More Tea Vicar?

Last night the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge attended their first Royal function, since the birth of Prince George. With this in mind, I thought about their wedding and recalled an article I wrote just before their big day back in April 2011, about ‘Britishness’ as a trend. I thought I’d post it for you to read, let me know you’re thoughts –

According to Colvile (2007: Online) “the concept of Britain is making a comeback”. With TV shows such as ‘Britain’s Got Talent’ having come to dominate our screens in recent years, is it an attempt to celebrate our culture or even question our national identity?

Whatever the reason, Britain is undoubtedly having a moment. With Kate and Wills getting hitched on the 29^th of this month, there is no denying that a patriotic air is sweeping the nation. And according to the BBC who report that there is a tendency for royals to wed during times of hardship, we love the idea of escapism with all the glamour and romanticism a wedding brings (2010: Online).

To mark the royal occasion, throughout April Harvey Nichols is staging afternoon tea at their Bristol store, with an assortment of sandwiches, cakes and tea fit for a princess. Plus we’re set to witness a whole host of regal memorabilia in celebration of the big day – with numerous brands providing everything from tea towels and bone china to t-shirts and even fridges!

Kate Middleton has become somewhat of a fashion icon in recent months. Commonly known in the press as ‘the Kate effect’ her ladylike style choices have become hugely popular amongst fashion followers. Sporting iconic British brands such as Barbour and Burberry, Kate’s sartorial elegance has trickled down to the high street so everyone can don the dress of the lady in waiting.

Royal blue is said to be the colour of the season, with “Kate’s sophisticated and chic fashion sense...now (setting) this royal blue colour trend on fire” (Donna Ida, 2011: Online). The classic trench and kitten heels are just some of the other predictions for women’s fashion trends this Spring/Summer, with occasionwear and bridal fashion also set to be popularised. And for the boys there will be a return towards formal dressing but with a modern twist, allowing them to be the fashion authority and ultimately stand out from the uniformed look of the business suit brigade.

And it’s not just clothing getting the royal treatment, interior fashion will also see use of the Union Jack, crowns and even “designer paint colours” according to ‘Cynthia’ of Interior Design Hound (2011: Online).

But one of the other biggest national events putting Britain firmly on the map is the London 2012 Olympics. Taking reference from all things “quintessentially British” and “quintessentially English” (The Independent, 2011: Online), it seems the Games organisers want the venue to celebrate all things Britain stands for and really showcase ‘British’ sports such as tennis and cricket.

So, in an age of austerity where we all seek to ‘escape’, it seems these momentous occasions can only be a positive thing. Kate and Wills, you’ve got three yes’s.