Kate Middleton Finally Dresses Like a Princess (PHOTO)

Here is your first Hanukkah gift -- a photo of Kate Middleton killing it -- no, killing it -- in a drop-dead gorgeous, black velvet, strapless(!) gown by Alexander McQueen, and some rubies and diamonds to boot.

Drink it in, people. Drink. It. In. This could be the most "princess-like" Duchess Catherine has looked since she married Prince William, and man, does it not disappoint.

The occasion was the "Night of Heroes" event at London's Imperial War Museum to honor members of Britain's armed forces for heroism. Kate accompanied her husband, and brother-in-law, Prince Harry, on the red carpet, and while the boys looked charming and dapper, Kate totally stole the show.

First off all, let's discuss the fact that Kate's dress was velvet. Velvet! Nobody wears velvet these days, save for little girls on Christmas. What a fantastic way to spice up an otherwise plain gown. I mean, don't get me wrong, the dress would be gorgeous no matter what material it was made of, but the velvet really takes it over the edge -- and makes it totally appropriate for December.

The thing that struck me the most about Kate's look, though, was her ability to look so "fancy" without changing much. Her hair looked the same as it always does -- down with loose curls -- and her makeup was sort of the same as usual, a little softer perhaps. Overall, she didn't look that different from how she normally does. What was it that made her look so "royal" then?

It was the jewels.

The usually minimalist Kate opted for a necklace -- a real necklace. And earrings and a bracelet. No Zara or H&M here for the practical Duchess. We're talking jewels fit for royalty. The statement necklace was made of rubies and diamonds and was given to her as a wedding gift, and the bracelet and earrings were diamonds, as well.

Velvet gown, rubies, and diamonds. This is the kind of stuff I've been waiting to see Kate in. This is the kind of stuff that reminds us all: She's not always just like us; sometimes, she really is royalty.

Did you like Kate's dress?

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