Royal Tour - 10 April 2014: All blacks and silver ferns

In the evening the Royal couple attended a State Reception, hosted by Governor General Sir Jerry Mateparae, the Queen’s representative in New Zealand, at his official residence, Government House.

The couple shook hands and talked a bit with the 198 guests, all senior politicians, MPs and notable figures from public life. At the event William also have a speech, after which the couple unveiled a portrait of the Queen by New Zealand artist Nick Cuthell. As you may have noticed, in the portrait the Queen is seen wearing the same fern shaped brooch as Kate wore during their arrival in Wellington last Monday. 

For the occassion the Duchess changed from her blue McQueen coat into another bespoke piece, this time from Jenny Packham. The long sleeved fitted black dress made of crepe wool had stunning hand-stitched fern-shaped silver beading  on the left shoulder. The fern is New Zealand's national emblem and an important symbol in the Māori culture. 

Kate accessorized her outfit with her trusted black suede platform 'Cosmic pumps by JImmy Choo (still for sale at Net-A-Porter) and her unidentified black suede clutch with ribbon. 

As for jewelry, Kate went extra sparkly with her diamond and yellow diamond bracelet and matching earrings (a wedding gift from Prince Charles). 

It is possible to purchase a custom made dress with hand-stitched silver beading, similar to the one worn by the Duchess made of a lightweight wool blend, at the Tatiana's Delights Etsy shop for $299.