A lot of the time Kate Middleton almost seems a lot like the rest of us.

Well, a much, much richer and far more groomed version of our selves – but we like to think there's some common ground there. 

After all, when we see her bringing the dog for a walk, dragging around the kids, or doing the 'big shop' at her local supermarket, we feel we could probably be firm friends.

Then, on an evening like tonight, she reminds us that she's actually a royal princess and we've, well, we've got to get up and get the bus to work in the morning.

Yes, attending a royal banquet at Buckingham Palace, the Duchess Of Cambridge looked all sorts of regally amazing in a full-length red, custom-made Jenny Packham gown, chandelier earrings and a sparkling tiara.

Indeed, Kate's Papyrus tiara, also known as the Lotus Flower, was particularly striking. Once owned by the Queen Mother, it was also worn regularly by Princess Margaret.

In Britain, much has been made of the fact that this is only the third time EVER that the former Ms Middleton has worn a tiara (well, in public anyway). 

The other occasions were her wedding day back in April 2011, and an diplomatic event in 2013, also held at Buckingham Palace.

The 33-year-old wife of Prince William was there among a host of VIP and royal guests – including, of course, Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip – to honour Chinese president Xi Jinping, who is on an official four-day visit to Britain.

Prince Charles and his wife Camilla were not in attendance – meaning Wills and Kate were officially second-in-command for the evening.

It is believed that guests are dining on fillet of West Coast turbot and Balmoral venison – all washed down with plenty of vintage champagne.

Tonight is Mrs Cambridge's first big, glamorous night out following the birth of her second child, Princess Charlotte, in May.