Tuesday Tidbits for August 14: Engagements and Couture and More
--The engagement of Princess Ayako of Takamado, daughter of Princess Hisako and the late Prince Takamodo (a cousin of Emperor Akihito), with Kei Moriya is moving forward. The traditional official betrothal ceremony, called Nosai no Gi, was recently held. During the ceremony, a representative of the fiancé visited the Takamado residence and presented Ayako with traditional gifts including sea bream fish, sake, and rolls of silk. New photos of the couple were also released. [Japan Times, Imperial Family of Japan Blog]
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| Imperial Household Agency |
--Meanwhile, I feel bad for Princess Mako. The status of the engagement between the Emperor's granddaughter and Kei Komuro is murky at best; after a delay reportedly caused by a financial dispute in his family, he's just left for law school in New York City and there are reports that the prospective groom has been told to present a "life plan" by Mako's parents. [Telegraph, Mainichi]
--Here's some cuteness: Princess Beatrix and wee King Willem-Alexander, pictured 50 years ago in the garden at Drakensteyn Castle.
--Ooh this is right up our alley, and an enjoyable read: "The Countess of Derby shows us her couture - and introduces us to her personal couturier." [Tatler]
--The picture in the article is the cherry on top of this hmm... sundae: "A French-born aristocrat is suing France for €351m (£313m) in damages, claiming it tricked his family out of inheriting the throne of Monaco." [Guardian]
--And finally, I very much dig this Garbo hat on Princess Beatrice, worn to accompany her grandmother to church this weekend. The Queen's brooch has been covered at the Jewel Vault, of course. [Sun]
Coming up this week: Mary gave us a couple things to discuss, at least...
Tidbits is your spot for royal topics we haven't covered separately on the blog, all week long. Please mind the comment policy, and enjoy!
