Meghan Markle has given up this style since becoming a royal

Meghan Markle seems to be transitioning seamlessly into life as a royal — and the proof is in her wardrobe.

The Duchess of Sussex has undergone a style evolution that has seen the 36-year-old ditch her signature crossbody bags in favor of something a tad more regal.

Following in the footsteps of her sister-in-law, the Duchess of Cambridge, Meghan has carried high-fashion clutch bags by Givenchy and Wilbur & Gussie for her first official royal engagements.

In an interview with the Daily Mail, celebrity stylist Rochelle White said the move is a sign of Meghan’s image overhaul.

“Before Meghan became part of the royal family, she definitely had a much more relaxed, casual sense of style,” White said. “Now that she is part of the royal family, she has to adapt her style to fit that. I think Meghan has taken some inspiration from Kate [Middleton] but is putting her own spin on it.”

According to White, Markle’s choice in handbag, although minor, elevates her look.

“Clutch bags look much more elegant than her trusted crossbody bag and add a more traditional, classic regal style,” she said.

Aside from looking chic, clutch bags may be a strategic move allowing royals to maintain their distance from spectators.

One etiquette expert says Middleton’s go-to pose of holding her clutch in both hands in front of her helps the duchess avoid awkward encounters with people who want to shake her hand.

“When the duchess is at an event, she holds her bag in front of her in both hands when shaking hands might be awkward,” Myka Meier told Good Housekeeping. “Or she can place it in one hand to have the other free. It never gets tucked under an arm or placed on the ground or table.”

When it comes to the royal family, a purse is never just a purse!

Read more from Yahoo Lifestyle:

• Ciara is giving major Meghan Markle vibes in black-and-white Royal Ascot outfit
  

• Dynamic duo Meghan Markle and Queen Elizabeth will reunite for awards show
  

• Meghan Markle channels ‘My Fair Lady’ in Givenchy at Royal Ascot

Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter for nonstop inspiration delivered fresh to your feed, every day.