Princess at the Millies: Kate Sparkles Monday Night [updated]

I don't know about the rest of you, but this is what I have been waiting for since the announcement that Kate Middleton would be William's wife. I have been waiting for old school glitz and glamour, modern royalty, but never more modern than royal. I loved the ARK dress, no one will deny that BAFTA stunned, but this, this is it. Black strapless, velvet, sparkling jewels, red carpet. Kate was a princess tonight. Absolutely glowing this evening, it is so fun to see her smiling, and her increased evening eye make-up makes those eyes pop. The dress highlighted her perfect figure and toned arms. I have said it before and I will say it again, if this isn't inspiration to get yourself to the gym, nothing will be be, give up now.

This is certainly the most neck sparkle we have seen her wear.The reports are that this necklace was a wedding gift, and I can only hope there will be more from where this came. The dress is McQueen and reminiscent of Diana's first (and somewhat disastrous) appearance. Kate is a more practiced veteran of the public scene and her bust line was glamorous, but in no way dangerous. The dress was altered from a net skirt to fully velvet. As always, good call, Kate.

The Belle of the Ball, indeed.

Earlier today the Daily Mail reported on a little pre-Christmas brunch the royals attended at Buckingham Palace. Shots through the window showed a beaming Kate with William at the wheel. I really like when he drives, it reminds me of their dating days. For some reason this called to mind the polo match at which they were spotted canoodling after they got back together. When it was all over they sped off in his Audi...