The world was delighted to see the simply stunning Princess of Wales on Thursday in Southport. The royal stepped out alongside her husband, Prince William, where she met first responders, and survivors and their families impacted by the horrific knife attack in the city on July 29 at a Taylor Swift-themed dance class.

Kate, 42, wore a stunning chocolate brown coat by her wedding dress designer, Alexander McQueen, high heel shoes by Gianvito Rossi and the most fabulous polka dot dress by high street favourite Whistles, which she previously wore back in 2018.

The pretty dress was designed in the colour of the season, burgundy, and cost £149 at the time of purchase, almost six years ago.

On close inspection, we realised that the royal made the dress look almost brand new with a clever hack. You will notice the dress appears to have a neck tie attached. Well, this is actually the detachable belt that comes with the dress! So smart and a great way to reinvent the style for a new occasion.

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The mother of Prince George, Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis wore the dress first at Kensington Palace for the finalists of 2018’s BBC Radio One’s Teen Hero Awards. She styled the frock very similarly with nude heels and statement earrings in silver.

Kate’s back

The appearance at Southport was Kate’s first official working visit since completing chemotherapy. The community was shaken by the harrowing knife attack in July, where three children lost their lives, and ten others were seriously injured. It’s understood that William and Kate wanted to visit today to show their support to the three bereaved families, the first responders and the community of Southport.

© WPA Pool

The royal couple spoke with emergency responders and asked about the mental health support that had been available, with Kate remarking: “For you to witness that, you need support yourselves.”