These contrasting styles have again come into play when you look at how both Kate and Meghan have dressed during their pregnancies.
With Meghan’s due date now fast approaching – it’s reported to be around the end of April or start of May – what better time to have a look at the pair’s differing approach to maternity style?
The monochromes…
You really can’t go wrong with a monochromatic colour scheme – when your body is changing as quickly as it is during pregnancy, it’s pretty much the safest bet.
As you can probably imagine, how the two royals style black and white outfits couldn’t be more different though.
Meghan is partial to block colours, and will often be seen in head-to-toe black. Perhaps it’s her background playing a lawyer in TV show Suits, but she’s got quite the taste for corporate-appropriate dressing, but with a cool edge, and loves a crisp shirt and form-fitting skirt.
Compare this to Kate, who is far more keen on traditional prints like polka dots. Kate’s had three pregnancies to really hone her maternity dressing, and it’s always a pleasure to see her re-wear old favourites, like the memorable leopard print dress.
The neutrals…
Kate doesn’t give too much away about her private life, but there’s one thing we can say for certain: The Duchess loves a good coat dress.
During pregnancy, both women have opted to wear white or blush matching outfits, but styled differently. Kate could often be seen in a coat dress, and if not, she also frequently opted for the go-to maternity style of empire line.
Meghan’s interpretation of nude colours is a bit more modern, and she’s been experimenting with turtleneck dresses or blazers.
Serious respect goes out to both women for wearing stilettos up until nearly the end of their pregnancies. Again, the types of shoes they favour aren’t the same – Meghan prefers a pointed toe and Kate favours the more traditional rounded toe.
The colours…
Meghan is a fan of a bright red, often pairing the bold hue with berry tones. This makes sense, as it suits her colouring and most of her pregnancy has been during the colder months.
Kate errs towards brighter, lighter shades, like yellows and mints. Time and time again, she shows how deep-seated her love for a coat dress is.
It’s also worth comparing hairstyles – Meghan loves an updo and has become known for a chic chignon, whereas Kate’s rarely without her hair blow-dried, wearing it bouncy and down.
The formalwear…
Most pregnant women wouldn’t have to think about what black tie dresses they can wear to accommodate their bump, but this is definitely not the case if you’re a member of the royal family.
Formal engagements are a regular feature on the royal calendar, and Kate and Meghan know how to rise to the occasion. For Meghan, it’s all about bringing a bit of Hollywood glamour and she’s partial to a bit of sparkle and shine.
While Kate won’t say no to the odd sparkly accent, she’s less keen on full-on glitter. Instead, for big events, her maternity style leans more towards pale, block colours and floaty materials – which are no doubt a godsend when you’re pregnant and having to greet people all evening.