The Princess of Wales now appears at ease with being a future Queen - and her changing hand gestures show this, a body language expert has said.
It has been a life-changing few months for Kate since the sad death of the late Queen last September.
She's been handed the title Princess of Wales and has been more visible than ever as she prepares to launch a major campaign to change the future for generations of children.
According to body language expert Darren Stanton, since becoming Princess of Wales, Kate's body language has changed - suggesting a boost in confidence.
And speaking on behalf of Betfair Casino, this confidence can be seen when analysing her hands.
He explained: "Hand signals play a massive part in showing us how open and honest a person is. During her early years as a royal, Kate tended to hold her hands in front of her body, at least when she knew she was being photographed.
"This is a very submissive gesture, as it creates an unconscious barrier or shield between us and something, which could be perceived as a threat. The posture also signifies a lack of confidence in her surroundings.
"In the years leading up to becoming Princess of Wales, Kate has managed to overcome her nerves and rarely displays these gestures anymore.
“She has clearly taken to the Princess of Wales role very easily and effortlessly. Since taking on the role in October, she has attended various solo engagements, which proves she is confident in her own abilities as Princess.
“Since becoming Princess of Wales, Kate’s body language has definitely changed. It’s almost as though she has fully embraced the idea that she is going to be Queen.
"It's obvious that it’s a position she holds in high regard since it was also Princess Diana's title. For lots of people, the pressure of the media and attending royal events would cause sleepless nights and stress.
"However, Kate has in fact shown a different approach as she appears a lot more confident. She now communicates on an even deeper level and leaves a lasting impression with all that she encounters.
"Even when people are displaying a confident demeanour, they can sometimes have juxtaposed feelings internally. However, I see total congruence in Kate’s belief, personal confidence and her outbound body language, which means she has now become the full package and has fitted into her new title with ease."
Kate's new title was previously held by her late mother-in-law Princess Diana - and according to Darren there are similarities between the two women - but also differences.
He added: "Kate is very much an empath, which means she puts other people before herself. She is very similar to that of Princess Diana, who also was an empath and was sensitive to the thoughts, feelings and needs of other people.
"Similarly to Diana, Kate is very tactile and is often seen hugging people and shaking their hands. These are all indicators of creating trust and rapport while putting people at ease very easily. This is something she has done in abundance since taking over the role of Princess of Wales.
"It’s obvious that the position of Princess of Wales is something that Kate holds in high regard since it was Diana's former title. However, despite showing many similar signs, Kate is managing to make the role her own."