Princess Charlotte was spotted getting a little “impatient” at Trooping the Colour last year, where members of the Royal Family gathered on the Buckingham Palace balcony to celebrate the monarch’s official birthday.
Charlotte and her brothers, Prince George and Prince Louis, were seen with their parents, the Prince and Princess of Wales, King Charles and Queen Camilla, and their great aunt and uncle, the Duke and Duchess of Edinburgh.
While watching the service at Horse Guards Parade, Charlotte was seen chatting with Duchess Sophie, and a lip-reading expert has revealed exactly what was being said.
An Impatient Inquiry
Jeremy Freeman, a lip-reading expert, explained later to the Daily Star that at one point, the young royal asked her great aunt: “Sophie, how long will it be?”
The Duchess is said to have replied: “I think it’s now.”
This brief exchange captures a charming, relatable moment between family members amidst the grandeur of royal ceremonies. It also highlights the patience and guidance provided by Duchess Sophie to her young niece, reinforcing the supportive dynamics within the royal family.
Fashion Statements Amidst Tradition
For Trooping the Colour last year, Charlotte wore a red and white sailor’s dress, paired with her Papouelli “Siena” Shoes in Cream Leather, which cost £89. Her outfit was a nod to traditional styles, yet remained playful and appropriate for a young royal.
Sophie, meanwhile, donned her Beulah London Yahvi Midi dress, teamed with an extravagant hat typical of royal occasions. Sophie’s choice of attire reflected both elegance and a sense of occasion, standing out among the crowd of dignitaries and spectators.
A Changing Royal Scene
Sadly for the royals, the balcony may look a little lighter at Trooping this year, which will be held on June 15, if it even goes ahead at all. The Firm has had to cancel or postpone a series of engagements following the announcement of the General Election last week, which will be held on July 4.
Until then, the royals have to be careful to avoid any activities or visits that are seen as overly political or distracting attention away from the campaign.
Royal Adjustments
Royal commentator Richard Fitzwilliams stated that it was likely Trooping the Colour would go ahead, even though some senior royals might not be able to attend. He told Express.co.uk: “I am sure that William will attend as Colonel of the Welsh Guards. Obviously, Catherine is unlikely to because of her health, and it may well be that their children will miss this year’s Birthday Parade.”
Princess Kate has remained out of the royal spotlight as she continues her cancer treatment and has requested privacy for her and her family at this time. The Duchess of Cambridge’s health has been a significant concern, with the public and royal family showing immense support and respect for her need for privacy.
A Royal Family’s Resilience
The possibility of a scaled-down Trooping the Colour highlights the resilience and adaptability of the royal family. Despite the challenges posed by health concerns and political events, the royal family’s commitment to tradition and public service remains steadfast.
The potential absence of key figures like Princess Kate and possibly her children from the event underscores the personal trials the family faces. However, their ability to balance these with their public duties continues to earn them admiration and support from the public.
The Public’s Role
As the royals navigate these challenging times, the public’s understanding and support play a crucial role. The privacy requested by Princess Kate and the adjustments made to traditional events like Trooping the Colour reflect a deep respect for both personal and public responsibilities.
This year’s Trooping the Colour, whether it proceeds as planned or in a modified form, will undoubtedly be a testament to the enduring spirit of the royal family. It will serve as a reminder of their ability to uphold traditions while navigating the complexities of modern life, with all its unpredictable challenges.
In the midst of it all, moments like the one shared between Duchess Sophie and Princess Charlotte at last year’s event continue to remind us of the humanity at the heart of the monarchy. These glimpses into their lives bring a sense of connection and familiarity, bridging the gap between the royals and the public they serve.
