First pictures of Kate's baby bump emerge as she attends a charity gala

Most mothers-to-be spend their pregnancy dressing their growing baby bump in ever-expanding maternity wear. 

But the Duchess of Cambridge proved that style doesn't have to suffer when you're expecting as she stepped out for a charity gala at Kensington Palace on Tuesday night. 

The pregnant royal, who is expecting her third child with Prince William in April, was the picture of elegance in a fitted floor-length black lace gown, which showed just a hint of a baby bump.

Radiant Kate, who is known for recycling her favourite ensembles, also wore the £785 Diane Von Furstenberg frock while she was pregnant with Princess Charlotte, now two, in 2014. 

Tonight the duchess appeared in excellent spirits as she greeted guests at the event, which was held in honour of The Anna Freud National Centre for Children and Families.

She appeared eager to keep the focus off her growing baby bump and was seen standing with her black clutch in front of her midriff. 

Kate wore her thick brunette locks in bouncy curls for the occasion and kept her make-up simple with just a touch of dark eye shadow to enhance her features. 

The duchess finished the ensemble with a pair of sparkling earrings and an eye-catching chunky bracelet. 

The Duchess met supporters and those who have been helped by the Anna Freud National Centre for Children and Families (AFNCCF) at a reception ahead of the event, held to celebrate the charity's work. 

This article was first published on dailymail.co.uk and is reproduced here with permission.