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ROYAL watchers were convinced Kate Middleton hadn't bothered buying a new frock for Meghan and Harry's big day, instead recycling an old favourite which she'd worn a number of times before.

The Duchess of Cambridge seemingly showed up in the same primrose yellow wool silk tailored Alexander McQueen coat that she's sported on three previous public engagements.

 Kate Middleton's Royal Wedding dress was thought to be recycled - but is actually brand new as the buttons show
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Kate Middleton's Royal Wedding dress was thought to be recycled - but is actually brand new as the buttons showCredit: PA

She was seen in the outfit at Princess Charlotte's christening in 2015, the Trooping the Colour in 2016 and at an event marking the 100th anniversary of the Battle of Passchendaele in 2017.

But we can now reveal Kate had actually bought a new dress, albeit one that is virtually identical to the frock it was mistaken for.

Royal fan,  writing on Instagram, pointed out the difference, explaining her Royal Wedding dress had buttons on the cuffs, whereas the virtually identical one did not.

Kate completed her look on the day with a pair of Jimmy Choos and a hat designed by Philip Treacy.

 Kate, with Prince William and George, seen with no buttons on her sleeve as she leaves Charlotte's Christening in 2015
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Kate, with Prince William and George, seen with no buttons on her sleeve as she leaves Charlotte's Christening in 2015Credit: Getty Images - Getty
 One sharp-eyed fashion follower noticed Kate's wedding dress had a very subtle difference
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One sharp-eyed fashion follower noticed Kate's wedding dress had a very subtle difference

However, despite looking lovely, her choice of pale primrose yellow definitely raised some eyebrows.

Kate looked gorgeous as she chaperoned the bridesmaids, including daughter Princess Charlotte, as they arrived on steps of St George's Chapel in Windsor.

The Duchess did the same for her sister Pippa Middleton at her wedding to James Matthews last year where she wore an understated nude pink, long-sleeved Alexander McQueen frock.

 Kate, with Princess Charlotte, in her virtually identical dress
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Kate, with Princess Charlotte, in her virtually identical dressCredit: Copyright 2016 The Associated Press
 Kate, in her Alexander McQueen frock, at Princess Charlotte's christening
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Kate, in her Alexander McQueen frock, at Princess Charlotte's christeningCredit: Getty Images - Getty
 Millions around the world watched as Prince Harry and Meghan Markle tied the knot last month
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Millions around the world watched as Prince Harry and Meghan Markle tied the knot last monthCredit: Getty - Contributor

Bride Meghan wore a stunning bespoke white silk Givenchy gown and a 15ft veil embroidered with flowers of the Commonwealth.

She and Prince Harry beamed with happiness as they were officially declared husband and wife.

The 33-year-old royal had been overcome with emotion at the sight of his bride - telling Meghan "you look amazing" as the couple met at the altar.

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