Princess Kate "Asserted Her Authority" Over Prince William During St. Patrick's Day Appearance, Body Language Expert Says
He laid low to let her shine.
Ask any royal commentator about Princess Kate's evolving demeanor over her years in the Royal Family, and they'll tell you her confidence has grown and grown.
Hers and Prince William's official appearance last Friday more than cemented this "authority" of Kate's, according to one body language expert.
That day, St. Patrick's Day, William marked the end of his stint as Colonel of the Irish Guards (a regiment of the British Army historically made up of many Irish soldiers), as he passed on the role to his wife.
"Kate appeared very confident as she exited from the car, while William accompanied her in the vehicle," Darren Stanton tells Marie Claire on behalf of Betfair Bingo.
For the expert, everything about Kate that day screamed confidence—down to her choice of outfit: a teal coat-dress and elaborate hat.
"I would definitely say Kate was dressed in her superhero color, which is usually red, blue or turquoise," Stanton says.
"It’s clear she wanted to stand out from the crowd and assert her authority over William and the other guests. She tends to opt for these superhero colors when she wants to be perceived in a powerful way. As this was Kate’s first appearance as Colonel of the regiment, she clearly wanted to state her position and make herself known amongst the crowds in the bold color."
Stay In The Know
Get exclusive access to fashion and beauty trends, hot-off-the-press celebrity news, and more.
Stanton further observes that William stepped back to really let his wife shine.
"During the appearance, Kate appeared extremely confident in her posture and stance," he says.
"She was walking very upright as she was called upon to inspect the guards. Meanwhile, William seemed more reserved in his approach, possibly [because] he did not want to overshadow his wife."
Speaking at the ceremonial event, the Prince of Wales assured the regiment that they were in good hands with the princess.
"I may be stepping aside, but in Colonel Catherine you have a committed, focused and already incredibly loyal 11th Colonel," he said (via Sky News).
"As you serve together over the years ahead, know that I will continue to watch you, with huge pride in having been one of you."
Iris Goldsztajn is a London-based journalist, editor and author. She is the morning editor at Marie Claire, and her work has appeared in the likes of British Vogue, InStyle, Cosmopolitan, Refinery29 and SELF. Iris writes about everything from celebrity news and relationship advice to the pitfalls of diet culture and the joys of exercise. She has many opinions on Harry Styles, and can typically be found eating her body weight in cheap chocolate.
-
20 On-Sale Beauty Finds to Conquer the Winter Season
It's time to add some hydration to your routine.
By Brooke Knappenberger Published
-
Netflix Is Adapting One of #BookTok's Favorite Romances—Here's What We Know About Ana Huang's 'Twisted Love' TV Series
Could this be the next 'Bridgerton' or 'Tell Me Lies?'
By Quinci LeGardye Published
-
'American Primeval' Is Bound to Be Your First Netflix Obsession of 2025—Here's What to Know About the Cast
Taylor Kitsch and Betty Gilpin led the gritty miniseries about a family's trek across the American West in 1857.
By Radhika Menon Published
-
Princess Kate Isn't Always "Well Enough" for Royal Duties, but She's Learning to "Pace" Herself
"She is looking after herself and is wise to do so," a family friend shared.
By Amy Mackelden Published
-
Queen Elizabeth's Final Birthday Gift to Kate Middleton Was a Precious Heirloom With Specific Rules Attached
The present, which was from the Queen's private collection, "brought tears to Kate's eyes."
By Amy Mackelden Published
-
How Princess Kate Broke Tradition with Her Stunning 43rd Birthday Photo
The Princess of Wales posed for a black-and-white pic by one of her favorite photogs.
By Kristin Contino Published
-
Prince William Is the "Ultimate Nepo Baby," According to Spice Girl Mel B's Daughter Phoenix
"There's been rising anger in recent years—almost to the point of obsession on social media."
By Amy Mackelden Published
-
Why Prince Andrew Has Been Reported to the Police Over a Fake Name and Business Venture
Get ready to meet the royal's alter ego, "Andrew Inverness."
By Amy Mackelden Published
-
Meghan Markle and Prince Harry's Daughter Lilibet Has Already Entered Her "Princess Phase"
The Sussexes are very "down-to-earth" parents, according to a family friend.
By Amy Mackelden Published
-
Prince William Views This Royal Family Member as a "Brother" and Someone He Can "Always Rely On"
"There's no doubt Wills sees him as the brother he lost."
By Amy Mackelden Published
-
Why the Royal Family's Annual Income Is Increasing by $56 Million in 2025
The royals will receive a whopping $165 million, which critics have called "scandalous."
By Amy Mackelden Published