Kate, Duchess of Cambridge, steps out at National Portrait Gallery gala

Talk about making a dazzling entrance.

The Duchess of Cambridge sported some serious sparkle as she arrived Tuesday at a charity fundraiser at London's National Portrait Gallery.

Kate, 32, wore a dark blue Jenny Packham gown to the gala, paired with a diamond necklace borrowed from Queen Elizabeth II. The intricate necklace was given to the queen as a gift for her wedding in 1947.

Kate attended the event in her role as patron of the National Portrait Gallery. She delivered a short speech welcoming guests at what was her first official engagement of the year.

"I just wanted to say how delighted I am to be here this evening to celebrate the fantastic work of The National Portrait Gallery," she said. "The gallery's achievements are exceptional. They hold the most extensive collection of portraits in the world, and their unique and brilliant exhibitions never fail to inspire us all. But, it is more than simply a world renowned visitor's attraction -- the gallery's outreach and research programs makes it one of the leading centers for the important study into portraiture. I simply could not be more proud to be its patron."

"Thank you for being here tonight and showing your support," she added. "I hope that you all have a wonderful evening." 

Kate recently returned from vacationing on the Caribbean island of Mustique with her family and six-month-old son, Prince George.

Get another look at that necklace (and a full-length shot of her gown) below: