Gift Guide: Fit for a Royal
As a royals enthusiast, I have been lucky to receive a number of royal-themed gifts, and also love to research and buy their favorite things so that I can live my life a little bit more like a Duchess!
Books
Modern Monarchy by Chris Jackson: Chris is a royal photographer for Getty Images and his wife is one of Kate’s closest aides. He has shot some of the best photos of the royal family in recent years and has a trusted place in their inner circles. This book is filled with photos of the family from the last 15 years spanning from overseas tours to Prince George’s first day of school, along with Chris’ insight into what it’s like to document the royals.
The Other Side of the Coin by Angela Kelly: If you have ever wondered what goes into dressing the Queen for her public engagements, this book from her personal dresser has ALL the answers! There are so many wonderful tidbits and pieces of royal insight sprinkled throughout, as well as a glimpse at Kelly’s incredibly close personal relationship with the Queen.
HRH by Elizabeth Holmes: I honestly used to be but am no longer the biggest fan of Holmes and her “So Many Thoughts” royal posts on IG, but I am curious about this new book, especially her perspective as a style and fashion reporter. If you know anyone who loves royal wardrobes and diplomatic dressing, this is going to be the big royal gift to give this year.
Penguin Classics: In addition to our shared birthday, Kate and I have one very important thing in common, which is our collection of Penguin Classics. When I saw them in her home office, I actually gasped as I have been collecting them, along with my friend Caroline, for a few years now! They are perfect for filling out your built-in shelves, giving a cohesive look to a desk or office and making your life just that tiny bit closer to a Duchess, and the Jane Austen set is a great way to get started.
HomeGoods
Princess Beatrice and Edoardo Mapelli Mozzi Wedding Items: The Royal Collection makes special items to commemorate important royal life events each year, and this year the china and ornament for Princess Beatrice’s wedding are the ones to buy! It features their initials surrounded by a bouquet of pink roses, peonies, lemon blossom and thistles, all of which were in her wedding bouquet.
Buckingham Palace Advent Calendar: The same friend knows my love of advent calendars and brought me this special one that I can reuse each year. The setting for the calendar is the front of Buckingham Palace, with the Queen’s Guard, her famous corgis and more setting the scene.
Right Royal: This True or False game that requires very little actual knowledge of the Royals, so it’s fun for anyone to play! You will all learn fun facts along the way and a little bit of history. I played this with our mother and two brothers when we were on lockdown last spring and it was a great time.
Jo Malone Orange Blossom Candle: This is the scent that William and Kate used for their wedding, so it’s credentials with the Windsors are top-notch! Relive the romance with this classic.
Royal sTyle
Velvet Headbands: Kate has become the Duchess of Headbands and Hatbands in the last few years, driving the mega-trend. This set from Amazon is a great affordable option, with a very pretty velvet texture and just high enough for a big impact. The green is also perfect to add some festive cheer to any outfit!
Monica Vinader: A favorite jewelry designer of both Kate and Meghan, this British jewelry brand makes beautiful “demi-fine” pieces that are chic, but low-key enough for everyday wear and at reasonable prices. The earrings we have featured were worn by Kate in the past, and I’m currently lusting after this ring!
Boden Queen’s Guard Earrings: Um, these are just so cute! I love a big earring, especially a kitchsy one, and these are just the right mix of chic, but novelty.
Princess Diana Sheep Sweater: Preppy brand Rowing Blazers has partnered with Warm & Wonderful to recreate one of Diana’s most iconic moments in their knitwear brand, this adorable “black sheep” sweater. I also have my eye on the “I’m A Luxury…Few Can Afford” sweater from Gyles & George.