Kate Middleton Wears Blue Suit to Open, Tour New Surgery Unit at London Children’s Hospital [Photos]

A Princess in McQueen

Kate wore a matching blue suit, designed by Sarah Burton for Alexander McQueen, on her tour.

The People’s Princess

The new unit’s receptionist, Alice Green, who was among the first to welcome Kate to the hospital, told People of the princess’ demeanor during her visit.

“I was really anxious earlier, but she was really lovely and down to earth,” Alice told the outlet. “I thought it might be formal and strict, but it was so comfortable speaking to her. She was asking about our roles — and said that we are the face of Evelina, the first contact people. She wished us Merry Christmas.”

Ribbon-Cutting Ceremony

Though the hospital’s new unit officially opened in July, the London facility waited for Kate to do the honors of cutting the pink ribbon. Flanked by two children, the princess asked, “Shall we cut this together?” before the trio snipped it in half.

Praising Young Artists

The Princess of Wales was spotted complimenting a young girl after she showed the royal her artwork. According to the receptionist, Kate called the piece “fantastic” and listened closely to the child’s description of her art project.

Connecting With Patients

During her visit, Kate chatted with patients and families who have been treated in the Day Unit since July.

James O’Brien, who serves as director of operations and improvement for Evelina London, described Kate’s comforting presence, telling People she “puts people at ease so much that at one point when she came to say hello, [he] thought people were going to start high-fiving!”

Specialized Services

Evelina London treats around 104,000 children and young people each year, according to Kensington Palace. The new facility will reportedly allow for the care of an additional 2,300 kids per year.

Scandalous Secrets

Kate’s visit came exactly one week after the November 28 release of Omid Scobie’s explosive royals tell-all book, Endgame, which once again sparked worldwide conversation about her once-private feud with the Suits star.