Meghan Markle's Trooping The Colour dress was a subtle nod to Diana

And we almost missed it

(Image credit: Utrecht Robin/action press/REX/Shutterstock)

And we almost missed it

While we were busy noticing how thoughtful Prince Harry was with Meghan Markle on the balcony during their Trooping The Colour appearance, and the sweet moment she shared with sister-in-law Kate Middleton, we almost missed one key detail: that her dress was a subtle nod to Princess Diana.

First off, the Duchess of Sussex broke the style rules a little bit with a chic pale pink Carolina Herrera dress, while everyone else wore blue. This is apparently slightly against Royal protocol as it's a little revealing around the shoulders, though we like the fact that it echoes the neckline of her wedding dress.

kate middleton meghan markle trooping the colour

REX/Shutterstock

She teamed it with a Philip Treacy hat and clutch, possibly on the advice of Prince Harry, who apparently gives her fashion advice.

Now, some eagle eyed observers have pointed out that the design was actually very similar to a dress worn by Diana in 1987 in Germany.

The late Princess wore a powder pink ballgown by Catherine Walker to visit the Berlin Opera House. Although Meghan's dress was less extravagant, both dresses are the same shade and feature a very similar neckline, as well as buttons down the bodice.

Given that Meghan's Herrera dress was custom made, we'd like to think she drew on this look for inspiration, which wouldn't be the first time, as she wore Diana's ring on her wedding day.

Penny Goldstone

Penny Goldstone is the Contributing Fashion Editor at Marie Claire UK. She writes about catwalk trends and the latest high street and Instagram sartorial must-haves. She also helms the Women Who Win franchise.

She has worked in fashion for over 10 years, contributing to publications such as Cosmopolitan, Red, Good Housekeeping, and Stylist.