A show of sisterly solidarity – or rivalry?
IT was an occasion that could have been awkward, at least for the newcomer, as Meghan Markle and the Duchess of Cambridge sat side by side for their first joint engagement.
There was little doubt that the former actress was the more assured performer, and she and Harry are far more tactile than Kate and William.
But according to body language analysts, the future sisters-in-law showed mutual respect and kindness. Robin Kermode said that while Meghan is more naturally dynamic and confident than Kate, she is as yet less comfortable with royal etiquette.
‘You could tell Meghan was trying hard to be on her best behaviour. In contrast Kate sat back in her chair in a more relaxed style and fiddled with her hands, indicating she is very comfortable in front of the media and doesn’t feel she has to be on show,’ he said. ‘Kate kept her head slightly tilted, which shows she was not using her higher status to look down on Meghan.’
Author and body language expert Judi James said: ‘The dynamics between Meghan and Kate threw up some fascinating body language that could even suggest or hint at some future friendly clashes between two strong women.
‘The pair seemed to skip any sister-in-law style tie-signs or exchanged smiles and chat. They rarely made eye contact. Meghan in particular seemed all about getting her passionate messages across. Kate’s smiles tended to be reserved for William – which suggests low levels of anxiety on behalf of Meghan, the new kid on the block.’
Mr Kermode, founder of the communications coaching consultancy Zone 2, added that Kate seemed in ‘total agreement’ with Meghan when she spoke about female empowerment. He said: ‘There is clearly real respect from Meghan to Kate. The dynamic was very gracious.’
Both sat with hands in lap and when the four laughed Meghan and Kate mirrored each other, leaning their head back towards their partners, meaning their minds were subconsciously focused on their men.
‘The four of them all looked very relaxed... they seem to be genuine friends,’ he added.