Kate Middleton joined by Prince Edward and Sophie at Buckingham Palace garden party

The Duchess of Cambridge enjoyed a wonderful afternoon out with the Earl and Countess of Wessex as the trio attended a garden party at Buckingham Palace alongside Princess Alexandra on Wednesday. This was the second garden party of the year held at the Queen's London residence, although sadly Her Majesty was not in attendance and does not plan to be for similar events this spring due to her mobility issues.

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Kate, Edward and Sophie were in high spirits as they put on their finest daywear and mingled with the hundreds of members of the public who were invited to the special event. While the Earl looked smart in a top hat and tails, the Duchess and the Countess were typically stylish in summer dresses and matching hats.

See the best photos from the day…

WATCH: Kate Middleton joined by Prince Edward and Sophie at Buckingham Palace garden party

Kate, 40, opted for a bright pink dress by Emilia Wickstead and a matching hat by Jane Taylor.

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A closer look at the Duchess' garden party outfit.

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Every year, up to three garden parties take place in the Buckingham Palace Garden in London, as well as one at the Palace of Holyroodhouse in Edinburgh. Prince Charles and Camilla stepped in to host the first party last week, while Wednesday's outing saw a bigger royal party in attendance.

Kate, Edward and Sophie split up and walked through different 'lanes' to meet and chat to as many people as possible.

Garden parties are a major part of the royal family's calendar and in the past, Kate has attended with her husband Prince William. Edward and Sophie have also made regular appearances.

The mother-of-three waved to guests as she walked around the event.

The Countess of Wessex also looked lovely in a floral-patterned dress and hat.

Princess Alexandra also made up the royal party.

Every year, Her Majesty welcomes over 30,000 guests to spend a relaxed afternoon in the beautiful gardens of her royal residences. These public events allow the Queen to speak to a broad range of people from all walks of life, all of whom have made a positive impact in their community.

This year's attendees will no doubt be disappointed to miss the monarch, but glad that the parties are still going ahead after being cancelled in 2020 and 2021 due to the pandemic.

At a typical garden party, around 27,000 cups of tea are served and 20,000 sandwiches and 20,000 slices of cakes are consumed.