Is it demeaning to women? Here are five key arguments why the Duchess of Cambridge should not have turned the royal visit into a fashion parade. Many will disagree!
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Kate's Caribbean catwalk raises questions
Is it demeaning to women? Here are five key arguments why the Duchess of Cambridge should not have turned the royal visit into a fashion parade. Many will disagree!
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The mood at the Jamaican Governor General's mansion was sombre. At a lavish dinner to mark Queen Elizabeth II's Platinum JubileeMajor anniversaries of coronations and other public events are called jubilees, and named after materials of increasing value. Fifty years, for instance, is a golden jubilee., Prince William expressed his "profound sorrow" for Britain's historic role in the slave trade. It was, he said, an "abhorrent stain on history".
It was a remarkable statement. But the next morning, only one topic dominated the headlines: the Duchess of Cambridge's emerald Jenny PackhamThe British fashion designer is a favourite of the Duchess of Cambridge. ruffled tulleA lightweight, fine and stiff netting, often used to make ruffled skirts. ball gown, complete with an embellished bodice and matching jewellery. "Kate dazzles in the Queen's diamonds," declared one newspaper. "The Duchess of Cambridge proves she's the queen of green," said another.
There is no doubt: Britain's future queen is dressed to impress. In the six days since the royal couple embarked on their Caribbean tourThe Duke and Duchess of Cambridge are on a week long tour of Belize, Jamaica and the Bahamas to celebrate the Platinum Jubilee. , the Duchess has worn dozens of expensive outfits, including an ivory Alexander McQueen suit with matching Jimmy Choo pumps, a red vintage Yves Saint Laurent jacket and Stella McCartney sandals.
But not everyone applauds the focus on fashion. Here are five key reasons why some believe it is time for the Duchess of Cambridge to finally ditch the designer labels:
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Is it demeaning to women?
Yes: Kate's designer outfits are an expensive distraction. The constant attention on her clothes means her real work is overlooked. In the 21st Century, women do not need bling to make an impression.
No: Everyone has the right to dress how they wish. The glitz and glamour is part of the appeal of the royal family. The Duchess of Cambridge's style is hugely popular - the criticism is uncalled for.
Or... The Duchess of Cambridge has no choice over the media scrutiny surrounding her outfits. She does her best to use the attention for good by recycling outfits and highlighting local designers.
Keywords
Platinum Jubilee - Major anniversaries of coronations and other public events are called jubilees, and named after materials of increasing value. Fifty years, for instance, is a golden jubilee.
Jenny Packham - The British fashion designer is a favourite of the Duchess of Cambridge.
Tulle - A lightweight, fine and stiff netting, often used to make ruffled skirts.
Caribbean tour - The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge are on a week long tour of Belize, Jamaica and the Bahamas to celebrate the Platinum Jubilee.
Sovereign Grant - The Sovereign Grant is made up of 25% of the profits of the Crown Estate. It funds the official duties of the monarch, and other members of the royal family who represent them.
Patron - A person who supports another person, organisation or cause. Olusoga is a British-Nigerian historian, author and broadcaster.
Fast fashion - Cheap clothing produced quickly by big retailers in response to the latest trends.
Kate’s Caribbean catwalk raises questions
Glossary
Platinum Jubilee - Major anniversaries of coronations and other public events are called jubilees, and named after materials of increasing value. Fifty years, for instance, is a golden jubilee.
Jenny Packham - The British fashion designer is a favourite of the Duchess of Cambridge.
Tulle - A lightweight, fine and stiff netting, often used to make ruffled skirts.
Caribbean tour - The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge are on a week long tour of Belize, Jamaica and the Bahamas to celebrate the Platinum Jubilee.
Sovereign Grant - The Sovereign Grant is made up of 25% of the profits of the Crown Estate. It funds the official duties of the monarch, and other members of the royal family who represent them.
Patron - A person who supports another person, organisation or cause. Olusoga is a British-Nigerian historian, author and broadcaster.
Fast fashion - Cheap clothing produced quickly by big retailers in response to the latest trends.