I remember the first time I laid eyes on it.
The date: June 11th, 2011.
The Occasion: Trooping of the Colour, the official celebrations of the monarch’s birthday.
Ah, what a site to behold. The cinching at the waist, the tiered skirt…it was a coat I shall always covet.
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It was a busy month for the new Duchess of Cambridge. On June 4th, she attended the Epsom Derby. Six days later, she was the center of attention in a Jenny Packham sequined gown at the ARK Gala in London.
The following day, Catherine would wear another piece by the designer who dressed her for her wedding to Prince William on April 29th, 2011. The setting this time was a bit less formal, but the temperature in London called for a coat.
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So, Catherine donned a cotton and wool-blend piqué coat ($2,692) by Sarah Burton for Alexander McQueen (paired with a black hat by Sylvia Fletcher for Lock & Co). The “elegantly tiered Samurai skirt” was a selling point for yours truly, so imagine my elation when it reappeared the next year at the historic Order of the Garter service (a few twitter friends remember me being quite pleased), topped off with a Jane Corbett hat.
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The dress underneath is by Joseph, first seen at the Epsom Derby on June 4th, 2011, according to What Kate Wore.
The Order of the Garter is the oldest order of chivalry in the United Kingdom, founded in 1348 by King Edward III. Only 24 members may belong to the order, in addition to the Prince of Wales and the sovereign.
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The service and processions takes places each June at Windsor Castle, witnessed by members of the public and of the royal family.
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Prior to that, new appointments to the Order are announced on April 23rd, St. George’s Day. Prince William is a Knight Companion, and many of us royal fans hope that Prince Henry will soon receive his appointment from Her Majesty.
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