Femail fashion verdict: English polish outshines California gloss

THE Fab Four were lined up for public scrutiny but, in truth, all eyes were on the pair sitting centre stage and smiling constantly: Meghan and Kate.

The differences in style were apparent. While Meghan wore a £1,415 dark navy trench style wrap silk dress from US designer Jason Wu, Kate – whose third child is due next month – opted for a simple lavender jersey shift from her favourite maternity designer, Seraphine, costing a very modest £99.

Both wore black suede court shoes. But Kate’s Gianvito Rossi 105s were simple but not eye-catching, while Meghan again chose Jason Wu, with straps and a pointed toe to accentuate her legs and slender ankles. Understated they most certainly were not. Yet beside this heavy duty swank, Kate somehow still managed to shine. It was obvious Meghan still has an awful lot to learn from Kate.

While Kate was every bit the practised, measured, English royal wife, Meghan would not have been out of place at Palm Beach. Outside, the world shivered, but Meghan was bare-legged and bare armed – the California girl still visible beneath the surface, glossy legs competing with white kilowatt smile.

Overall, well done Meghan. It was a big day and you performed well – but keep Kate close. She’s going to be a truly valuable asset in the years ahead.