The Duchess of Cambridge in Blue Elie Saab For Royal Ascot

Royal Ascot kicked off in style today with a host of royals including the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge present.

The Duke and Duchess travelled in the second carriage with Prince Charles and the Duchess of Cornwall.

Her Majesty was in the first carriage with Prince Andrew, King Willem-Alexander and Queen Maxima (who sported one of her signature hats).

A terrific video of the procession. Princess Anne, The Earl and Countess of Wessex, Princess Eugenie, Princess Beatrice and Princess Alexandra were also there.

The quintessential racing extravaganza is an annual highlight on the royal calendar.

Her Majesty simply adores Ascot and looks forward to the week throughout the year. It is said she loves to see as many members of the family in attendance as possible.

People reports:

'In her welcoming remarks to racegoers in this year’s Royal Ascot program, the Queen calls the event "one of the sporting events that I have been fortunate to enjoy throughout my life." Signing it “Elizabeth R,” she adds that even though racing has been taking place there for more than 300 years, and “much has changed, the horses remain the stars, thrilling us with their beauty, brilliance and courage. The quality and the depth of competition at the Royal Meeting has also continued to prosper.”

The Cambridges made their debut at the event in 2016, in honour of the Queen's 90th birthday. They joined the monarch again in 2017.

The Duke and Duchess catching up with King Willem-Alexander and Queen Maxima following their appearance at Garter Day yesterday.

Charles, Camilla and William mingle with guests.

Photos of Kate and Zara Tindall are always a treat during Ascot..

I've said before, Mike and Zara always come across as such an incredibly warm and fun couple to spend time with. We've seen wonderful interaction between Kate and Zara over the years at polo matches, family events and earlier this year during a family day out in Norfolk.

We saw an assortment of blue shades and floral prints from the royal ladies today. Kate and Her Majesty were very well coordinated.

The Duchess appeared to very much enjoy chatting with guests.

Day One of Royal Ascot is widely acknowledged to be among the best racing days anywhere in the world with three Group One races and Ascot’s premier two-year-old race, the Group Two Coventry Stakes.

Over 300,000 people make the annual visit to Berkshire during Royal Ascot week, making this Europe’s best-attended race meeting. It is a major event in the British social calendar.

The Queen watches on as her horse Choirboy wins the Royal Hunt Cup at Ascot, 17th June 1953.

There are three enclosures attended by guests on Royal Ascot week. The Royal Enclosure is the most prestigious of the three, with visits by the Queen and Royal family members.

Access to the Royal Enclosure is restricted, with high security on the day. First-time applicants must apply to the Royal Enclosure Office and gain membership from someone who has attended the enclosure for at least four years.

Guests can enjoy afternoon tea or avail of a fine dining experience by Michelin-Starred chefs such as Raymond Blanc OBE.

This year's classic race card design.

Not only is Royal Ascot a highlight on the racing calendar, it's also synonymous with sartorial elegance. Royal Ascot notes: "Our dress code is traditional, woven into the very fabric of our history. It was Beau Brummell, perhaps Britain’s first fashion icon, who at the turn of the 19th century dictated the dress for men in the Royal Enclosure. His sense of style is still reflected in Royal Ascot fashions today. In 2017, Royal Ascot successfully welcomed the jumpsuit as an acceptable item of clothing for the Royal Enclosure. Ascot continues to recognise key trends in the ever-evolving world of fashion."

For her first Ascot appearance in 2016, the Duchess donned a white lace Dolce & Gabbana dress.

In 2017, the Duchess selected a white lace Alexander McQueen dress.

Over the years, we've often discussed at length, potential designers we would love to see Kate wear. Elie Saab has been at the very top of that list for many of us; it was quite the sartorial surprise to see Kate in one of his creations today. The Lebanese fashion designer took the fashion world by storm with his showstopping, romantic, whimsical collections. From bridal to evening wear to feminine daywear pieces, his outstanding designs have been worn by royalty all over the world.

Kate's Closet notes Kate wore separates by the designer. The Macramé Pussy Bow Top features a relaxed fit, short sleeves and macramé trim.

The matching skirt has a very 'princessy' feel to it and produces an almost sparkly effect in images. The look is from the Resort 2019 Collection.

The Duchess wore a custom version of Philip Treacy's Molded Slice Hat with rosettes from the Spring/Summer 2016 Collection.

Kate chose the hat in pink for Trooping The Colour 2016.

Kate's new metallic pumps are the Gianvito Rossi 105 pumps (with thanks to For The Royals) They are described as: "Gianvito Rossi's silver pumps demonstrate that jewelry isn't the only thing that can add a little shine to your outfit. Made in Italy from supple leather, this pair has sharp pointed toes and thin stiletto heels." They are available in a number of sizes at Net-A-Porter.

Accessories included Kate's Kiki McDonough Blue Topaz and Diamond earrings.

And a new metallic clutch by Elie Saab.

A closer look at Kate's side bun.

What do you think of Kate's Ascot look this year?