Meghan Markle gets frustrated by Kate Middleton's commitment to royal coat tradition and dress code rules

Meghan Markle reportedly finds Kate Middleton's longstanding habit of wearing coats during official royal engagements a source of frustration, with insiders claiming the tradition serves as an unwelcome reminder of the wardrobe restrictions she once felt bound by as a working royal. The Princess of Wales has an extensive collection of structured coats and coat dresses that fall below the knee, a wardrobe choice closely tied to royal protocol rather than personal fashion preference.

According to a report by RadarOnline, Middleton's continued adherence to the custom has reignited what sources describe as "traumatic" memories for the Duchess of Sussex. For Middleton, the practice is simply part of maintaining the polished and refined appearance expected of senior members of the Royal Family during public duties.

Why Kate Middleton's coat tradition bothers Meghan Markle

An insider explained that for senior royals, outerwear carries a particular significance. "For senior members of the Royal Family, a coat is rarely treated as something practical that can simply be taken off when they get indoors," the source said, describing it as a "symbol of discipline" rather than a style statement. The insider added that Middleton fully understands the importance of maintaining decorum and following protocol whenever she steps out on behalf of the Crown.

Markle, however, reportedly views the tradition through a very different lens. The Duchess has previously spoken openly about feeling constrained by the wardrobe requirements placed upon her during her time as a working royal. "Seeing Kate continue to embrace the traditions that Meghan felt restricted by can be frustrating because it serves as a reminder of the rules and expectations she was eager to leave behind," a source told the outlet.

Meghan Markle's feelings toward royal protocol

According to the report, the royal custom became a recurring point of tension for Markle, who has made no secret of the fact that certain aspects of life within the monarchy felt restrictive. The sight of Middleton continuing to uphold those same traditions is said to bring those feelings back to the surface, even years after the Sussexes stepped back from royal duties in 2020.

Middleton, meanwhile, has shown no signs of abandoning the tradition, continuing to appear at public engagements in her signature tailored outerwear as part of what royal observers have long regarded as one of the most consistent and recognisable aspects of her public image.