Wills and Kate and George and Charlotte in Canada
As ever, the Cambridges are coordinated in their blue -- except for the red stripe in William's tie, which I assume is a shout-out to Canada. (Yeah, yeah, I know it's one of his Meaningful Regimental Ties, don't @ me.) Let's all give Kate props for choosing a skirt which was NEVER going to blow up inappropriately, as that airport in Victoria is apparently quite blustery.
Wills and Kate and George and Charlotte in Canada
I appreciate that Kate is wearing her maple leaf brooch -- well, it's not hers. It's the Queen's. But it's been loaned to her in the past; thank God QE2 didn't get in a snit and refuse to let her borrow it this time. Also, note the maple leaves in her Lock & Co hat. You know I love Royal Sartorial Shoutouts. Also loveable? THAT BABY. I appreciate that she, at least, is not wearing beige shoes. Look to your child for footwear inspiration, Kate! (I also, for a moment, thought Kate's pin was a GIANT WACKY ring and was momentarily so thrilled.)
Wills and Kate and George and Charlotte in Canada
Reports have it that George got distracted by a helicopter that was landing at this point, and certainly his little face seems to say, "EXCUSE ME DADDY BUT I NEED TO STOP AND WATCH THIS HELICOPTER FOR AT LEAST TWENTY MINUTES BEFORE WE WALK DOWN THOSE STAIRS. I CANNOT BELIEVE YOU EXPECT ME TO WALK DOWN STAIRS WHILE A HELICOPTER IS RIGHT THERE. PLEASE WAIT FOR ME TO FINISH WATCHING THIS HELICOPTER. THANK YOU."
Wills and Kate and George and Charlotte in Canada
"HELLO EVERYONE. I AM DEFINITELY NOT PLANNING ANYTHING WHATSOEVER BUT THANK YOU FOR ASKING! ANYWAY WHY DON'T YOU JUST LOOK OVER THERE FOR A WHILE RIGHT NOW, PLEASE? IT'S SO INTERESTING OVER THERE RIGHT NOW. NO NEED TO BE KEEPING AN EYE ON GEORGE!"
Wills and Kate and George and Charlotte in Canada
In case you were wondering if Wills and Kate have their hands full with these two kids or not, the answer lies with Little Lord Side-Eye here. (Additionally: Kate's updo is amazing. I wish I could do that with my hair. Also amazing: how good she is at squatting in heels whilst holding a baby and then standing up without falling over.)
Wills and Kate and George and Charlotte in Canada
"EVERYONE! LOOK AT MY SOCKS! AREN'T THEY TREMENDOUS? THANK YOU! YOU'RE WELCOME!"
Wills and Kate and George and Charlotte in Canada
I forgot I haven't really talked about Kate's look yet -- beyond congratulating her for Wise Weather Wrangling -- and the truth is that I like this. It's very business-like, but also pretty, and the back of the collar is neat. Obviously, I wanted her to come out wearing shoes with goldfish swimming in the heels but I never get what I want.
Oh, Canada!
I guess Canada talked about it, and they decided: FEDORAS. Fedoras are the way to go! The woman in olive green is Sharon Johnston, who is married to David Lloyd Johnston, the Governor General of Canada, who was RUDELY cropped out of this photo. She looks sharp, I think, and also a little bit inspired by the Von Trapp Family's Traveling Costumes in the last bit of The Sound of Music, which, as you know, is high praise from moi. I like Sophie's dress but is it weird to wear two different shades of purple? Justin Trudeau continues to be WAY HANDSOME -- in a vest! -- and you're lucky to have a hot PM, Canada. (There was a photo of him kneeling down to chat with George that was SO CUTE and which I haven't gotten for our use yet, but I'll update when I do.) Informative Caption didn't tell me who the woman in red is, but I'm sure one of you knows and can tell me. She was BRAVE to wear red and risk matching with Kate. I enjoy your moxie, Lady in Red.*
Fug Nation has informed me that she is Premier of British Columbia Christy Clark. Thanks, guys!
The British Columbia Legislature
The Official Welcome Ceremony for this tour was held here at the British Columbia Legislature in Victoria and OBVIOUSLY it's SO HIDEOUS. MY EYES.
Wills and Kate in Canada: Part II
And THE GAZING HAS OFFICIALLY BEGUN. It's like the Royal Tour Equivalent of lighting the Olympic torch.