Christmas time and the prerequisite red-and-sequin outfits that come with it may be long forgotten by now, but Kate Middleton isn't rushing to ditch the glamour.
Never one to miss an opportunity to pull out all the stops, the Duchess of Cambridge dazzled in a showstopping red dress at last night's UK-Africa Investment Summit, continuing her streak of truly stunning outfits.
Hosting the event with Prince William on behalf of the Queen, all eyes were on the mum-of-three as she stepped out in a dazzling Needle &Thread dress covered in shimmering red sequins.
The midi-length Aurora Sequin Gown (€555) was appropriately conservative in some ways, featuring a high neckline and long sleeves, but added a dose of opulence with oodles of sequins across the dress, inspired by vintage lace tablecloths and layered over romantic tulle.
Particularly striking were the sleeves, which were sheer except for the intricate pattern of cascading sequins down to the wrist. Another dose of romantic glamour was added from the sheer scarlet hem that fluttered as Kate walked.
The Duchess kept the red theme going with a pair of crimson suede court shoes by Gianvito Rossi, ruby drop earrings by Soru Jewellery and a neat Jenny Packham Casa clutch bag in red and gold.
Amping up the glamour even more what Kate's hair and makeup. Eschewing her usual sleek blow dry for a sultry, voluminous blow out, with Farah Fawcett-inspired asymmetric waves falling back from her face, the Duchess dipped into the 70s trend seen everywhere recently from runways to the high street.
Her makeup was equally sultry, with a smokey eye and peachy blush adding to her look.
