according to the Victorian Heritage Register. Built during the economic boom of the Gold Rush when Melbourne was transformed from a small capital in a fledgling colony into ‘Marvellous Melbourne’, Government House characterises the high standard of design and craftsmanship of public buildings built during that period. Designed in the Italianate-style, the House is constructed in stucco-rendered brick on a bluestone foundation. The tower provides a central focus for the three sections of the house – the State Apartments, the Private Apartments and the Ballroom.


The belvedere tower of Government House with the flag of the Governor of Victoria raised.


The Duke and Duchess met Hunter Johnson, one of the Queen's Young Leaders and founder of The Man Cave, a preventative mental health and emotional intelligence programme for boys and young men.


Harry was delighted to meet Willow from Guide Dogs Victoria.


The Duke and Duchess were presented with a photograph by Victorian street artist, Rone, of his spectacular painting of cement silos near Geelong.


Meghan mingling with guests and signing the visitors' book.


During a speech the Governor said: "We thank Your Royal Highnesses, whose visit has been the catalyst to gather this talent, and this promise, with us today at Government House. You have already met some of our brightest innovators, and some of the women who, through the ‘This Girl Can’ Campaign-Victoria, so ably display the strength and resilience built on a healthy and active lifestyle. The young leaders we have gathered here today represent our students, our regions and our multicultural communities."


Following the Reception at Government House, The Duke and Duchess visited Charcoal Lane, a social enterprise café which offers leadership, mentoring and training programmes for young Aboriginal people.


They were shown a mural by artist Robert Young, who is of Gunnai and Waradgerie heritage.


Meghan was in her element in the kitchen discussing ingredients with chef Greg Hampton.


Emily Nash shared a look at the variety of ingredients Meghan and Harry were introduced to during a “touch, taste and smell” session.


Charcoal Lane is a Mission Australia social enterprise restaurant that provides guidance and opportunity to young Aboriginal people who are in need of a fresh start in life. The aim of the program is to create a skilled workforce for the hospitality industry, providing leadership and mentoring to help vulnerable young people achieve their potential and gain long-term independence. The contemporary menu is seasonally driven and draws on the best of native Australian food.


Then it was time for a spot of lunch. They were served gourmet cuisine made with native Australian ingredients plated up by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander trainees. The menu included an entree of mushroom and quinoa nest and chargrilled kangaroo and main courses of wild boar, saffron risotto and barramundi.


Following a quick outfit change, the Duke and Duchess travelled on an iconic Melbourne tram to South Melbourne beach.


A video.


The Duke and Duchess met with the 'Waste Warriors' at Albert Park primary school where children have told the royal couple all about their commitment to sustainability.


More from the Mail:

'Carlo Foster, 12, an Albert Park Primary pupil, showed Harry and Meghan bags full of plastic cups, beakers and bottles he has collected. Harry said: 'Another worrying thing I'm hearing is some people trying to claim things like these are actually habitats for fish and turtles. Don't ever let anyone convince you of that.'
The couple also spoke to Melisand Box, 14, from Albert Park College, who had a bag filled with plastic straws. She said: 'Harry told us to spread the message about whether people really need to use straws at all, and if they do, to use bamboo or metal straws.'
Harry and Meghan then did a 'mini-walkabout', greeting dozens of excited schoolchildren who had lined up on the beach to meet them. Among them was Amelia Marcom, 12, from St Kilda Primary school: 'I gave Meghan flowers, a picture of her and Harry I'd drawn for them and some t-shirts for the baby. She said she loved them.'
Before leaving the beach, the couple strolled hand in hand down to the shoreline, to meet a group of lifeguards from Australia Surf Lifeguards. Sebastian Top, 20, a lifeguard for more than four years, asked Meghan, 'Are you going to swim today?' 'Maybe not today,' she laughed. Harry pointed to a group of around 30 people who had waded into the sea from the beach to get a better view of them: 'If we try and swim, I think they might be a bit of a hazard.' 

On the beach, they met volunteers from a local beach patrol programme.


Harry and Meghan learned about efforts to keep Port Phillip Bay beaches and foreshores clear of litter to reduce the negative impact on the marine environment.


Meeting the crowds.


Meghan was asked about baby names whilst meeting locals.


Harry and Meghan bid farewell to Melbourne before returning to Sydney.


The Duchess selected a lovely navy dress by Australian designer Dion Lee. The talented Elizabeth from Meghan's Fashion called the brand to learn more about the piece. "The dress is a new collection piece from their Pre-Fall 19 collection. It's called the Folded Sail dress" The dress is available for pre-order.


The dress is described as: "A-line asymmetric fold detail skirt, Single lapel fold constructed into the bodice and Italian double weave wool tailoring."


Melissa Singer reports the designer said:

"It's a whole other level of attention. I can't say our website has ever crashed as a result of anyone wearing our clothes," he said. Meghan's custom dress was made "based on a previous dress of ours that she really liked".

The Dion Lee aesthetic is described as "technical with an intelligent sensuality". Each collection marries innovative construction, with a consciousness of the female form. Textiles are engineered to form sculptural embellishments.  Architectural silhouettes are dissected to enhance movement and the flow of air and light. After debuting at Australia Fashion Week, Dion Lee presented collections in London before relocating to New York, where the brand has become a permanent fixture on the seasonal schedule. Dion Lee is sold globally in over 40 of the world’s most exclusive retailers including Net-A-Porter, Bergdorf Goodman, Selfridges and Lane Crawford. Australia is home to six flagship stores, each designed to reflect the constructed nature of the product, in an environment that is both industrial and luxurious.


Meghan wore the same trench from day one in Sydney by Australian designer Martin Grant.


Meghan's carrying the Gucci Sylvie mini chain-embellished leather shoulder bag. The piece is described as: "Gucci's iconic 'Sylvie' bag is scaled down to a mini size that has just enough space for essentials - think a phone, lipstick and cards. Crafted in Italy from smooth leather, this ivory design is punctuated by the house's archival striped webbing and buckled gold chain. Detach the slim chain strap to carry yours in-hand as a clutch." It retails for $1200 at Net-A-Porter.

Meghan wore her Manolo Blahnik BB pumps in navy.



Meghan wore her Shaun Leane Diamond Tusk Bangle.

And as mentioned above, during the walkabout Meghan accessorised with a very special necklace by local schoolboy Gavin :)


Meghan also debuted new earrings.


For Meghan's second look of the day she chose a dress by one of her favourite brands. Laura identified the piece as the Club Monaco Miguellina Dress. The $268 style features gold-tone buttons and a round neckline. It's currently available in sizes 00-12 on the Club Monaco website.


Meghan's flats are the $145 Rothy's Black Solid Flats.


The sustainable brand is on a mission to create stylish footwear with as little waste and impact to the environment as possible.


Tomorrow's schedule in Sydney:

  • Day four of the visit, Friday 19th October, will take place in Sydney. In the morning, Their Royal Highnesses will visit Bondi Beach, one of Australia’s most famous landmarks.  The Duke and Duchess will meet a local surfing community group, known as OneWave, raising awareness for mental health and wellbeing in a fun and engaging way. Their Royal Highnesses will take part in the "Fluro Friday" session, where people of all ages share their experiences of mental health issues, and will have the opportunity to interact with others enjoying yoga and surfing. Before departing, The Duke and Duchess will have an opportunity to meet members of the public gathered on the beach.
  • Later that morning, Their Royal Highness will take part in a youth advocate programme that aims to unite and inspire young people to be advocates for cohesion and inclusion in their communities. The Duke and Duchess will also engage with students as they discuss issues including social justice and youth empowerment.
  • Following this event, accompanied by the Prime Minister the Honourable Scott Morrison MP, and Invictus Games competitors, The Duke will climb the Sydney Harbour Bridge to officially raise the Invictus Flag, marking the arrival of the Invictus Games to Sydney. Their Royal Highnesses will conclude the day with calls on the Leader of the Opposition at Admiralty House, and the Prime Minister at Kirribilli House.
See you tomorrow!

93 comments:

  1. Navy version of the white dress?

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    1. No two different Australian designers

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  2. as bbn usual, Melbourne traffic may cause delays! wish I was lining the streets rather than sitting in an office

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  3. She looks lovely as always. The crowds in Melbourne look excited. What a big turnout!

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  4. I love these mini bags but I do wish designers would take into account women who wear glasses as these bags just don't accommodate them. :(

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    1. I also wear glasses Lauri and sometimes have the same struggle when selecting a clutch bag for a wedding or event. I'm a huge fan of all bags from Colette Hayman. She's an Australian designer and makes THEE most incredible bags, most of which are spacious enough for a pair of glasses and a cell phone. I have clutch bags, mini bags, handbags and crossbody bags from the same label and have not regretted a single purchase! I would love to see Meghan carry a Colette Hayman bag whilst down under :)

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    2. Thanks Avee!! I’ll definitely check out this designer!

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  5. Steph from Canberra18 October 2018 at 02:04

    At first glance I thought the dress was another by Roland Mouret - seems to be a similar cut, hem etc.

    I just love seeing their interactions with the crowd. If only they were coming to Canberra!

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    1. It reminds me of her Roland Mouret she wore the day before the wedding too. Obviously she liked it enough to pick something very similar!

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    2. I thought it was the same Roland Mouret from before the wedding, too.

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  6. Oh my. This might be the prettiest thing I've ever seen Meghan wear. Love this, head to toe. Total win.

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  7. I can’t even pay attention to what she’s wearing...I’m too busy drooling over that bag 😍

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  8. Gaylane Swallom USA18 October 2018 at 02:20

    Meghan looks wonderful in this dress. If Jessica is styling her right now, she is hitting it out of the park for me. As far as what I perceive of Meghan, she is just endearing.

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  9. Love her, and Harry is Awesome! Their love seems natural and I wish other royals would follow! Makes them seem more approachable and like everyone else, just with titles 😉

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  10. Really enjoying the Duchess of Sussex’ dress. @ Anonymous @2:03, The Duchess is just carrying along the Trench coat in case she gets cold. She is not trying to match the coat to her dress. People from America do that so sorry about the “shabby”. Btw, that is her hair texture, yesterday was a ponytail remember? She hasn’t changed her texture, she changed her style. Crowds are coming to see the Duke and Duchess which is a good thing. I hope that their presence in these areas can help eradicate the problems. After all, that is the REAL purpose for these tours. Thanks, Charlotte. You are definitely on your job and we appreciate you.

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    1. I think what was meant was that her hair was more of her natural texture because of the rain and moisture yesterday undoing her straightened/ blow dried locks. Much like Kate had a different hair texture on the tour where she went to the islands and her hair couldn't hold its heat styling 🙂

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    2. I think Anonymous 2:03 comment is no longer there.....

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  11. Meghan looks lovely and they make such a beautiful couple both being in navy. Very striking. This dress is very Meghan. Not surprised she has her trench on again today, expect to see it throughout the tour. This trench is a classic and reminds me of Audrey Hepburn in Breakfast at Tiffany's.

    Could those be new earrings and a new bangle bracelet?

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    1. It's spring (think April) in Australia, and Melbourne is far south (think north). No doubt the ocean modifies the climate, but still it must be chilly at times. Both Meghan's trench coat and Harry's tie look as if they have been folded up when not in use, but that's OK, too. I do like her dress and his suit, and the necklace made by the little boy is beautiful. I'm so glad Meghan wore it.

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    2. that's where I have seen this trench, thank you. BTW, love Breakfast at T.....a classic movie and classic coat

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  12. thrilled for both of them with the reception they are receiving.....but so tired of Navy, Black and off white. Dress is fine just a different shade of blue would have been wonderful.

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  13. they are so blood gorgeous love both their looks from head to toe

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  14. Yet another beautiful bag! Wonder if I could trade her some of my cats for some of her bags. (Just kidding...)

    She looks a little pudgy and it looks terrific on her! Even Harry's suit is OK---at least it's not that lighter blue-blue.

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    1. Haha! That’s a toss up between the cats...or Meghan’s cute bags :P

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  15. Love love love this look! 😍 I've noticed that the Australian dresses that she's worn this tour are actually tailored much better than the ones that we've seen her wearing in the UK (in my opinion).

    I'm watching the live coverage on TV and it does look like Meghan is feeling a little peaky at times, I've seen a couple of shots where she seems a little pale under her makeup and glassy eyed. Poor girl, she's doing a stellar job though!! I couldn't imagine doing this at 12ish weeks along, although I had HG and don't know what it's like for a "normal" pregnancy.

    One thing I'll say though is that this tour could have been a little bit better logistically planned. The commentators have been saying that Harry and Meghan have been at least 20-30 minutes late to start each day and I feel that this could have been prevented, given them more time doing engagements and given Meghan a better chance to rest if they were not flying in and out of Sydney every day. It shaves off a good two hours in the mornings getting to the airport, boarding and flying then driving to the first engagement and then another 1.5 hours in the afternoon after the last engagement is done. That's my two cents anyways! 🙂

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    1. Royal 👑 Watcher18 October 2018 at 03:57

      I agree with all that you are saying, Chrystal. Melbourne traffic is awful, and I think it would have been better to fly in last night, get a good night sleep and be ready for a late morning start, then fly out again tonight, which I believe they are anyway. I wish them a good day in Melbourne, and I am sorry that I had no free time today to go and "have a look".

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  16. hmm i love the dress the perfect she looks great

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  17. Meghan’s bag game is on again! I would love to see all her bags! Should be an awesome collection.

    Love everything she wears today and adding the necklace made by a schoolboy is a nice touch!

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  18. That necklace! And Harry stopped to see the little girl in the tiara who had waited a long time. And he made another much older girl cry when he hugged her. Such lovely photos. But really sweet of Meghan to wear that. That little boy's day is made!

    My cold, dead heart is cracking you guys! I don't know if I can deal!

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    1. Lol! I know how you feel bluhare and I'm feeling the same!! And hasn't Meghan had the most lovely posture so far?! I'm so glad that she keeps her hands up by her diaphragm as it helps keep her shoulders back and her back straighter.

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    2. Meghan really does carry herself well, doesnt she. I keep thinking of their knees with all the crouching down to talk to kids!

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  19. Any identification of the earrings?

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  20. Kate, Texas, USA18 October 2018 at 04:05

    They look wonderful! My favorite is Meghan wearing the necklace from Gavin. What a precious and kind gesture. You know he felt so special! They are always so generous with their time and caring towards the crowds. I love it!

    Meghan looks beautiful and I love her dress!

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    1. The Gavin necklace is I agree the best touch.

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  21. Meghan looks very pretty today and I like the new dress on her a lot. I especially liked that she put on the necklace that Gavin made for her.

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    1. Ok, the second look of the day, the beach look, I like the dress, but this is the first time I’m not liking the trench with an outfit. But I realize it’s just a coat for weather protection so it’s no big deal.

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  22. I wonder what that dark ring Harry is wearing on his right hand (the hand with his bracelets)? Looks new. Any id's? You can see it in the photo where he's holding a blue boxed baby gift.

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    1. Apparently it's the Oura Ring which is a sleep and activity tracker that connects to an app on your smartphone.

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  23. I am not sure how well the trench goes with this dress, but I love the dress! ☺️

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  24. I just can't get over how much the people love them. It makes me feel a little emotional, almost.

    Another classic Meghan look. It's really interesting to see her several days in a row. I keep wondering what she'll bring out next -- I like that she's sticking to her personal style, but do hope for a bit more flair here and there.

    Harry hugging that fan was so funny and touching.

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  25. Silvia from Tuscany18 October 2018 at 06:15

    The dress is so lovely! Another perfect look for Meghan. And what about the mini-bag? I just love it! Very nice her gesture of wearing Gavin's necklace, her interaction with the crowd is really natural and spontaneous.

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  26. This dress is nice, and in keeping with Meghan's style. But it looks too long in the torso. Maybe it is her changing figure, but it's all crinkly at the waist, and the zipper in the back is puckered. Also, as others have mentioned, navy again? Though I'm probably guilty of wearing my favorite colors over and over myself.

    Love the interactions with fans on this tour. M and H are so genuine and down to earth!

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  27. I think today we saw Meghan bloom before our very eyes. She is so beautiful! Motherhood will really become her!

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  28. I love how Meghan seems to be making the Trench her go to coat of the tour. It makes her look stylish every time she wears it. And throwing a Trench over stylish dress is just so very much her style.

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  29. Gorgeous as ever. The navy dress reminds me of her pre-wedding Roland Mouret (also worn for the Queen of the World) so much!
    Ella

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  30. Lovely couple doing a lovely job!
    I find Meghan dresses always quite boring, kind of too basic, but being stylish it’s not her job so it’s fine like this.
    wonderful bag btw.

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  31. so sweet the duchess really wears gavin necklace i love m and h really give the genuine care to the people line hours just to see them hmm the wrap for day 3 see you tomorrow

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  32. What an incredible tour so far. They seem to enjoy every minute. I have never dreamed of such a welcome.

    I find it so interesting how this tour is full of substance, meaningful elements. It is certainly more than just fluff and outfits. As for her dresses, love both of them, reasonable price tags too, and reasonable foot wear visiting a beach. She is not afraid of showing up in flat shoes. Kudos to her!

    Thank you Charlotte, the details in each posts are superb, hard to find words for you, only superlatives are allowed.

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    1. What a wonderful summation of the tour. I'm loving it. Charlotte has outdone herself once more.

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  33. Really loved the navy dress and that bag!!!! Just add it to my XMAS list!! Not a fan of the black shoes!

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  34. Such a busy time for the Harry & Meghan in Melbourne today. I loved both Meghan’s dresses & thought she looked very relaxed but starting to look a little on the tired side. The tour is going so well & I am really looking forward to the coming days.
    (Charlotte it was lunch, school THEN tram & beach 😉)

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  35. A seed of disappointment is starting to trickle in, regarding Meghan’s wardrobe so far. That trench coat needs to be left behind on the plane. Exactly what is the weather down there? According to the crowd it looks quite pleasant. Both the sleeveless dresses she wore were pretty, And I can understand that maybe during the walkabouts it was windy or cool, thus requiring some type of wrap. But if I am in a crowd of thousands to glimpse royalty , I do not want to see a tan trench coat, I want a little wow factor with what’s underneath. Just a little, doesn’t have to be jaw dropping. . So, a better choice IMHO would be a long sleeve dress, or a blazer over the sleeveless dresses. And, maybe take a tip from Harry’s granny, and wear some color when you are on display to the masses. Is the duchess trying to cover up any sign of a bump with that coat, I don’t know.

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  36. I just love that Meghan always looks like she is just wearing her own clothes. There is no Royal'costume' dressing, which can look so stiff. It is so refreshing to see and makes her look so natural as well as letting her personality shine.

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  37. Nicole from France18 October 2018 at 11:12

    That trench coat is to die for ! And I like the fact she does not feel having to change the whole outfits everyday , that’s real life ! A trench coat is a go-to piece of clothe, especially such a beautifull one, Meghan has the eye for beautifull materials .... that’s a love affair between the crowds and the royals , I love that golden pastas necklace , quite the thing to wear with the dress ahahahaha . Again thank you Charlotte , learning about people’s efforts for a better life is always a treat , and you do things so professionally !

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  38. Charlotte - I'm so curious, do you know what the two embargoed "surprise" events were? Doesn't sound like they did anything that hadn't been previously announced? Maybe the eating of lunch? Or maybe two events with no media?

    Wonderful coverage, as always!! Thank you :)

    This week has been killer with being on the US East Coast. I keep telling myself to just go to bed and catch up in the morning...but of course I can't :/ I mean, it's not my fault if I just happen to wake up at midnight, 3:00am, and 4:00am and then use that burst of one-eyed alertness to catch up on any new photos. Lol. I am sooooo tired this morning. But, even taking the time difference into account, I feel like this tour - and we're only on day 3! (how are we only on day 3?!) - has just been an embarrassment of riches. I am over the moon to see so much of the Sussexes, to see how warmly they have been welcomed, to see all of the baby gifts, and just the love pouring out for the two of them. I am so happy that they are doing so.many.engagements. It's like Christmas everyday :) I can't wait for Invictus to begin too. Such an incredible week/tour!

    I love both dresses from yesterday, but do wish the second one had been a brighter color (or just not black) for visiting the beach. Plus, IMO, doesn't make much sense to go from a dark navy dress to a black dress - sort of, what's the difference?! Maybe it was more comfortable for her after lunch or for beach-walking or something, but I do wish it had been a lighter color.

    I am loving seeing the PDA between the two of them and think Harry is in dad-to-be overdrive with his watching of Meghan's steps/feet, hand-holding, and general solicitousness. He's pretty adorable. I think these two will be amazing parents and am so happy that in each other, they have found a healthy, strong parent for their child(ren) of the one they are missing in their own life (mom Doria for Harry and Pa Charles for Meghan). I am a therapist and feel that people (unconsciously) tend to either repeat the unhealthy patterns of their parents or try to heal them...and in Meghan and Harry finding and loving each other, I believe they are trying to heal their parental hurts and make a happy, stable, loving family unit. Can't wait for baby Sussex to arrive!!

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  39. Has it ever been discussed what happens with all the gifts that they receive? I can imagine Meghan not wanting to get rid of things, but the sheer volume has got to be overwhelming.

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    1. I'm pretty sure flowers go straight to local hospitals and hospices. Then I believe that all gifts received on official tours are technically property of the crown (because tours are "on behalf of the queen"), so they would get logged, thank you cards sent (when gift-giver is known, e.g. the baby uggs on day 1), and then if they are not going to be used, I think they get put into storage. I don't believe gifts would be given away, like the flowers, even if they receive 300 stuffed animals. But I could be wrong on this.

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    2. Although as soon as I hit send (of course!), I remembered that Kate donated a baby hamper she received as a gift to be auctioned off...so perhaps they are permitted to give away gifts. Although, I guess the baby hamper wasn't received during a tour...so I have no idea really. Lol

      In some sense it seems wasteful not to give all those stuffed animals away to other kids who can enjoy them, but on the other hand, that may be perceived as rude to the gift-giver.

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  40. Good Morning...1st thing I did when a woke was to look at the blog. They look so good together and she looks amazing. Wish we had seen the black dress a bit more, but it was not to be. The black and white photo looks classic, love it. She wore the necklace and it made the dress prettier I thought. My only complaint, I will have to wait until tomorrow for more photos/walkabouts from them. Thank you for all of your hard work on this - so thorough

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  41. Charlotte! You're amazing and I firmly believe you should be press secretary/archivist for the Duchesses.
    As far as Meghan's sartorial choices I'm not impressed. Yesterday she looked great and her accessories are to die for, but I have not liked any of the dresses. She's so VIBRANT, but she opts for these ill fitting dresses that overwhelm her petite frame. In the long run what she wears doesn't matter because she is so enthusiastically engaged whilst mixing with the public and she like the DoS is perfect for the job. But I keep thinking that this banana bread baking "princess" needs to step it up a notch especially on a royal tour. I really really dislike all the olive drab and navy she seems to be drawn to and was so hoping to wowed, but alas not. Harry looks fabulous, I don't think he's ever looked so happy.

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  42. I like the tailoring if the Diin Lee dress but wish that she would wear anything but dark colours in shade of navy, black or green. Mixing things up will be more interesting and makes her stands out more in the crowd just like QEII

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  43. I wasn't a fan of the previous outfit (blazer/skinnies), but both of these looks were amazing. She always looks SO good in dresses! The events all look amazing too! I love she put that necklace on from the little boy.

    And I have been tempted to try a pair of Rothy's flats. Maybe I'll take the plunge now!

    -AZ

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  44. In honor of BABY BUMP SIGHTINGS, I’d like to take this opportunity to correctly predict the Sussex baby names: Victoria for a girl, Phillip for a boy.

    Charlotte I agree with Anett. Your blogs are incredible. Even that is a gross understatement.

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    1. I agree that Phillip would be a good name.

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    2. Rita, I would love for them to have a red haired girl named Harrieta :-)

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  45. Wow, I love the concept of those Rothy's shoes - what a fabulous choice for those engagements! That's what I love about these two - they genuinely seem to put a lot of thought into practising what they preach on the issues they support. As someone who's trying to reduce my own plastic footprint at the moment, I'm thrilled that this issue is being incorporated into their tour as well as their wedding donations. I've never heard of the Rothy's brand before, but I might just have to look into it a bit more.

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  46. I read that her second bracelet, worn when on the beach, is a live lokai bracelet.

    I like that black beach dress a lot.

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    1. Good eye Allison. She does have on one or two new bracelets. I'm not familiar with a lokai bracelet so I looked it up. That does look like what's on her wrist.

      I really like the black Club Monaco dress as well - it might be my favorite so far. I wish she hadn't worn her trench the entire time so that we could get a better look at it.

      Also, I'm thinking those are probably the flats she probably for the boat ride from Admiralty House to the opera house.

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    2. I think she probably looks really great in that black dress but I doubt we'll see it again. She probably relaxed the rest of the evening in it and those pretty flats. I'm glad she seems to have early evenings planned.

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  47. That was another very full day! And it put Harry and Meghan very much in touch with people and with excellent projects.

    I never understand Kate and Meghan wearing spike heels on grass. At least Meghan wore flats on sand. Her dress was probably fitted during her planning for the trip, and the fit has changed. I wonder whether this will be a problem for her as the tour progresses.

    Thank you, Charlotte, for the wonderful detailed coverage. I know this must have upended your days and nights! I am seeing the beginning of a day’s activities before bedtime the previous evening!

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    1. I don't understand How they wear those heels on grass. Don't the heels sink into the ground? Do they take a course on how this works? These are truly burning questions that have been bothering me forever :). Glad someone else spoke about it Patricia l

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    2. Totally agree! At least I understand when Kate wears wedges, but the heels on grass doesn't make sense to me. -AZ

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    3. I have wondered, too. Seems like you would have to walk on your toes!

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    4. As long as the grass wasn't watered recently - some grass lawns (think Wimbeldon) - are fairly hard surfaces. That said, while Kate and Meghan aren't going to this extreme, I attended an fabulous black tie, outdoor wedding with a brand new pair of Jimmy Choo heels. The wedding planner had organized a basket at the entrance with these little clear "heel guards". They slide over the heel of your shoes and have a circle on the bottom that is about one inch diameter (so that your heel doesn't sink in). However, my heels were so narrow that the heel guards wouldn't stay on and needless to say, the heels were damaged :-( - they were the sliver metallic style similar to Kate's Vamp sandals. The grass was moist and they couldn't hold up. There were other women I noticed where they worked well.

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  48. They are really packing it into this tour. I was very surprised to read this morning that they did 5 engagements in 4 hours yesterday. I'm quite shocked at that. It hardly seems worth it to spend so little time at each engagement. I know they have a lot of ground to cover, but I don't think quantity should be the goal here. But they seem to be making the best of it. Must be a nightmare trying to keep them on schedule given Meghan's love of chit chat with fans. I expect they will be exhausted at the end of this.

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  49. I’m not one for colour coordinating couple outfits but these two were classics. The smiles on the ‘waste warriors’ faces are priceless. Could those smiles be any bigger? It was adorable and no doubt these young ladies will remember this moment forever.

    I've climbed the Sydney Bridge and it's amazing and exciting, I was also scared to death because of it's height.

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  50. I also forgot to ask, the jewelry.....is there any way to know what's new and what she has previously own? Just wondering how hard it is to find this pieces if I wanted to buy them.

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  51. Caroline in Montana18 October 2018 at 15:46

    Im sure im in the minority, but this navy dress does nothing for me and IMO nothing for her either. I do like her shoes and I really like the bag:) the black dress is way better, would like to see that again for a different event. interesting sustainable shoes, I learn something from you charlotte every time! thanks for doing such an awesome job on your blogs:)

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  52. Perfect, I'll have that bag and those flats. And the all-purpose trench, open, done up, rolled up sleeves, or down, wear like a cape...carry over the arm like an accessory. But really *really* like the navy wool dress on Meghan. I notice Harry doesn't always wear a tie. They're a joy to watch, spreading love and fun. Appreciate the coverage here so much, Admin., interesting extras, thanks for all your work!

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  53. Sarah Louise in LA18 October 2018 at 19:05

    My mum and dad live in Melbourne and were among the crowd during TRH’s walk-about. My mum got a good photo of The Duchess smiling right toward her direction, and my dad got a great video of them walking by. My parents said it was worth the three hour wait to see them. My parents also sent a picture of the tram that TRH’s traveled on later. It was definitely chilly weather because my parents had coats on too.

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    1. to be your parents....good for them

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    2. Zora from Prague19 October 2018 at 19:44

      Wow, Sarah Louise! Thank you for letting us know! I'm sure your parents were thrilled! 😃

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  54. I am so curious how she and Kate are able to walk on the grass with those spike heels. Is there special training for this? :)

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    1. I've wondered the same thing - they never even seem to teeter in spike heels on grass!!

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    2. Yep, they walk on their toes putting no pressure on their heel.

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  55. again a beautiful day my favorite and funny moments: the audience who sings stand by me, the fan who Harry makes a hug, the scare of Meghan and the tram ride. For my outfits they were perfectly suited to the day I like Meghan's effect on the creators when she wears their outfits.

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  56. The navy dress is especially beautiful on Meghan; adore her accessories. But --- PLEASE, Meghan, wear some colour!! Navy and blue are very chic but all the countries they're visiting are full of brilliant plants, flowers, birds, vivid aqua ocean, that could be echoed in her clothing. I want her to break out of her box!

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  57. These two...this tour...are hitting me right in the feels!

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  58. she looks gorgeous this tour i love and i love them and thanks Charlotte for all your hard work!

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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 :)