That neat bump was the only thing which gave away the fact Kate Middleton had given birth to an 8lb 6oz boy just a day earlier.
And the glowing duchess clearly felt no need to hide it, a decision praised immediately by mothers’ groups.
Netmums founder Siobhan Freegard said Kate Middleton had dispelled the “myth that all mothers should be perfect postpartum”.
“In a couple of minutes on the steps of the Lindo Wing Kate has done more for new mums’ self-esteem than any other role model,” she said.
“Sadly, too many celebrities often have ultra-fast tummy tucks or strap themselves down to emerge in tiny size six jeans, leaving everyone else feeling inadequate.
“Kate shows what a real mum looks like – and natural is beautiful.”
She continued: “Undoubtedly over the coming weeks the duchess will work hard to regain her figure, but tonight she’s proved herself a healthy role model for real mums around the world.”
Many mothers took to Mumsnet to share their delight, describing Kate Middleton as a “role model” for showing off her mummy tummy.
One user wrote: “Oh just so lovely … I think she is fantastically brave to not hide her post birth shape. What a great role model she is.”
A second wrote: “I loved that Kate didn’t hide her remaining bump. That is what a postnatal woman looks like folks!”
Another added: “They both looked fab, and I was also impressed that she didn’t hide the belly, good for her!”
Twitter was also dominated by women praising Kate Middleton for refusing to hide her figure.
Stacey Cook said: “Nice to see Kate still has a mummy tummy! Not like these skinny celebs who come out stick thin.”
Ju Lincoln wrote: “Beautiful royal baby and lovely to see that Kate still has a mummy tummy like all us normal women … I’m still trying to lose mine!”
Kate Middleton, whose style over the last nine months has already become a by-word for pregnancy chic, did not disappoint with her choice of dress. Her bespoke blue polka-dot Jenny Packham frock looked cool and chic, its empire line cut perfectly displaying her “mummy tummy”.
Her choice of print seemed to be a nod to the dress worn by Princess Diana on the day she left hospital with Prince William in 1982.
Diana posed on the same steps with her first-born son, wearing a green polka dot dress.
But where Princess Diana appeared nervous and bewildered by the attention – and was said to have burst into tears as soon as she got in the car – the radiant duchess smiled broadly and spoke assuredly to the ranks of camera crews.
While Prince Charles wore a formal pinstripe suit and tie, Prince William opted for a casual shirt, the blue perfectly matching his wife’s dress.
And, naturally for this very hands-on new father, the sleeves were rolled up.
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