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    1. Culture
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    3. Royal News

    This is Meghan Markle's one self conscious gesture

    But what does it all mean?

    Jenny Proudfoot's avatar
    By Jenny Proudfoot
    Published 18 April 2019 In News

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    (Image credit: REX)
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    But what does it all mean?

    Meghan Markle is one of the most talked about women in the world, becoming Duchess of Sussex just under a year ago, and now expecting a royal baby any day.

    The 37-year-old has fitted seamlessly into the royal family, blossoming into the role and carrying out everything from speeches to official events with an impressive amount of confidence.

    Yes, Meghan may have only been a Duchess for less than a year, but you wouldn’t think it by looking at her, with the former Suits actress undergoing Princess lessons to learn the etiquette, something she has made look effortless.

    kate middleton meghan markle friendship

    REX/Shutterstock
    (Image credit: REX/Shutterstock)

    According to body language experts however, Meghan has one tell-tale sign that she’s not quite as confident as she seems.

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    The gesture in question? Playing with her hair, that experts are speculating could be a nervous tic.

    meghan markle coats

    Tim Rooke/REX/Shutterstock
    (Image credit: Tim Rooke/REX/Shutterstock)

    ‘Some people touch their hair, play with their fingernails, or rub their arms, as a way to psychologically and physiologically calm themselves when they're feeling anxious, uncomfortable,or stressed,’ body language expert Blanca Cobb told GoodHousekeeping.com. ’Some people might touch, twirl or stroke their hair when in awkward social situations such as when they're not sure what to do or what to say.’

    Marie Claire Newsletter

    Celebrity news, beauty, fashion advice, and fascinating features, delivered straight to your inbox!

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    Of course, Meghan’s hair touching could just be habit, but judging by the stress that comes with her royal role, we wouldn’t be surprised if she had developed a nervous tic.

    Jenny Proudfoot
    Jenny Proudfoot
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    Contributing Features Editor

    Jenny Proudfoot is an award-winning journalist, specialising in lifestyle, culture, entertainment, international development and politics. After working at Marie Claire UK for seven years - rising from intern to Features Editor - she is now a freelance contributor to the News and Features section.

    In 2021, Jenny was named as a winner on the PPA's '30 under 30' list, and was also listed as a rising star in journalism.

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