Kate made her first public appearance since the palace announced her pregnancy. Photo / Getty Images
Kate made her first public appearance since the palace announced her pregnancy. Photo / Getty Images
The Duchess of Cambridge has revealed a tiny baby bump as she made her first public appearance since announcing her pregnancy last month.
The 35-year-old royal, who has not been seen in public since August 30, joined Prince William, 35, and Prince Harry, 33, to host a glittering Buckingham Palace reception to mark World Mental Health Day.
She looked radiant in a $1485 powder blue lace dress by Temperley London which skimmed over her bump, reports the Daily Mail.
Kate has taken six weeks off royal duties after being struck down with the same severe strand of morning sickness that she suffered while pregnant with Prince George, four, and Princess Charlotte, two. It forced Kensington Palace to announce her pregnancy far earlier than planned.
An aide revealed tonight that the duchess is still suffering from hyperemesis gravidarum but said her condition is improving. She added Kate was determined to attend the event because the cause is close to her heart.
Guests praised the royal for attending despite her condition with Dr Nicola Byrom, of charity Student Minds, added: "She's amazing. What a fighter that she's here."
Kate showed off her tiny baby bump in a Temperley London dress. Photo / Getty Images
The palace is likely to confirm Kate's due date soon, once she passes the 12-week date at which the risk of miscarriage is reduced. While she may appear at some events, there is no indication she is well enough to resume full royal duties.
Tonight an aide said: "The duchess' condition is improving but she is still suffering from hyperemesis gravidarum. She is delighted to be able to be here tonight."
Indeed Kate appeared to be in excellent spirits as she greeted guests alongside her husband and brother-in-law in one of the palace's opulent reception rooms.
The elegant duchess accessorised her feminine frock with a pair of black suede heels and a small clutch bag. She wore her thick brown locks in bouncy curls that fell just below her shoulders and kept her make-up look simple.
Making a statement with her jewellery, Kate also sported $6530 Kiki McDonough blue topaz and diamond earrings.
The 350 guests at the event included former Dame Esther Rantzen, model Adwoa Aboah and Deputy Prime Minister Nick Clegg. Kate was praised by guests for making an appearance despite her sickness.
Stephen Fry, who is the president of the charity Mind, said: "I do understand she's been having this problem more severely than many pregnant mothers and so we're very grateful [she's here]."
Kate appeared in good spirits at the event and took time to chat with guests. Photo / Getty Images
Commenting on the event, he added: "When mental health is discussed here under these chandeliers in front of these portraits it does have a meaning it does show a change in our society's ability to look at problems like mental health."
He also praised the young royals' mental health campaign, describing it as an "extraordinary achievement", adding: "No one would realise if they hadn't done it, which makes it all the more remarkable that they have."
Dr Nicola Byrom, of charity Student Minds, said of Kate: "She's amazing. What a fighter that she's here."
Dame Esther Rantzen said: 'We are seeing with Childline more and more contact both online and over the phone from young people suffering with mental health issues such as depression, anxiety and eating disorders. It can be a very stigmatising issue.
"Similarly with older people, this is a significant issue. And many have needed encouragement to talk.
"In speaking about their own mental health issues, particularly relating to the loss of their mother at such a young age, [the princes] are making such a huge difference. It is a remarkable and wonderful legacy."
Sophie Andrews, chief executive of The Silver Line, a new charity supporting older people with complex mental health challenges, said she was "thrilled and honoured to be attending".
The event tonight is being held to mark World Mental Health Day - will recognise the progress, hard work and dedication of those determined to raise awareness of mental health issues over many years.
Prince William, Catherine and Prince Harry attend a reception on World Mental Health Day to celebrate the contribution of those working in the mental health sector. Photo / Getty Images
William, Kate and Harry have supported the issue with their Heads Together mental health campaign that has been encouraging people to speak out about their psychological problems or be a sympathetic ear for others.
The young royals also said they wanted to thank those from the sector for the support they provide to so many going through difficult times in their lives.
