The Palace has released the news the world has been waiting for – Kate Middleton's due date. In an official statement released on Monday afternoon, Clarence House said: "Their Royal Highnesses The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge are delighted to confirm they are expecting a baby in July.
The Duchess' condition continues to improve since her stay in hospital last month." Royal watchers can now deduce that the Duchess of Cambridge is three months pregnant, and the wording of the statement also dispels rumours that the future Queen will be welcoming twins. The sex of the child won't be revealed until he or she is born in the summer. Before the announcement, the faintest hint of a bump was visible as the brunette attended her last public engagement with husband Prince William by her side. When the royal couple attended the unveiling of Kate's first official portrait at the National Portrait Gallery, the mum-to-be kept her hands delicately folded over her burgeoning stomach, which was concealed under a loose, burgundy-hued Whistles dress. Although Kate isn't showing much, she and William's knowing smiles gave away their happiness, which will only grow as the six remaining months of pregnancy draw to a close.
No exact date for the birth has been released, however, there is a distinct possibility that the royal baby could be welcomed into the world on July 1 – which was the late Princess Diana's birthday. That prospect would be a bittersweet coincidence for William and his wife, who are now settling into a routine after a tumultuous first trimester. Both were forced to announce the pregnancy early after Kate was admitted to King Edward VII hospital with acute morning sickness and required a further period of rest following her release. The expectant royal is now steadily getting back on her feet, having attended a series of low-key celebrations over Christmas, marking her January 9 birthday, and of course, witnessing the unveiling of her first ever official royal portrait, which she praised as "brilliant, amazing, absolutely brilliant".
Already one of the most photographed women in the world, Kate's growing tummy will be the focus of much interest now that she is back in the public eye again. And her maternity fashion will no doubt be closely followed by fans of her classic style.