Prince William and Kate Middleton Preside Over Buckingham Palace Garden Party

Prince William and Kate Middleton opened the grounds of Buckingham Palace on Friday afternoon for an elegant garden party, marking the first such event of the season.

The Duke and Duchess of Wales welcomed thousands to the May 8 gathering on the palace lawn in London, standing in as chief hosts in place of King Charles. The event honored individuals who have made significant contributions to their communities or served in the diplomatic services.

The Princess of Wales, 44, chose a crisp white structured jacket paired with a matching polka dot dress by Self-Portrait, completing the look with a striking black and white hat. The Prince of Wales, 43, dressed in traditional English morning attire, including a morning suit and top hat.

The afternoon also drew other members of the royal family, including Prince William's cousin Zara Tindall and his uncle Prince Edward alongside his aunt Sophie, Duchess of Edinburgh.

The garden party comes roughly a month after the couple made a notable public appearance alongside their three children.