Meghan steps out in figure-hugging white dress after announcing pregnancy

The Duchess of Sussex has made her first public appearance since announcing her pregnancy just hours after arriving in Australia for the royal tour.

Meghan and husband Prince Harry received a warm welcome at Admiralty House in Sydney on Tuesday morning, where the expectant mother showed off a tiny baby bump in a gorgeous white, fitted dress.

Taking part in the first day of engagements on their whirlwind 15-day tour of Commonwealth nations, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex met with Australia’s Governor General Peter Cosgrove and his wife Lady Lynne Cosgrove at their official residence. The happy foursome posed for photos outside the grand home, showing off a stunning Sydney backdrop behind them. 

After months of speculation, Kensington Palace confirmed on Monday that the Duke and Duchess are expecting a baby in spring, 2019.

Media and royal fans alike had been waiting for an announcement after Meghan stepped out in a series of outfits that concealed her stomach in recent weeks. The pair reportedly announced their happy news to the rest of the royal family on Friday at Princess Eugenie’s wedding during the afternoon reception hosted by the Queen. 

The announcement on Monday was quite the coup for Australian royalists, who now have the first opportunity to congratulate the pair while they tour the country. 

The couple have already received an adorable pair baby Ugg boots and a kangaroo plush toy from GG Cosgrove, and will no doubt receive plenty more gifts from well-wishers over the next two weeks. 

Prince Harry and Meghan have received their first baby gifts… we think dad-to-be Harry is VERY happy with them! https://t.co/TNW8dtdd5z pic.twitter.com/ZABx8ng0iK

— HELLO! (@hellomag) October 15, 2018

Read more: Royal baby! Palace announces Duchess of Sussex is pregnant

Although Meghan has only just entered the second trimester of her pregnancy, bets are already being placed as to what the royal couple will name their first child.

According to betting site BetVictor, Diana is the number one choice for punters with Charles and Elizabeth following closely behind. While other names including Victoria, James, Edward and Arthur have also been considered. 

Read more: Prince Harry and Meghan arrive in Australia for royal tour

As the world continues to celebrate the joyous news, Meghan and Harry have launched into their busy tour. Harry will officially kick of the Invictus Games in Sydney on October 20, before the couple fly north to Queensland’s beautiful Fraser Island where they’ll be met by the traditional owners and the Premier of Queensland. 

They’ll also visit farmers in the drought-stricken region of NSW, and stop in Dubbo to meet with locals. 

The pair will also visit Fiji, Tonga and New Zealand before heading home to London for a well-earned break. 

Are you excited to hear the baby news? What do you think the Duke and Duchess of Sussex will name their first child?