Royal visit: High St rules day on waves

The Duchess of Cambridge returned to her High Street roots. Photo / Sarah Ivey

Staying true to the day's nautical theme for an afternoon on the water with Team New Zealand, the Duchess of Cambridge yesterday chose stripes - the wardrobe staple of women everywhere. She matched a blue-striped Breton top by London-based brand Me & Em with skintight jeans, Sebago boat shoes, Rayban Wayfarer sunglasses - and, on the water for her two race wins, a silver fern-adorned cap.

See Royal visit: Out and about in Auckland

Image 1 of 38: Prince William, Duke of Cambridge and Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge at the Viaduct Basin in Auckland. Photo / Getty Images

Having worn several bespoke outfits by luxury brands that have showcased the best of British tailoring, the Duchess returned to her High Street roots to greet RNZAF families earlier in Whenuapai, wearing a double-breasted captain-style jacket from chain store Zara teamed with her fail-safe cork wedges by Stuart Weitzman.

Yesterday's outfit may have been another example of dressing literally for the dress code but, as usual, it was entirely appropriate for the occasion.