Princess Kate has long been associated with what is known as the Kate effect. Outfits she wears often sell out within hours. Her style is polished, familiar, and easy to emulate. According to Harte, Kate’s appeal comes partly from her relatability. She entered royal life without a title and incorporated high street pieces into formal appearances. That made her wardrobe feel attainable.
Meghan’s impact worked in another direction. She introduced bolder choices into the royal setting. One of the clearest examples was her embrace of trousers. Before Meghan, trousers appeared only occasionally in royal engagements. She made them central. Wide leg tailoring. Soft draping fabrics. Confident silhouettes. They were no longer practical alternatives. They became statement pieces.
This shift encouraged a broader acceptance of contemporary dressing inside royal appearances. It also influenced how designers and fashion houses approached royal commissions. Meghan’s look suggested that royal fashion could evolve without losing dignity or grace.
A wedding dress that set a new tone
