IPSWICH: As all eyes were firmly focused on the Treehouse hospice today for the Duchess of Cambridge’s visit, whispers were rife over what the 30-year-old would choose to wear.

And for her maiden speech the Duchess took inspiration from her mother Carole Middleton.

Kate, 30, chose to wear a deep blue �139 Reiss dress from its autumn 2008 collection, giving another boost to the high street label that she has worn on other occasions.

The dress was instantly seized upon by fashion commentators as identical to one worn by her 57-year-old mother Carole to Royal Ascot in 2010.

A St James’s Palace spokesman said the dress belonged to the duchess, fuelling speculation that she has lent her mother the garment in the past.

The high street name is a favourite of the Duchess’s and the dress worn today is similar to the cream Reiss gown Kate wore for official portraits following her engagement to Prince William.

Other favoured designers include Jenny Packham, Erdem, LK Bennett and Temperley.

On Saturday she opted for a �1,150 knee-length belted coat dress by designer-of-the-moment Emilia Wickstead. She also wore a brown felt hat however did not go for any head gear for her Ipswich visit.

Graeme Moran, fashion writer at Drapers, the industry magazine, praised what he called the Duchess of Cambridge’s tendency to “recycle” clothes.

“She is known for recycling coats, shoes and dresses. I think it is a good message, personally.

“She sends the message that fashion should not be throw-away and wear once and never wear again.”