Just when you thought the royal fashion rivalry couldn’t get any more intriguing, Meghan Markle and Kate Middleton have both been spotted in the same shirt brand, ‘With Nothing Underneath,’ and it’s not just a coincidence. Their shared choice of the Boyfriend Shirt—a polished staple that’s become a favorite among style aficionados—raises both eyebrows and questions. Is this a rare moment of royal endorsement, or are they simply keeping it casual? Pip Durell, the genius behind the label, has created a hit that is now gracing the wardrobes of both Duchesses, appearing in a variety of colors from sky blue to classic white, and styled effortlessly with everything from tailored blazers to distressed jeans.

Durell launched her label in 2017 with the vision of making an elevated button-up shirt that could work for everyone. "I’ve always been into style over fashion. I needed to be polished and put-together, and a shirt was always a great ‘uniform,’" she shared. It seems she hit the nail on the head, as both royal ladies have embraced this "uniform" with open arms. The Princess of Wales wore the sky blue version layered under a blazer in February, while the Duchess of Sussex opted for the white version during a recent appearance in Jordan. The synchronicity is uncanny, and it begs the question: are they swapping style tips or simply trying to outshine each other? The answer might be hiding in their closets.

The shirts, made from fine poplin, offer a relaxed yet flattering fit, perfect for any occasion—whether it’s a high-profile royal outing or a laid-back lunch. Middleton’s collection also includes the brand’s blue-striped Classic Oxford, which she wore for a visit to the Royal National Lifeboat Institution earlier this month. What’s even more compelling is the brand’s commitment to sustainability; achieving B Corp certification speaks volumes about their values in an era where consumers are increasingly conscious of ethical fashion. As Durell insists, "By being a B Corp, we have put our values out for the world to see and we uphold ourselves to these standards."

Yet, the real drama lies in the potential implications of this fashion choice. Industry observers speculate that this could spark a new trend in royal fashion—a merging of styles that blurs the lines between the two women. Historically, their fashion choices have been closely scrutinized as reflections of their personalities: Markle’s effortless California cool contrasting with Middleton’s polished elegance. By wearing the same brand, they are not just showcasing a piece of clothing; they are participating in a subtle, yet public, game of one-upmanship.

As fashion insiders watch closely, the stakes remain high. "It’s effortless and chic, and that’s exactly what I love about a shirt — so I hope that’s what they love too,” Durell remarked. But whether this shirt becomes a permanent staple in both their wardrobes or serves as a fleeting moment of shared taste remains to be seen. In the cutthroat world of royal fashion, every choice is a statement, and both Duchesses know that better than anyone. This shirt is no longer just a piece of clothing; it’s a symbol of royal rivalry, and the next fashion showdown could be just around the corner.

Photo: AI illustration