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One year ago today, Prince William and Catherine Middleton (referred to then as “Kate” and wearing the most glorious of Issa wrap dresses) announced their engagement at Clarence House in London, along with an official tweet at 11 am GMT. This was reportedly the first time Clarence House used the social network site for such an official announcement: “The Prince of Wales is delighted to announce the engagement of Prince William to Miss Catherine Middleton,” it stated.
Queen Elizabeth II, who was at Windsor Castle for a reception with Prince Philip that afternoon, told guests, “It’s brilliant news. It has taken them a very long time,” (via the Guardian).
William proposed to Catherine in October 2010 while on holiday at Lewa Downs in Kenya. There, he presented the future Duchess of Cambridge with an oval blue sapphire surrounded by 14 diamonds set in 18-carat white gold.
The ring, now worth over $250,000, belonged Diana, Princess of Wales, who selected it as her engagement ring back in 1981. “It was my way of making sure my mother didn’t miss out on today and the excitement, and the fact that we’re going to spend the rest of our lives together,” William told ITV reporter Tom Bradby, who interviewed the couple on November 16th following the press conference (see video below).
PHOTOS: A Look Back At Kate, William…And Even Harry!
The picture above of Kate checking out her new trinket is quite possibly one of the best photos of 2010-2011, if only because we catch the future queen in a candid moment. There, she’s just another girl, in utter disbelief that she’s engaged.
It has been a blast covering William and Catherine since last November. Royalty fascinates us, mainly because of the history and tradition that is upheld to this day. We also think Catherine is a classic beauty with poise, confidence and a strong sense of self. And that William Wales, he’s alright by us.
PHOTOS: Kate Middleton For The Win!
We’re in good company, as there are some great fashion blogs out there who’ve been paying close attention to what HRH wears to events. A royal “holler” to What Kate Wore and HRH Duchess Kate, who are a few of the sites we’ve referenced over the past year.
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