As two of the most photographed women in the world, Kate Middleton and Meghan Markle know a thing or two about looking good. On camera and off, these two always manage to pull off a put-together aesthetic. But while poise and elegance might come naturally to these Duchesses, their style is an ever-evolving mission. For Meghan, it’s just beginning — whereas Kate has had a few years practice.
So do the two ever swap style secrets? While we can’t know for sure, we do know that Kate’s personal style has developed impressively in the last few months, going from coat dress after coat dress to tie bows and tailored pants. Is she taking cues from her sister-in-law? Evidence suggests maybe.
While it might be on the advice of Kate’s new stylist, Virginia Chadwyck-Healey, it seems Kate is picking up some of Meghan’s favourite tricks. As recently as January, Kate was seen carrying a selection of top handle bags. Her favourite, from Turkish It girl label Manu Atelier, featured a boxy base with a quaint little handle and was definitely a departure from her usual clutches. The Duchess of Cambridge famously carries clutches in case she doesn’t want to shake someone’s hand — so the single hand box bag was certainly a surprise.
Meghan has long been a fan of the top handle bag, carrying a variety of Chloé and Victoria Beckham styles over the years. A decidedly chic accessory, Meghan was only just behind street style stars to pick up this trend. Now, after being followed by Kate it’s certainly got the royal tick of approval.
Recently, Kate tried her hand at a French girl staple: a simple Breton shirt with tailored pants. Meghan, ever the fan of tailored pants has worn the ankle-grazing style on a number of occasions. Neatly pressed and flatteringly cropped, Kate’s version worn in May of 2019 was definitely a nod to Markle’s signature suit.
Kate has also been trying her hand at Meghan’s tried and tested capped sleeve. The cape-like covering over her shoulders has been a Meghan staple. Now, Kate has picked it up. Stepping out in February in Northern Ireland, Kate turned to a sky blue Mulberry cape dress, chanelling Meghan.
The same can be said about formal occasions, with Kate taking inspiration from a white dress Meghan wore in Tonga for her BAFTA’s gown.
Opting for a one-shouldered gown from Alexander McQueen, Kate looked as regal as they come — but a look at Meghan’s own white gown in October shows there could be some inspiration there. Meghan is notably infatuated with white, picking the hue for a number of important engagements — including her recent baby reveal photos.
But perhaps the most notable nod Kate has given to Meghan? Her famous tie-bow shirt by Gucci, which the Duchess made headlines for due to her unexpected styling. Wearing the purple shirt backwards, Kate had the bow front and centre — attracting worldwide attention for the decidedly on-trend take for the usually conservative Duchess.
Similar to Meghan’s famous Alexander McQueen suit worn in February of 2018— complete with a pussy bow — it was really was the ultimate compliment.
With wardrobes like theirs, we’d be copying too.
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