Bits and Bobs Hofdame Bits and Bobs
Belgium · Britain · Denmark · Japan · Jordan

Hofdame Bits and Bobs

The Handbag

What has been going on while we have been discussing pink clothes and evaluating the Baden? Lots of things, so let’s not dally further.

Japan

The Japanese senior royals are reaching far and wide diplomatically. The Emperor and Empress hosted the French president and First Lady in advance of the G-20 summit. Prince Akishino and Princess Kiko are making an official tour of Poland, and were greeted by the Polish President and First Lady at their arrival.

Also, here is a fascinating piece on what the Japanese royal women wear for each level of occasion.

Monaco

Charlotte Casiraghi’s religious ceremony was held last weekend. I do hope we get some full length photos of this dress because it looks very romantic, which is not the direction I expected from her. Our own Iselen has reported that this is custom Giambattista Valli.

Queens in Training

Princess Elisabeth of Belgium gave her first interview during her visit with Queen Mathilde to Kenya. She appears utterly charming and composed. I look forward to this being the first of many.

Princess Ingrid Alexandra of Norway completed the last part of the pilgrimage to Nidaros Cathedral in preparation for her confirmation. Haakon accompanied her and Mette-Marit greeted them.

Tours

Kensington Palace announced that that the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge will tour Pakistan in the Autumn, the first official British Royal Family visit to that country in 13 years.

The Duke and Duchess of Sussex announced a tour to South Africa , their first as a family. Prince Harry will also visit Malawi, Angola and Botswana.

Classic Edition Princesses

Princess Alexandra was out and about, visiting Leeds Castle, which is celebrating its 900th birthday. She always brings peak Alexandra to these visits.

Princess Anne hosted a tea party for Save the Children UK, an organization she has tirelessly supported since 1970.

Princess Benedikte was in South Jutland, visiting a Jacob Riis Museum, and doing so in her traditionally elegant manner.

This and That

If you missed Princess Haya during Ascot, as I did, it would be remiss of me not to point to these reports on her whereabouts and the why of it. And, yes, there has been a lot of drama surrounding it. Since our motto is “Focus on fun, and keep it royal”, I would ask that we keep our comments on this situation brief and avoid too much speculation. Personally, I’ll start and end by saying: it’s an unfortunate situation, and I am sending good wishes for her continued security and that of her children.

Holyrood Week has begun! One of my favorite, lesser known, weeks in Her Majesty’s year. From the official palace website:

Each year, The Queen spends a week visiting various regions in Scotland, meeting Scots from all walks of life and hosting thousands at the Palace of Holyroodhouse in recognition of their good work. Known in Scotland as ‘Royal Week’, and to others as ‘Holyrood Week’, these visits celebrate Scottish culture, achievement and community.

https://www.royal.uk/holyrood-week

If you are planning a trip to New York City this summer, the Treasures of Chatsworth at Sothebys might be worth a stop. It appears to be fabulously curated. Report back if you do go.

From our own Aussie Girl, an interesting read on the Duchess of Cambridge being a “brooch influencer”

From our friend geogirl, a clip of the Duke of York visiting Lakefield College School last month – they are very proud of his attendance there.

Harry and Meghan made a surprise appearance at one of the quintessential American rites of summer, a baseball game. The Yankees and Red Sox are playing a London series, and the Sussex duo appeared before the game to provide support and pick up a couple a basesball baby onesies. Personally I think Meghan should live in flats and Stella McCartney fit and flare dresses – looking good, new mom! Also, Master Archie will be christened on July 6th in a private ceremony at St. George’s Chapel. Photos will be released at a later date.

We will add a Wimbledon Open Post later this week as the tournament attracts more royal attendance. Stay tuned!