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Why Does Meghan Markle Stand Behind Kate Middleton?

This Is Why the Duchess of Sussex Must Stand Behind the Duchess of Cambridge

It's been reported that Meghan Markle has had a hard time understanding some of the stuffy rules that come with being a member of the British royal family — she's even broken a few already! But for the most part, Meghan has embraced royal etiquette, quickly mastering the Duchess slant and opting to wear tights in the months since her wedding to Prince Harry.

Her Duchess status also means she must take a step back when she's in the presence of many of her new in-laws. Of course no one walks in front of Queen Elizabeth II, but Meghan must also stand behind her own sister-in-law, the Duchess of Cambridge. Regardless of their solid friendship, royal protocol dictates that since Meghan falls below the future queen consort in rank, she should allow Kate to walk and stand in front of her during official engagements.

This royal "pecking order" is why we've seen Meghan stand behind Kate on the balcony of Buckingham Palace, walk behind her and Prince William on their way into Westminster Abbey, and even enter Wimbledon after the Duchess of Cambridge. Technically, Meghan is even supposed to curtsy to Kate (though we don't often see the immediate family bow to royals other than the Queen)! The royal procession rule also applies to Prince Charles and Camilla as well as Prince William, but we have a feeling Meghan will continue to stand out regardless of where she's actually standing.

Meghan followed Kate's lead as they took their seats at Wimbledon.

Image Source: Getty / Clive Mason

Meghan walked directly behind Kate during an official event in London.

Image Source: Getty / Anwar Hussein

Meghan chose a balcony spot behind Kate during the 2018 Trooping the Colour.

Kate and William walked ahead of Meghan and Harry as they entered Westminster Abbey.

Image Source: Getty / PAUL GROVER

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Kate turned to chat with Meghan on the balcony of Buckingham Palace.

Image Source: Getty / Anwar Hussein

Prince Harry and Meghan paired off behind Prince William and Kate.

Image Source: Getty / Jeff Spicer

Even in the more casual setting of Wimbledon, Meghan arrived behind Kate.

Image Source: Getty / Karwai Tang

Meghan and Harry followed behind Kate and William during a London appearance.

Meghan stood behind higher ranking members of the royal family during her first Trooping the Colour.

Image Source: Getty / Karwai Tang

Meghan and Harry walked nearly side by side, even slightly ahead, of Kate and William after Christmas Day services in Sandringham. The out of line procession could be explained by the more casual nature of the outing and the fact that Meghan hadn't yet married into the family.

Image Source: Getty / Chris Jackson

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