Pregnant Duchess of Cambridge: First royal appearances (photos!)

The Duchess of Cambridge, who's been MIA since the palace announced her second pregnancy (for good reason, since she's been suffering from hyperemesis gravidarum) has emerged, and she is looking even more lovely than anyone could have expected after what she's been though.

Read more: Royal baby news: Due date and update on Duchess' health>

The Princess, née Kate Middleton, made her royal appearance alongside Prince William in an official duty earlier today (Tuesday, October 21), at the Queen's request—welcoming President Tony Tan Keng Yam of Singapore and his wife, Mary, at the Royal Garden Hotel in London, not far from the royal couple's Kensington Palace home.

Read more: Adorable Prince George photos: 10 of his favourite things>

For the special occasion, Kate donned a grey Alexander McQueen coatdress—unique because, according to Vogue, it's a "menswear fabric," a "sartorial nod to her father-in-law, Prince Charles")—and a hat by Jane Taylor.

"I've been looking forward to getting out of the house—that's for sure," Kate reportedly told Mary.

After meeting at the hotel, the group drove to Horse Guards Parade to meet the Queen who led a welcoming ceremony alongside the Duke of Edinburgh. Kate and William, both 32, rode in a Scottish coach, reminiscent of their wedding day, to Buckingham Palace for lunch with the Queen, which Kate apparently did not attend. Maybe she was getting ready for the big evening event!

Check out this Jenny Packham dress and nude stilettos (found on Vanity Fair's Twitter stream)...

Read more: Kate Middleton: Maternity clothes roundup>

Yes, Kate dazzled at her second royal appearance—that evening at an event honouring top wildlife photos, at London's Natural History Museum. Together with naturalist Sir David Attenborough, and before 400 guests, she met with finalists, enjoyed the exhibit and presented awards for Wildlife Photographer of the Year Awards.

What do you think of Kate's debut maternity looks?

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