Kate Middleton’s latest fashion choices are turning heads for an unexpected reason royal style watchers say the Princess of Wales is taking inspiration straight from Meghan Markle’s playbook. The observation has reignited debate about how the two most talked-about royal women subtly influence each other, despite their well-documented differences.
During a surprise engagement at Windsor Castle alongside Prince William and Jordan’s Crown Prince and Princess, Kate stepped out in what fashion expert Alicia Liberty described as “a look straight out of Meghan’s style bible.” Writing for Express, Liberty noted that Kate’s outfit a soft beige Roland Mouret suit paired with a delicate pussy-bow blouse “exuded sophistication” and carried an undeniable resemblance to Meghan’s signature minimalist elegance.
“Yesterday, Princess Kate stepped out at Windsor Castle for a surprise engagement with Prince William and the Crown Prince and Princess of Jordan. She wore yet another impeccably tailored suit,” Liberty wrote. “A soft beige two-piece from Roland Mouret layered over a delicate pussy-bow blouse that exuded sophistication. And dare I say, it was very Meghan Markle which at this point feels far from coincidence.”
This remark has sparked widespread conversation online, with many fans pointing out how the Princess of Wales has shifted from her previous royal wardrobe staples jewel-toned dresses, printed frocks, and structured coat dresses toward a more modern and muted palette that mirrors Meghan’s aesthetic.
Just a week earlier, Meghan Markle and Prince Harry attended the Project Healthy Minds World Mental Health Day Festival in New York. Meghan, 44, wore a sleek black Giorgio Armani power suit defined by clean lines and understated tailoring. Liberty drew a clear line between the Duchess’s fashion choices in New York and Kate’s recent Windsor look, describing both as “polished, professional, and purposefully minimalist.”
“Fast forward a few days, and here’s Kate, 43, echoing that same aesthetic,” Liberty wrote. “Gone are the jewel tones, printed frocks, and statement coat dresses of royal engagements past.”
Royal observers note that this shift may not just be about fashion, it could signal a deeper evolution in Kate’s public image. As she continues to recover from her health struggles and resumes royal duties, the Princess of Wales appears to be embracing a sleeker, more modern approach to her role, one that emphasizes confidence and subtle authority rather than tradition and formality.
Some experts believe that Kate’s newfound style direction may be part of a broader strategy to modernize the royal image under King Charles’s reign. “The Princess is positioning herself as a global figure in her own right,” a royal insider shared. “Her fashion reflects that — it’s professional, sophisticated, and distinctly international.”
Still, comparisons to Meghan Markle are unavoidable. Ever since the Duchess of Sussex first entered the royal scene, her minimalist wardrobe — favoring neutral tones, sharp tailoring, and high-end simplicity — has been widely praised for breaking from the royal mold. While Meghan’s style was once viewed as a rebellious contrast to Kate’s traditional looks, the two women now appear to be moving toward similar fashion sensibilities.
Social media users have taken notice of the shift. One fan wrote, “Kate looks incredible, but you can definitely see the Meghan influence. It’s a power look.” Another commented, “It’s interesting how both women have found strength through simplicity. Maybe this is what modern royalty looks like.”
Fashion experts suggest that Kate’s choice of Roland Mouret — one of Meghan’s favorite designers — might not be accidental. Mouret has dressed Meghan on numerous occasions, including her pre-wedding days, and his clean, structured designs have long been associated with her signature elegance.
Whether it’s coincidence or quiet admiration, one thing is certain: both women have redefined royal fashion in their own ways. Meghan’s California cool and Kate’s British polish may differ in tone, but together they represent a new, empowered image of modern royal womanhood — one that prioritizes purpose, professionalism, and timeless confidence.
As the Princess of Wales continues to make public appearances, all eyes will be on how she balances her evolving image with her royal duties. For now, her fashion choices are making just as many headlines as her royal engagements and sparking conversations that neither she nor Meghan can easily escape
