Duchess of Cambridge Kate Middleton might not have made it to Malta, but she wasn’t forgotten!
Case in point: When Prince William, who went on a royal trip to the Malta in her place, arrived on the tiny European island on Saturday, Sept. 20, he was presented with many official gifts, including a sparkling clutch purse for his pregnant wife.
Selected by Malta’s First Lady, Michelle Muscat, the midnight minaudière, by Maltese handbag designer Sunita Mukhi, boasted countless Swarovski crystals and, appropriately, a white Maltese cross.
One look at the British ex-pat’s bespoke online inventory, and it’s clear the designer has lots of love for the royal family: There is a heart-shaped clutch in her red carpet collection, bedazzled to recreate the red, white, and blue Union Jack—its name is “Kate.” Additionally, there is an identical clutch, only rectangular, called “Margaret,” likely after Queen Elizabeth’s late sister.
Though, due to her continued severe morning sickness, Prince George’s mom couldn’t make the trip, the Duke of Cambridge, who was gifted golden cufflinks from the first family, promised well-wishers that he and his family hope to return to the island together one day soon.
“Catherine has asked me to say how very sorry she is that she couldn’t be the one to pass on The Queen’s greetings to you all,” he told the Maltese community who came to hear him speak at his arrival. “She was looking forward to coming here, and I know she hopes very much that she will be able to visit in the future.”
Later, the Prince shared that optimism again with one of the reception’s attendees: “The Prime Minister’s daughter was very keen on meeting George, so we might have to bring him back so they can have a playdate together.”