This Is Why Meghan Markle Must Stand Behind Kate Middleton

It's been reported that Meghan Markle has had a hard time understanding some of the stuffy rules that come with being a member of the British royal family — she's even broken a few already! But for the most part, Meghan has embraced royal etiquette, quickly mastering the Duchess slant and opting to wear pantyhose in the months since her wedding to Prince Harry.

Her Duchess status also means she must take a step back when she's in the presence of many of her new in-laws. Of course, no one walks in front of Queen Elizabeth II, but Meghan must also stand behind her own sister-in-law, Kate Middleton. Regardless of their solid friendship, royal protocol dictates that since Meghan falls below the future queen consort in rank, she should allow Kate to walk and stand in front of her during official engagements.

This royal "pecking order" is why we've seen Meghan stand behind Kate on the balcony of Buckingham Palace, walk behind her and Prince William on their way into Westminster Abbey, and even enter Wimbledon after the Duchess of Cambridge. Technically, Meghan is even supposed to curtsy to Kate (though we don't often see the immediate family bow to royals other than the Queen)! The royal procession rule also applies to Prince Charles and Camilla as well as Prince William, but we have a feeling Meghan will continue to stand out regardless of where she's actually standing.