DUCHESS OF CAMBRIDGE STORMS THE COSTUME DEPT AT THE ROYAL OPERA HOUSE TODAY TO LEARN MORE OF THE USE OF TEXTILES.{PHOTOS}.

      The Duchess of Cambridge visited the Costume Department at the Royal Opera House, of which The Prince of Wales is Patron, today to learn more about their use of textiles as well as the commissioning of fabrics, design and craftsmanship involved.

Over the coming months The Duchess will be exploring her interest in the use and manufacture of textiles through learning opportunities, visits and meetings with industry experts.

The Duchess has been developing her interest in the textiles and manufacturing industry through her Patronage of the Victoria and Albert Museum which holds a national collection of textiles.

The Costume team at the Royal Opera House create and conserve thousands of opera and ballet costumes each season and work with designers to create new pieces for each production. Her Royal Highness saw first-hand the techniques used and how the department sources fabrics and textiles. Each year The Royal Opera and The Royal Ballet will use up to 10,000 costumes on stage.More photos below.