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It’s Green for Kate on St. Patrick’s Day, & LK Bennett Re-Issuing Kate Styles

Posted by admin 
· March 20, 2012 
· 36 Comments
“Her Majesty, the Queen, is pleased to order that in future, upon St Patrick’s Day, all ranks of her Irish regiments shall wear, as a distinction, a sprig of shamrock in their head dress to commemorate the gallantry of her Irish soldiers during the recent battles in South Africa.”

That decree came in 1900, and this St. Patrick’s Day the Duchess of Cambridge was on hand to distribute shamrocks to 40 Irish Guard officers.

Anwar Hussein/Press Association

Kate chose a deep green Emilia Wickstead piece in what is becoming a familiar cut: fitted on top, a belted waist that flares into a full skirt.The piece is from the a/w 2010 collection, it was an outstanding look on the Duchess.

We just wrote about Ms. Wickstead in February (in this post), here is more on the talented designer from Vogue Italy:

Born in New Zealand, her mother was a made-to-measure designer. “It’s quite funny. I grew up with my mother: as a designer, she was always working and I actually used to say to her: ‘Whatever you do, never leave me your business'”.

Fortunately Ms. Wickstead decided on a career in fashion after all, that strikes us as a very good thing. Below we share five looks from her sping/summer 2012 collection via London Fashion Week.

London Fashion Week

All five would work for Kate, although some would clearly require modification, primarily in the bodice, providing more appropriate coverage. Below styles from this fall’s collection, as shown in our previous post about the designer. It is easy to see why Kate is fond of Ms. Wickstead’s creations.

Vogue UK

Wonderful looks, many of them ‘very Kate’.

The Duchess seemed to revel in her new role, smiling and joking with the officers while also being respectful of the location and responsibilities attached to the occasion.

Below you can see her touching her bouquet of shamrocks, you’ll also note she once again wore her Tiffany Diamonds by the Yard bracelet, as well as the Kiki McDonough green amethyst earrings we first saw on Christmas morning.

Anwar Hussein/Lock & Company

Our thanks to Ashish Joshi of Sky News, he tweeted word about the dress and hat designers, the chapeau was another piece by James Lock & Company, the firm’s “Betty Boop” style.  The hat is not a bespoke piece, it retails at £245, approximately $390 USD at today’s exchange rates.

The hat and shoes were both a rich brown, nicely offsetting the green in Kate’s coat. After much searching, the shoes were IDed on the WKW Facebook page by super-sleuths Leisa George-Meigh and Betty Bader.

Anwar Hussein/Press Association

They are by UK brand Emmy, creators of “beautifully designed and lovingly handmade collection of shoes and accessories”. It is a label Pippa Middleton has also been seen wearing. It is easy to see why the brand is favored by both sisters, more from the company’s website:

“Emmy Scarterfield is the innovative designer behind the brand. She has worked for many of the most influential fashion houses in Italy and the UK including Giorgio Armani, Bottega Veneta, Pringle and Mulberry.”The designer also did a joint collection with Jenny Packham (now sold out), more proof as to why Kate would appreciate her work. You can follow Emmy on Twitter, visit the company’s Facebook page, or read the blog the company recently launched.

A special mention also to Kate Middleton Style blog, it was Carly’s close-up of the shoe’s sole that offered a good look at the logo, ultimately leading to the correct identification. The company confirmed to both KMSB and Betty Bader the shoes were theirs.

After presenting the shamrock sprigs Kate also joined Guardsmen in the mess hall for a toast and sip of Harvey’s Bristol Cream. We can expect to see Kate fulfilling this role many times in the future, more from the British Forces News:

It is the Duchess of Cambridge’s first solo military engagement and the start of a longstanding relationship with the Irish Guards.

Last year, she was appointed to the honorary rank of Colonel of the Irish Guard and on 25th June the Royal couple presented operational service medals in Windsor to the battalion for their Afghan deployment.

The gold shamrock on Kate’s lapel is the same she wore on Armed Forces Day in June, the brooch is actually owned by the regiment and loaned to those using it on occasions such as Saturday’s. Previously it was worn by the late Queen Mother, as well as Princess Anne. You can see it below, as well as the extra fabric used to hold the shamrock punch pinned to the Duchess’s coat. 

Some may recall that Prince William was made Colonel of the Guards last year, it was the unit’s deep red uniform he wore on his wedding day. And last June the couple paid a ceremonial visit to the regiment on Armed Forces Day. More on the ceremonial history may be found on the British Army’s Facebook page.

The Guards have had an Irish Wolfhound as mascot since 1902, and Conmael received his own shamrocks from Kate Saturday.

More on how the dogs are named from the Irish Guards’ website:

The Mascots are all named after High Kings and Legendary Chieftains of Ireland.

A note about the spelling of the Mascot’s name: several leading UK papers spell it Conmeal, but other sources, including the Herald in Ireland, use Conmael, thus our decision to use the latter.  One other note, there has been a bit of chatter about a few of the Guards who appeared to faint before the actual ceremony, more on that from The Express:

Afterwards, Captain Ed Roffe-Silvester, 27, said it was not uncommon for soldiers wearing the 7lb hats to pass out. “The bearskin is fairly heavy,” he said. “If there’s a bit of a breeze like today then you have to put it on pretty firmly and that can restrict blood flow to the head.”

To watch The Telegraph’s video on Saturday’s event, click here.

Today’s ensemble was a classic look exuding grace and style while retaining an understated elegance. The accessories were spot-on, enhancing the ensemble without being overly fussy or detracting from the look.

++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

We move now to quick update on LK Bennett & the company’s plans to re-issue some of the pieces Kate has worn, we shared this on Twitter & Facebook last week but neglected to include the information in a post. (Apologies for the oversight, my brain is no longer a steel trap, more of a steel sieve, honestly.)

LK Bennett Facebook Page

The jacket will come in a new camel color, as well as the re-issued black and chocolate brown. For those not familiar with the Darwin, here is a look.

LK Bennett Press Archive

Kate has been seen on other occasions in the jacket, below we show her wearing the piece in February.

Photo used with kind permission of Niraj Tanna/IKON Pictures

It was the Davina dress and Jude jacket that Kate wore when visiting Leicester with HM and Prince Philip.

LK Bennett Press Archive

If interested in acquiring either piece, LK Bennett suggests emailing CustomerServices@LKBennett.com.

However, the retailer is not planning to release the navy Art court shoe, the Sliver Sandal in taupe. Our thanks to WKW Facebook friend Adrienne for letting us know they are thinking about other styles to be re-issued, asking Facebook fans for input on which they would most like to see.

 

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Categories : Accessories, Clothing, Jewelry, Official Appearances, Re-Issues
Tags : Duchess Cambridge green dress, Duchess Cambridge Irish Guards shamrocks, Duchess Cambridge St. Patrick's Day dress, Emilia Wickstead, Emmy Shoes Duchess of Cambridge, Irish Guards mascot shamrocks, Kate Middleton Betty Boop hat, Kate Middleton Davina dress re-issue, Kate Middleton Emilia Wickstead, Kate Middleton Emmy Shoes, Kate Middleton Irish Guards dress, Kate Middleton James Lock hat, Kate Middleton LK Bennett dress, Kate Middleton St. Patrick's Day dress, LK Bennett reissuing Kate Middleton styles, what Kate wear St. Patrick's Day, What Kate Wore
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Comments

  1. Ria says:
    May 27, 2012 at 12:58 pm

    So,So beautiful!!! I love everything about it -the hat,her gorgeous hair,the color and cut of the dress
    and especially those adorable shoes! Just lovely…

    Reply
  2. G says:
    April 29, 2012 at 6:43 pm

    Your information concerning Kate never seems up to date lately. It seems it takes days for you to catch up.

    Reply
  3. Jane says:
    April 11, 2012 at 7:05 am

    Great post, as always! I think she is looking really good but has gone quiet a bit lately? Perhaps gearing up for the queen’s jubilee and olympics.

    I went and got my hair cut at the Richard Ward salon (slightly stalkerish?!).
    Anyway, here is my review:
    http://hisandherslondon.com/2012/03/31/lets-make-like-k-middy-and-head-to-richard-ward-duchess-of-cambridge/

    Reply
  4. Allison says:
    March 29, 2012 at 12:31 pm

    I wish we knew better what makeup she used… anyone here have any guesses? She always looks so glowy!

    Reply
    • admin says:
      March 29, 2012 at 1:22 pm

      Hi Allison! There have been multiple reports that she uses Bobbi Brown, if you do a search for her name & that brand you should find the tutorial and hypothetical colors used. 🙂

      Reply
      • Lili says:
        April 1, 2012 at 7:48 pm

        And it’s also been said that she uses Lancome.

        The truth is that we cannot know for certain. My guess is that, like a lot of women, she uses products from different lines.

        Reply
  5. Kate says:
    March 26, 2012 at 5:34 am

    I simply love this. The pine colour is such a nice one!

    Reply
  6. BJ says:
    March 22, 2012 at 7:28 pm

    I dont like this outfit. Once again she dresses like a 50 year old lady. This girl needs help with her fashion choices. She is only 30 years old. Dress like it!

    Reply
    • Lynn says:
      April 10, 2012 at 6:52 pm

      She is sophisticated and classy, unlike make 30 year olds I know. I’m almost 30 and find her style refreshing in a sea on mini skirts and midriffs. At 30 you should be comfortable enough in your own skin not to show it all off.

      Reply
  7. Aly says:
    March 21, 2012 at 5:34 pm

    I ADORE this outfit!!! She always looks so great. 🙂 On a side note, does anyone know if LK Bennett is going to restock the Sledge2 pumps that Kate is so fond of (I know the Sledge ones are still available but they are not the same)? The link I had bookmarked doesn’t work anymore and I noticed the shoes are gone from the site… Thought I’d ask before I bother the customer service people with one of their most frequently asked questions.

    Reply
  8. Molly says:
    March 21, 2012 at 2:40 pm

    I love the coat in black, but on Kate, between the pine color and brown accessories, its not working for me. Its much to aging. I would have prefered if she wore a more vibrant green and different accessories.

    Reply
  9. Kim says:
    March 21, 2012 at 9:30 am

    I loved loved loved Kate’s look on St. Pats Day. Simply lovely!!!

    Reply
  10. Decor Arts Now says:
    March 21, 2012 at 7:56 am

    Sigh. Someday I want Kate’s life ( and her waistline). Loved the green ensemble.

    Reply
  11. Vera says:
    March 21, 2012 at 6:02 am

    She is really elegant. I love pillbox hats, they are simple and fashionable at the same time.

    Reply
  12. ElizaMo says:
    March 21, 2012 at 5:14 am

    Fantastic outfit — this is how a duchess should dress — I was worried we were heading for yet another effort in grey. But what a gorgeous coat — and such a wonderful flattering shape for her, being full on the hips, and such gorgeous fabric — how it drapes, how it hangs!

    And even allowing for a preference for muted colours Kate has teamed up with such a smart little hat in brown which makes an edgy combination in such an appropriate way. Fabulous stuff.

    Reply
  13. Ali says:
    March 20, 2012 at 10:07 pm

    I LOVE the whole look: imposing, disarming and soo Regal !! Kate really did her homework well… The outfit was perfect for the occasion (indoors/outdoors, serious/celebratory) and the colour was spot-on as it was St Patrick’s Day. The hat was lovely, discreet and same colour as the shoes (dark brown). It was better to wear green with brown rather than with black – it complemented better with and was more distinguishable from the red & black military uniforms. She proudly wore the Regiment’s shamrock brooch (which could be seen for miles), and set-off against a sea of red & black military uniforms, Kate looked Magnificent!! This was a very important event in the royal calendar that was essential for Kate to get it right, not just because William is Colonel of the Regiment and it is Kate’s first solo military event, but this is a century-old royal tradition only previously undertaken by very senior (experienced) royals – one of the Queen Mother’s favourites – signalling perhaps that Kate is stepping into seriously big shoes. William must be so proud of Kate, and the Queen appears delighted!
    Please – could we have more details about the belt ..

    Reply
  14. Sarah says:
    March 20, 2012 at 9:26 pm

    I love the dress, great color and looks lovely on her. I’m not sold on the hat, there is just something that looks off to me. Maybe a different style or color?

    Reply
  15. Anne says:
    March 20, 2012 at 9:15 pm

    There’s a great collection of photos of Kate at the St Patrick’s Day parade at the “Daily Mail’:
    http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-2116328/St-Patricks-Day-2012-parade-Duchess-Cambridge-Kate-Middleton-presents-shamrocks-guardsmen.html

    Reply
  16. stellafromcanada says:
    March 20, 2012 at 7:57 pm

    I know this is picky – I wish the shoes didn’t curl up at the toes. She is beautiful!

    Reply
  17. Daisy says:
    March 20, 2012 at 4:32 pm

    The green dress is such a flattering and beautiful cut. I think it would compliment many different body types. That is what I love most about Kate’s style. She is as thin as a model, but doesn’t wear clothing that only looks good on models. Truly a style icon.
    I wish there were some posts on her hair and make-up products. If anyone knows about her hair product choices, please post!

    Reply
    • Cricket says:
      March 24, 2012 at 12:42 pm

      I read she uses kerastase hair products and Bobbi Brown make up

      Reply
  18. Soph says:
    March 20, 2012 at 4:32 pm

    One of my favourite looks from her solo trips!

    http://duchesscatherinestyleblog.blogspot.co.uk/

    Reply
  19. Daisy says:
    March 20, 2012 at 4:12 pm

    The dark green coat dress is a very flattering cut. I think it would flatter all figures. That is what I love most about Kate’s style. She is as thin as a model, but doesn’t wear outfits that only models could get away with. Maybe that’s why she is such a true style icon?
    I wish there were some posts about her hair and make up products. Does anyone know what hair products she uses?

    Reply
    • Lili says:
      March 20, 2012 at 7:56 pm

      Over on “Get What Kate Wore,” the blogger actually visited the salon the Duchess frequents and apparently had her hair done in the same style. I think she found out what products the Duchess uses. These included Kerastase products but also one or two salon treatments available only at that salon.

      Heroic of her, I suppose. The “sacrifices” bloggers will make for the sake of their readers!

      You’ll have to scroll back on that site to find the information.

      Reply
  20. Lili says:
    March 20, 2012 at 3:58 pm

    A beautiful coat dress, even given my oft-expressed dislike of full skirts. The lines of this dress were sleek and elegant, which is very much characteristic of Wickstead’s designs. Wickstead’s pieces tend to have a bit of a vintage feel to them, rather 1950’s in flavor, and the Duchess has now worn several outfits that have suggested the 40’s or 50’s. This may simply be because the rather formal mode of dress that she’s needed to adopt, accessorized with hats, will inevitably remind us of past fashion eras in comparison with modern wardrobes, but the Duchess has always been something of a traditionalist, so I wonder whether she’s simply drawn to retro style as a matter of personal taste.

    I very much liked the subdued teal-green of this dress, which surprised me, since I wasn’t nutty about the teal-blue of the LK Bennett dress and jacket.

    I loved the pillbox hat, and the warm chocolate-brown of the accessories worked very nicely.

    Speaking of LK Bennett, I have to say that I am not wildly impressed by its offerings. The Davina dress looked great with the jacket and belt, but I don’t care for the design on its own; I find it rather boring. And, having tried on various items at LK Bennett’s Chicago store, I’m not thrilled by the quality. It could be better, considering the prices.

    Reply
    • ElizaMo says:
      March 21, 2012 at 5:21 am

      I have to confess to getting a bit confused by the “retro” thing — I’ve seen at least one magazine fashion spread where at least half-a-dozen different 20th century decades are being “retro-ed” to.

      I think some of Kate’s outfits reflect a sort of vague merging of 30s, 40s and 50s all at once at times and in a way I find it a little lacking in focus. Presumably only a problem for those of us whose parents and grandparents lived through those times!.

      Reply
      • Lili says:
        March 21, 2012 at 10:38 am

        I don’t think we’d want the look to be too “focussed,” since the effect would be unfortunately costume-like.

        I think Wickstead’s designs very much reflect the general design sensibility of the fashions on the site below and often of Dior’s New Look. As for the 40’s, that LK Bennett blue dress and peplum jacket look, with the hat, looked right out of a film about the homefront in World War II: the sort of thing the heroine would wear to say hello or goodbye to the hero at the train station. It even had a vaguely military air.

        Let’s leave the 30’s out of it. Not a good decade in fashion (except in eveningwear), and I haven’t seen the Duchess make any references to it in her clothing choices.

        http://fashion.lilithezine.com/1950s-Fashion.html

        Reply
  21. Mary says:
    March 20, 2012 at 3:56 pm

    If Kate had the Irish Creme I guess we’ve settled the fact that she’s not pregnant after all!

    Reply
    • Ali says:
      March 20, 2012 at 10:35 pm

      My thoughts exactly!!
      BTW, I’ve just seen a close-up photo of her sipping sherry and the scar is clearly visible. In fact, all close-ups of her left side show the scar – proof that she has a scar, not hair extensions …!?

      Reply
  22. Barbara says:
    March 20, 2012 at 3:50 pm

    I loved the last outfits worn by Catherine especially for their cut and colours.

    Reply
  23. Caroline says:
    March 20, 2012 at 2:12 pm

    Great coat dress for the Duchess–like the bottle green and the cut. I noticed however that in some of the photos the hem appeared uneven–hanging longer at the front–hopefully that is just because Kate’s belt seemed also to ride up a bit in the middle front, and not because the hem is actually uneven. The hat was nice, but a bit boring. I like it better on the model perhaps because it was worn on a jauntier angle. The brown accesories with the green coat were nice if a bit subdued.

    I was pleased to see Kate wearing a Commonwealth designer, well, at least one born in the Commonwealth. It’s commendable that the Royal family does its bit to promote British fashion but they are the Royal family for the entire Commonwealth and it would be nice to see Commonwealth designers being promoted as well, and not just on the occasional tour to that particular country. Now if we could get Kate into some Martin Grant…

    I love that last Emilia Wickstead dress–gorgeous, and so much better than the sausagecasing that Lady Kitty Spencer wore to William and Kate’s wedding!

    Reply
  24. Megan says:
    March 20, 2012 at 2:06 pm

    That is a VERY pretty dress that she wore over the weekend. I just wish it was a little bit more green – it looks like a teal on my monitor.

    Brown is a nice, interesting choice for her hat and shoes, and I think I like it.

    Reply
  25. waywewere says:
    March 20, 2012 at 1:57 pm

    Yeah, the coat dress is so Kate. 🙂 Nothing wrong with it; it’s just so expected. 🙂 Personally I didn’t like the hat. I thought it was overwhelmingly big and heavy looking. The one she wore the other with the Queen might be a better size.

    Reply
  26. Melissa says:
    March 20, 2012 at 1:45 pm

    she looks stunning, hair, hat and outfit

    Reply
  27. Prue says:
    March 20, 2012 at 1:43 pm

    I love the coat! And the belt seems a balanced width. I almost drooled over my keyboard at those shoes which go so nicely with the hat.
    Gorgeous outfit. Can’t find and ‘although’ thing to say about it 🙂

    Kate looks great in green. Love the Jude jacket and Davina dress too – and the Darwin jacket looks so warm. It’s all good.

    Reply
  28. Ann says:
    March 20, 2012 at 1:14 pm

    I can’t gush enough about Kate’s outfit on St. Patrick’s Day – it is quite easily my favourite outfit on her! I love love love the hat and how the warm brown worked with the cool green of her coat dress! The fitted top, belted waist and full skirt is really flattering not only on Kate, but also on many other figures as well so thumbs up from me!!!

    Reply

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