Prince William & Kate Middleton. He is second in line for the British throne and the world is enraptured with his upcoming wedding to Kate Middleton. But how much do we really know about the royal and accomplished prince and his fashionista bride to be?
His family
His father, Prince Charles
His mother, Princess Diana
His brother, Prince Harry


Hailing from the House of Windsor, William and his brother were thrust into the spotlight after their mother’s untimely death. William’s father took a lot of heat in the press for a new romance with a duchess, and Harry once wore an ill-conceived costume — but the family stays mum on most of the royal gossip.
His early life
Born: June 21, 1982

William’s mother shirked convention by sending him and his brother to a public boarding school, where William became captain of the swim team. How old was he when his parents divorced? In honor of his 21st birthday, the British Royal Mail put the prince’s image on more than 20 million stamps. See what it looks like.
His education

In 2001, Williambegan his collegiate life after having spent a year teaching children in a South American city and taking part in exercises for a land warfare branch. While at school, he played one of his favorite sports and met his future wife.
His military service

Because of his royal station, William likely won’t see active duty, but he follows in the steps of his paternal grandfather and joins his brother in serving in the military.
His volunteer & charity work

If there’s one area where William has unquestionably followed in his mother’s footsteps, it’s in his charity work. Directly involved with several causes that were dear to his mum, he holds her former position and even once spent a night on the streets to show support for the homeless.
Kate’s family
Her father, Michael
Her mother, Carole
Her sister, Pippa
Her brother, James
Their new coat of arms unveiled

Kate was raised predominantly in Berkshire, where her parents have run a party supplies business since 1987. Her sister is considered one of the UK’s most eligible bachelorettes these days, while her brother caused a bit of a photo controversy. Check out family photos.
Her early life
Born: Jan. 9, 1982


She went to nursery school in a Middle East country, while her parents were based there. She attended British independent school before moving on to university. Her childhood home is currently up for sale. How much is it going for?
Her education
The university she attended

She began college in 2002 and appeared in a university fashion show in a daring outfit rumored to catch William’s eye. She would be the first British queen with a college degree.
Her career


Recent reports indicate that Kate was always careful not to take on work that would compromise William. She began making public appearances at royal eventslike this special occasion as early as 2008.
Kate as a fashion icon
Known for crowning adornments

Since her first famous runway appearance, Kate has been turning heads. Who is rumored to be designing her soon-to-be-famous wedding gown? See Kate in one of the designer’s looks here.
The engagement & wedding

Finally, the monarchy had something to get excited about when, after eight years as a couple, William and Kate announced their engagement on Nov. 16, 2010. The commemorative coin has been designed, the merchandise is ready to sell and the world will be watching on their special day.