The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge have made a surprise appearance on day four of Royal Ascot, whilst the Queen remains at home.
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Prince William and Kate travelled in the lead carriage in the traditional royal procession which kicks off before the races. They were joined by Arthur Vestey and his wife Martha. His late father, Lord Vestey, served as Master of the Horse to the Queen and would often ride in Her Majesty's carriage.
WATCH: The royals attend Royal Ascot
Duchess Kate, 40, wore a stunning white polka dot dress by Alessandra Rich that featured a high neck with fluttering ruffle detailing, a belted waistline and long sleeves. With her timeless monochrome number, the beautiful royal looked as if she had just stepped off the set of My Fair Lady.
© Photo: Getty ImagesDuchess Kate looked splendid in polka dots
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READ: Why Prince William and Kate didn't attend first day of Royal Ascot
The sophisticated royal styled her silky brunette tresses in a polished, tightly coiled low bun - revealing her radiant makeup look and some exquisite pearl drop earrings. She also slipped on a pair of nude heels to complete her mesmerising outfit.
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In terms of headwear, Kate unsurprisingly did not miss a beat. She sported a bronze woven hat with cascading white floral detail which shielded her face from the glaring British sunshine. The royal greeted onlookers as she arrived by carriage with her husband.
Prince William and Kate waved at fellow racegoers
Meanwhile, Prince William looked dashing in black tails, a grey waistcoat, a top hat, a white shirt and a mid-blue tie.
At one point, the Duchess of Cambridge was left open-mouthed with joy when she appeared to pick a Royal Ascot winner.
Kate looked chuffed to be at Royal Ascot
Kate looked at a guest in the royal box in shock after Perfect Power won the Commonwealth Cup, and William came over to his wife grinning.
Prince William and Kate during a trophy ceremony
The couple shared a few more glances before they disappeared, presumably for the royal to collect her winnings.
© Photo: Getty ImagesThe royal couple were in the first carriage
The Queen's eldest grandson Peter Phillips took his seat in the second carriage alongside his girlfriend Lindsay Wallace as well as the Duke and Duchess of Bedford, while the Viscount and Viscountess Brookeborough travelled in the third carriage with Mr and Mrs Darby Dennis.
Prince William and Kate's attendance on the penultimate day of Royal Ascot comes as a surprise since the royal family usually make appearances in the first three days of the annual horse-racing event.
© Photo: RexPrince William and Kate at Royal Ascot
Is the Queen likely to attend Royal Ascot 2022?
The Queen has not yet made an appearance at Royal Ascot this year, but there's no doubt she'll be eagerly following the races from home.
Peter Phillips was seen in the carriage procession with his girlfriend
The 96-year-old monarch is a keen equestrian and racegoer and events like Royal Ascot and the Royal Windsor Horse Show are highlights in her diary. But due to her episodic mobility issues, it's understood that the Queen has been enjoying the Berkshire races from the comfort of her house.
Prince Charles and Camilla attended days one and two of Royal Ascot this week, leading the royal procession by riding in the first carriage. They left an empty space in their carriage on both days as a sign of respect for Her Majesty who would normally be in attendance.
© Photo: RexLady Gabriella Windsor looked lovely in blue
Other members of the royal family who have stepped out this week include Prince Edward and Sophie, Princess Beatrice and Edoardo Mapelli Mozzi, Zara and Mike Tindall, and Princess Anne.
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