A 
body language expert has uncovered how the
royal family's gestures reveal their true
personality.
Darren Stanton has given his professional
verdict on various royals - and says some
are not quite as self-assured as many would
assume.
Members of the Royal Family undertake dozens,
if not hundreds of public engagements every
year.
But each unguarded gesture and hand movement
communicates their feelings about being in
the spotlight.
Meghan Markle is 'a very confident woman'
and is comfortable in the public eye, he said.
She likes to use 'power poses' often demonstrated
by politicians - while her constant touching
of husband Harry is used as a show of support,
according to Darren.
Kate Middleton, meanwhile, is far more "formal
and cautious" compared with super-confident
Meghan.
He said: "The handbag that she always holds
in front of her is so clearly a defense - a
barrier between herself and the rest of the
world.
"I don’t think she’s as confident as Meghan
- Kate comes across as utterly charming and
genuine, but is far more formal and cautious."
Prince Harry's unusual habit of tucking his
hand into his jacket demonstrates 'humility'
and puts others at ease.
"It’s a gesture reminiscent of childhood
— small children often inadvertently clutch
bits of their clothing. But the way Harry
does it demonstrates his humility."
The Queen - as many have noted - holds her
hands in a clasped position when fulfilling
her public duties.
Darren said: "Her fingers are locked and in
a normal person it might indicate anxiety,
but the Queen now looks so comfortable and
relaxed in this position it suggests she is
approachable, but not familiar."
Prince Charles may be first in line to the
throne, but does not come across as a confident
man, Darren claims.
His habit of touching his upper body with
his hand and his tendency to hid them in pockets
betrays a certain lack of self-belief.
"Any gesture where we touch ourselves — such
as scratching our nose or rubbing our face
— reveals that we are possibly feeling self-conscious
and need to reassure ourselves.
Darren reserves praise for the 'confident'
Duchess of Cornwall, who he says is clearly
"comfortable in her own skin".
