The Next British Princess Takes a Cue from Kate Middleton

Prince Harry’s girlfriend Meghan Markle may not be a royal just yet, but her sense of style is regal. Always well-dressed, she steers clear of flashy outfits, preferring to select understated pieces with a classic sensibility.

Markle made a rare public appearance recently at Austin’s ATX Festival with her Suits co-stars Gina Torres, Patrick J. Adams, and Gabriel Macht on a panel celebrating the show’s 100th episode, turning heads as she arrived in a red and white Club Monaco slip dress.

The toile look seemed made for the balmy summer weather and didn’t require more than simple strappy crimson heels and long, center-parted waves to steal the scene.

Like Kate Middleton, Markle understands the appeal of affordable style. Where the Duchess seeks out looks from British high street brands such as Reiss and L.K. Bennett, the American actress favors mall staples like J.Crew and Club Monaco. At $395, Markle’s wallpaper print dress is within an accessible price range for all looking to emulate her trademark look.

And Meghan Markle seemingly had a good time on her recent work trip to Austin, Texas, sporting a Club Monaco dress for the occasion. The actress participated in a series of press events for her television show Suits, before flying back to Toronto. But when Markle departed from the Texas airport, she was noticeably wearing one particularly pretty gold band ring.

According to sources, the ring was a gift from her boyfriend, Prince Harry. And while the piece of jewelry was worn on her thumb—rather than on her left ring finger—it’s another indication of how serious the couple appear to be. Harry, who spent this weekend celebrating Queen Elizabeth II’s birthday along with Kate Middleton and other family members, has already given Markle a couple pieces of jewelry.

Markle has been seen wearing a gold Maya Brenner necklace with the couple’s initials, which is speculated to be a gift from the Prince. Harry has also apparently given Markle a gold Cartier Love bracelet.

So will wedding bells be on the horizon for the pair? Who’s to say. However, given the fact that the Queen reportedly approves of the match, plus Markle’s recent attendance at Pippa Middleton’s wedding reception, we’d say the answer is most likely yes.