The Duchess wore Stella McCartney for today’s christening of Archie Harrison Mountbatten-Windsor.
In the first row above: the Duchess of Cornwall; the Duke and Duchess of Sussex with Archie; the Duchess of Cambridge. In the back row, the Prince of Wales; Meghan’s mother, Ms. Doria Ragland; Diana’s sisters Lady Jane Fellowes and Lady Sarah McCorquodale; the Duke of Cambridge. It was lovely seeing the tribute to Diana with the inclusion of her sisters. Today’s photos were taken in the Green Drawing Room at Windsor Castle, the same room used for Meghan and Harry’s wedding photos.
The ceremony was in the Queen’s Private Chapel, located in the state apartments at Windsor Castle. The Chapel was destroyed by the 1992 fire at Windsor Castle but rebuilt in 1994; it seats about 30 people. Below, an 1848 watercolor by Joseph Nash of the Chapel before the fire. 
Below, the chapel following its rebuilding in a photo by TMJ Interiors, the company appointed by Higgs and Hill to do the specialist joinery work in the chapel. 
UPDATE: With thanks to Raman for her comment linking to a Daily Mail story on the chapel, it apparently seats only 12 – 15 people, not 30 as I said above. The christening was officiated by the Archbishop of Canterbury, the Most Reverend Justin Welby, who also presided at Meghan and Harry’s wedding.
There was also a beautiful photo taken in the rose garden that was released today.
The photos were posted on the Sussex Royal Instagram page. A statement said, “The Duke and Duchess of Sussex are so happy to share the joy of this day with members of the public who have been incredibly supportive since the birth of their son. They thank you for your kindness in welcoming their first born and celebrating this special moment.”
Meghan was elegant in bespoke Dior, and both parents looked proud of their little boy. 
Archie wore the traditional replica of the Honiton Lace christening gown worn by Queen Victoria’s daughter in 1841.
Details on the original gown from British Vogue:
The white Spitalfields silk-satin gown, which has cap sleeves and a Honiton cotton lace overlay, was created to resemble the dress that Queen Victoria wore for her marriage to Prince Albert in 1840.
The garment has been worn by every monarch since Edward VII – and was also worn by Prince William and his father Prince Charles.
Below, Prince William in the original gown for his 1982 christening. 
The original satin and lace gown became increasingly fragile over the years and Angela Kelly, the Queen’s dressmaker, was asked to create a replica. The last royal to wear the original gown is Lady Louise Windsor in 2003, Edward and Sophie’s daughter. The first to wear the replica was Lady Louise’s brother, James, Viscount Severn, when he was christened in 2008. Below, all three Cambridge children in the replica gown (l to r): Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis. 
Today’s photos are by Chris Allerton who shot the candid photos at Meghan and Harry’s wedding. Mr. Allerton also took the historic photograph of the Queen, Duke of Edinburgh, Doria Ragland, and Harry and Meghan with Archie.
In a statement he said, “I am honoured to take the official photographs at the christening of Archie Harrison Mountbatten-Windsor, and to once again, be part of such a special and joyous occasion for The Duke and Duchess of Sussex.”
Now for our look at what Kate wore. 
The Duchess was in Stella McCartney; I believe it is the same frock worn to the Queen’s Christmas luncheon last year. 
At the time of the Christmas post, many thought it was the same dress worn in June 2011 for Prince Philip’s 90th birthday celebration. In the post I wrote, “It looks to me like the fabric in the photos from today is more matte, without the sheen you see with the McCartney dress.” I still feel the same way and think Christmas 2018 was the first time we saw Kate in the dress. (Jane has the 2011 photos in this From Berkshire to Buckingham post.) The dress shown below left looks like that worn in 2011, but not to last year’s luncheon or today.
UPDATE Sunday, July 7: In these photos of Kate’s dress from the christening and product shots of the June 2011 dress you can see the difference in the two fabrics. 
The fabric weights are different, and the two drape differently. The Christmas luncheon/christening dress fabric looks crisper and holds itself better without the slump or sag seen in the product photos. 
Because I do think it is the same dress done by Stella McCartney for Kate in a different material, these eBay photos of the June 2011 dress offer a look at the dress details. 
The Duchess wore a hatband that is a modified version of the Juliette Botterill Pleated Pillbox Hat (£450, about $570 at today’s exchange rates, but that is for the hat shown on the model, not Kate’s style). It is described as a “Straw pillbox with silk abaca pleated detail edging.” 
It looks like Kate may have brought back the red suede Gianvito Rossi pumps first seen at Order of the Garter in 2013.
The Duchess also wore the Collingwood pearl and diamond drop earrings that belong to Diana, Princess of Wales. We show them as worn on Garter Day. UPDATE: As noted by several commenters, these are the same earrings worn by Diana for Harry’s christening, such a nice touch. 
HM is still in Scotland following Holyrood Week. Below you see her at Gorgie City Farm on Thursday, and at a garden party at the Palace of Holyroodhouse on Wednesday. While she attended George and Charlotte’s christenings but was not at Prince Louis’s. 
The star of the show, Archie, was just precious. The color coordination among the women looked lovely, especially in the shades worn by Doria Ragland, Lady Sarah McCorquodale, and Kate. If I can find out more about the ensembles worn by any of the other women in the photos, I will update the post.
I gasped when I first saw Kate’s outfit. I love how fresh and different it is while still being appropriate for the occasion. I love the red and one colors. I wasn’t sure about her headbands when she started wearing them last year but they have really grown on me. They are a different take on the formal hats that she must wear at these events. I like to think if them as cloth tiaras!
I ❤️❤️❤️ that dress, I think I have a thing for bows! I remember trying to figure it out when she was spotted wearing it at Christmas luncheon…my guess was that it was a McQueen. Glad we finally figured out it was Stella! I really like this choice for this occasion, it’s demure and didn’t outshine Megan. Very respectful. Just the earings I question.,.I love them, especially since Princess Diana wore them to Harry’s christening.
NOTE: admin edit
I think Catherine is such a perfection in that photo – the dress, shoes and headband all together and within that green setting, so I am really surprised of so many seeming not to like it. I know it is very subjective, and that beauty is in the eye of the beholder, but Kate looks so beautiful and well put together, so I really struggle to understand how could one look at the photo and give any negative feedback on the DoC. She looks wonderful and I would be very happy to see her in that very same outfit on future occasions.
Thank-you, VG!
I totally agree. DoC is the epitome of elegant in anything she wears. It is not the dress or the earrings or even the tiara she wears that makes her so, it is her bearing, her grace and her innate class.
First time poster, long time watcher/reader. Thanks to the admin for such detailed and thoughtful coverage!
I like it. It isn’t an all-time favorite, but I like it. I even like the jabot. The DoC has a long, svelte neck and can wear one. Plus, the extra fullness at the bust is flattering. The red is a little intense, but it breaks up the monotony. And, if I had her legs, I’d wear skirts slightly above the knee too.
And I would agree that this dress does not do the DOC any favors, especially as posed. These puritan necklines with jabot/pussy bow features, so endlessly repeated in her recent wardrobe, become really boring and as the many comments on this page show, are a continuously irritating feature. Attractive color, and apparently precise tailoring, but the current wardrobe needs a bit more spark. Her formal evening garb is usually wonderful and often creative and certainly flattering, the “farm” casual wear is fine and appears to be comfortable, the flounce-y long hippie dresses do her no favors (She’s no longer in her lower 20’s), and these semi-formal daytime wardrobe pieces really need more energy (She’s not yet a matronly late 40’s-early 50’s.). That wonderful room entryway and the green sofa are always stunning, though. Thank you, dear administrator, for the continuous updating of your columns – we are so grateful to you!
NOTE: admin edit
I shall limit my comments to Kate’s outfit as I can coo and rave about Archie’s cuteness on WMW.
And… I do not like this outfit at all and I’m so sad I can’t find anything I like about it. As my friends would say in college “what a tragic look!” I’ve actually really liked what Kate has worn the past few outings so I was hoping for something classic and timeless for the christening. But this is dated, dowdy, and very fuddy duddy. Salmon is a hard color to pull off and while it looks great on Doria and her skin tone, the effect on Kate makes her look slightly orange in the picture. Not to mention, this is just not a flattering dress at all. The pussy/neck bow, the billowy sleeves, the pleating in the middle… It’s just a mess of creases and frills. It’s very 1980s and while I realize not everything was terrible about 1980s fashion (which Kate seems to be a fan of), this needs to never come out of Kate’s closet again.
And I do agree, this dress is the same design as the shiny Stella McCartney but in a different material. I think Kate had the dress redone in a different less shiny material because she liked the original design. But this redesign is just a miss everywhere. The original dress on Madonna looks more tailored and fitted, while this one is looser in a way that is just… not good. Ugh I’m so sorry I can’t find one redeeming quality about this dress at all. I’m also not a fan of the red headband/hat. I’ve liked most of Kate’s headbands in the past but this just is the icing on an already pretty tragic look. And as for the length… it doesn’t bother me really but Kate’s bare legs do stick out, no way around that which is kind of odd for a christening family photo.
I agree with everything you wrote, except this the part about it being a 1980s dress. It looks like a 1910s dress to me https://www.flickr.com/photos/christine592/3529431363/ (This is what I think of when I think 1980s dress https://i.pinimg.com/236x/5f/ed/47/5fed4711d7c08b94817ccd28c0342640–s-dresses-dressy-dresses.jpg )
Oh that pink dress! My prom dress was similar but in teal. What fun memories!
The top of the 2019 Ascot outfit reminds me a little of your 1910 drawing.
Has anyone considered that the photographer/retoucher may have edited the fabric of the dress to improve it’s appearance in the professional photo? Those officials photos do always look very enhanced.
The dress looks like the outfits worn by the nuns at my school in the 1960’s.
Sorry don’t like it at all.
Those sound like some pretty hip nuns. The nuns I had in the late 70s and early 80s were in sack-like habits of gray and black. Once in a while, Sister Monica would busy out the navy.
Susan, have you seen the photos which seem to indicate that Kate wore something else to the christening and then changed at some point? It looked like she was wearing blue to begin with.
Hi, Erin! I have the photos of Kate and William as they arrived at Windsor Castle Saturday, if that is what you’re thinking of? Most thought the Duchess was in blue, although it was difficult to discern even that much from what I could see.😊
I believe this look was planned. The picture of Diana at Harry’s christening had her wearing similar colors. I believe not only were the earrings a nod to Diana but also Kate’s outfit. I would have personally chosen nude pumps for Kate for this photograph.
Thank you so much for the update on the dress. Seems like Kate really liked it, but perhaps after the birthday party realized the satin fabric didn’t hold up and had it remade in a different fabric.
I think sometimes designers don’t worry about what their creations will look like when someone wears them to do more than stand around.
I agree about the fabric making a big difference. The original dress had a very strange sheen in photos. This version look identical in every way, except the fabric is softer, more substantial, more matte… or something. A big improvement, I think. You’re right about designers not thinking much about how a dress will look in real life, or maybe in the harsh glare of camera flashes, which I suspect was one reason Kate’s original Stella McCartney dress looked so garish and shiny.
Kate does love those pussy-bow, blousy tops, although I can’t for the life of me understand why. I think she can pull them off because other parts of her outfits work so well, but oh, if only she would ditch the pussy bows…. I admit that “elegant librarian” or “well-dressed secretary” is the vibe I get from pussy bow blouses. And now I’ve used the phrase “pussy bow” about 100 times in this post, which makes me uncomfortable, lol.
At least the fabric looks lovely, and the color is so flattering on her.
The mystery dress reappears! I do agree it seems she had the exact style dress from Stella McCartney eventually made in a matte fabric which really is a lot better. It’s not a favorite; not crazy how buttoned up it is and don’t care for the short length either. I wonder if she was asked to wear a dress in a peachy pink in order to coordinate with Doria because their two outfits are similar shades. All the other ladies in creme except for Lady Jane Fellows who clearly is marching to the beat of a different drum! Would love to have seen more of Doria’s and Meghan’s outfits but I guess that isn’t happening. It is nice when photographers are allowed to photograph the arrivals and departures — you get to see a lot more detail and some interaction between the participants which is always interesting.
I love that the DoC chose a dress by a British designer that she’d previously worn to another private royal family event. While not a fan of this dress due to the neck detail, I thought it looked nice on her and was perfect for a christening. I prefer the material of this dress to the one worn in 2011. Her red shoes and hatband added a nice element to the overall look. The earrings were of course beautiful and completed the outfit.
Regarding the skirt length, I don’t think it was inappropriate at all but it appeared shorter than she often wears because she was seated. My guess is that she expected to be standing behind sofa, not sitting in the front row. I went down the rabbit hole comparing this group photo to other royal (British, Swedish, Danish, Spanish, etc.) christening pictures and traditionally only the mother, monarch, and sometimes the father sit, everyone else stands behind them. She likely didn’t expect her skirt length and shoes to be seen/get some much attention in the press, given how such photos are typically arranged.
I think you are right about the oddity of DoC being seated. If she had traded places with Meghan’s mother, that may have been more traditional, she wouldn’t have been so prominent, and the colors would still have balanced.
Ever since last year when it was mentioned in comments here, I notice that they have been, indeed, color coordinating with the room … as they all have, again for this occasion … even Lady Jane. (Prince Harry is a bit rogue – are those navy blue shoe laces?)
Love the dress and much prefer it in the matte finish. I agree with you that Kate wasn’t planning on being seated so prominently, and she did not expect her skirt and (red!) shoes to become the focal point of the family photograph. It would have been lovely to feature Doria seated in a position of honor as Archie’s grandmother.
I’m sure she didn’t mean to steal the spotlight but the first thing I see when I look at this is Kate. By choosing such a dark shade when others are in white or pastels, well, all eyes on her. And, I hate the hat.
I thought the same thing. Kate & her beautiful legs pull the eye in this photo.
I love this photo and Kate’s dress/shoes. Baby Archie is adorable! Perhaps Kate coordinated with Doria! I don’t like the hat at all. I too think that the colors in her outfit are a tribute to Diana’s outfits at Harry/William’s christenings.
I think that this outfit may have been hastily arranged. I am not a fan of the shoes or the hat. The late Princess of Wales’ outfit at Harry’s baptism was better colour-coordinated.
I don’t think she would have expected to stand out. I think that if Camilla and Sarah had not worn white/off- white, Meghan and Archie would have stood out more.
Long time reader – first time poster, I just love this site so much! Thank you for the detailed descriptions of Kate’s events and fashion. It looks to me like Kate is honoring Diana by echoing her red hat and pink dress combination from William’s christening.
Not that it was a competition, but Diana outdid them all past and present. The dress and hat are perfect styles (even given they’re from the 1980s) patterns and colors for a queen of the future: no stodginess there!
Diana’s hat is pink.
No to the bow.
No to the red/salmon (pink combo).
Nice to see the Spencers represented (still hoping for Spencer for a boy’s name).
Archie is adorable and Harry and Meghan seem very happy!
The only thing I have ever liked by Stella McCartney is Megan’s 2nd dress on her wedding day. I think her designs are unflattering, awkward and at times dowdy, which is the case here. The color is horrible, and only made worse by the color of the hat and shoes. The hat is splendid by itself, though! A rare near complete miss for the duchess.
Nicky T, Glad to know that someone else is not a Stella McCartney fan. So many people rave about her, that I thought I was the odd one in not liking her fashions. Like you, the only dress I’ve liked by Stella is the #2 dress, that Meghan wore at her wedding. Stella does things like darts on the outside, odd sleeves, feature zippers, that seem like gimmicks in an attempt to be edgy. I do wonder if her famous last name helped to launch her line initially.
I think the only thing I like about anything by Stella McCartney is the colour of this dress. And I like it on Kate, but I would not choose it for myself! The fabric itself is probably okay for a blouse, but is far too flimsy for the cut of the skirt and I’m sure when Kate is standing it pulls funny at the hem like the 2011 version did.
Otherwise, I so dislike Stella McCartney’s designs I can spot them a mile away! They never seem to fit anyone properly! Including Stella herself!
Having seen photos of the original dress in that garish pink satin, I can’t understand why Kate would have wanted to recreate it in any type of fabric!
If you google it, it’s impossible to find a photo in which the dress hangs nicely. The skirt sticks out unflattering in every photo. Madonna had the same dress!
I actually really like this look on Kate. The whole ensemble to me is unexpected and maybe therefore I’m enjoying the surprise factor.
I think she looks elegant and lovely. The perfect future Queen Consort sitting there poised and respectful.
I love the colors she paired together. I love the hatband. I’m rather happy it’s not the full hat as I don’t think I like that as much.
The earrings were a beautiful, sentimental touch.
The length of the skirt keeps it from the dreaded “matronly” label so often thrown at Kate. Meghan is no stranger to a short skirt at formal engagements, and without hose to boot, so I’m sure she herself wouldn’t be complaining about the length here.
I think the challenge with the love / hate of the neck bows (and a few other fashion elements at the moment) is simply that they are on trend and in style right now. And if you weren’t around to remember them the first time, you consider it more of a “vintage” trend that’s fun to try and in style right now. You don’t equate the negative connotation with it that others may who remember them from the first time they were in style. What others call “so 80s, 70s etc”, fashion designers label with the more positive “vintage”. When really I’m thinking it just means they’ve run out of ideas, so let’s recycle a previous style lol.
I’m sure there are those young enough that they weren’t around for the first go round that hate them too… so I’m not making it a blanket statement. But I do think it’s part of what plays into the different perspectives. And isn’t that the fun of it?!
Well, I digress.
I love the color coordination between Kate and Doria and William and Charles. I think Doria looks just lovely in that color.
Meghan looks radiant and glowing.
And baby Archie steals the show 🙂
I totally agree with every single thing you said, Crystal!
I really like this combination. At first I wasn’t sure, but it’s growing on me. I adore her hatband–perfection, and wearing Diana’s earrings that she wore when Harry was christened? Fabulous touch.
Not a huge fan of Meghan’s hair, and Harry? What the heck…..as the for the dark suits things, I think William has always worn a dark suit when his children were christened–I think it’s just a slightly more formal, less casual look. Harry’s light suit is fine but the socks and the shoes are terrible.
Agree. Harry looks so good in dark colors so I’m disappointed he chose a light colored suit with dark socks and every day brown shoes (??!!)
I love this look in Kate and think she looks beautiful. Legs for days!!
Susan H, I agree with you. She has the legs of a supermodel. I liked her look.
Yikes. I have to say that, to me, red and salmon is a horrid color combination.
Yeah, I am leaning in that direction. And the hat/headband/head thing appears to be a different color than the shoes, which adds an extra layer of confusion.
Overall I like this look. I think the length of the dress definitely prevents it from being matronly, and that “smart secretary” can look chic when done with the right accessories, which the red pumps achieve. The hat band is acceptable for me because it’s not too high, and I really like how it makes Kate’s hair look, although something plainer (definitely not that braid) would have been more preferable. She looks beautiful and appropriate for this event.
Like many, I question the photographer with his choices to have Kate sit (the first thing I saw in this photograph is her magnificent legs and the dress did seem too short). the space between Meghan/Archie and Kate, and why oh why someone didn’t have Harry change his socks.
I really missed seeing the Cambridge children. I guess I had assumed they would be there (or maybe they were?). A shot of them with their new cousin would have been spectacular.
Harry needs to go sock shopping with his dad. I know we don’t see much of Prince Charles’s socks but considering his tie and pocket square game, I’m sure his sock game is equally spectacular. Plus Harry’s shoes are not great.
Whilst I wouldn’t call this dress my favourite – I’m not a fan of pin tucks rather than pleats in a skirt – I love the colour combo! I would call the dress and accessories shades of pale and dark coral rather than pink and red, and think they are great together! I like that the skirt is a bit shorter, as a midi would look floor length in a seated photo, and Kate knew Camilla would be in knee length on the other side of the pic!
I like a pink and red combination, I don’t however like this dress, it’s a bit frumpy, I’m surprised is a McCartney. The DoC has a problem dressing older than she is, it’s a fine line being modern but also one day being queen. I’m not a fan of the headband as a hat trend but DoC has a tendency of sticking to one style and buying numerous colours so this may be here to stay.
Ms Ragland looked amazing I’d like to know the designer.
Baby Archie was adorable and his parents were quite rightly proud.
@Christine, the Daily Mail reported today Doria Ragland was wearing bespoke Oscar de la Renta: https://www.dailymail.co.uk/femail/article-7232253/Dorias-chic-christening-ensemble-custom-creation-Oscar-la-Renta.html
Oscar de la Renta also designed the mint green ensemble Ms. Ragland wore to her daughter’s wedding last year.
I love Kate’s outfit but for this occasion I think the skirt should have been half an inch longer. Otherwise a perfect look. I like her headbands and I love the colors in this look.
I ask with honest curiosity: what would 1/2 an inch add to this look? I could see two or three inches, but 1/2 an inch would be irrelevant, no?
I agree also about the length of Kate’s dress being quite different when seated. If Kate thought about how the pictures would be set up, I expect she wouldn’t have thought she’d be seated in the front row.
To me it looks it’s not a hat (because of the strands of hair we can see behind it), but it could be a bespoke braided version of this headband from the same brand https://juliettemillinery.co.uk/shop-headbands/vnc0qtffbei2jj6l172l1ijydmvdh5-mnshl
Hi, AlmostViola, and thank you for commenting. As mentioned in the post, it is definitely a hatband/headband, not a full hat. I think there are similarities to the piece you link to, but it is closer in color and the braiding of the pillbox, or seems that way to me. Either way, it is “very Kate,” as I sometimes say! 😊
To me this was a miss for Catherine. I do not like the headband, nor the shoes.. it seems like this whole ensemble is miss matched. The pearl earrings were a very sweet, touching nod to both Diana and Prince Harry. I loved that Diana’s sisters were included in the photo. I’m not sure if they were even invited to Catherine and Williams children’s christening. Really today is all about that sweet Archie!
One of William’s Spencer aunts was a godmother for (I believe) George though it might have been Charlotte. Both were in attendance for at least the two older Cambridge children and, if I were to hazard a guess, for Prince Louis’s christening as well. They were not in the formal picture as in those it was just the great grandparents, grandparents, parents, and the siblings of William and Catherine.
I liked the outfit of the Duchess of Cambridge – my guess is that she did not think that she would be seated so that the shortness of the skirt was not considered when she chose the outfit. Unlike others, I have not objection to the bow – I find them a non-fussy alternative to a necklace. I just gave a blouse with such a bow to my daughter and daughter-in-law for their birthdays as something a little different. Both (in their thirties) found them delightful as something different from what they (both lawyers) would normally wear. I find that if the ties are long enough, one can stye the blouse in a number of different ways.
The color combination of the read and pink (or salmon and coral) was lovely. The DoC was not supposed to be the center of attention – that rightfully belonged to Archie and his parents. The DoS looked lovely in her dress though Prince Harry (IMHO) looked rather scruffy for such a formal occasion. Both Prince William and Prince Charles were appropriately dressed for the christening as did Camilla and Doria.
cks, Neither aunt was a godparent for the Cambridge children. However, one of Charlotte’s godparents was The Hon. Laura Fellowes, daughter of Lady Jane, so William and Harry’s cousin, from Diana’s side of the family.
Bonnie – thank you for the correction! I was off by a generation but I was correct in that the Spencer side of the family was represented.
… Actually that frilly thing at Kate’s neck that didn’t quite make it into a full pussy-bow, looks as if there was a piece of fabric left and the dressmaker thought: ‘Mmm… Now what to do with this leftover piece? It is expensive fabric, we don’t want to waste it. It is not quiite long enough to make a pussy-bow. Ah! I know! Just big enough for a frilly thingy!’ Meghan’ s hat works beautiful with the clean and open neckline, leaving the focus on adorable (definately ginger!) Archie.
Continued blessings to the Royal Couple and their adorable first born Archie.
Long life and happiness to one and all.
Folks elsewhere have decided this is a jabot – like a false cravat.
Well, Elizabeth the jabot, should jab-out.
Mary I laughed at your imaginary dressmaker’s thoughts. I guess we are lucky there wasn’t enough material left, for that dressmaker to consider a flounce on the bottom of the skirt.
Love LOVE looove Camilla’s cheecky, sweet hat. Her usual flamboyant choices might have been distracting on this occasion. The shorter hem scoops Kate’s dress out of the frumpy box and so glad she is not wearing nude shoes! A v-neck with a proper pussy-bow would have made the dress more fun and less ‘office’. That frilly thing at the neck looks like a pink version of the white frilly thing my brother, who practices law, wears in court. And yes… May the Pippa wedding dress be laid to rest- never to be seen again. Doria is lovely as ever and never looks frumpy or poured into her outfits. Just stylish with well-fitting clothes, always appropriate but never boring. She knows her style and what looks good in pics. I wish Sarah F would try these styles.
“…never looks frumpy or poured into her outfits.” Best comment I’ve read in a longtime. Made me the chuckle. 🙂
Yes, yes! The colour combo of the pink Stella McCartney dress and scarlett accessories – LOVE IT. Catherine looks so chic and modern. Not an iota of matronly here, unless you still haven’t realized that current fashions have so many 60s,70s, 80s influences. I adore the pussy-bow; I’ve already purchased a couple of blouses this season with these bows. Baby Archie – aww – ginger/red fuzz and Meghan’s eye colour and features. So cute.
Another lovely subtle nod that Kate’s earrings were also same ones Diana wore at Harry’s christening.
Thank you, EA! 😊
Kate looks beautiful, as usual. That rosey pink is wonderful with her complexion and hair, and I love the cranberry red hat and shoes, which elevate the outfit. I love the headband hats on her, especially today with her hair down and pulled off of her face. William also looks great; he’s such a handsome man.
I read the comments and I am surprised at all of the criticism of Kate’s dress and look as “matronly” or “aging.” I think the dress is a classic style that looks great on Kate. As a future Queen, she walks a fine line between “appropriate” and “fashionable.” I think she nails it virtually every time. And I would put this ensemble in the “nailed it” category.
Agree! There is nothing matronly or aging about that above-the-knee hemline. I also love that her shoes (nicely coordinated with the hat band) almost blend into the red of the carpet below her feet without being a beige or nude tone.
I like this dress more & more as I see it again. I love that she mixed the red shoes with the pink dress. Another site noted that Diana wore those same earrings for Harry’s christening… so nice touch by Kate there.
This! This! Sorry gentlemen, the ladies have stolen the show! Who is this new DOC? 🙂 First the wedges, now this saucy short dress with red heels, pussy bow at the neckline. I love the look, love that she is stepping into her own self with fashion. Not a fan of the hatband, but who cares, the look is young, fresh and she looks stunning as usual. Next, can we talk about Ms. Ragland?? Divine. Divine! Wish we had full body shots of everyone’s outfit. Specifically, I need to see that buttercream suit hiding in the back (I see you!).
It’s posts like this that make me happy that clothes exist, thank you Susan.
Hmmm. The Duchess is always beautiful but I don’t like the bow detail or the color of the dress. That headband reminds me of the fake braids worn in the 1960’s. On the other hand, I do like her red suede shoes. Archie is just precious and his parents look proud and happy. A christening is such a joyful occasion. Best wishes to all.
I totally agree on that hat! I LOVE those shoes but that hat gives me strange vibes because it looks like she dyed part of her hair red and put it into a braid crowing her head. Additionally, the plastic looking fabric strikes me as odd. I’m undecided on the dress but the earrings were a nice touch.
I really would like to re-arrange everyone in this photo and have Harry and Meghan more in the middle of the settee.
Kate’s look is an interesting one today–I was very surprised that she wasn’t wearing a neutral shoe and hat with the pink dress. I’m not overly fond of the dress itself (it’s the neckline–I think it’d be better as a fuller pussy bow or without the bow or whatever that is), but I do appreciate the shoes and headband. Such a lovely splash of color. Some of her headbands have been too wide and high for me, but this one doesn’t seem costume-y.
I know this isn’t “What Doria Wore,” but may I say that she nailed it. Her look is perfection.
Harry, on the other hand …. Let’s just say I wished he’d worn a dark suit to match the other gentleman.
Doria’s Look is perfection indeed. Every photo I’ve seen of her is perfect for both herself and the occasion.
As for What Harry Wore, I like that he matches the light colors worn by his wife and baby. Blue tie a sweet touch. And less formal than black dress shoes complement his suit.
I think Kate would have felt more comfortable posing in a dress closer to the picture-perfect length of Camilla’s.
NOTE: admin edit
I wish that Prince Charles and Prince William had worn LIGHTER suits to match Prince Harry –and the ladies who were all in light-coloured tones too! His light-toned suit blends very well with the cream/white outfit and hat of Meghan and Archie’s ecru christening gown. Had Prince Harry worn a dark suit, this would have made such a marked and rather extreme and stark contrast to what his wife and son wore. Actually, it was the dark blue suits of Prince Charles and Prince William that STUCK out more and did not blend that well with everybody else.
Jayelae, you say, “Had Prince Harry worn a dark suit, this would have made such a marked and rather extreme and stark contrast to what his wife and son wore.” Well at the christenings of George, Charlotte and Louis, Kate wore cream to all three and of course the babies were in the same gown. William wore a dark suit to each event and looked just fine.
The men all look good, with the exception of Harry’s black socks and scruffy looking brown shoes.
I imagine that Harry and Meghan were going for a lighter and matching look with the lighter colors. I don’t hate his suit, but darker colors usually (if not always) suggest a more serious look for men and that seems appropriate to a christening.
I thought the colours were well balanced with light and dark in the mix. Kate’s colours pair with Doria, the two blue suits are standing at the back and all the pale cream makes its own spotlight with proud parents and Camilla in the foreground. Works for me!
That look is fabulous. I love the hat and the pink and red together.
The colour of the Duchess’s dress is lovely. The shoe colour is gorgeous. The jury is out on the dress. Not liking the headband at all. Earrings stunning. So happy to see Diana’s sisters in attendance, a representation of there sister, so proud of Harry for that. It speaks volumes.
I have a dress the same color as Kate’s and looking for matching shoes. I’m now inspired to try something less predictable than a boring neutral!
Beautiful baby! Meghan and her mom get the highest marks from me. Agree with others that the DofC’s dress is a bit too short and the hat and shoes perhaps not the best combo. Lady Jane’s hat belongs on the beach. And Harry must have put his socks on in the dark. ☺ But overall, a happy picture. And does Harry not look like the image of Aunt Sarah?
OMG! Harry favors his Aunt Sarah indeed! I wonder if she’s a natural ginger?
Yes, she is! You can Google some younger photos of her.
I agree — whenever people speculate about Harry’s lineage, I want to scream LOOK AT AUNTIE SARAH!! There’s also a picture of a younger Prince Philip in a beard that pops up now and then, and you can see Harry there as well.
I loved the combo of pink and red on Kate but I feel as though Doria should have been sitting where Kate was sitting, with Kate and William in the back row.
NOTE: admin edit
I kind of like that she took a risk with the pink and red (more successful than when she mixes shades of green that do not complement). But man I hate the dress. I usually like Stella, as her aesthetic tends to be more minimalist (Meghan’s reception dress comes to mind), but the high neck and bow are just a miss for me. Kate loves them, though, sigh.
Archie is a cute little nugget. Doria looks amazing. And Meghan wears white so well with her skin tone…it makes me look like a ghost. She is so glowy I will ignore the nude pumps, which I hate on her and Kate.
Catherine looks pretty in pink! You would think that red and pink would clash but not in this instance. Her outfit coordinates just right as always. Glad to have someone in the public eye who is my age and dresses appropriately.
Not loving that hat. My first thought when seeing it was that it looks like fake hair.
The earrings are my favourite part of this ensemble.
The pink with red is unusual, but I think it’s fresh and fun. Kate’s hair is lovely with the headband, and her makeup is perfect. The dress could be considered a bit short, in that Kate’s stunning legs steal the show, just a little, but overall I think the length is perfectly appropriate.
Archie is lovely- much love to this precious baby!
Is it me or are her picks more often matronly than not?
i agree
i think it is you. A fairly short dress, so much so her legs are noticeable, is not usually a formula for a matronly dress.
I love what Kate is wearing. It’s a nice match to what other’s are wearing in the photo and it’s something I would personally wear despite being 7 years younger than she.
NOTE: admin edit
I’m not a fan of this outfit. If pink was the color palette requested then a rewear of the pink from trooping the color a few years ago or her bridesmaid dress from Pippa’s wedding would have been better options without taking any attention from the Sussex Family. The addition of the red shoes and hair band seems strange without a piece that pulls those colors together, like the hat from the trooping the color outfit.
I can appreciate the earrings, as a sentiment to Diana. I’m also surprised by Camilla’s cream colored dress (perhaps it is blush but doesn’t show in photos).
Just seems like there was a lack of clothing coordinating between the parties in attendance.
Please no, I never want to see the dress from Pippa’s wedding worn ever again. It was a horrible color and not very attractive.
If you look at photos from William and Harry’s baptisms, it is clear there was absolutely no attempt to coordinate outfits!
Finally a good peek at that adorable baby.What a beautiful child. So happy for the parents! What a blessed day.
I thought that The Duchess dress looked a bit short for the pictures, sitting down. But I am sure it was lovely when she was standing. The red was interesting, just ok for me. She always looks so beautiful.
Megan and Harry look so proud. What a lovely family. Can not wait to see more.
I agree, Carol that the dress is not likely too short when Kate stands up. It is too bad there is only one photo because it doesn’t tell the entire story. If you look at Kate’s right thigh you can see how much the dress bunches on sitting. It is likely several inches longer when standing. As for your comment, “Cannot wait to see more” I’m not certain there is going to be more.
I agree that the dress is likely at the knee or even below when she’s standing. You can see it bunched a bit at the sides, and she wore it to the Queen’s luncheon previously, where she tends to dress more conservatively.
The painting referenced is of the Royal Chapel that burnt down. When they reconstructed it, they didn’t build the same one. Rather created a new one, DailyMail did a lovely article on it yesterday. It can seat 12 as per the article.
https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-7218109/ROBERT-HARDMAN-goes-inside-tiny-Windsor-Castle-chapel-baby-Archie-christened.html?ito=amp_whatsapp_share-top
Thank you for the link, Raman, that is a good piece! I was able to add a contemporary photo to the post as well. 🙂
Yes I showed the update with my name to my husband and did a happy dance with my Lab (my 16 month old puppy!) for getting a mention in my favourite blog that I have been following ever since Kate & William’s engagement. 🙂 Thank you so much!! I come to your blog atleast once every day, update or no update. It’s my happy place to visit!
Oh, *thank you*, Raman, for the info you shared and for such a lovely comment! 😊
Glad to hear you’re one of the founding WKW posters, Raman!! Pleased to meet you. I still feel very Johnny-cum-lately having not screwed up courage to post until the first Trooping the Colour after the wedding. I’d scoured the planet looking for a back view of Kate’s tiered McQueen coat that I could scarcely believe was actually being worn by a BRF. WKW came up several times but I’d shied away having seen other royal fan sites.
But suddenly there it was, the stock view of the rear of the garment and when I looked properly, accompanied by intelligent informed commentary, both by admin and from commenters. That was me launched, and now of course the problem is no one can get me to shut up! 😄
We don’t want you to shut up, ElizaMo! Your commentary is very much looked forward to and appreciated.
🙂
Very pleased to converse with you too ElizaMo!! I am part of the gang that searches for your name on the page to read your comments! You and there used to be another person, for the life of me I cannot recall, I used to do that for and then suddenly she disappeared. I remember Susan also posting she was doing fine, if only I can recall her name or the signing moniker rather! I don’t comment a whole lot since I don’t sound as eloquent as a lot of people and also I fail to notice the subtleties that everyone else does or the techniques of stitching, all of these things you excel in! Above all the reason a lot of people love reading your comments is: your refusal on being cynical. Your critique when present is most well founded. Your wit unmatched and the imagery you create is whimsical. You should become a writer if you aren’t one already! 😉
I think you are speaking of Lily. I miss seeing her comments too!
Yes, it was Lily…or was in Lili? I miss her also and truly hope she is doing well. If you are out there, please let us know.
I think you refer to the great Lili who used to grace our site. With her background in art history and long familiarity with many of the labels Kate wears she was far and away the best commenter on here. I miss her very much.
But thank you kindly for your most eloquent tribute to my own efforts. I hadn’t thought that a refusal to be cynical might be a selling point, but it’s nice to think it could be. It mystifies me how anyone imagines making the most cruel or nasty comment online somehow furthers whichever cause they espouse. We can only work together when we’re prepared to acknowledge a different point of view from our own, even if we disagree with it. Admin has done a stellar job of giving us a safe space to air our differences here in an atmosphere of respect. I shall look forward to your future posts, Raman!
I agree with SaraF! ElizaMo, I always find your commentary so fun, insightful and valuable!
🙂
I don’t like this outfit. Pink and red in July seems odd. The dress looks like one my grandmother would’ve warn in the 80’s in when she was in her 60’s. It just aging on Kate.
I’m sure her goal was to blend in today and she’s accomplished that with a reworn outfit. I think there’s a lot of blue dresses in her closet that could’ve been chosen for today and would’ve looked better.
Kate is a beautiful woman, inside and out, although this ensemble is not a look that I gravitate to. At first sight the hat appears to be a hatband. I am not a fan of the hatbands, but it is a hat. The hat and the shoe color strike me as a odd combination that stand out amongst the other well coordinated ensembles that others are wearing. The dress seems short when Kate is seated, which again draws an eye to her ensemble again.
Kate is beautiful~but this look seems odd to me.
I agree completely! This style of hat does not suit her, nor those ridiculously thick and large headbands, and the color combination is awful and the fabric too clingy. This outfit ages her terribly!
I agree! I think several of her outfits lately are too old for her .
Huge miss for me. If you just look at Kate, it’s like a 70’s school photo. So stiff and horrible colours. The mat by pumps and hat / hat and high neckline with bows. Just too much. And dress does not photo well sitting. She has so many flare skirts that would have draped nicely. One of the blue Catherine walkers?
Meg looks lovely. Reminds me of Kate’s stunning christening outfits. And she poses so naturally. Beautiful.
Looks like they all had a great day!
Kate looks stunning. Hair and makeup are beautiful and that hat-band is very interesting. I find myself wishing it was a more public affair, just so we could get more of a glimpse at Kates styling,
Really not a fan of the Panama Hat that one of Dianas sisters is wearing, it’s not a good look and takes away from the photo.
Me thinks Auntie Jane is, in terms of style, the Princess Anne of the Spencer clan.
I am wondering whether the aunts knew they were going to be in the official christening photo. I suspect not, otherwise Lady Jane would have worn a different hat. Likewise, I think Kate did not know she was going to be seated for the photo. She looks stiff and uncomfortable and I think it’s because she feels her skirt looks too short for the occasion, although it may not have been had she been standing.
I very much like the DoC’s color palette, but I’m never going to be a fan of the head band. Sorry. I’ve tried to be open minded on this point but it just doesn’t float my boat.
All in all, everyone look lovely today. So wonderful to see Diana’s sisters. And, of course, young Archie is perfection!
I hate to say it, but this is one of her worst looks yet. She is so beautiful, but I don’t understand why she sometimes chooses such frumpy pieces. The dress is so ugly. This particular combo of pink and red is horrendous.
My, that baby is cute!
Love how kate looks. The whole outfit is quite nice. Pink is a lovely color for summer.
Can’t ever say anything about her choices. She always looks very polished.
All the ladies look lovely. Thank you for sharing.
Kate looks gorgeous! I’m loving the pink and red color coordination. This hatband is one of my new favorites. Perfect summer outfit.
I thought everyone looked lovely, except for Harry. Black socks and brown shoes with a pearl grey suit, really?
Agree about Harry, strange choices/combination. Pale suits and brown suede shoes is usually the go to for Royal ‘tropical’ visits. Of course, Harry is ‘royal’ so maybe the old English upper class thing of never wearing suede shoes in town or with formal suits doesn’t apply (the implication being that you only wear them in the deepest country and probably with corduroys or tweed trousers).
I thought the same. Black dress shoes would have been much better. He does like those desert shoes.
Agree — he was definitely the schlub in the group. Perhaps the idea was to have the Sussexes all in very light colors (why?), but his choices didn’t gel. Looks like Meghan was too preoccupied with Archie and his gown to worry about Harry and his socks.
Perhaps Harry wore a light colored suit knowing they’d requested B&W photos? The suit’s ok for summer (as are the suits William and Charles wore) but Harry’s shoes and socks were pretty bad.
Just curious, was The Queen in attendance? The Duchess of Cambridge looks so lovely as usual and Prince William is such a handsome man! Lovely photographs, thank you for the post.
That was a great question, Caroline, I’m glad you asked! I forgot to include the explanation in the post; HM is in Scotland, it is the end of Holyrood Week. (I added a little info to the post.) 🙂
HM was in Sandringhem.
As I said before the queen was in Norfolk on Saturday
https://www.lynnnews.co.uk/news/delight-for-dersingham-as-queen-tours-new-village-centre-9075654/
What a lovely family photo with baby Archie centre and front, he looks every inch the budding royal and carries off his magnificent christening robe with aplomb.
Kate too looks lovely, the picture of poised elegance, clearly this McCartney style is a favoured private-family-event outfit, and in that context I think it’s perfectly judged. I don’t want to comment on the dress as I simply don’t relate to these pussy bow styles and am not going to rain on anyone’s parade.
I’m no more a fan of these headbands either so I’ll set that aside too and just say what a humdinger pair of courts Kate’s wearing! They really warm things up and perhaps belie the attitude of modesty she is assuming. And I think it’s terrific for her to have worn Diana’s pearl drop earrings. I love how the ladies have coordinated with pink and cream tones.
The one other sartorial highlight I’d like to acknowledge is Doria’s glorious hat, it looks almost as if it might have been modelled on traditional African headgear. Wonderful.
Looks like Kate’s wearing a headband, not a hat.
I really like the darker pops of muted reds for the shoes and hatband. They’re so much more interesting to me than neutrals and I dig the Seventies-ish feeling I get from Kate’s styling and color palette today.
Thanks for pointing out that a 70s vibe might be an attractive vintage prospect in today’s fashion terms, that helps me come to terms with this dress a good bit more. It’s always a problem to have lived through a style period once and, on seeing it return, not wish to repeat the experience. Of course it must look fresh to younger eyes!
Thank you for your generous comment, Eliza 🙂
My pleasure, Mary. I also very much agree with you about those deep red touches of hat and shoes, I think they work wonderfully against the strong pink 😊
That is so true!! When I liked “40’s style clothes in the 70’s, my mother didn’t like it the way I did. She had lived it! I like everyone’s clothes except the Panama hat on Lady Jane. I love the headband look hats & generally love Kate’s outfit, although I might have chosen a deeper rose & not gone all the way to red for the shoes & hat. Loved Doria’s outfit & of course Cams would wear white or cream. She looks great in those colors. It was really Kate who started the trend to wear while/cream at your child’s baptism & she did it for all three.
“LIKE”
I agree! I think it looks more sophisticated where something in a matching or lighter hue would look dowdy. I love the hat band, too.
Love the color combo. Find it gracious that Cambridge kids didn’t come along, as they could have stolen show. Admire DofC for rewears, or different color choices of same designs, for others’ big days. Lovely gesture to wear Diana’s earrings. But I’m not a fan of pussy bows, which scream “prissy” IMHO.
Not a ‘pussy bow’ in this instance, there is no knot or loops, I think it is more of a jabot..
Sue, I think your right; it is not a pussy bow. So let me add that jabots (or faux jabots) scream prissy to me as loudly as any pussy bow!
So nice to see that the Spencer Aunts were included in the official photos.
With a limit of only two photos released, it is very difficult to fully see what everyone is wearing, but there is certainly an elegance to everyone’s look. Doria seems so sweet and I think her outfit is stunning. She has the ability to get things just right, when she is being seen with the Royals. Nice that Diana’s sisters were present and I wonder if Charle’s siblings were also invited. Archie is very alert for just two months. He is a beautiful baby!
Kate always looks appropriate and polished although this is certainly not one of my favourite outfits. I really don’t care for the floppy trim tied at the neck. While the colour combination of hot pink and red are somewhat unusual, they do provide a colour contrast and a bit of a zip. Perhaps the berry coloured shoes worn at Eugenie’s wedding would have been better. I do like the headband, which is just enough to fulfil the hat requirement for this event. When Kate has her hair off her face and we can see her pretty features. These earring always look amazing.
I personally like the combo of red & pink like this. Red shoes & hat are a lot. I think she could have also done shoes in praline or buff in the same style we’ve seen her wear before. I like the proportions of all items and how the pleats of the dress seem to be complemented by the texture and braid of the hat. Her outfit also looks good with William’s and they look good together.
Little Archie is just adorable!
I’m always so impressed at how the ladies all coordinate colors for these affairs. Even if I told my sisters to all wear cream or pink, I know we’d still look like fruit salad!
It was so nice of them to include Harry’s aunts. I assume they’ve been at the other christenings, just not in the formal portraits. Lady Jane looks especially good. I’m not too fond of Lady Sarah’s outfit though. Doria and Camilla both look great – love both of their hats!
Kate’s outfit is a gorgeous color. Bright, but not overwhelming. And such a great color for her. I wish the bow was fuller (I thought the same for her Ascot blouse. The bow on the original with the trailing ends was lovely.) A bigger bow would make this dress more romantic, and cut any 1990s office vibe. The shoes and headband are perfect!
Meghan is glowing! She looks good in white and that’s a great hat for her. The smaller profile she prefers, but with a bit of height and interest.
I think I got Diana’s sisters mixed up. I prefer the blush jacket and hat (Sarah) to the cream/tan outfit (Jane).
I thought the cream/black hat looked a bit out of place, almost a panama sun hat in a formal reception room!
Jane looks like she’s channeling Infanta Elena of Spain with that fedora.
For my taste, Kate’s dress is too short, and it looks like something a receptionist in a posh office might wear. Also, it’s summer. Why not a pretty frock, like the ones she wore this past week?
I know this is a Kate site and she looked fine today (finally! A headband I can get behind!)
But Meghan looked about as happy as a person can be, Harry looked so proud and I LOVED Doria’s Look, especially that hat.
Archie looks like he’s got Meghan’s adorable nose and I swear there’s a hint of ginger on his little head.
Such a lovely picture.
I liked Doria’s color way too, and agree that the turban style hat was most becoming, a far more flattering and elegant choice than her hat from the wedding.
I wonder if she’s getting some styling tips, especially coming from California which has a very different aesthetic. She’s obviously taken a page out of Carole Middleton’s book and mastering the art of looking appropriately formal as the parent of a senior royal while not actually being a senior royal, a most difficult sartorial spot to be.
I thought the same thing about Archie’s hair, Zoe.
I think Archie looks like Harry! Just an adorable baby!
Lovely except for the red shoes! Please elevate your shoe game Kate!
I find the color mix odd. While the headband seems to blend the shoes seem too off. Also, I find that while the top of the dress is lovely, the center pleats of the skirt seem almost faux since they are turned under in a hem. I feel a soft flutter or fullness of the center pleats would be more attractive. These little issues aside I think she looks lovely and I like the fact that her hats vary in style and also include these more headband styles. and I am happy that she is wearing pearls and more important jewelry.
I just can’t make myself like this look at all. If you’re sixty it would be lovely. It’s all perfectly appropriate but so very matronly.
Ha! I love her, but I’m 72 and would have found something equally appropriate and subtle, but with a bit more zing. Not my favorite.
It’s awful. The pink with the red? It’s not Valentine’s. The bow from the 40’s doesn’t help. This is a first. I’m genuinely surprised.
Ha! Funny to see a comment call this look matronly. When I saw the headband my thought was that the whole look was quite childish. Fashion is so subjective, isn’t it? 😉
Apparently the shoes are Emmy London… the heel’s tiny cap is darker in the Rossis too
Thank you for the info, Vanessa! I have seen tweets suggesting the shoes are by Emmy, as well as Rupert Sanderson, but to me they look more like the Rossi pair. If I can find out anything more, or get a confirmation from any of the designers suggested I will update the post. 🙂
Emmy has been promoting her “lipstick” shade shoes as the colour of the day on Facebook when I didn’t know that was a thing. I wondered if it was a subtle hint at who had made Kate’s red shoes today.