Kate in Silver at Order of The Garter Service

In yet another public appearance, Kate wore a grey ensemble from Katherine Hooker. The Buxton Dress is a mercury crepe satin and the Buxton Coat is Ash Simla silk with a bead and lace trim. Katherine Hooker wrote on her Facebook page that Kate's coat was specially designed with an antique clasp. She looked lovely, if slightly boring. This dress-with-matching-coat is basically a younger woman's version of what the Queen wears. I understand there are particular challenges with dressing formally, staying warm and looking royal. It 's just not a good look for a beautiful young woman. This is what they call in America a "mother of the bride" ensemble. And enough with the fascinators already. All the women in America are fed up with the fascinators. They simply are not worn in the US and, well, here they simply ARE. One does not consider going to a formal occasion without a flying saucer attached to ones head. Such a shame, because they really are quite ridiculous. This one is, of course, from Philip Treacy.

 

Kate seems so relaxed and happy at these events. Such a stark contrast to Diana who always seemed scared and shy.

all photos via AP

The Order of the Garter is quite exclusive, dating back to 1348. It is the highest order of chivalry, or knighthood. Beyond those in the royal family, there are only 24 other members. Here is Will in his Order robes:

Fancy indeed. I still prefer the giant fluffy hat he was wearing yesterday. My goodness, no wonder these people need "dressers".

High Fashion or Just Plain Ridiculous

photo via

Let's talk hats. Or, fascinators rather. As with any bold fashion statement, the Philip Treacy designed headgear that dominated the noggins of many women at the royal wedding, provoked either admiration or scorn. On many outlets, Eugenie and Beatrice are being compared to Cinderella's evil stepsisters (ouch). But, there are also those who think it all genius - Mr. Treacy can do no wrong. Here is my take. Even if something is deemed "the height of fashion", if it makes you look ridiculous - and let's be honest, some of these women looked RIDICULOUS - it is a bad choice. Especially for such an occasion as this. Think about the weddings you have attended. Every time I get dressed for a wedding, I consider first and foremost the Bride. Who is she? What is her sense of style? If I know these things, then I have an idea of what the wedding is going to be like, and therefore what is appropriate for me to wear. The consideration is ALWAYS for the bride. This is her day - it is not about me. I only need to look presentable and appropriate. There is never, ever a good excuse for taking attention away from a bride on her wedding day. All of that said, I think Kate's understated elegance still out-shined all of the comical headgear. Still, what were these women thinking? And what is Mr. Treacy's responsibility in all of this? Clearly he saw an opportunity to get all kinds of attention - good or bad. And for someone like Eugenie, who admits she has no fashion sense, she seems to have been taken advantage of. Let's face it, she will never live down that hot mess on her head.