During the recent royal tour in Jordan, the contrast between Kate Middleton and Meghan Markle was impossible to ignore. Kate Middleton commands attention in maroon, delivering future queen realness with a tailored, elegant ensemble. Meanwhile, Meghan Markle goes full backpacker, embracing a casual, relaxed approach that some have called an "unwashed backpacker hug-fest."
The tour, which coincided with Ramadan, featured both royal protocol and cultural sensitivity. Kate’s tailored look demonstrated polished sophistication, perfectly aligned with her role as a senior royal. In contrast, Meghan’s backpacker style, including oversized jackets and casual footwear, drew mixed reactions online, highlighting a stark fashion and cultural contrast.
Kate Middleton’s Maroon Majesty
Kate Middleton’s appearance was a masterclass in royal elegance. Her maroon tailored outfit, paired with classic accessories, reinforced her poised and regal image. The Duchess delivered future queen realness effortlessly, showcasing why she continues to set the standard for royal style.
From the perfectly coordinated hijabs to subtle jewelry, Kate’s attention to detail contrasted sharply with Meghan’s backpacker aesthetic. Social media was abuzz with praise for Kate’s choice, calling her the epitome of royal sophistication.
Meghan Markle Goes Full Backpacker in Jordan
Meghan Markle’s style on the same tour took a very different turn. Fans and commentators noted that Meghan went full backpacker with a casual ensemble that included oversized jackets, practical footwear, and a relaxed demeanor. Some described her behavior as a “hug-fest,” which while warm and approachable, appeared less culturally calibrated given the Ramadan context.
The backpacker approach emphasized comfort and approachability but created a stark juxtaposition with Kate’s meticulously tailored presence. Observers pointed out that Meghan’s unstructured style sparked debate about royal expectations versus personal expression.
Backpacker vs. Tailored: A Royal Fashion Analysis
The contrast between Meghan Markle’s backpacker choices and Kate Middleton’s tailored elegance demonstrates the ongoing discussion about royal fashion norms. While Kate’s look reinforced traditional royal poise, Meghan’s relaxed style resonated with a younger audience and those appreciating a more approachable royal aesthetic.
From a fashion perspective, the backpacker style emphasizes practicality and travel readiness, whereas tailored royal attire signifies authority, elegance, and respect for cultural contexts.
Ramadan Edition: Cultural Sensitivity Matters
Given that the tour coincided with Ramadan, Kate’s maroon ensemble was praised for its modesty and cultural appropriateness. In contrast, Meghan’s backpacker approach, while warm and friendly, drew criticism from some observers for lacking cultural calibration. This highlights the delicate balance senior royals must maintain between personal style and diplomatic sensitivity.
Key Takeaways
- Kate Middleton commands attention in maroon, delivering tailored elegance and royal realness.
- Meghan Markle goes full backpacker, opting for comfort and approachability over traditional royal polish.
- The fashion contrast sparked conversation about royal expectations and modern style choices.
- Cultural sensitivity during Ramadan was highlighted by Kate’s careful styling versus Meghan’s casual approach.
- The backpacker style resonates with fans valuing authenticity and travel-ready fashion.
- Kate’s tailored choices reinforce her future queen image, while Meghan’s relaxed look sparks debate.
Ultimately, the Jordan royal tour offered a vivid display of backpacker versus tailored fashion, highlighting the unique approaches both Kate Middleton and Meghan Markle bring to royal appearances. Fans continue to discuss the style contrasts, cultural appropriateness, and the evolving landscape of modern royal fashion.


