It's been reported that Meghan Markle [1] has had a hard time understanding some of the stuffy rules [2] that come with being a member of the British royal family — she's even broken a few [3] already! But for the most part, Meghan has embraced royal etiquette, quickly mastering the Duchess slant [4] and opting to wear tights [5] 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 [6], but Meghan must also stand behind her own sister-in-law, the Duchess of Cambridge. Regardless of their solid friendship [7], royal protocol dictates that since Meghan falls below the future queen consort [8] in rank, she should allow Kate to walk and stand in front of her during official engagements.

This royal "pecking order" [9] 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 [10] regardless of where she's actually standing.

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

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

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.

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

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

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

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.

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.