The Duchess of Cambridge wowed at the Diplomatic Reception hosted by the Queen in a navy velvet Alexander McQueen dress this evening. The style was reminiscent of one of Princess Diana’s most iconic dresses–a velvet midnight blue off-the-shoulder dress dubbed ‘The White House Dress’ that the late princess wore to dance with John Travolta at a state dinner in 1985 as well for a trip to Germany with Prince Charles. The Victor Edelstein velvet gown was recently put up at auction for $350,000.

Tonight the duchess paid tribute to her late mother-in-law with her Alexander McQueen gown which featured a V-neckline, structured shoulders and long sleeves. The figure hugging dress was thought to be based on the designer’s Bejeweled Long Sleeve Illusion Gown. The floor length design is described as a stunning stretch jersey gown with sheer lace panels at the waist and back finished with an opulent jeweled back panel. Kate’s custom version is a dark navy dress with a velvet fabric.

In addition, the mom of three opted to add a bit of bling in the way of some stunning jewelry pieces. She wore the Queen Mary’s Lover’s Knot tiara which has long been a favorite of the Cambridge matriarch. In 1981, the Queen reportedly loaned the Lover’s Knot Tiara to Princess Diana as a wedding gift but Diana opted instead to wear the Spencer Tiara, a family heirloom on her wedding day. Still, the Lover’s Knot became one of her favorite pieces, despite being so heavy that it hurt her head.

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For earrings, the duchess opted for The Queen’s Diamond Chandelier Drop earrings as well as a stunning necklace called the Nizam of Hyderabad which we’ve seen on the future Queen consort in 2014 when she wore Jenny Packham to the National Portrait Gallery.

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In addition, Kate wore her Royal Family Order yellow brooch and badge as well as her Royal Victorian sash which were honors recently bestowed by the Queen.

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