Kate Middleton beams in sunshine yellow Karen Millen dress on solo outing

The Princess of Wales, Kate Middleton, stepped out for a solo engagement in Surrey on Wednesday, sporting a sunny, yellow dress as she paid a visit to a local maternity unit. 

• Kate Middleton wore a vibrant Karen Millen frock as she paid a visit to Royal Surrey County Hospital. 
• The newly appointed Princess of Wales arrived at the hospital's maternity unit to hear about the care and support it provides for new mothers. 
• In other royal news, Prince William's 'dutiful' pose in new Royal Family portrait with Kate Middleton signifies 'attentive waiting'.

The Princess of Wales looked vibrant in a £220 dress by British designer, Karen Millen, featuring a smart belted waist and delicate V-shaped neckline.

She teamed the cheerful piece with a simple navy clutch bag and a pair of court heels in the same color. 

Princess Catherine's luscious brunette locks were styled in sleek, uniform waves and she stepped out of the car smiling and waving before heading inside to meet members of staff and patients at the NHS maternity unit. 

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Princess Catherine met with members of the ward's Jasmine Team which supports women with mental health during pregnancy and after giving birth. 

The future Queen Consort has dedicated much of her royal work to researching and supporting the early years of children. 

In a very special moment during the trip, Kate met with new mum Sylvia Novak who had welcomed her newborn daughter Bianca six weeks prematurely. 

The Princess of Wales, who famously loves a cuddle with a baby during royal outings,  was given the chance to hold little Bianca.

When asked if she'd like to cradle the tot, Kate said, "Am I allowed to?"

As she cuddled the little baby, Kate added, "She's very sweet."

In an Instagram post shared on the Prince and Princess of Wales' official account, a sweet caption reflected Catherine's genuine interest in mothers and the early years of children's lives and why the visit was so important for her. 

"With a focus on maternal mental health, alongside pioneering overnight facilities, Royal Surrey County Hospital ensures women and their families feel safe, supported and have the best chance of developing those all-important early attachments which are so crucial to ensuring their babies grow and thrive," the upload read. 

"It was lovely to meet some of the new mothers and their babies who are supported by such a brilliant team at the hospital," the personal post concluded.