Kate was in a mix of old and new pieces for a joint engagement with William today.
The Duke and Duchess were at a Coach Core event in Essex.
They stopped on the way into the building to chat with some young fans.
The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge have arrived at Basildon sporting village and took time to say hello to children and people who’d gathered to greet them #HeartNews pic.twitter.com/K8KTRzqsDO
— Essex News (@HeartEssexNews) October 30, 2018
More from USA Today:
Prince William and Duchess Kate got playful during a visit to Coach Core Essex at the Basildon Sporting Village outside London Tuesday.
Coach Core program helps to engage a diverse local community with sports – and the royal couple seemed to have fun taking part in the athletics and getting friendly with the students.
The Duke and Duchess speaking with coaches and graduates from the program as well as new program apprentices.
Coach Core’s goal is to “harness the power of sport & its ability to change lives and empower young people.” Since it began in 2012, 99% of graduates enter full-time education or secure employment. Coach Core targets communities which have the highest levels of youth unemployment and social deprivation.
This morning Coach Core noted that “…we have a wide variety of partners in Essex, including inclusion programmes like Sport for Confidence, which The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge will get to see first-hand as they participate in a game of boccia with our apprentices later today.”
Below, Kate playing boccia. She kept getting the giggles.
Her team was taking on William’s team. (Coach Core says the way to find out which team one is via its Instagram Stories.)
The Duchess took part in a tennis session.
The Duke chatting with program participants.
Below, William and Kate with apprentices and graduates from the program.
There was also time for hugs today.
“Hugs are very important; I keep saying that to my children.”
The Duchess of Cambridge meets Janet Emery, a @sportforconf client in Basildon Sporting Village, Essex – my video for @PA. pic.twitter.com/wjTKsdoTOf
— Peter Cary (@PeterCary1) October 30, 2018
Sport for Confidence summed up the day this way:
A groundbreaking day, never seen a room full of so many smiles.
Barriers broken.
When it was time to leave Sophia Mitchell had a pretty posey for the Duchess.
A little video of Kate and Sophia.
💐 A bouquet from Basildon for the Duchess of Cambridge as she and the Duke leave the Sporting Village @KensingtonRoyal @ActiveEssex @SEGCtweets @WeAreCoachCore pic.twitter.com/9i20E5IVu9
— BBC Essex (@BBCEssex) October 30, 2018
Now for our look at what Kate wore, starting with her Smythe 2-Button Blazer ($795, now sold out). It is a wool/linen/nylon blend in a classic Prince of Wales check, also known as Glen Plaid in some quarters.
The piece is described as having a “…traditional riding blazer feel, featuring a contrast collar, flattering pocket flaps and oversized leather buttons.” More on the fabric pattern from GQ:
The term glen plaid is derived from the Glenurquhart valley in Scotland, where the textile was first employed way back in the 19th century. Glen plaid is often dubbed Prince of Wales check, after the ever-rakish Prince of Wales Sir Edward VIII who favored the fabric for his bespoke suits.
Valerie suggested Kate’s turtleneck might be this & Other Stories piece ($69).
It is 100% merino wool with a snug fit and no embellishment, nor is there ribbing at the collar or cuffs. I tried lightening photos to get a good look at Kate’s sweater but just couldn’t see enough detail to tell if this was the top Kate wore today. Kate’s skinny jeans are not yet identified.
Kate wore her Fallon Dry boots (£295, about $375 at today’s exchange rates) from Russell and Bromley. The boots are an Aquatalia design made for Russell and Bromley in weather-resistant black suede with a 2.5″ heel. 
The Duchess had on her White Topaz Cushion Drop Earrings by Kiki McDonough.
And she wore her Cartier Ballon Bleu watch. (We show it as worn on another occasion.)
A video from Kensington Palace.
The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge visited @WeAreCoachCore in Essex today and saw how the scheme is getting the local community involved in sport.
Read more about the visit here: https://t.co/4X8E3TUfwD pic.twitter.com/PuLe1gbY3H
— Kensington Palace (@KensingtonRoyal) October 30, 2018
A wave goodbye from the Duchess.
Can anyone tell me what brand and style these skinny jeans these are? Thank you!
They haven’t been identified yet. 🙂
Hi Susan — the blazer is available for pre-order on the Smythe website. It says it’s shipping in March 2019.
Hi Sarah, thanks so much for this! I added it to Retail Roundup. 🙂
I think Kate looks amazing! I am in. My 50s, and I absolutely do not have a lovely figure like Kate’s, but I only wear skinny jeans. I think they flatter any figure.
For those unfamiliar with riding jackets, I want to give a little information about how a riding jacket traditionally fits and how it traditionally looks like in case you are wondering how this is jacket is inspired by equitation wear as I myself am an equestrian (I do English Equitation, Para-dressage and I’m learning Showjumping.) The particular model of riding jacket this appears to have been styled after is a showjumping or hunt jacket as there are no tails as I like to call them; you can easily bring a showjumping jacket into your modern day wardrobe.
Jackets traditionally have a 3-4 single button closure (with same amount of decorative buttons on the sleeves) and are traditionally made of wool, although newer technologies have allowed them to be made of nylons and other synthetics that look just as polished but are waterproof and keep a rider cool. Along with a notched collar, a single vent is traditional, but double vents help keep the jacket flat against the saddle. Traditional colors are navy, black and hunter green.
Jackets should be fitted enough that the form of the rider is seen, yet not so fitted that the arms and shoulders cannot move freely in any direction. Often, you see coats fitted with about 1/8″ – 1/4″ (some insist on 1/2″) of room to breathe so riders can move our bodies effectively; the shoulder seam always sits on the shoulder hinge or riders can’t move their arms. Hunt and jumping coats are cut two to three fingers lengths above the thigh so riders have freedom to sit up in the saddle.
Keeping this in mind, you can see much of the equestrian flare this jacket has. It has the unusual rider cut, the 4 button decorative sleeve buttons, and the new trend in equine sports – the top part of the collar being one color and the bottom being the same color as the jacket. (In fact, Tredstep makes a jacket where you can switch out the top portion of the collar for another color. It’s the big thing right now.) You can also see the equestrian sensibility in the fact she wears a turtleneck and skinny jeans. All she needs is riding boots and a helmet!
I really loved this post because I am disabled myself and do sports. It’s so important to get us involved in the community and see us as valuable people, yet so many write us off as invalids and not worthy of receiving updates to the community or getting involved.
Great post, Kate! Fantastic that your disabilities haven’t stopped your love or pursuit of sports!!
Hi! I was wondering if anyone knows when she wore these earrings on other occasions. I don’t remember seeing them before. Thanks!
My goodness I’ve been so busy checking out WMW with all the tour outfits, that I forgot to see WKW. This has been a busy time for you, Susan.
Kate looks well put together in this outfit. I do wish she would wear dress pants, rather than skinny jeans, but nevertheless everything balances. The jacket is really nice, classic but not stuffy. I like it open as Kate is wearing it, rather than buttoned as seen on the model.
The boots look great. I always like to see something with a lower heel, that is more comfortable, more stable and better for the back and feet.
Haha! I think even Susan has hit the wall in trying to keep up both websites, as yesterday’s outing to the IWM is missing from here thus far – oh well, hopefully she’s enjoying some downtime from all of these posts for a while. Kate looked very nice yesterday, but since it was a repeat of dress and accessories, probably not as urgent for Susan to post it.
She looks fit and fabulous. I hate it when she dresses matronly because she has such a young, athletic vibe in her professional behaviour. To me, this was a perfect outfit head to toe for the occasion.
Love the blazer with the chesterfield collar, and the turtleneck..but i think a wider legged trouser would have balanced out the blazer better.
Agree
I too adore the blazer but see a lack of “balance” in the entire ensemble. I would LOVE to see Kate in wide legged trousers instead of constant skinny jeans!
I think the jeans are such an interesting choice because in so many other ways Catherine is so very modest. I am certainly not offended by them at all, but I do agree that whenever she wears these really tight ones I find them distracting enough to spend time wondering about them, and about her choice to wear them. That said, I thought overall this was a really lovely and appropriate outfit for the engagement.
I love what a natural she is with everyone. She looks fantastic. We all have opinions, which makes life interesting, but I don’t understand the inappropriateness of the black jeans. She’s covered from head to toe, you can see what a beautiful figure she has, but that’s the case in a day dress or ball gown. For me, this is terrific, love those earrings with the ensemble. She is my girl crush!
I think the jacket should have been longer if worn with skinny jeans. She looks great and/but super thin.
Hi! I just want to ask if anyone knows of any other occasions where she’s worn these earrings. I don’t remember seeing these before. Thanks!
In my opinion, skinny jeans are not appropriate for working wear for a woman in her position. We all know she looks fantastic after having three children, there’s nothing she needs to prove. I know that they’re comfortable, but they are so tight that they really leave nothing to the imagination.
I personally wish she would move on and leave the skinny jeans (along with those horrid wedges!!) for home.
I have mixed feelings about this one. I LOVE the outfit with the blazer on, but don’t think that the all-black looks great, especially given the tighter fit of both the turtleneck and the jeans. I think that the black is actually part of why the outfit appears so tight–it brings to mind a black catsuit or wetsuit, which is expected to be skintight. A chunkier, looser, textured sweater would have looked much better here (although I understand why Kate wouldn’t have wanted to wear anything thicker to an event involving playing sports). This may have been a better look for an engagement that wasn’t going to require removing the blazer.
While I don’t think the tight black jeans and turtleneck look great together, I really don’t see a problem with the modesty of the outfit for a casual event like this. I’m likely one of the youngest people here (about a decade younger than Kate) which may be part of that, . The skinny jeans actually work much better for an athletic event than slacks would, in my opinion (I thought the combo of flared slacks, a dressy top, and 4″ heels that Meghan wore to a Coach Core event a few weeks ago looked kind of awkward and overdressed).
On a non-style note, I always love seeing Kate participating in events like this. She looks so happy and healthy here!
I agree with you Jane!
I liked her outfit and I thought it was appropriate to wear since she was playing sports with the children. She is thin and the black jeans can look tighter than they really are.
It’s sheer pleasure to see Kate out again, complete with William and that wonderful smile. I love the outfit, she rocks casual-chic like no one else being such a natural athlete herself.
Great that she’s found a Smythe jacket in a working plaid. I thought a Prince of Wales check had more space in it than this and maybe a line of red through, but my mind is all in a fog post-Pacific tour on a WKW blog not far from this one.
As ever Kate has jeans with enough stretch to give her movement for plenty of activity and has found a close-fitting roll neck to match. I like those boots; they have a mercifully low heel and look a better bet for running around in than sky-high Corkswoons.
Her hair looks great with extra curl and the low-key Kiki McDonoughs chime well with low-key colours. While I’m grateful Meghan is around to help give Kate a break, it’s still simply fantastic to see her again.
NOTE: admin edit
It seems she can’t win. I’ve read countless reviews of her clothes being frumpy for her age & that she ought to dress her age. I was her age once & don’t get the frumpy complaints. Her clothing choices look spot on with the classic edge money can buy. Her much maligned McQueen blue gown from a few days ago was totally glamorous to me. I might have drooled at my first glimpse. It was Golden Age Hollywood or just plain form fitting gorgeous & I think the grousing was envy because not many could wear that form fitting dress & look spectacular.
The skinny jeans complaint baffles me. She can’t dress frumpy AND too youthful at the same time. The trousers worn by other royal women are pant suits taking the place of the lovely dresses Kate always wear. She doesn’t wear pant suits; trouser legs. A slim straight leg might be suitable, but the look she was after was youthful & sporty. Trousers are neither. Save me from the day she wears trousers. I personally prefer very slim straight legs on ME; I don’t like anything clingy. But I enjoy having her look her age. We don’t see her privately & dressed down. These rare glimpses of how an off duty Kate might look like are enjoyable.
The current trend in blazers AND men’s suit & sport jackets is shorter & tighter. I will ride out this trend since I don’t like it & can’t afford expensive clothing that’s going to be dated shortly. Look at the Smythe model for Heaven’s sake before criticizing Kate’s fit. The blazer is form fitting on the model even defining the breasts when buttoned. And it’s short. The brands she buys aren’t going to sell their clothes to her in the wrong size or ill fitting. It won’t help their brand or Kate’s look. The blazer fits exactly as Smythe intended it to look.
When any of the younger royals visit a sporting venue & arrive dressed sporty like you’re ready to play too is far more relatable than turning up in stilettos & a dress. Let her dress & look her age as she’s going to be far more relatable to the youngsters served by the program than if she’s dressed in a pant suit which is so NOT her.
I love her clothes. There have been a couple of evening dresses worn overseas that weren’t my choice, but she looks elegant & a future queen in every instance.
Kate has demonstrated the desire & commitment to do her job well & that includes dressing for it. You don’t play tennis in trousers; the pant leg is a hazard. She either wears s tennis dress, & wouldn’t that create a maelstrom, or tight fitting pants. She goes as a participant, not an untouchable observer.
Kate looked enviably smart, cool & elegant in this outfit. She so seldom wears a trend that the cut of the Smythe jacket was a surprise. That will need to be saved for a 14 year old Charlotte because its on trend cut won’t fly when the short & tight fit passes for which I can’t wait. While not liking this trend, I can still appreciate how well she wears it.
NOTE: Admin edit
I really do not think it is fair to say that because people don’t like a fashion choice it is because we are envious. I was on record as hating the McQ prom dress and it had nothing to do with envy, I assure you.
I also do not agree with the suggestions by the pro skinny jeans crowd that her only options are one thing or another. Like skinny jeans or mom pants, or skinny jeans and formal trousers. They make jeans that are not jeggings, for goodness sake. Including straight legged ones. It is fine if you like jeggings…lots of people do, obviously, or they wouldn’t be a trend. But the argument in favor of them should not be that there are no other sporty, youthful pants in the world, because there are.
Agree 100%. I think the Susans made some significant tweaks with the WMW site so that the commentary/discussion is much more warm and friendly, even when people aren’t always wowed by every outfit. I don’t understand why there is so much pigeonholing of Kate into hackneyed categories of “frumpy”, “juvenile”, etc. when they are polar opposite descriptors. Good thing Kate seems more than capable of handling the categories she’s been handed: Frumpy. Juvenile. Inappropriate. Dowdy. Boring.
Oh, and Terrific.
Nicely said Grace. I agree with you.
She looks fabulous! What a figure! She is not from QE’s generation and I think she has dressed appropriately for the event. I like her in sleek, tailored clothes. They suit her far better than the mumsy puffed sleeves she’s been sporting recently. She looks elegant.
Gosh. Its interesting how opinions differ. I’m someone who prefers to see the royals in well made clothes preferably with repeat wearings which is ultimately more environmentally friendly than trying to relate to the masses in cheap high street clothing. BUT, my exception is for casual events and I think this is a case where Kate dresses like the rest of us and looks completely appropriate for the event. The skinny jeans/jacket combo suits her perfectly and in monochrome black looks understated and smart so pulled together by fabulous earrings and watch. Kate looks great in skinny jeans and like many of us, probably appreciates how comfortable they are and how they work well with different shoe heights – flats or trainers or ankle boots. I’d happily wear a version of this and feel fab (although of course I am not representing the Queen) and confident to meet many people.
I think Kate looks perfect and totally appropriate for this event!!
Agree. Honestly–she’s wearing completely normal jeans and a completely normal turtleneck. She just happens to be super-slender and fit, and I guess for some that reads as “showing off.” People are literally saying that they wouldn’t let their daughters leave the house in something like this–it’s bizarre. You wouldn’t let your daughter leave the house in a turtleneck and jeans? It’s basically the same thing I’m wearing right now, and I’m 46. But maybe it’s OK if you’re sort of short and lumpy and old like me? SMH.
The part about not letting daughters leave the house in this was baffling to me too – must be a 21st century Victorian revival going on, when Kate’s turtleneck, jeans and jacket aren’t fit for public viewing.
I honestly thought Kate was wearing leggings until I read the blog calling them jeans.
I don’t mind skinny jeans – that’s what I wear – but these are so tight and stretchy they look like leggings.
I think it looks odd. Her top could be a little longer and then it would look like leggings and a tunic.
Fliss, you said it all. Kate is young and in shape, and she can carry pants that lots of young women wear. These appear to be comfortable, stylish and, important for black clothes, not faded or worn. (That’s a pet peeve of mine, especially with black pants, and Kate never makes that mistake).
She looks entirely appropriate and well-put together. She always appears as if she’s put thought and preparation into her choices (following in the foostseps of the Queen!). I am loving the classic blazer, the turtleneck (so much better than the red on the model!), and the signature earrings and Ballon Bleu watch. Last but not least, this is a cause that is clearly very dear to Kate’s heart, as we know she’s a longtime athlete and sports enthusiast. It looked like a great day for everyone involved.
I agree! It definitely is all about context, and for a sport event this seems perfect. I honestly don’t know what else she could have worn- other outfits would look too formal. I’m also in my 20s, so I love the skinny jean look.
For me the problem is not the individual pieces which I quite like, nor do I think the outfit is inappropriate for either her station or the event. However, I do not like the outfit because I feel the proportions lack balance. Everything’s thing is tight and a tad short to work harmoniously. If the jacket was one size up it would have not looked like it was pulling across the shoulders as you can see the curve of her shoulder protruding past the seam; but would have also given it greater length to help balance the tight pants. I also think a high riding boot would have also helped with the proportions.
As to when she took her jacket off, I personally think there is nothing wrong with an all black look but feel again that her proportions were off and also wish she would have played with texture or tonal shades more to add interest, perhaps using a chunkier knit up top or a leather skinny pant.
Yes—I fully agree with you, Katie! My thoughts exactly.
I love the idea of a leather skinny pant! I hope Kate considers your suggestion!
Perhaps those ideas would have improved the look, but the appearance of Kate wearing leather skinny pants or high riding boots on that tennis court would have been utterly laughable.
That’s the dilemma: the clothes need to suit the engagement. There are activities at some of these events that preclude many of the clothing choices suggested in the comments as “better”.
yes, I agree!! This outfit is a miss, although all the pieces themselves are nice.
I love love love her outfit! I don’t understand the whole deal about the jeans. Maybe it’s a generational thing? Not only would I wear that outfit in a second, I know a lot of people who would wear it, to a professional environment, nonetheless! I am more comfortable in skinny jeans than in wide leg trousers, and I’m guessing it’s the same for Kate, since she keeps repeating them! Plus, you have my heart with all black. 🖤
Riding jackets are not supposed to be loose. After a high dose of Meghan’s lovely but oversized clothes, I find Kate’s clothes quite refreshing.
I am only a year older than Kate. I just don’t like skinny jeans, lol.
I agree, I like this outfit including the jeans. I love the blazer, and don’t think it’s too tight. It’s just fitted, and the fit on Kate looks similar to the one in the model photo. I can understand why she took it off to play tennis, though. As you say, I prefer a fitted look vs. the appearance of swimming in clothes.
I am in my 20s. I think the jeans are too tight. It’s good to leave a little to the imagination.
Agree Spruha! You are absolutely correct. Perhaps because she is very trim & fit one notices more of her nice figure in skinny jeans? It certainly inspires me to work out more! Ditto on the lovely, but oversized clothes comment.
No. Skinny. Jeans. Unless your bottom is covered. Ever. And definately not for a working royal. Just not professional.
Jacket was classic, tho not sure of the fit. Turtleneck, good. Booties, fine with appropriate slacks.
I work in a very conservative profession—but we are allowed to wear jeans if no clients will be in the office. I routinely wear skinny jeans and yes they are snug and no I am not nearly as svelte as the duchess. The other ladies in my office do the same, so I am respectfully disagreeing with you that it is not professional.
katefanatic – Indeed! Who (except some readers on here…) says it’s unprofessional, anyway?
Okay, katefanatic, your comments are a bit contradictory. You say that skinny jeans are professional and worn in your office…but you also say, you are allowed to wear jeans if no clients will be in the office. So if they are indeed professional, why can’t you wear them in front of clients? I think this is the entire point, that proves they are not professional. I always wish that Kate would wear dress pants, instead of skinny jeans. She is royalty and decorum is an expectation in this role.
Because we wear suits in front of clients—-just the way it is in our profession. Suits and ties for men and suits for the ladies. Nothing to do with professionalism and everything to do with a very staid and out of date thought process that we are expected to wear suits.
Oops hit “reply” by accident. My point is that the jeans are perfectly acceptable in my very staid profession when we are being more casual and not formal. I wouldn’t wear jeans of any sort to work on the day that a suit and tie is expected of the men.
If a suit and tie were required of William for this event, I wouldn’t advocate that Kate wear skinny jeans, but since this was clearly a more casual engagement, the jeans were perfectly appropriate.
Again, nothing to do with professionalism and everything to do with the level of formality required.
Skinny jeans are 100% professional for our generation….
I love skinny jeans and wear them, but what Kate has on looks more like leggings or jeggings. They must have a high content of spandex to hug that much.
I agree with you, pea, but I’m afraid we’re in the minority. Skin-tight skinny jeans expose the exact contours of your private parts to the public eye. I just do not understand why women want to do that. I think classic pants (a lá Katharine Hepburn) are so elegant and professional—I wish more women would wear them.
Recently I attended the “Contemporary Muslim Fashion” exhibit at the de Young Museum in San Francisco. It was fascinating to see how fashionable, elegant, and glamorous women can be without skin-tight, low-cut, thigh-high clothing. I wonder if Western society has too-successfully promulgated the idea that “being sexy = being powerful” and so now we think it’s appropriate to be “sexy” and “empowered” in all circumstances.
I vote for a return to personal privacy and dignity. Coat-of-paint clothing gives a person neither.
Sorry to disagree, but those jeans are not exposing the exact contours of Kate’s private parts.
Uh–yeah, agree with JR. The jeans were not exposing the contours of the Duchess’s private parts.
As for fashions that accommodate modesty restrictions, as I said earlier, this outfit would be completely in line with what an observant female Muslim athlete would wear (albeit she is not wearing a head covering, of course). It’s stretchy and fitted, but she is covered from chin to toe. It’s a completely appropriate–and modest even by some fairly stringent standards–outfit for a day of athletic activities.
NOTE: admin edit
I agree that jeans aren’t the most professional garment. This event was clearly less formal than others, so black jeans *would* work if they were a little looser.
NOTE: admin edit
Love this outfit especially without the blazer. It’s casual and relatable – I can see myself wearing this outfit. The jeans are NOT too tight, people! They’re stretchy that’s why they might appear tight. Would you rather see her in baggy jeans LOL?! Kate is young and modern and sometimes it nice to see her dress down and be more like us mere mortals (but still looking way more fabulous).
I have been a silent reader for a couple years now…first of all thank you so much Susan for you wonderful work. it is such a pleasure to read this blog. I love your comment policy and the research and work you put into every post.
I think that this outfit is a bit of a miss for me. in the bluddy photo of her playing tennis it looks as though she is wearing a wetsuit… not so future queenly in my humble opinion…but i enjoyed watching her with the students and the joy she brings to their faces
*blurry not bluddy
Brilliant typo! Apologies for laughing, it could happen to any of us. Those darn phones!!
I thought Kate looked quite spiderlike in the all-black once she’s moving around. I see the tight fit as suitable for activewear and appropriate in this context. Her jeans are not as skinny as they once were, believe it or not. These at least have some wrinkles in rather than full-on spray-on!
I had the same thought about a scuba suit in that photo!
Emma Peel anyone? What can I say, the girl is not human. KM looks spectacular.
I’m a huge fan of Kate who is always chic, classy, and modest… but this outfit was definitely not the latter two. I think this is a real mistake for an official outing especially one with kids.
If I had her figure, I would wear those tight jeans everywhere! She looks gorgeous. Loved everything about it. It’s a win in my book.
NOTE: Admin edit
Agree absolutely!! Skinny jeans are what young women (and that includes Kate) wearing these days and very, very few of them wear them as well. She looked utterly at ease and hiply elegant. Refreshing.
Yeah, I am puzzled by comments that they are so inappropriate. Like I said in my initial comment there is something about the outfit that I don’t love, especially when the blazer comes off, and it may have been fixed by different pants or a different sweater – but that’s not because I think the pants themselves are “inappropriate.” Yes Kate is almost 37. Yes she is the future queen (because for some reason that is brought up in the majority of the comments ha). Yes she is a mother. Etc. But these types of jeans are really in style, they fit her well, and she looks good. And, they are appropriate for the occasion. I admit that sometimes she wears skinny jeans and I don’t think they work for the event, but here I think they do. (again don’t flat out love the outfit, but its not bc of the skinny jeans in themselves.)
And with that, this almost 37 year old mother is going to get dressed and put on some skinny jeans 😉
Agree! Exactly what I would wear if I had the chance. She looks amazing.
Wonderful cause. Unfortunately she is getting to the point where there’s more discussion about her terribley tight pants (spray painted, really) for a royal and a future queen in particular, than about the cause she supports. For a smart, intelligent young lady, she baffles me with her consist choice of inappropriate pants. What is it that she cannot get over? She is impeccable taste when it comes to everything else (just look at that beautiful new blazer!!). Cannot figure this one. Also, I think it’s the same turtleneck she wore before.
They’re not inappropriate! They’re on trend with her generation and she looks simply fantastic!!
Here’s the test: I wouldn’t let a teenage daughter go out in public in this outfit – maybe in the privacy of a country estate, or a private gym, but for public display, in the role as Duchess/future queen, it does seem inappropriate. Of course I would love to be able to carry this off myself, at any of my years, and she surely can, being so physically trim, but she and William do not have to look like the people next door, they are not! I agree that the excellent jacket should be perhaps one size bigger.
Letizia, Maxima, Mary, Victoria pull off the casual pant look without it looking painted on. It just looks too tight and I think after a certain age the super tight jeans and mini skirts need to go. Even Jennifer Lopez has an amazing body but her onstage one-piece outfits are sometimes better left for younger women.
I think as a future Queen, Kate doesn’t need to pull off the cheap&cheesy tight look. There’s casual, work casual and headed to the mall casual and only one of those can work for public engagements
Agree so much. The choice is not between painted on jeggings and baggy Mom jeans. Lots and lots of women, even royals, have found perfectly adequate, even chic, alternatives.
As far as Kate still being a young woman, well yes, she’s still young (although closer to 40 than 30!) but she’s not your everyday young woman who can just hang in whatever she feels like wearing. She has a position to honor and an image to protect. If well over half the commenters on this site think this outfit is inappropriate then it probably is. If people think you’re wearing a wet suit and you’re not on the beach, something’s off and your outfit probably needs to be retired.
I like the jacket but it’s too tight and short for Kate, I’m afraid.
Let me close my screed by another outpouring of admiration for Kate’s enthusiasm and involvement in every engagement she undertakes. All those people she spoke to, hugged, played with – they’ll remember her niceness for the rest of their lives. Any wardrobe missteps pale beside Kate’s enormous accomplishments in her chosen causes. Bravo!!
I couldn’t agree more. Her status should really be the key consideration when choosing an outfit. And she is certainly closer to 40, which means such skin-tight jeans aren’t suitable even for going to the mall or walking the dogs. Nothing to do with anything other than self respect. Considering yourself a mature individual and not a ‘look at my body’ screamer. Just because she can wear something so tight doesn’t mean she should. And indeed, it takes away from the efforts she makes to support important causes, which is a shame. Hopefully at some stage someone with enough influence on her will be able to explain it and get through whatever creates this mental blockage. She can do better!! And she does so much better in so many other engagements. Can’t believe she won’t get over this one too.
Royal Fan in N Ontario
Is there a rule book that says “women approaching 40 can’t wear skinny jeans?” If so, I’d like to see it.
I’m confused – you wouldn’t let a teenage daughter out in public in it, but would love to be able to “carry this off myself” – ??
The star of Kate’s outfit was the Smythe 2-Button Blazer and once it came off inside the gym the look fell a little flat.
The riding blazer is darling and looks so good when the two buttons are buttoned up, it really adds shape and compliments the female torso (see photo of model, above). I’d love Kate to wear the blazer buttoned up, I think she would look fantastic.
Perhaps for this sporty event Kate could have worn a light weight jacket that could have been left on in the gym or, wear something under the jacket with color, print or interest.
Leaving a jacket on or a blazer to participate in sports? Who does that? If Kate had done that she would have looked completely out of place/touch with the participants she is supporting. The jeans were just fine too for the event. For me changing the boots to runners would have made her fit in all the more.
Happy to see Kate again. The blazer is classic and gorgeous.
I like her all black look. It’s sleek and dramatic, and with her height and her long, lean body, she can carry it off with ease. Her jeans don’t appear too tight to me, although that is a much reiterated comment every time she wears form fitting jeans.
She looks great.
NOTE: admin edit
I know I’m in the minority here but I am living for this outfit, head to toe, jacket on and jacket off! Loved! I loved the sleek look of black on black, and this season glen plaid is everywhere. The tailored fit ensured that nothing moved out of place while she played with and hugged the kids. She looked completely comfortable in this outfit and her radiance really came through today. I’d love to see more of these modern looks! Personal taste, I’d like to see a blacker boot and blacker heel (suede to me always looks scuffed in photos) and buttons on the jacket swapped out for more luxurious material, to polish the look.
I’m totally with you! It’s a great outfit. Warm (it was absolutely freezing today in London), comfortable and casual enough for the setting and to participate but the boots, blazer and earrings add some smartness to prevent it becoming too casual.
I’m baffled by people pearl clutching over her skinny jeans. They are comfortable and fit her exactly as they should. Perhaps this is a cultural thing? Because no one here in England would bat an eyelid about her wearing this because of her “position” or being a Mum in her 30s. She looks perfectly appropriate!
I don’t know that it’s “pearl clutching” in the sense of fretting over a new style trend that bucks tradition. Rather it’s the somewhat puzzling question of why she chooses to wear something that is this revealing while on a public appearance. She looks amazing in everything, has the ability to buy anything, and always demonstrates such devotion to fulfilling her public duties with grace and respect for royal tradition. That’s why the skintight jeans are always so startling, but maybe that’s just me! 😉
It’s not just you. 🙂
She’s covered from neck to wrist to toe. Seriously–this is less revealing than what observant female Muslim athletes wear (except for the hair). And yes–this was an athletic event.
If you mean it’s too tight, then that could be a legitimate conversation (though again, not as tight as the spandex athletic wear worn by many serious athletes who deal with modesty rules). But revealing? That’s just not accurate.
This reminds me of the conversation over on What Meghan Wore about how her off-the-shoulder look for Trooping the Color was *more* revealing than a look the Countess of Wessex had worn to the same event some years past. When the Countess’s look was cut down to the breastbone and showed *major* cleavage! It’s like people don’t understand what the word “revealing” means anymore.
Oh, it’s pearl clutching. I don’t buy the argument that if over half the commenters on WKW deem it inappropriate, it probably is – ???
If The Queen felt this look was inappropriate for Royal engagements, I suspect she’d drop a gentle suggestion – and there’s no question in my mind that Kate wouldn’t show up in skinny jeans again. The fact is that she’s shown up in them on countless occasions, usually sport related, and continues to do so, and I don’t think it’s because she’s thumbing her nose at Her Majesty.
Agree with you 100%. If the Queen had an issue with skinny jeans, they would have disappeared long ago. Honestly, if you aren’t a fan of skinny jeans that’s fine but the emphasis on inappropriateness is over the top for me. She looked just fine for this event, and as others said what the participants will remember (and they are key) was how lovely she was with them.
100% agree with both you and Stephanie—I just do not get it.
@Arthena,
Love that phrase “pearl clutching.”
I thought of “tsk-tsk-tsk” and much sorrowful head shaking from the guardians of morals for the RF.
The irony of all these objections to her fashionable aka “on trend” skinny jeans is that Kate is constantly critiqued on this site for looking “matronly” and some of her clothes are referred to as “granny’s curtains” material, or “granny’s bedspread.”
I, too, think she looks perfectly appropriate, and one of her pluses is that she can move from gorgeous classic, timeless coat dresses to skinny jeans, or go really bold with that gorgeous McQueen she recently wore to the V&A.She knows her body and her styles.
She isn’t a “smart trousers” person obviously. That’s fine with me.
Agree 100%. She looks amazing!
As others have commented, the pants seem a bit too tight with the rest of the outfit, but I really think the turtleneck is to blame. Had Kate left the blazer on, the fit of the pant might not have stood out as much, but the silhouette of a fitted turtleneck with tight jeans seemed to toe that line of professionalism (or step over it). I saw a few photos on another site where Kate’s midriff was showing when she walked and played tennis, so perhaps a longer, slightly looser top would’ve been more appropriate. Love her hair, makeup and accessories – her smile lights up the room!
All this said – if I had her figure, everything I owned would probably be fitted…but then again, my husband isn’t the future King.
Great simple outfit. They were at a sports event and dressed accordingly. Her outfit looks nice and comfy and the blazer is gorgeous. She’s worn various iterations of this outfit before but this time she took off the blazer because it looks like it is fitted and a bit restrictive for the sports she was participating in.
Kate and William were on great form and all the people who met them were super happy too. Coach Core was definitely a great initiative by William, Kate and Harry.
I love the blazer so much. I as always am not a fan of the super tight skinny jeans but I realize my one woman crusade against skinny jeans will not prevail, sigh.
There are two of us in your crusade! 🙂
Kate looks great! If I looked like that after 3 kids I’d also rock the skinny jeans. All other ladies in the photos were in skinny jeans or sports leggings so I think she fitted in well. I also don’t mind all black but agree that the jacket made the outfit. A riding jacket style should be snug and she carries it off beautifully.
With the high daily dose of Harry and Meghan on tour it’s so refreshing to see Kate and William out.
Love the authentic Kate! She is always so comfortable and real with her interactions.
The outfit was a bit too tight for me. Perhaps a scarf as an accessory would have helped the all black/severe tone of her outfit.
Loved her boots.
Oh, the jeans. Oh, no….
Kate is so beautiful, and truly has the “perfect” figured for wearing clothes. She is tall, slim, leggy and fit, with strong shoulders and a tiny waist. And that is why I cannot fathom why she wears jeans like this in a public role. She would look just as slim in wide-leg trousers or jeans that had some extra fabric somewhere. This outfit with the blazer looks like she has on opaque hosiery and forgot her skirt!
I’m echoing the “not all black” and “jeans too tight” sentiments. But I’ll also go with William’s ratty cords being wrong. Nonetheless my first thought was absolute horror that both are wearing street shoes on a wooden court.
What’s wrong with street shoes on a wooden court? People do that all the time, including others at the event who were also in street shoes. Granted, there are people who feel that stiletto heels on wooden courts can damage the surface because of the pointy heel, but the shoes that I can see here don’t look spiky at all.
A blouse as shown in the blazer source pic and a smart pair of trousers would have been ideal and with a low pump. Polished yet easy to move around.
Love her expression while playing ball with a new friend! And as always, she lights up with children and that’s just the best!
I love this outfit! The blazer is gorgeous and the all black underneath is so stylish. I’m in the minority but I don’t think her jeans look bad at all. I honestly wish I looked that trim and fit! Those booties want skinny pants, not boot cut. She’s obviously very comfortable in outfits like this and frankly, I think she rocked it!
I think this was sort of a tough event to dress for, but I still think she could have done better.
Specifically, it seems that for some sport events she has gone full sporty (sneakers, workout pants, zip up top) if she is going to be doing primarily athletic things, but that didn’t happen here. This is sort of a mashup of ‘comfy enough to move in but has a blazer so it’s formal.’
However, I can’t say I have a good in-between alternative to what she chose here. The comments so far don’t seem to think this is a win, so maybe we can put our heads together and come up with an alternative!
I’m not keen on the jeans at all – even with her great figure, they are eye wateringly tight and with the jacket off, I’m reminded of a mime artist. Some slim leg black tailored trousers and a white or red jumper would have looked perfect.
If someone buxom were wearing the ensemble, then ‘too tight’ would be something to watch out for. In this case, I don’t think the silhoutte is giving off a sexy or inapproprite vibe. The silhouette screams ‘sporty’ more than ‘sexy’. And this is her uniform for sporty work events – she just varies the footwear. I like the short boots better than wedges and sneakers, actually (and stilettos, ha!) for these kind events. Her husband, the future king, apparently doesn’t find it inappropriate. A loose tee over tight pants would be boring, and a loose top with straight pants looks like going to the office. This is interesting yet allows her to move. All black means she could be spotted easily in the room. Win win.
I love the blazer and booties but just can’t stand it when she wears the skin tight pants. They just seem so inappropriate. She would look so smart in a nice pair of tailored trousers.
I like all the pieces separately, but not together. I agree that when the blazer comes off, the all black outfit is too severe. Kate has a lovely lean body, great legs, but the jeans are too form fitting for her position as wife to the future monarch performing in her professional role. Out and about on her own, on personal private time she can rock those tight jeans as much as she wants, and looks great, the time has passed for her to wear them while she “works”, even in this casual sports setting.
The outfit wasn’t too tight. She shows how a modern royal should look.
Nonsense. She can wear skinny jeans as long as they fit her and comfortable. It’s not like she wore this to a reception. This is a totally normal outfit for an event like this. They are standard jeans, not too tight and totally befitting of her position. Is she only allowed to wear to dress slacks now or something?
I’m not sure what I hate this outfit so much. I am almost always on board with what Kate wears and she normally pulls off the tight jeans and blazer look really well for these sporty events. However, I feel like the pants are way too tight for that short of a blazer. It looks like she’s wearing leggings with her booty hanging out in so many of these pictures. Also, without the blazer she is in all black, which from far away, looks a lot like she is in a scuba diving suit. Not a good look.
I don’t hate the outfit, but I think if she was going to take off the blazer, she should have worn a different top or different shoes – gray booties would have given the outfit the same vibe but looked different when she took off the jacket. Or she should have worn more of an interesting tunic top or something. I dunno. It’s a black turtleneck and black jeans so its “fine” to me without the blazer, but something about it is off. I wonder if it was really hot in the gym and she was not intending to remove her blazer but got too hot so had to?
Those. Jeans. Are. Too. Tight.
I like the blazer. The rest? Totally inappropriate for her position.
Her hair does look shorter. It was the perfect length before but I guess she felt otherwise. A bit stringy now.
A touch of color once she took the blazer off would have been nice. The blazer itself is beautiful.
That aside, she looks great. She always looks happy and comfortable dressed down.
Wow. I’ll just say that I would love for my hair to look as stringy as Kate’s did today.
The Duchess looks terrific at this event. Love the jacket, fitting beautifully. The red ensemble on the model looks lovely as well a nice contrasting colour.The Duchess looked very bright and engaged today What a fantastic organisation Coach Core is. They cater for everyone in the community. It was wonderful to see disabled folk being able to participate and at the same time skill building. It has so much to offer and diverse range of sports. How lovely to see the Royal couple interacting and participating in the events. Talking and taking an interest, this is what it is all about getting out there and making a difference. Things like this leave a huge impact on peoples lives and hopefully encouragement along the way for those who maybe finding life difficult. Thank you for a great blog, so up to date and informative.
ehhhh The Cambridges both looked a little schlumpy today. I get the casual approach to make the Monarchy appear more up-to-date, but at least wear nice clothes. People are expecting Royalty to show up.
I totally agree – they’re royalty so they should dress much better than us, and certainly not the same as us.
Well, let’s see–the flowers are lovely! 😉
Every time she wears those black booties and black jeans I want to pull out my own (lower priced) versions and go traipse around town shaking peoples’ hands.
The jacket looks like it is pulling in the back when she is bent over talking to the young girl in the video. It is a nice jacket, but I believe it is too tight.
Love this look – so classically Kate! I love those booties – easy enough to replikate as they are still trendy! I think the blazer may have been too fitted for the sporty activities she took part in, but I love a head-to-toe black look so I didn’t mind that she took it off. Her smile was the perfect accessory today…especially next to those earrings. Thanks for the post and info!
She looks so pretty. I would also love to know what jeans she is wearing 🙂 I am coveting the boots. Thanks for the lovely post, as usual!
Prince of Wales check? How appropriate 🙂
I think the jeans are a bit too tight but overall enjoyed this crisp, tailored look. Love this hair length and softer makeup on Kate.
Sweet post! Kate and William both seem so at ease and totally in their element connecting with young people. You can see that Kate has a true passion for causes supporting children.
I did not know that Glen plaid was aka Prince of Wales plaid. Im really liking the monochromatic outfits, I’ve noticed Meghan wear it too. This jacket looks like one of the great key wardrobe staples to help prevent the problem of saying What ever am I going to wear today? Haha.
What do royals do with all of the fresh flowers they are given? I guess they always have an abundance of pretty flowers around the house when they do multiple engagements..
Brandi – I have read that often the flowers are donated to local hospitals, hospices, etc.
What a lovely sporty look from the duchess. The blazer is gorgeous and versatile and something I would buy for myself. Really nothing not to like about this look. Hair, earrings, makeup, gorgeous smile—everything was lovely.
If it were not a sporting event, I might have put a chunky gold necklace on top of the plain black sweater, but I get why she did not do so for this specific event when she would be participating in tennis and etc. A ponytail might have worked better to keep her hair out of her face, but she didn’t seem have an issue with it in any of the pictures I have seen.
Sporting events and children always bring out the best in Kate and she was clearly in her element today. William also looked relaxed and happy.
What a perfect look for the occasion! I think I’ll use it as inspiration for my outfit tomorrow 😉 (though I’ll never manage such luscious hair!). Huge fan of the blazer. Kate and William seemed to really enjoy themselves and the joy evident on the Coach Core and Sport for Confidence participants is incredibly heartwarming.
Ladies. I cannot believe I am saying this.
I wish Kate had not taken her coat off. The blazer looked great with the outfit – it literally made the outfit – and once she had it off she was just in basic all black and it looked a little severe.
But, with the blazer on she looked lovely, hair looks great (I thought it looked shorter in the first round of pics but I think that was just the way it was hanging over her shoulders) and the visit seemed to be a positive one all around, which is the important thing.
Becky, I’m giggling because I had the same thought! (I am in the ‘take your coat off indoors’ camp) Head to toe black is pretty severe.
But she does look super professional with that sharp blazer. It’s really a beautiful one.
Lol, I hate when she wears a coat inside, but this is a blazer, not outerwear. Totally allowed indoors! I think she did not understand what we meant.
Would love to know what jeans she was wearing. If and when you find out! 🙂
Clean and simple look – I love it! The accessories, hair make-up are all winners for me.
@christine – I’m with you there. Classic and simple to frame her smoking hot physique, long legs and beautiful face and hair. And she’s playing sports so OF COURSE she’s going to take off her jacket! I’m a bit puzzled about the “too tight” comments – these skinny jeans have stretch and are meant to hug her body. If they were looser, they’d bag.