The Cambridges Visit DEC in London & Ice Cream After School as Term Commences!

The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge officially resumed engagements following Easter break today with a visit to the London headquarters of the Disasters Emergency Committee (DEC) to learn more about their continuing appeal to support people affected by the horrific situation in Ukraine.

Since late March, the Cambridges enjoyed a skiing holiday in France with members of the Middleton family (Pippa was spotted certainly and I imagine it likely Michael and Carole were there). Upon return, they attended Easter service at Windsor before members of the family visited Her Majesty. George and Charlotte returned to school yesterday, and what better way to mark the commencement of term than with a well deserved ice cream after school? :) Coni Perfetto was delighted to welcome the royal customers and shared a snap of the trio chatting with another mum and her child.

Speaking of the Queen, it feels a perfect time to send Her Majesty the happiest of birthday wishes. Ahead of her 96th birthday, the monarch travelled to Sandringham, a place with cherished memories particularly with Prince Philip.

Now, back to today's engagement...

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The Duchess noted the success of the appeal, which has raised £300 million so far, is "extraordinary".

The Duchess of Cambridge said it was “extraordinary” that the Ukraine Humanitarian Appeal has now raised more than £300 million to help families affected by the crisis over the weeks, months and years ahead 🇺🇦 pic.twitter.com/Y7in4dYG60

— Lizzie Robinson (@LizzieITV) April 21, 2022

William and Kate pledged to make a second donation to the effort.

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The Telegraph reports William told staff, "We were saying with the background of the cost-of-living crisis you've raised £300 million in eight weeks -- that's incredible." Chief executive Saleh Saeed told the publication the couple were so "enthused" by their visit they planned on donating again.

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The couple had the opportunity to speak to support workers on the ground virtually.

The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge are visiting the London headquarters of the @decappeal to learn more about their ongoing appeal to support those affected by the conflict in Ukraine 🇺🇦 pic.twitter.com/EEzsBuKfQc

— Lizzie Robinson (@LizzieITV) April 21, 2022

The Disasters Emergency Committee said, "More than 4 million people have fled Ukraine and another 7 million have left their homes to escape the conflict, leading to a huge humanitarian crisis. Heavy fighting, shelling and air strikes across the country have had devastating consequences for civilians. Homes have been destroyed. Families have been separated. Lives have been lost. At Ukraine’s borders with Poland, Romania, Hungary, Slovakia and Moldova, huge numbers of people are arriving with only what they can carry. DEC charities and their local partners are in Ukraine and in neighbouring countries providing food, water, shelter and medical assistance."

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Hello! reports they heard stories from aid workers Diana Hiscock, Vanessa Maynard and Bethan Lewis shared their stories with the royal couple. They were joined by Hannah Richards, Director of Communications at DEC, and Saleh Saeed, CEO of DEC.

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People writes:

'In March, the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge made a surprise visit to the Ukrainian Cultural Centre in London to hear about the efforts being made to support Ukrainians in the U.K. and across Europe. They met with members of the Ukrainian community and volunteers to learn about services being offered at the center as well as the challenges they continue to face.

They also brought homemade chocolate brownies and granola bars from Kensington Palace for the volunteers.'

If you would like to donate, please click here. Every penny towards the fund makes a difference. It is believed 18 million people are affected by the conflict in Ukraine.

The Duchess was in familiar pieces today.

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She wore her Reiss Larsson blazer -- first seen during a visit to RAF Brize Norton last September.

The £285 item is described as a neutral piece "offering tailored simplicity", featuring wide peak lapels and button fastenings with front pockets. It's available in very limited sizing at Reiss.

Kate sported her L.K. Bennett Frieda Black Crepe Cigarette Trousers.

Kate accessorised with her Kiki McDonough citrine pear drops.

Heaven suggests the Duchess wore a new pair of Ralph Lauren Celia pumps.

And for Kate's off-duty look yesterday, she wore a printed dress by Cefinn, the elegant fashion brand of former 'First Lady' Samantha Cameron, wife of former prime minister, David Cameron. It's actually a label I anticipated we would see Kate wearing for some time.

The Cefinn Astrid leopard dress in 'mint leopard pansy' print is available in very limited sizing at Cefinn. The piece is described: "This new statement summer shirtdress is made for those days when you want to cover up but stay chic and cool. The maxi length and wide, A-line skirt in silk-viscose jacquard create a floaty silhouette, with the shirt collar and cuffs adding a formal touch."

Carly from Kate Middleton Style immediately ID'd Kate's loafers as the Russell & Bromley Snaffle.

Next Wednesday, Kate and Princess Anne will team up for their first joint engagement with a visit to the Royal College of Midwives and Royal College of Obstetrician Gynaecologists headquarters in London. It's an area which they both support and hold patronages in. Before that, we can expect new birthday photos for Prince Louis's birthday tomorrow night or Saturday.