I make no secret of the fact that I am a fan-girl of the Duchess of Cambridge, or as I still like to affectionately call her, Kate (to some royalist's annoyance). She will forever be my favourite mentor. Love her or not, here are seven lesson we can all learn from this darling Duchess.

Win signed copies of In Defense of the Princess & Ladies Like Us. These modern books on feminism and femininity turn the current view of what it means to be a "feminist" on it's head. Who says a love of princesses and all things pink can't inspire and motivate a generation of strong, capable women?

Having the sniffles is never fun, especially when you don't know whether it is polite or not to blow your nose in public. Our resident Etiquette Expert offers her advice on what to do when you have to navigate the task of blowing your nose, cough or sneeze in a formal setting.

This week our resident etiquette expert, Jill Kryston answers a reader's question on how to handle uncomfortable political debate at a dinner party. A lady should know how to handle this minefield, so here are Jill's tips on how to be gracious, dignified and ladylike in the face of such awkwardness.

How did you wake up this morning? Refreshed and ready to face the world or miffed that you couldn't stay in bed another hour, or four? Elegance is a state of mind, and that begins from the moment your feet hit the floor. Here's how to start your day in a graceful, ladylike and elegant way every day.

Would you like to meet fellow likeminded women from all over the world who share your values and outlook? We have some beautiful, brilliant Ladies Like Us in The Darling Academy Alumnae social group, come and join us for a virtual cup of tea and a friendly chat...

Forget about those sales! Ladies know that when it comes to building a classy wardrobe she needs to think wisely about it and not act on impulse. It's neither about fast-fashion or racking up "luxury" debt just to look great. Clothe yourself in style and dignity - which can be bought! Here's how....