Catherine masters business chic in turquoise blouse and wide leg pants

She never puts a foot wrong when it comes to choosing stylish, yet appropriate, outfits for her various royal engagements and the Duchess of Cambridge perfected the smouldering business look on Tuesday as she visited Thinktank, a science museum in Birmingham, to launch a national survey about early childhood.

Catherine swapped her usual elegant dresses for something a little smarter for the outing, donning a pair of black pants and pussy bow turquoise printed blouse. With her hair in her trademark loose waves, the mother-of-three was all smiles as young children showed her around the museum.

The five-question online survey aims to give people a platform to share their views on how the next generation will be raised.

“Parents, carers and families are at the heart of caring for children in the formative years, so that is why I want to listen to them,” Catherine said in a statement.

“As a parent I know how much we cherish the future health and happiness of our children. I want to hear the key issues affecting our families and communities so I can focus my work on where it is needed most. My ambition is to provide a lasting change for generations to come.”

The outing comes one day after the duchess co-hosted a reception at Buckingham Palace alongside her husband to mark the UK-Africa Investment Summit, which will be hosted by Prime Minister Boris Johnson and aims to strengthen the UK’s relationship with African nations through trade, investment and jobs.

Catherine donned a glittering red gown by British designer Needle and Thread for the occasion, which was covered in elaborate beading and sequins and featured full-length lace sleeves and a tulle skirt that fell to her ankles.

The mother-of-three completed the elegant look with a pair of red stiletto heels and glamorous bouncy curls. Meanwhile, Prince William donned a smart navy suit for the occasion as he delivered a speech, describing the special place that Africa holds in his heart, having proposed to Catherine in Kenya back in 2010. The couple were married one year later at Westminster Abbey and have since welcomed three children.