UK Diamond Jubilee Tour Officially Begins

The Queen, Prince Phillip and Kate took an hour-long train ride from London’s St. Pancras station to Leicester station, officially kicking off the UK Diamond Jubilee tour. The tour celebrates HRH's 60 years on the throne.

Their first stop was at De Montfort University, where they watched a dance performance in De Montfort Square. Then Kate and the Queen split from Prince Phillip and watched a fashion show that featured the designs of four students.

The Duchess of Cambridge announced the winner of a shoe competition. The designs were submitted from students in the university footwear design program. She picked 20-year-old Becka Hunt’s 19th-century inspired design as her favorite out of the six finalists. The winning blue suede pump, adorned with crème lace and an open front, was created with Kate in mind, echoing the color of her engagement ring. It will be custom-made for the duchess to wear on future occasions.

Next, the Royals visited Leicester Cathedral for a service. The service was attended by 700 people. Kate greeted the crowd before the service. Over 5,000 people lined the pavements to get a glimpse.

Kate sported a deep teal 1940's inspired ensemble by L.K. Bennett. She wore the elegant  'Davina' dress (£225) and the 'Jude' jacket (£296). Both are sold out as of this writing. The wool jacket was cinched at the waist with a black belt.

The Duchess topped off her look with a black pillbox hat by James Lock.

Kate's accessories included black heels (no longer available) by Episode which are exclusive to House of Fraser and a black clutch. She is wearing her green amethyst Kiki MCDonough earrings as well as her sapphire and diamond engaement ring.

Additional pictures from today's visit

Update 3/13/2012

Kate's belt has been ID'd (thanks to WKW).  It is the Glossed-leather belt (£480) by Alexander McQueen. It is available on the french Net-A-Porter website.