Kate in L.K.Bennett for launch of Early Childhood Centre

The Duchess of Cambridge officially launched The Royal Foundation Centre for Early Childhood on Friday with a series of events.

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The first engagement was at the London School of Economics, where the Duchess meet with leading academics and practitioners at the London School of Economics to discuss The Royal Foundation Centre for Early Childhood's mission to drive awareness of, and action on, the transformative impact of the early years.

© Kensington Palace

This was followed by afternoon tea at Kensington Palace with a group of parents who have helped her understand the importance of providing support for parents and caretakers during the earliest years of children's lives.

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Kate premiered the L.K. Bennett 'Dee' Pale Blue Crepe Shift Dress (£225) for the launch of the new centre.

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The 'Dee' shift dress is part of L.K.Bennett's collaborative collection with Royal Ascot. Crafted from stretch crepe in a pretty iris blue, the dress has an elegant sweetheart neckline, short puffed sleeves, a fitted silhouette and a pencil skirt with a back vent.

Kate teamed it with her Gianvito Rossi 'Gianvito 105' pumps in Praline Suede.

She accessorized with a number of familiar jewellery pieces.

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Sapphire & Diamond Oval Drop 'Diana' Earrings

Spells of Love Double Strand Beaded Satellite Chain Necklace

Astley Clarke Round Stilla Lapis Lazuli Pendant Necklace

Halcyon Days 'Maya Torque' Aquamarine and Gold Bangle

The mask is the Amaia reusable cotton face mask in The Duchess Pink Eloise print (£15).

© Kensington Palace