With a heavyweight guest list for Monday's Royal Academy gala, including Miramax mogul Harvey Weinstein and The King's Speech director Tom Hooper, the Duchess of Cambridge put in an effortlessly stylish appearance in a dress by a cutting edge British-based designer.No matter that the slashed neck lavender number by Roksanda Illincic had been seen before on her North American tour.
The queen of recycling gave it a sophisticated new twist with a chic chignon that showed off her Kiki McDonough silver hoop earrings.
When Kate wore it last year, Roksanda, a favourite with Samantha Cameron and Florence Welch said: "It feels incredible to have one of my favourite spring/summer 2011 dresses worn by the Duchess. "We all thought she looked impeccable and beautiful, and it was an honour that she chose to represent British fashion in my dress the very first time she visited the US."
This week's polished appearance was to promote Britain's creative industries, which explains why designer Stella McCartney, model Lily Cole and TV presenter Fearne Cotton were all invited.Also invited were Tracey Emin, Lulu, home furnishings guru Sir Terence Conran, rocker Roger Daltry and choreographer Arlene Phillips.The former Strictly Come Dancing judge said: "We have so much to be proud of in this country, so much to offer. "We have the best arts, best dance, best music, I just want to shout it from the rooftops. And what I really want is to see Kate and William dancing. "We all know that Harry has got the moves, he has showed us those! Those hips don't lie! But I would love to see William and Kate take a spin round together. "Whether the Duchess and her husband will take her up on the challenge remains to be seen. What is clear is that Prince William knows his music.
During a speech at Monday's event Prime Minister David Cameron provoked laughter from guests, including Kate, when he recounted a conversation he'd had during the opening ceremony of the Olympics with the future King.
Apparently during rapper Dizzee Rascal's number, the Prince lent over and told the premier: "I don't know if you know, Prime Minister, but my grandmother is a great fan of Dizzee Rascal."