Harriet Sperling, the new Mrs Phillips, has become the latest royal figure accused of copying Princess Catherine's style. However, according to royal commentator Alicia Liberty, the dynamic is fundamentally different from the Meghan Markle comparisons that dominated headlines for years.
The Royal Ascot Controversy
Accusations surfaced immediately after Royal Ascot, where Sperling wore pale blue dresses with elegant tailoring, lace details, and carefully selected hats—elements that closely mirrored outfits previously worn by Princess Catherine. Social media quickly labeled her a copycat.
But Liberty argues that Sperling's approach is rooted in admiration, not competition. 'Harriet doesn't strike me as someone trying to become the next Princess of Wales. She strikes me as someone trying to learn from her,' Liberty writes.
Meghan vs. Harriet: Two Different Approaches
Meghan Markle faced years of scrutiny over her fashion choices, often being accused of copying Catherine. Liberty notes that 'the Meghan comparisons often felt rooted in rivalry,' while 'Harriet feels rooted in respect.'
Unlike Meghan, who 'appeared determined to position herself as Catherine's equal' and was framed as a rival by the media, Sperling exhibits 'a humility about her. A softness. A willingness to understand the institution she has entered rather than immediately trying to reinvent it.'
Why Harriet's Style Choices Are Different
Liberty emphasizes that fashion inspiration is not a crime. 'Millions of women have copied Princess Catherine over the years. They've bought the same coats. The same dresses. The same earrings. The same handbags. Entire Instagram accounts exist for the sole purpose of helping women recreate her wardrobe. Yet when Harriet does something similar, suddenly it's a scandal.'
The key difference lies in perception. Meghan's supporters and critics alike treated every outfit as part of a battle for popularity. In contrast, Sperling 'isn't launching podcasts. She isn't announcing lifestyle brands. She isn't trying to become the main character. She's simply showing up, dressing appropriately and quietly finding her place.'
The Kate Effect Endures
Liberty points out that the comparisons reveal more about Catherine than about Sperling. 'More than a decade after joining the Royal Family, Catherine remains the woman every other royal is measured against.' The 'Kate effect' persists because Catherine's style has become 'the gold standard of modern royal style.'
For Sperling, looking to Catherine for inspiration is simply common sense. 'If you're going to borrow a fashion formula from anyone, borrowing it from the future Queen is probably a pretty safe place to start,' Liberty concludes.
