Kate Middleton Wows in Velvet Alexander McQueen Gown [PHOTOS]

Kate Middleton had the crowd wowed on Monday night at a military awards ceremony at the Imperial War Museum in Central London.

The Duchess of Cambridge wore a luxurious black velvet Alexander McQueen gown paired with a diamond choker necklace decorated with petite cerise flowers (which she reportedly received as a wedding gift). Middleton looked gorgeous with flowing curled locks and lush eyelashes.

She was joined by the equally dapper Prince William and Prince Harry, who wore matching tuxedos. The royal threesome presented awards to members of the British forces, commending them for their service.

Kate and William presented Sergeant Ryan McCready with the honor of Most Outstanding Soldier. His award was dedicated to the three fallen comrades' of the 1st Battalion, the Royal Irish Regiment, The Sun reported. This is a truly well-deserved award. Sgt McCready, you exemplify to an extraordinary degree the unique qualities that make the British soldier second to none: courage, steadfastness, professionalism, sense of humor and a deep humanity, Prince William said.

Prince Harry also acknowledged his fellow servicemen, describing the armed forces as inspirational role models to all young Britons.

Meanwhile, Queen Elizabeth and Prince Philip are prepping for what will reportedly be the biggest Christmas gathering the monarch's Sandringham estate has seen in years. A total of 27 guests are invited to the royal fete, reports CBS News.

Kate will attend the Christmas Eve and Christmas Day events sans her family, as her sister Pippa is not invited until Boxing Day.

This holiday will also mark a milestone for Middleton. Despite the fact that the lovely duchess has been dating Prince William for ten years, she has never attended Christmas weekend at Sandringham manor - the queen's sprawling 20,000-acre estate complete with an 18th century castle. Catherine will learn quickly that this is not like any Christmas she has had, said a source.

Middleton's family will not be invited to the Christmas Eve or Christmas Day festivities. Pippa is, however, invited to Boxing Day. Kate must conquer alone.

Us Weekly got all the info on the holiday weekend - from outfit changes to etiquette. She'll pack a lot, Middleton's former stylist Nikki Pennie told the magazine. Five or six spare dresses.

Take a look at the stunning photos of Kate from Monday night's Imperial War Museum ceremony.