Dia Daoibh, daoine na hÉireann!

That was the message from the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge as they touched down in Dublin. William and Kate stepped out into some rare sunshine this afternoon as they arrived on an Aer Lingus flight for their three-day royal visit. The couple were transported to the Phoenix Park where they met President Michael D Higgins and his wife Sabina at Áras an Uachtaráin.  

Hello Ireland! ???? Dia Daoibh, daoine na hÉireann!#RoyalVisitIreland pic.twitter.com/yUdKvFL6eN

— Kensington Palace (@KensingtonRoyal) March 3, 2020

The couple both made an effort to look the part for their Irish visit, with William sporting a dark green tie and Kate dressed head to toe in our patriotic hue. We were instantly besotted with her tailored coat, reported to be by Catherine Walker. The bright patterned Alessandra Rich look she chose for underneath didn't excite us as much, until we realised it was a two piece. When the formalities are over, the high-necked blouse would be a knock-out paired with jeans. Points for the headband also. Mrs Higgins also wore green for the occasion, choosing a fitted dress with a squared neck. She accessorised the look with a soft scarf across her shoulders and statement orange beads. Pure class as always. The royal couple enjoyed afternoon tea and conversation at the Phoenix Park, where they also rang the Áras Peace Bell in front of waiting photographers.

The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge receive a warm welcome to Ireland from President Michael D. Higgins and Mrs Higgins #RoyalVisitIreland pic.twitter.com/bFdFCPuiEp

— Kensington Palace (@KensingtonRoyal) March 3, 2020

With the St Patrick's Festival looking under threat due to the coronavirus, William and Kate may be the only prominent overseas visitors who make it to Ireland this month, so the government seems intent on impressing them with a varied itinerary. From the Áras they travelled to the Garden of Remembrance, in Dublin's city centre, and are set to visit the Guinness Store House later today. Tomorrow, they will visit locations in Temple Bar, Prosperous Co. Kildare, Grange Co. Meath and Howth, Co. Dublin. Then, on March 5th they will travel to Galway city, the European Capital of Culture 2020, stopping off at a GAA club along the way. Whether Kate will prove as good at hurling as she did at sprinting when she supported Sportsaid last week remains to be seen. We hope she packed that day's green outfit for this trip too. SO on theme!