News Kate Middleton Took a Surprising Cue from Meghan Markle's Stylebook By Isabel Jones Isabel Jones Instagram Twitter Isabel is an Oregon-born and Brooklyn-based writer and editor with a special interest in pop culture. InStyle's editorial guidelines Updated on March 22, 2018 @ 08:30AM Pin Share Tweet Email Kate Middleton is something of a by-the-book gal. A foil to soon-to-be royal Meghan Markle, the Duchess of Cambridge takes few fashion risks, sticking to a conservative wardrobe of black and nude pumps and (mostly blue) dresses. However, as the due date of Prince William and Kate’s third child nears (the royal baby is expected in April), Middleton appears to be shaking things up on her last appearance before going on maternity leave. On Thursday, William and Kate met with wheelchair basketball players hoping to compete in Birmingham’s 2022 Commonwealth Games. The Duke even participated himself, shooting (and scoring!) while sitting in a wheelchair. While William kept his attire in-line with past engagements (navy suit with an open collar), Kate broke from her norm, opting for a floral blouse peaking from beneath an ivory coat, black pumps, and *gasp,* PANTS. Eamonn M. McCormack/Getty Images To be fair, this isn’t the first time Middleton has ditched the gown for a pair of slacks—but still, it’s hardly routine. That being said, Markle, while new to the royal circuit, has worn pants to several events since announcing her engagement to Prince Harry. Mark Cuthbert/UK Press via Getty Images Victoria Jones - PA Images/Getty Max Mumby/Indigo/Getty Images Perhaps Kate is inspired by her future sister-in-law's style?