Kate made a savvy style statement today while visiting her old prep school, Saint Andrew’s, Pangbourne.

Arthur Edwards/The Sun/PA Wire
Why is it a wise choice? Because her Black Watch tartan coat sends a message of respect for the day and the school, November 30th is St. Andrew’s Day, Scotland’s National Day. There is additional significance to the tartan on its own merit: the navy and green pattern is that of Scotland’s 3rd Battalion Regiment, known as the Black Watch. Below, a better look at the design.
It was also a nod to one of Kate’s favorite fashion houses, founder Alexander McQueen was Scottish. More from the brand on its use of this motif:
The use of the navy and dark-green plaid of Scotland’s 3rd Battalion Regiment, the Black Watch, represents the brand’s reverence for history and tradition. The same fabric has been used in previous McQ Alexander McQueen collections and unites the label with the mainline brand.
Kate attended St. Andrew’s from 1986-1995. Among other sports, she played on the rounders team, she is seen in the front row on the far left.
The school traditionally holds special activities to mark St. Andrew’s Day, it really was an ideal occasion for Kate to visit and dedicate a new hockey field. As one would expect, anticipation was high, students were eager to see Kate, this photo comes via BBC Radio’s Matt Treacy on Twitter.
Our thanks to Matt Treacy for posting so many wonderful photos of today’s events.
Paul Harrison of Sky News shared pictures of Kate’s arrival and official welcome.
More from Newbury Today:
Appropriately dressed in a tartan outfit, the Duchess was greeted by a piper at the school as she arrived at 12.40pm.
It is the first time the Duchess has undertaken an official visit in West Berkshire, where she grew up, since her marriage to Prince William…
Once inside Kate watched students performing traditional Scottish songs and dancing.
Back to the Newbury Today story:
Her Royal Highness enjoyed a lunch of Scottish beef after which she met pupils and staff. As she entered one of the classrooms, she commented: ‘It’s very quiet in here. I bet it’s not always like this.’
Kate was on hand to dedicate a new hockey pitch (field).
Kate made brief remarks before unveiling the plaque commemorating the new field, following is a portion of her comments: