Princess Kate will be Queen consort one day and, let me tell ya, it shows.
The Princess of Wales attended King Charles' first state banquet as sovereign on Tuesday, which was held in honor of President Cyril Ramaphosa of South Africa, and looked absolutely devastating in a glittering, bridal-like gown and historical tiara.
For body language expert Darren Stanton, she looked strikingly like the Queen she will be, as well as like her late mother-in-law, the beloved Princess Diana.
"I think Kate looked every part the Queen. I don’t think there have ever been such striking photographs published to date with Kate looking so regal," Stanton tells Marie Claire on behalf of Slingo.
"Comparisons have been made to Princess Diana, as Kate wore a tiara she'd also worn," Stanton continues.
"I think most would agree it’s frighteningly similar and reminiscent of the late royal.
"Although she may not be the 'Queen of people’s hearts' as Diana wished to be known, I’m quite sure that Kate is definitely one of the most popular figures now in the senior Royal Family.
"I think her success is largely down to her authenticity and willingness to connect with everyone."
For Stanton, it wasn't just the princess' appearance that cemented her as a true royal: It was her ability to make a connection with the visiting President.
"There was a great photograph of a moment when Kate and the South African president were saying cheers with their drinks. They had complete rapport with each other as they mirrored each other’s body language unconsciously," Stanton says.
"Kate displayed a genuine smile denoted by all of her facial muscles being engaged, and it’s clear even from the position of the camera in relation to the president that he was completely mesmerized by Kate’s presence.
"His eyes were wide and dilated and this happens when we enter the state of reciprocal liking."
So, Kate may not be the Queen, but she is a total queen, if you will.
Stay In The Know
Marie Claire email subscribers get intel on fashion and beauty trends, hot-off-the-press celebrity news, and more. Sign up here.
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 InStyle, Cosmopolitan, Bustle and Shape. 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.
-
Princess Kate Was Allegedly Spotted Looking "Happy, Relaxed and Healthy" at a Farm Shop This Weekend
Anonymous onlookers provided this description to 'The Sun.'
By Iris Goldsztajn Published
-
Kelly Clarkson Claims Her Ex-Husband Owes Her Even More Money After He Allegedly "Violated Labor Laws" as Her Manager
The "Stronger" star was already awarded $2.6 million in a previous lawsuit.
By Danielle Campoamor Published
-
Robert Downey Jr. Discusses the Highs and Lows of His Career After Oscar Win
"I think if you develop a moral psychology, things are a lot easier."
By Danielle Campoamor Published
-
British Royal Lady Gabriella Windsor's Husband Has Died at 45
Lady Gabriella is King Charles' second cousin.
By Iris Goldsztajn Published
-
Queen Elizabeth II's Childhood Drawing, Which Her Mom Called "Very Poor," Is Up for Auction
Savage.
By Iris Goldsztajn Published
-
George, Charlotte and Louis Will Be Laden With Gifts as Prince William Returns From New York
He was handed so many souvenirs for the little ones.
By Iris Goldsztajn Published
-
Prince William and Princess Kate Will Be in Wales Today to Pay Tribute to the Queen on the Anniversary of Her Death
The Queen had a special connection with the cathedral they're visiting.
By Iris Goldsztajn Published
-
Prince William Is "Built From the Queen's Mold," Says Royal Expert
He's learned a lot from her.
By Iris Goldsztajn Published
-
Prince William Makes Sure to "Treat George and Charlotte as Equals," Body Language Expert Says
I should hope so!
By Iris Goldsztajn Published
-
Prince William Isn't "A Workaholic Like His Father," Royal Expert Claims
He's got more of a work-life balance.
By Iris Goldsztajn Published
-
Princess Kate's New "Signature" Gesture? The Stealthy "Bum Pat" to Prince William
Love this for her.
By Iris Goldsztajn Published