This is why Kate Middleton only ever carries a clutch bag

The reason might surprise you.

Have you ever noticed how Kate Middleton only ever carries a clutch bag? Seriously, check our Kate Middleton style file if you don't believe us. We promise you won't find a single picture from recent years showing Kate carrying any other type of bag but that of the classic clutch.

As it turns out, there's actually a reason behind why the Duchess of Cambridge only ever carries a clutch (and it might surprise you).

In an interview with Good Housekeeping the founder of Beaumont Etiquette, Myka Meier explains: 'When the Duchess is at an event, she holds her bag in front of her in both hands when shaking hands might be awkward.'

So basically, Kate carries a clutch to avoid shaking hands with those she would rather not shake hands with. Which is rather genius, if you ask us.

However, Etiquette expert William Hanson believes Kate shouldn't be using her clutch bag as a shield to avoid shaking hands.

'The Duchess of Cambridge may well prefer not to shake hands with certain people - but there are other ways to achieve this, as used by The Queen and other members of the royal family,' he told the MailOnline.

'It is protocol that you do not extend your hand to any member of the royal family (blood royal or those who have married in to the family) unless their hand extends first,' he explains.

William (Hanson, not the Prince) believes that as Kate becomes more confident in her royal role she may even start ditching the clutch in favour of something else. Though we have to admit, we can't really picture K-Middy in a backpack.

'With more experience, The Duchess of Cambridge will soon realise that she needn't be too nice, extend and shake hands with everyone,' he said.

'A courteous smile at those whom she does not have time to shake hands will suffice,' William added.

Got that guys? A courteous smile to those whose hands we do not wish to touch will do. Of course, if you fancy taking a page out of Kate Middleton's book and want to use a clutch to defend yourself then check out our round up of the most stylish clutch bags available to use as your hand-shaking shield.