Video: Duchess of Cambridge toasted by Irish Guards The Duchess posed for a group photo with the 1st Battalion Irish Guards, having earlier presented them with sprigs of shamrock in a tradition dating to 1901 when it was started by Queen Alexandra. The Foot Guards regiment paraded in full ceremonial uniform of scarlet tunics and bearskins to celebrate St Patricks Day at Mons Barracks in Aldershot. Wearing a dark green Emilia Wickstead dress and a gold shamrock brooch previously worn by the Queen Mother, the Duchess was later toasted and cheered by the Guards in a celebration at the barracks.