Kate Middleton and Meghan Markle's Theater Looks Couldn't Be More Different

With Prince William and Kate Middleton and Prince Harry and Meghan Markle (opens in new tab) being dubbed the inseparable Royal Fab Four these days, the Duchess of Cambridge and the Duchess of Sussex have become increasingly close. They’ve provided each other with support and friendship (opens in new tab) since Meghan and Harry first began dating and, let’s face it, they're the only two people in the world who can really understand what the other must go through in their new, whirlwind lives as part of the royal family.

But, while the Duchesses undoubtedly have a lot in common, their individual sense of style has always been quite different. It’s never more apparent than when the two are side by side (opens in new tab), but you can also spot the contrast when comparing what Kate and Meghan both chose to wear for similar appearances on their Duchess timeline (opens in new tab). For example, their choices for theater-ready fashion could really not be more different, as illustrated when Meghan and Prince Harry attended last night’s Hamilton gala performance (opens in new tab) together.

The Duchess of Sussex opted for a black tuxedo dress (opens in new tab) from Judith and Charles with long-sleeves and a fitted silhouette. Her dress hit above the knee (quel horreur!) and was one of her most daring outfits to date. She looked modern and superbly on trend in the sleek ensemble, which she paired with Paul Andrew black heels and a golden metallic box clutch to provide a cool edge.

But, back in April 2017, Kate chose a completely contrasting aesthetic for her attendance at another London West End performance. Last year she appeared at a royal gala performance of 42nd Street, wearing an endlessly elegant, demure, and feminine crimson midi dress by Marchesa. It had capped sleeves and a flared fit that any Disney princess would be envious of, and the romantic, ladylike dress was styled with matching statement earrings and her signature, shining blow out.

Either way, they both look consistently stunning in their own, unique styles of dress. Plus, we all know that opposites attract when it comes to any kind of friendship—how many times as your friend looked amazing in an outfit that you'd never even consider?