At the very start of their relationship, William and Kate fell in love as young students of St Andrews University. A certain risqué lace dress played an important part in their courtship. Now, the Duchess has joked about 'that outfit' as she stepped out to support her former university.
Speaking at a gala held for the university's 600th anniversary celebrations, Kate reminisced about the fashion show that made her Prince sit up and take notice as she graced the university catwalk in a revealing dress. Chatting with a current female undergraduate, she quipped: "I hope you weren't involved in the fashion show, you never know what you are going to be asked to wear!" This time around, the royal's wardrobe was more firmly under her control. For the special occasion, the brunette chose to recycle a sweeping floor length lace gown by one of her favourite designers, Alice Temperley. The delicate embroidered number was first debuted when the Duchess attended the royal premiere of War Horse back in January. Although it was a second outing for the dress, it had lost none of its impact, and Kate was a stunning consort as she and her husband gave back to the university which had given them both so much.
Prince William is a patron of the 600th Anniversary Scholarship Fund, an initiative which awards grants to disadvantaged students who want to study at St Andrews. Both he and Kate are passionate about supporting future generations who want their talent to be nurtured by the prestigious institution. During the event held in the magnificent surroundings of Westminster's Middle Temple Hall, the couple mingled with some 250 people who listened to William give an impassioned speech in which he paid tribute to his former academy. The Duke described the occasion as "very special for Catherine and me" and said that he and the Duchess "loved" St Andrews for the friendships and the loving relationships they made there. "I thank God for those friendships, our friendship, forged in our ancient halls," he said. His words made it clear just how much their old stomping ground means to the couple. The depth of feeling in William's speech was fitting for the university and eponymous town which provided the future King with the freedom to study in peace and enjoy a romance with the girl who would become his Princess.
At his graduation, William expressed his gratitude by saying, "I have been able to lead as 'normal' a student life as I could have hoped for and I'm very grateful to everyone, particularly the locals". The royal then went on to give a "big thank you" to the residents of St Andrews. Years after leaving the hallowed lecture halls, the university continues to figure regularly on William and Kate's work schedule.