Kate wears Alexander McQueen to Star-Studded Dramatic Arts Reception at Buckingham Palace

This evening, The Duchess of Cambridge joined Her Majesty, the Queen to host a star-studded reception at Buckingham Palace honouring The Royal Academy of Dramatic Arts (RADA), of which the Queen is patron.  The Royal duo greeted an estimated 250 guests, including Dame Helen Mirren, Cate Blanchett, Sir David Attenborough, Uma Thurman, and Downton Abbey creator, Julian Fellowes. 

Tonight, Kate looked vibrant in the red peplum Alexander McQueen dress, first worn to the Diamond Jubilee River Pageant in June 2012.  It is also believed she wore it to the Queen's pre-Christmas luncheon in December.

June 2012

Dec 2013

The Duchess opted for classic black satin accessories, carrying her customised Anya Hindmarch 'Maud' frame clutch and Prada shoes.

Both pieces we have seen before, and Kate first wore this combination when she meet the Obama's at Buckingham Palace in May 2011. 

Catherine has her 'Maud' clutch personalised with the initial C.  The  bespoke clutch retails for £450 and comes in an array of colours.   It is fabricated from luxuriously soft satin, made using tightly woven thread to give a glossy appearance.

Kate finished her look wearing Cassandra Goad 'Temple of Heaven' girandole pendant earrings.   The
9ct yellow gold earrings retail for £1,365 and have been worn by the Duchess for a number of years.

You can read more about tonight's event here.

Currently, the Duchess of Cambridge has no official events planned for the immediate future.  I suspect Kate's appearances will slow up over the next couple of months as she plans for the Royal Tour of Australia and New Zealand in April 2014.