James Middleton’s memoir reveals a surprising anecdote about Kate Middleton’s first meeting with his wife, Alizee Thevenet, challenging existing narratives about royal formality and potentially, the relationship between Kate and Meghan Markle. Alizee, having just woken up in one of James’s shirts, met Kate, Prince William, and their children at the Middleton family home in Bucklebury. Instead of awkwardness, the encounter was reportedly warm and welcoming, with Kate quickly giving Alizee her seal of approval.
This contrasts with Meghan Markle’s claims in the Netflix series “Harry & Meghan” that her casual style, including ripped jeans and a fondness for hugs, clashed with the Royal Family’s formality. Meghan suggested this difference contributed to initial friction between her and Kate.
James Middleton’s memoir suggests Kate’s acceptance of Alizee’s casual attire indicates a more open and flexible personality than previously portrayed. This raises questions about whether Meghan’s casual style was the true source of tension, or if other factors were involved. The anecdote paints Kate as approachable and welcoming, contradicting the image of a strictly formal royal.
In his memoir, James describes the scene: Alizee, hair tousled and wearing his shirt, calmly greeted the unexpected guests with effortless ease. The children, he adds, were immediately drawn to her, asking questions with their usual curiosity. The entire encounter felt natural and unforced.
This easy acceptance was solidified by Kate’s private affirmation to James, praising Alizee as “just great.” This small gesture highlights Kate’s genuine warmth and approval.
Prince Harry, in “Spare,” also noted the contrasting styles of Kate and Meghan, describing Kate as “done up to the nines” while Meghan was in “ripped jeans, barefoot.” This reinforces the perceived difference in their approaches to fashion and royal life. Meghan stated she chose muted colours to avoid clashing with senior royals.