THE TRADITIONAL red robe of Scotland’s oldest university has been given a modern, green make-over.

There was a sneak preview yesterday of student designer Camden Hauge’s collection of customised woollen gowns for the St Andrews charity fashion show, FS:08, tonight.

It includes skirts, shorts and even a kilt.

The gown was introduced post-Reformation as a uniform for students as young as 13, to prevent them from illicit drinking in public houses, and is still worn today by students and student ambassadors on formal occasions.

Camden said, “For a university as traditional and historic as St Andrews I wanted to infuse our iconic academic gowns with a sense of fun and modernity.”

Around 850 students are expected to pack the Younger Hall for the show, which aims to be the most environmentally-friendly student fashion show in the country and raise £10,000 for Macmillan Cancer Support.

It has even attracted the support of Hollywood star Glenn Close, who offered a walk-on part in her New York TV show Damages.

It will go to the highest bidder in an auction during the intermission.

Everyone involved in the show has been encouraged to do their bit for the environment.

The show will also feature a collection made entirely from recycled material.