The appearance came as the Palace confirmed the Duchess plans to resume a full schedule of duties tomorrow. Russell Myers reports: "The Duchess of Sussex is set to return to a full programme of events tomorrow. She is “feeling refreshed following some rest” and looking forward to the rest of the tour, senior Palace sources said. Pregnant Meghan was left “feeling tired” after a packed week of back-to-back engagements this week during her first major international royal tour with Prince Harry. The source added: “The Duchess was feeling very tired after the opening few days of the tour, and thought it best to avoid the bumpy tracks today traveling around Fraser Island so a decision was taken between her and Prince Harry for her to sit out a couple of events. "She's not sick and she's not exhausted and is very much looking forward to the rest of the tour and meeting some more amazing people who have so welcoming to them both throughout the start of the tour."
Meghan was excited to meet locals who had waited for hours.
Rebecca English revealed Meghan bent down to meet 85-year-old Noeline Walk, one of the oldest residents on Fraser Island. 'She asked me since I was local what I would suggest she have for tea,' Mrs Walk recalled. 'Seafood, of course! I told her. 'Oh, I'll have to give it a try', she said.' Mrs Walk also recalled how she had got to meet the Queen on her first visit to Australia in 1953/54. Aunty Joyce, 87, told Meghan that although her name was Joyce Owen, everyone called her Aunty. 'I told her a story about my father, which she loved, and I wished them every happiness in the world with their baby. She said thank you and that they were so happy.'
The Duchess received an array of gifts for Baby Sussex.
The Mail reports:
'They stopped to chat to to Eliza Vitch, ten, and Grace Hommerman, eight, who caught their eyes with a sign that read: 'Harry and Meghan check us out!' They told the couple how they had held a royal wedding party to celebrate their marriage back in May.
'Oh my goodness, how sweet of you!' exclaimed Meghan. As she left, the Duchess remarked, in a thoughtful nod to their sign: 'And now I have checked you out!' The duke was also taken by a sign reading 'Rangas rule', an Australian slang reference to his ginger hair.
Jada Quinn, nine, said: 'My dad is a ranga and I'm a little bit a ranga and he appreciated the sign.' Her sister, Ella, 12, said: 'It was a bit overwhelming, I started to cry a little bit. She was so kind and she shook my hand.' Julianne, Ebony and and Lily Reid gave her a home-made baby changing mat. The expectant couple appeared utterly delighted by it. 'Does it have koalas on?' Asked Harry.'
Year 11 Gold Coast student Marcus Tossman made a sign for Meghan on Fraser Island.
He was over the moon when he got the chance to meet her.
Harry and Meghan were honoured to meet two amazing paramedics. 9 News reports: "Prince Harry and wife Meghan have met with hero Harvey Bay paramedics Graeme Cooper and Danielle Kellam who were behind the touching moment when a woman, Joyce, was wheeled on a stretcher to take a last look at the ocean days before her death. The moment came about when the pair picked up the palliative care patient from her home to be taken to hospital. A week earlier, the same paramedic and patient transport officer had been tasked with taking Joyce home from hospital to spend her final days with family, and during that trip Joyce had spoken of her love of the ocean and the romantic memories she had shared with her husband on the beaches of Hervey Bay. The conversation touched them so much, that when they were instructed to take her back to hospital, they decided to take a detour."
A video from the walkabout.
Before flying to Fiji tomorrow, Harry and Meghan are spending the night at a private property on the Kingfisher Bay Resort.
The 4 star resort offers idyllic views, scenic boat trips and walking tours, a host of restaurants and private lodges for guests hoping to enjoy their break privately. The owners were far ahead of their time and felt passionately about creating an ecologically sustainable tourism destination before it was popular or even newsworthy to do so.
The Duchess wore the $218 Reformation Pineapple Dress (with thanks to What Meghan Wore). The ankle length, relaxed fitting dress features a straight neckline, side slit and detached belt. We've seen a change of pace in Meghan's wardrobe today; from sleek professional pieces to pretty day dresses suitable for the Island.
Throughout the tour, Meghan has selected a number of sustainable brands. We saw that trend continue today with US based Reformation. More on their efforts: "We make our pieces from super sustainable materials, rescued deadstock fabrics, and repurposed vintage clothing. As we grow, our goal is to push harder to create more sustainable fabric options."
Reformation offer a range of linen midi dresses including the Daria Dress and the Thelma.
Meghan wore her Sarah Flint Grear sandals from this morning.
And her Northern Lights sunglasses by New Zealand based designer Karen Walker. They are available at Saks Fifth Avenue.
The Duchess accessorised with her Adina Reyter Pavé Teardrop Necklace.
Meghan wore her Birks White Gold 'Flex Wrap' bracelet.
And a look at Meghan's delicate earrings.
If you're just joining us, click here to read today's first post covering the couple's arrival to Fraser Island, Harry's engagements (including one in support of the Queen's Commonwealth Canopy), the fascinating history of the Island and Meghan's very pretty red polka dot dress.
Harry and Meghan attended a private Invictus Games Foundation reception in Sydney last night. Designer Jason Wu confirmed Meghan wore his Ruched-Trim Sleeveless Compact Crepe Sheath Dress. Click here to read the post.
Tomorrow, Tuesday 23 October, the Duke and Duchess travel to Fiji for another incredibly busy day. We expect to see Meghan's first gown appearance at the State Dinner:
- The Duke and Duchess will travel by charter flight to Fiji's capital of Suva, where they will embark on a three-day programme, experiencing the rich Fijian culture and generous hospitality. On arrival, Harry and Meghan will be greeted by a Guard of Honour at the airport, before calling on His Excellency The President of Fiji at Borron House.
- The Duke and Duchess will then attend an official welcome ceremony in the city centre's Albert Park. The ceremony, known as the Veirqaraqaravi Vakavanua, embodies Fijian cultural identity and heritage, and will mirror in format that of the one attended by The Queen and The Duke of Edinburgh in 1953. It will involve a number of traditional elements of Fijian culture, including dance performances, the presentation of the Tabua, and a Kava ceremony. Members of the public from across Suva will be invited to attend.
- From there, The Duke and Duchess will leave Albert Park for the Grand Pacific Hotel to attend a Reception and a State Dinner hosted by The President of Fiji, at which The Duke will speak.
See you tomorrow :)
Hm. I love the duchess. Wearing and yea she was hair up do
ReplyDeleteMy dear Charlotte, I’m looking at the time in London, and just wanted to say thank you SO much for the incredible job you’re doing on your blog. The 9 hour time difference with Australia means that almost all of M&H’s engagements are either very late at night, or at all hours of the morning for you. And, every time I sneak a look, you’re always up to the minute with a “first look” post for us to read. You’re quite amazing, and I just love reading your blogs ... so much information regarding the back story to the event, detailed information regarding the location, and such lovely words about our indigenous Australians, and a few days ago, the post regarding our ANZAC’s moved me to tears. (When fellow blog readers from around the world, in particular the US also commented on our ANZAC’s I was so touched). You are doing SUCH a beautiful job on both blogs. Thank you.
ReplyDeleteMeghan looks so cute in this location appropriate dress. And baby Sussex is being cradled so gently. So beautiful to see these very special photos. What wonderful parents they will be. On to the next part of the tour tomorrow ... let’s hope lots of rest is included. 😍😍
What she said … Marla from NH
DeleteDitto!!!
DeleteAgreed! It's all so very insightful the work that Charlotte puts into the blog.
Delete+1 from me too (ditto^)
DeleteOur Charlotte's a SUPERTROOPER!!XOXO <3 <3
DeleteSiddhii
I wondered why Fraser Island is an hour earlier than Sydney, since it is not much farther east. Turns out Queensland does not use Daylight Savings Time, New South Wales does.
ReplyDeleteYou betcha - much to the frustration of many!
DeleteTheresa
Gold Coast
Queensland xx
Hi Patricia I, yes you’re right. Queensland is the only Australian state that doesn’t observe Daylight Savings time. New South Wales does as you mentioned. Both states are on our east coast with Victoria. We’re going to miss these two love birds when they depart our shores tomorrow. 🇦🇺
DeleteDee, WA doesn't either.
DeleteCharlotte, you’ve done a great job covering the tour. Good luck with the remainder of it; I hope you can get some rest after.
ReplyDeleteEveryone- I’ve enjoyed reading all your comments (the ones I’ve agreed with and the ones I’ve not agreed with) but I’m just kind of done for now.
Lovely, easy, relaxed and summery California girl look!
ReplyDeleteIt is isn't it, but that slit's a bit high for a public engagement I think. Plus it's pretty sheer. Personally, I wish she'd have put that polka dot dress back on!
DeleteI agree, the polka dot dress would have been more appropriate and I think Meghan also looked better in it. This one is too holiday-like for me.
DeleteI noticed that Charlotte mentioned earlier that the weather was very hot and humid - I wonder if that was why she chose this particular dress. I liked it and wish I could afford one like it! I think I’m going to try to find a similar pattern and make one.
DeleteThank you so much, Charlotte, for your untiring efforts!
I am sure she wishes she put the polka dot dress back on!! Hindsight is always 20/20.
DeleteYikes, that gorgeous dress has a massive slit - hope that it is not too windy!
ReplyDeleteI hope it is windy, she has fabulous legs. Show them off!
DeleteWonder why she changed. The red dress from this morning would’ve worked as well.
ReplyDeleteit was probably a preplanned wardrobe change - had she joined Harry for the morning tour, she probably planned to change before the afternoon walkabout. Wardrobe changes are strictly adhered to on tours so as not to throw off the rhythm of the clothing cycle - de-bag, wear, launder, tag, pack/ ready to ship home.
DeleteI agree,the striped dress was appropriate for a private walk on the beach but not for a royal engagement.Love the red dress.The black one is very chic.
DeleteSimple, she choose to!
DeleteMeghan is building on her already great sunglass collection. She rocks them well.
DeleteThat story about Joyce and the paramedics taking her to see the ocean for one last time made me totally misty. Oh I wish Meghan would take up the cause of palliative care, it is such an important issue and so sad and beautiful at the same time.
ReplyDeleteI am sure that student's day was also made by meeting the royals.
I am so happy they visited this island, it looks absolutely marvellous amd feels like I paid a visit too. Total trivia, but love how Meghan suppports sustainable brands, I loved her shoes, and I am a bit partial to the polka dotted dress rather than the stripy one.
Lastly, Charlotte thank you for this well documented post again, even if there is a huge time difference with Europe, you make it so easy to follow them through the day. No one could do better!
Theory about baby name. I think Meghan likes the alliteration of her name. She also has that watch engraved “MM” for her future daughter - I believe it says “To MM from MM.” Perhaps the name will be “Mary Mountbatten-Windsor”? Mary is a royal name, one that she would have strong positive associations with having gone to Catholic school, and there is no high profile person in British royal family with the name right now. Also a good short name paired with the mouthful of the last name. I think the only reason William and Harry have gone by “Wales” as a last name is because they have titles. If this new child doesn’t have a title, he/she would go by the last name started by the Queen. Any other ideas for an “M” first name?
ReplyDeleteMargaret but I believe that is still to strongly associated with Princess Margaret, Marina but that's more a name used by the Kent branch of the family, Marie maybe - it's a BRF name but a more unusual one that hasn't been used for quite a while so I'd think of it as a possibility, Maud is already in use, Mathilda but I don't really see H&M choosing that.
DeleteInteresting theory, Eve! I like it. The only other M names with BRF precedence that I can think of are Margaret, Maud (used by Freddie Windsor though) and Matilda.
DeleteMary is a great suggestion for their daughter. A simple, classic name that would suit Meghan's tastes to a t. Also, just realized it would be a combination of her name and Harry's! :) Well, I'm sold!
DeleteMorena, as in Poldark. I'm a fan. Ha!
DeleteI like Molly. Meredith. Marlena and call her Lena. I don't see any reason for them being obliged to choose a royal name.
What is the story about her watch being engraved for a future daughter? I have never heard about it.
DeleteJust google “Meghan Cartier Tank watch engraving” - I can’t seem to be able to paste a link to an article. :) It is especially wonderful that Princess Diana had a Cartier Tank as well!
DeletePersonally I don't like it. I find it too see through, too much of a slit andbot right for a royal Duchess. Sorry, I'm sure I'm in the minority. But I do love the sandals on a peropers level even if I think wrong for duchess
ReplyDeleteCouldn't agree more!
DeleteI like this dress, but I think the slit was a bit troublesome when she crouched down. This dress would have worked better at the beach and that dress may have worked better today if it had been hemmed up just a tad.
ReplyDeleteIt is very impressive the number of people who turn out for Harry and Meghan. It is quite evident that these two are now more of a celebrity couple than a royal couple. I do mean this comment in an extremely positive way. Harry & Meghan are far enough away from the throne that they do not have to follow the strict guidelines and protocol that those above them do, and this gives them the freedom of a more casual and “contact” visit, Even their wardrobe choices are allowed to be be more casual and to express personal style - how many times has Harry worn a tie on this tour? By the way, I love Meghan’s past to looks - the sundresses with sandles, sunglasses, and messy bun really exemplify her California casual style!
ReplyDelete.
The bump in her bun and lack of flyaway strands hanging in her face really elevate this hairstyle to a new level; I wish all of her buns would look as perfect as this!
ReplyDeleteYes! This hair style is a great look on her!
DeleteShe looks in her element, casual and laid back.
ReplyDeleteOh boy! She doesn't look like she's representing the crown in this dress. Wish she had kept on the burgandy spotted one.
ReplyDeleteAgree!
DeleteI am so happy that Meghan is feeling a bit more rested. She is positively glowing and sparkling yet again. Her dresses today are/were so pretty. She is a beautiful human, so full of energy and life and goodness. And sometimes she gets tired. That makes her even more relatable. Respect and love to this outstanding couple.
ReplyDeleteShe looks beautiful as usual but I really do feel that the Duchess’ stylists are letting her down when it comes to the fit and comfort of her clothes. I think this dress is perfect in fabric and color for the day, but that slit should have been closed up. If she was going to spend the event standing, it would be fine, but being on a beach and walking a jetty, they should have taken the wind into account. She looks fidgety and uncomfortable in the video worrying about whether the wind was going to pick up the dress.
ReplyDeleteAt least she hasn't had poor Kate's experiences with the wind...will never get over the yellow dress incident. But by and large it seems to be forgotten. I really hope the same would be the case if Meghan were to have a similar incident.
DeleteCan you source the black blazer she wore on her shoulder over the Jason Wu dress please?
ReplyDeleteDoes a state dinner mean Meghan might wear a tiara? 🤗
ReplyDeleteIt kills me to say it but I would prefer that she keeps the dress Bordeaux this one I found it too light and shows too much skin for me. I want to forget this dress and go quickly to something else
ReplyDeleteAgreed. She was doing fine...
DeleteShe was doing fine! I didn't realize that I have really liked everything so far (even if it wasn't to my taste or preference for how I would dress) until I saw this miss. Oh well. There will me more.
DeleteThe red dress is wonderful. I wonder why she is wearing such a high slit and so bare shoulders. Can't remember another royal lady doing this.
ReplyDeleteWell, there was strapless dress that Kate wore during her 2012 tour. The dress with the layers that had multiple pink fabrics. It was a gift upon arrival and she wore the dress she was given and Prince William wore the light blue shirt.
DeleteSee through is never a good choice. Although I like what the company stands for. Wonder why she has decided to start holding her belly. I love the necklaces.
ReplyDeleteOh my goodness, that dress is a wardrobe malfunction waiting to happen. Glad she is feeling better!
ReplyDeleteThank you for all of the amazing posts Charlotte!! I have loved following along and really learning what Meghan's style really is, and I have to say it's growing on me tremendously! Easy, comfortable, low key - something I think we can see ourselves styled in - love it!
ReplyDeleteoh dear. the dress is lovely, but not for a royal tour. she's showing an awful lot of leg. i find it unbecoming. i know (and like) that she doesn't always follow protocol perfectly, but yowser. this is the first real miss of this tour for me. too much actress. not enough duchess. pity.
ReplyDeleteAnnie
NY, USA
:Yes.
DeleteI like the style of the dress but definitely preferred the red one from this morning, as we are back to neutrals! The slit is a little too much in my opinion for the purpose. I am no prude but if this is considered a work engagement then I think the slit could have been shortened by a few inches. The one photo of her kneeling may have revealed more than she wanted although obviously her legs are amazing!
ReplyDeleteToenail polish and a slit dress-what will Her Majesty say? lol I love her look today.
ReplyDeleteDiana, Sophie, and Kate have all worn toenail polish. I think it is the painted nails that are perhaps frowned upon. As to the dress. I like it but I too think the slits were a little too high. Showing her shoulders is not a problem. They do it all the time in evening gowns. More so back in the day.
DeleteShe did however look beautiful as always.
This was a fun location!:) I don't think Meghan's dress was appropriate for a royal engagement what with the high slit and total transparentency of the skirt. This is a cute outfit if it we're just she and Harry on a little island getaway but for an "on the job" outfit, I'm afraid it missed the professional mark:( -Maggie
ReplyDeleteCharlotte, I hope you are feeling as refreshed as Meghan looks!! I love her casual dresses---they seem to reflect her true personality. I loved the maroon dress, and she looks heavenly in this "beach" dress with it's flirty slit. Nice surprise for Harry to come home to.
ReplyDeleteThank you for your reporting on Harry's activities---I find the island to be fascinating and count on you for all the facts and beautiful images.
Funny---one of my jobs is as the managing editor of a journal aimed at the military and today my boss sent me info on a participant in the Invictus Games. I get to tell her that I know everything about them!
Love the dress colour, fabric and cut at the top but I think that the flirty slit should have been amended to be just a little more closed for this royal engagement. I've seen a couple of images on the news and Instagram where she is bending/ squatting to talk to an elderly lady and that slit is dangerously high... I'm no prude being only 26 myself and would wear this dress for sure, but it was a little borderline in my opinion 🙂
DeleteWhat a fabulous location. Harry's engagements look so interesting. I'm happy to see Meghan taking some rest time. I've always thought the schedule for this tour was unnecessarily punishing and wondered why on earth they would try to cram so much into it. But they seem to be holding up well so far. Glad Meghan recognizes her limitations.
ReplyDeleteNot a fan of this look for Meghan. I'm sorry, but this looks like something you would wear on your honeymoon vacation at the beach, not on a royal tour representing the Queen and royal family. Yes, she has the legs for it, yes it's something many of us would wear, but Meghan isn't many of us and she has a higher purpose - she isn't there for holiday. There are so many lovely dresses she could have worn, even the polka dot dress from earlier in the day would have been far more elegant than this. Just a total miss for me. Sorry Meghan, but not a fan of your fashion this tour. Which does not mean that I don't think the tour has been fantastic and that the engagements haven't been wonderful. But if this is Jessica Mulroney's influence on appropriate fashion, then I say Jessica has got to go. Now!
I agree. Overall Meghan has looked great this tour. However, that dress for the Fraser Island walkabout was ill-advised for the reasons everyone has already mentioned. She should have been better advised. It is interesting that Jessica Mulroney arrived in Sydney the same time as Meghan and Harry and I wonder the level of influence she has on Meghan's tour wardrobe. I did love the maroon dress from earlier in the day.
DeleteI love this dress,it’s a perfect holiday dress , it’s not what I imagined she would wear. Meghan has very varied taste, aside from the neutral colors, she goes from very high end designs to an outfit like this. With Kate you can kind of predict what she might wear but not with Meghan. Also Jessica has a totally different style to Meghan, she wears very tight fitting, showy clothes, it’s hard to imagine her choosing some of Meghan’s outfits. Thanks for the updates every morning, hopefully Meghan will be feeling good for the rest of the tour. Sinead
ReplyDeleteJessica probably adapts her ideas to the person she is styling. She has also styled Sophie Trudeau, whose clothes are very different from both Jessica's and Meghan's.
DeleteThanks for your article! It was lovely to see a refreshed Meghan join Harry for the last engagement of the day! They definitely made the best decision to have her forgo the earlier events, after seeing video of vehicles navigating the harsh bumpy terrain.
ReplyDeleteAnother nice nod from Meghan by wearing a dress from a company that supports using repurposed material. So many people waited hours to see the Sussexes so it’s nice that in the end they were able to see them. The happiness and enthusiasm of people and the Sussexes was lovely to see!
Dena
The red dress is gorgeous, beautiful, smashing.... I LOVE it. I wish she hadn't changed. Not a fan of the second dress.
ReplyDeleteAgree with you 100 percent! I loved the red dress from the morning events. Way too high of a side slit on that casual dress.
DeleteBorder Terrier lover:-)
This look is perfect on Meghan. She's looking relaxed, comfortable, and happy. They both look happy & madly in love. This is so far a fantastic tour, with lots of interesting stops. Thanks for such timely & informative posts. As far as I'm concerned, Meghan is hitting it out of the park with her timeless, classic style. I just love everything she's wearing!
ReplyDeleteThey both look good. It is a cute dress but I agree that with the slit and lightweight fabric it looks a bit more like a swimsuit cover up. FWIW I was not a fan of the earlier dress either. Loved her LBD from the night before.
ReplyDeleteI agree ali. It looks more like a "private vacation" dress. It would have been very simple for a reasonably competent seamstress to line the skirt with a lightweight lining and close the slit up a bit so it was not SO high. Still would not have been my preferred style of dress on a tour representing the Queen but it might not have looked so much like a swimsuit cover-up/vacation dress.
DeleteActually, it is more than that. ...representing the Queen... as Head of Commonwealth, not only her immediate subjects. However, Harry was appointed "Commonwealth Youth Ambassador."
DeleteWhich leads to...the emphasis is on "Youth." Their goal was to personally meet or be visible in person to as many of them as possible on this tour. It is obvious to me that this is exactly what they have been doing. I think some of the venues, approaches, and even their outfits are organized around this goal.
She was on a beach on a sunny day amongst a lot of "youth, including some simply "young-at-heart." I wouldn't expect to see her conduct an away day in the UK dressed in this. That slit and flash of thigh did prompt a brief twitch of an eyebrow- I will admit that. Luckily, she has great thighs.
I get the impression that some of these outfits may have been sourced from her own pre-Duchess/private wardrobe due to a last-minute need for roomier clothing. The earlier red polka dot and this dress remind me of a red sundress she wore to a Suits photo-op table reading in Florida.
Just a thought--I see her outfit first when she wears bright colors; I see her face first when she wears neutrals. Neutrals act as a frame to highlight her face. She is playing off her best assets. A smart thing to do for any of us. I don't think her frequent use of neutrals has anything to do with being pregnant or being on tour.
I loved her red dress! I wish she’d kept in on so we could have seen more photos of it!
ReplyDeleteWhile I like this dress for a casual beachy outing, I don’t think it’s appropriate for a tour, which is essentially a business trip.
I’m glad she’s been able to get some rest and will resume her full schedule.
I know I've said it before - Meghan knows what she likes! Even though I think she looks better in some color, e.g. cranberry dress - how gorgeous on her, she prefers neutrals and so here we are. She is a gorgeous, warm woman and looks smashing almost always. It's so delightful to see she and Harry in action on behalf of HM.
ReplyDeleteI'll just say it. I am uncomfortable with what seems to be an unusually critical fashion audience where Meghan is concerned. It makes me wonder if her choices are really that questionable or if there is something else at work.
Rita in Florida, I can't agree more. I don't consider meeting and greeting people on a beach no less to be an actual event. Also, many of the Australians in local news reports seem to be connecting with Meghan and Harry because of how informal and down to earth they've been which I think is a good thing.
DeleteBut many "royal events" are meet and greet events.
DeleteI think it may be because her choices have been somewhat unexpected for a royal tour, especially the sheer dress with the high slit. I doubt that it's in any way a personal attack on Meghan as almost without exception, commenters have expressed their joy at the baby news, how loved up Meghan and Harry seem, how concerned they are for her health, etc. It's OK to criticize her fashion choices. They are just clothes and we all like different things.
DeleteLizzie, that may be true but I doubt if many of them are on a beach. I'm an American and not really a royal watcher. Meghan and the fact that she's American too is the only reason I have any interest at all and reading the comments here and around the internet picking her apart about what I perceive to be pretty petty and ridiculous things tempts me to retreat back to non-interest again.
DeleteWhile I think the dress is a little surprising for a royal tour I do really like it and am glad to see she’s in comfortable sandals. Also love her bun today it looks super cute - not too messy but not too stiff either.
ReplyDeleteAgree! Her hair is on point today.
DeleteHmmm. The dress is stunning. Absolutely bang on perfect for the venue/setting. This is an island. A small island. As for the slit - a simple google will reveal any number of times when the Duchess of Cambridge has worn dresses with slits that mirror the one in this dress. While I am confident there were folks complaining about these choices made by the DOC as well - the number of people pointing this out as a problem is disappointing. Both Duchesses are young and stunning and on occasion show a fair bit of leg. Hope we can move on from this. :-)
ReplyDeleteI can't recall the DoC wearing a dress with a slit like this. When the DoS is crouching down, the slit goes up to her pantyline. This is a dress for personal time or ordinary folks, not a duchess representing the Queen on an official tour. She needs a stylist who knows how to dress a royal.
DeleteErika:
Deletehttps://twitter.com/almost_a_royal/status/1054370116660588545?s=21
Btw I don't disagree with you that this is an off-time dress but I am just showing you when Kate also wore very high slitted dresses.
Deletehttps://twitter.com/Almost_A_Royal/status/1054370116660588545
DeleteSomeone kindly put together a collage of some, but not all, such examples. I think they both look marvelous!
Also these:
Deletehttps://ulovee-dresses.webnode.com/news/kate-middleton-weard-a-baby-blue-formal-dress/
https://www.popsugar.com/fashion/Kate-Middleton-Wearing-Designer-Outfits-39077320
https://www.google.com/search?biw=1400&bih=781&tbm=isch&sa=1&ei=i0HOW-XXK4qTzwKGg5XgDQ&q=kate+dress+slit+legs&oq=kate+dress+slit+legs&gs_l=img.3...12209.12209..12592...0.0..0.108.108.0j1......1....1..gws-wiz-img.LFNx7wdwERU#imgdii=9PWjbdNlBN2BIM:&imgrc=Oeh0i3M9M7cM6M:
But do you guys think any of these examples are as high as Meghan's? They don't seem to be to me. I mean Kate is showing leg but Meghan is showing her entire leg especially when she is crouching down.
DeleteThe RL is pretty high given the wind but at least she didn't kneel down wearing it. I mean, if Meghan knew she would be doing a walk about and crouching down to talk to children, this is not the dress to wear.
DeleteInteresting the differing opinions on her outfit for the walkabout! I absolutely love this dress in this island setting. I notice there is a discreet fastening to manage the slit, at the upper leg. The styling works just fine. Incredible stories people have shared, so many positives about this tour!
ReplyDeleteBev out West.
I am nearly full term with my third and just read a paper in the daily mail about Meghan. The comments there are apalling and made me feel sad, especially since I am pregnant and I can imagine what she is going through. She is trying her best, far away from home, and she can't even rest properly. Why do people keep saying such terrible things about her. As a woman, I am on her side, as I am for any woman out there, struggling to cope with it all.
ReplyDeleteShira, Israel
Oh my goodness, I just checked out some Daily Mail comments - those people are CRAZY! Like 'should be locked up somewhere' crazy. I've never read such hateful awfulness in my life. I am quite sure that Meghan will never know a thing about it all, thank goodness. Best of luck with the rest of your pregnancy, and with life as a mum of three! :-)
DeleteI liked this dress! I think some people commenting might not realise how casual things are in Australia and New Zealand. I am sure that the locals will have loved it. It seems clear from the comments they've been making and the way that they're interacting with the public on this tour that Harry and Meghan have been encouraged to make their royal roles their own and really appeal to a younger type of follower, so I think the comments about this dress being 'unbecoming' or whatever due to the side slit really hark back to an old-fashioned aesthetic that doesn't fit their style.
DeleteThe dailymail is CRAZY. But I have read that some of the comments are actually fake bots by the Dailymail itself designed to stoke up racism and fearmongering. I have no idea how true that is but I read some of the comments and think "No way this is an actual person."
DeleteI am not sure that if done it is meant to stoke up racism but I think it is done to stoke up reactions and thus get people posting and commenting to generate numbers for their ads. I too often wonder how many comments on many sites are computer generated by the site.
DeleteHmmm....lots of concern regarding this dress. I was very surprised when I saw her step out of the car to meet Harry. I will say, I think it looks great on her and she appears confident.
ReplyDeleteWas it right for the tour? I guess when I saw it, I thought, "oh she's on a 'break' today and has dressed that way." When I noticed the transparency - I thought back to Diana in that early on photo - and then there was the slit that she had to content with - and she was grabbing it, so she was aware. And then was there too much skin? Kate wore that pink strapless dress while she was tour and looked lovely in it.
I think it was the combination of too much skin being shown - shoulders and leg - and the transparency of the fabric.
But is it a great beach dress to take on a holiday - absolutely! :-)
And the maroon dress reminded me of the DVF that Kate brought on tour that had been in closet - remember that dress? - she had it on for catching a flight (think she changed before disembarking).
Can't wait to see what Fiji brings!
What a wonderful opportunity for Harry to see the beauties of the island! I thought Meghan looked lovely in both dresses. Love the maroon dress. Meghan had travelled in it, and a lot of people like to change out of the clothes they travelled in, myself included. The walkabout on the jetty had a very casual vibe. You got a sense that they had just come out for a chat with the neighbours. Criticism of the striped sun dress she had changed into is completely expected. Meghan looked radiant and rested, and very happy to be reunited with Harry! I thought the dress had the right vibe for the occasion which was certainly informal, and there appeared to be a lot of happy chat. I got a very good impression of the premier, too. She seemed very friendly and approachable.
ReplyDeleteI love everything Meghan does, but I'm afraid this outfit will open her up to too much criticism. People generally target her for unfair attacks and I wish she would just avoid it if possible. The cranberry dress is just a much safer outfit and lends itself to less pearl clutching.
ReplyDeleteI'm myeh on this dress. Reformation always goes a little risque for my taste (or maybe I'm just bitter that most of their dresses don't allow for a full bust/I can't wear them;)). I'm glad she's supporting (consistently!) sustainable fashion and I *adore* her love of accessories! Great post!
ReplyDeleteLove both looks. Light confortable dresses and above all the sandals! My favourite shoes during summer! I'm happy to see Meghan wear a pair of them!
ReplyDeleteWhat a lovely dress, if I had the money I would love to buy it for myself, however even if I owned it I would not be wearing it to work (and I live in a sunny country with a relaxed dress code). It just isn’t a work dress and slits like that is just not practical when you are being photographed from all angles. I said the same thing a couple of years ago when Kate was also wearing a dress with high side slits. If it an evening event where you just standing around, go for it.
ReplyDeleteBut glad to see the duchess back in the game.
Agreed @Queen of the sun. I'm a fan of practically all of Meghan's ensembles & while I LOVE this dress...hmmmm. If it were me, I would have worn this one for the plane ride & the lovely maroon patterned dress for this walkabout.
DeleteThose day dresses look sooo comfortable. I feel relaxed just looking at them. The Duchess also looks rested and energized. Thanks, Charlotte. I’m looking forward to Fiji. I don’t know much about Fiji so I’m excited about reading your post tomorrow.
ReplyDeleteI don't mind the dress, but I'm not fond of the sandals (at least tied up that high on her leg).
ReplyDeleteOops I put my comments in the wrong spot. It was meant for this post. So here it is again...
ReplyDeleteI like the polka dot dress as it’s a nice change from her standard solid navy/black. I’m not too keen on the stripe sundress though. I just think it’s too casual for a royal engagement. The fabric is almost see through and the slit is too high. It should be modified to make it more appropriate for a royal engagement. For private stroll, sure!
And Meghan keeps rocking her clothes ..... I love the red polka dots dress, definitely , but do love the beach dress too .... I have always thought that these two will make the protocol evolve a bit ! Meghan is sexy , yes, she is not’indecent ! And remember she is a Californian girl , that’s the way in-girls dress for beach parties !
ReplyDeleteMoreover, I love that she sticks to her tastes , she needs to feel comfortable , beeing pregnant and jet lagged, getting up at 4.30 for yoga as she could not sleep .... freedom of mind and’ attitude is not disrespectfull , we are well into the XXI century and with due respect and affection for the Queen, she is a lady from a remote past , Charles and after him William will certainly behave mostly like her , Harry might be , and Meghan with him, the one who will really make the royalty look modern and connected with the young generations . Again I say it , I do not mean to sound rude towards the Queen , whom I greatly admire !
Hello!
ReplyDeleteThank you all so much for your comments. It's been so lovely to see your thoughts over the past week. I'm worried this thread is descending into another Kate v Meghan with endless comments on who "flashes more flesh" and wears "higher slits". It's a tricky area to navigate in terms of moderation. The comparisons area, especially over topics like this, more about personal bias. Now, that's certainly not the case with many posters, but I've been fielding a lot of comments that feel more like a free for all directed at both duchesses. I've seen this done elsewhere and the result is women tearing other women to shreds. It's always sad to see this, especially over clothes.
Thank you for your understanding on this. We have another hugely busy day ahead with Meghan's first royal gown appearance coming.
Charlotte, I am sorry that it became necessary for you to remind readers of opinions better left to themselves. Hopefully, kindness will be the first priority in replying to comments that one may differ with. It is good to remember that Kate nor Meghan does anything better then the other. They are two individual very different women in all they do. Thank goodness for that! It would be a very boring world if we were all alike. Again, thank you Charlotte for all you do to allow all of us to be on this tour with the royals.
DeleteCharlotte, Thank You for your impartial insight on the issue. I personally have no issues with the length of Meghan's dress. She's wearing it well.XOXO
DeleteSiddhii
Thank you Charlotte for addressing this...I have followed your blogs for many years and have never commented before (I did once send you an email :-)), I have given up reading most of the comments because I cringe when reading women feel like they can comment/compare/judge/ other women for what they wear or how they do their hair, makeup etc. I read your blogs because of all the information you give on the charities, the trips to other countries and the Royal Family in general. I have learned a lot from you and appreciate all you put into your blogs. I hope one day we can as women stop critiquing other women and just appreciate the good work they are doing for the world.
DeleteCharlotte, I completely understand where you are coming from on this. Maybe there needs to be a policy that Kate is not to be mentioned under any circumstances on this blog and vice versa on Duchess Kate because, inevitably, this is what happens. I can only speak for myself but if Kate is brought up here in comparison to Meghan and it's erroneous, I feel like I have to speak up. I won't speak up anymore but I will say that I thought all comments published were kind and non-judgemental. I'm sure there were unpublished comments that you had to read that were not so.
DeleteIt's difficult to navigate this blog. Duchess Kate has always been a fairly open forum where many different points of view of all kinds of Kate related topics have been discussed. Here, the tolerance level for different points of view is low among posters. If comments are not 100% positive one is labeled rascist, unkind, judgemental, negative etc. It's hard for a reader who has opinions and is a critical thinker to participate. For those of us who aren't necessarily Meghan fans but more monarchy watchers, it's almost impossible. Charlotte, you do a great job and I do appreciate the hard work you do to make this a civil spot. I think the dynamics surrounding Meghan at this point are what they are. I do hope they normalize in the near future so that conversations can happen without this taking of sides which is happening now.
Erika, thank you for the feedback. Constructive debate is absolutely fully welcome and I look forward to seeing that develop more, this blog is still in its infancy. I do understand on both blogs both duchesses will be mentioned. The problem is it can so quickly descend into a 'Meghan Fans v Kate Fans' unpleasant mess. The constant comparisons and the use of one to elevate/condemn the other is a problem I hope will settle down in time.
DeleteFor example, I have no problem at all with someone saying "I hated the dress. I didn't think it a good choice for the event". It's using one woman to tear down the other I find worrisome and ugly.
I hope to see this blog develop into a place where we can have any nuanced viewpoint being expressed. There are a number of critical thinkers who joined the Duchess Kate blog a number of years ago and I can speak for myself (and possibly some others) that the degeneration of the comments into singularly rapturous praise has been very boring for me to witness. There is nothing to say or read anymore for people like me, because frankly there is nothing to think about - either on this blog or the DK one. We used to have incredibly interesting discussions a number of years ago which were quite thought provoking. That has disappeared and the tone is different.
DeleteI haven't been able to get any comments across that are not very very neutral or high praise on this blog in particular. And while I understand the reasons for that (you - Charlotte want to avoid past ugliness that Erika eludes to) I suspect that your moderation of this blog is incredibly tight to the point that only the trivial is being allowed to be posted. If we only read very vanilla non-controversial comments that no one can possibly disagree with, then the discourse descends into banality. That is the current situation on both blogs.
So I hope that for the sake of readers like myself who come here to escape a demanding job or the craziness of the front page news there is some fodder that remains - something to think about without being emotionally invested in. Of course, this is your blog Charlotte and perhaps you don't want such readers - you want this to be more of a fan page. If that is the case I totally respect the choice. It was my understanding, however, that this was to be a relatively open forum.
I agree it is very difficult to navigate the blog sometimes, because comparisons are inevitable, especially when I remember reading from a poster Kate has got lovely legs why not showing them? Strangely enough, it is not the case with Meghan, for whatever reason.
DeleteLovely to see, some managed to find the way to follow the events...
Rosman are you on Twitter?:-D
They both have lovely legs, Anett and should show them. There is such a thing as too much of a good thing though, especially when one is working.
DeleteYes, I can inderstand that, Charlotte. Just to clarify going forward, did you feel the thread was in the elevate/ condemn territory or you were just trying to head that off before it happened? I've reread the comments and see that the comparison was used as a point of reference but not to tear anyone down. Sorry to cause you trouble. I know you're working extremely hard to cover this tour in such depth.
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DeleteYou said it better than I, Rosman 😊 I've always said that critical comments are different than negative comments, and without critical comments nothing really gets said. I do appreciate Charlotte's dilemma in which one critical comment triggers an all out war. I wish we could get pass that, so that we can actually have conversations instead of attacks.
DeleteI'm Australian and the vibe is more casual, especially in a beachy setting like this. Though I loved her maroon dress it did feel to me ever so slightly dressy for this walkabout, so I'm glad she changed. She had aides and Harry with her for advice so if it was a no-go she wouldn't have worn it. I'm sure the only people offended are the keyboard warriors/royal protocol experts here and no one that had the pleasure of meeting Meghan and Harry today.
ReplyDeleteCasey from Oz
Thank you Casey. My feelings exactly!
DeleteI was really hoping someone from Australia would make this point! Thank you!
DeleteIt is true we are much less formal in Australasia. For example the only time I wear a hat is in the summer when it is sunny and the ozone level is low. Children have hats as part of their school uniforms for that reason. Even going to Church doesn't require a hat here although people dress up more for weddings and the races. Really formal clothes and tiaras don't really fit most of the functions she will be attending. It would be most unusual to see tiaras around here! The Queen was always very dressed up when she visited, but even the Queen stopped wearing gloves to everything later in life. I have noticed that the younger members of the Royal family are much more casual and William and Harry don't wear ties to everything even when it is an official visit. I think they fit in better with us now because of that. Imagine if they were all dressed up at Bondi Beach! The only thing that has startled me is the bear hug Harry got a day or two ago. His security people must be having kittens!
DeleteVery happy to see some brighter colors and patterns thrown in with the red dress, and now this striped one. Makes me very envious of the glorious weather they must be having! Hope these more casual dresses continue in Fiji, as they're truly a style anyone can emulate!
ReplyDeleteTo be honest this dress looks like something you can wear to go to sleep and not a royal tour. Sorry Meghan I know you can do better.
ReplyDeleteI love this tour and am glad Meghan got rested. I love how she cradles her baby bump so much all new mommys do! So cute and her dress is lovely for the event. I love her hair and sunglasses and jewelry a nice relaxed but put together look. Thanks Charlotte.
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