We loved Kate’s yellow ensemble. Pics: Prince and Princess of Wales
It’s one of our favourite weeks on the royal calendar, as the Windsors bring the glamour to Ascot and this year was a classic for clothes – literally – as the theme was all about re-wearing pre-loved outfits.
On Wednesday, Catherine made her return to the Berkshire racecourse for the first time in three years. Joining the Royal Procession, she sported a favourite yellow Roksanda dress she’d worn to Wimbledon in 2022 and laughed and joked with onlookers – one of whom shouted, “Up the Villa” to Prince William as they sat in the carriage.
Carole Middleton and Princess Anne also re-wore pink outfits. Pic: Royal Family
Mum Carole Middleton got the memo and re-wore her pink Catherine Walker coat dress she’d sported for daughter Pippa’s wedding in 2017. And needless to say, the Queen of Recycle, Princess Anne, also plumped for a pink suit she’d first worn 25 years ago to Royal Ascot, in 2001. We love you, Anne!
Other highlights included actor Stanley Tucci making a surprise carriage appearance as a guest of the King, on Thursday, with wife Felicity Blunt; Zara Tindall’s show-stopping polka dot dress by Claire Mischevani on Friday and Peter and Harriet Phillips making their wedded debut at Ascot on Tuesday, Harriet in a lovely pale blue Suzannah London dress. I (Kerry) love this brand, if only I had somewhere to wear one of their dresses, oh, and the means to buy one. A cute detail, Hello Magazine picked up, was both Harriet and Catherine carried the same Anya Hindmarch’s popular Maud clutch bag, in different colours.
We also loved the interview Camilla gave to ITV, above, speaking passionately about the riding club Ebony in Brixton, of which she is president.
California dreaming. Pic: Duke and Duchess of Sussex
Just when the Royal Family probably thought it was safe to start thinking of their plans for a well-deserved summer holiday (hello, Balmoral etc), along comes the news that Harry, Meghan – with Archie and Lilibet – will be heading to the UK for a couple of weeks from early July. This is major news. And potentially a major headache for the Palace. Previously, Harry insisted he could not bring his family to his homeland due to concerns over security. However, keen to promote the Invictus Games 2027 – that will be hosted in Birmingham, and very keen to see his wider family, it seems the Montecito-based non-working royal branch have had a change of heart.
According to the Times, it is understood Charles has offered them accommodation in a royal residence during their visit but has yet to receive a reply. However, even if a private family visit is arranged letting Charles finally meet his grandchildren after four years, it would not be an official duty which would have automatically entitled Harry to armed police guards – something he has said he requires to feel safe in the UK.
Harry saw his father last year for a short meeting over tea at Clarence House, which lasted about 50 minutes. As for Meghan, she’s only used the UK as a stopover between flights, since her last visit in 2022 for the late Queen Elizabeth’s Platinum Jubilee. We realise there are so many unanswered questions, but the big one for us is whether we will finally see what Archie and Lilibet actually look like!
Our future king turns 44! Pic: Kensington Palace
It’s been a v v busy week for William, from the historic announcement yesterday that he will (along with the King) reveal his tax returns and how much they both paid in 2024-25 on their respective Duchies, but he also gave £1,000 to a campaign group trying to save the Somerset Arms in Wiltshire. While today sees the Prince of Wales celebrating turning 44. Let’s hope William is celebrating with his tipple of choice – a cold pint of cider!
In a letter sent to the Semington Community Benefit Society, which is aiming to raise £395,000 to buy the pub, William said rural pubs are a “lifeline” to communities, stating: “Our pubs have long held a unique place at the heart of British life. They are not simply places of hospitality, but vital spaces that bring people together, foster a sense of belonging and support the well-being of local communities.” William concluded that he looked forward to “coming down to pull a pint and celebrate your success”.
Earlier this week, it was announced that William will guest edit Country Life (November issue), as a “passionate countryman”, desire to protect the environment and advocate for rural mental health services. The prince follows a royal tradition that has seen Charles and Camilla guest edit the magazine.
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Prince George will enrol at Eton. Pic: Prince and Princess of Wales
Finally – after a year of speculation – it’s been confirmed Prince George is enrolling at Eton this September. Following in his father’s footsteps, George, who turns 13 on 22 July, will board at the prestigious school just outside Windsor. The family had looked at Marlborough and Oundle, but it makes sense, because it’s close to home. For the first time, the prince will be separated from his siblings. George will board at Manor House, where William and Harry also boarded and William recently let slip George has been boarding at Lambrook – presumably to help with the transition. As to where Charlotte will go to secondary school, there’s talk it may be Wellington, also not far from Windsor, or Kate’s old school, Marlborough.