The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge have 'relaxed' the royal rules since Meghan and Harry's departure

The Duke and Duchess of Sussex were always known for their tactile displays of affection, but the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge preferred a more formal approach.

But it seems the pair - who have been married since 2011 - have "relaxed" the rules since Meghan and Harry announced their departure from the royal fold and are enjoying being more "tactile" in public.

Kate, 38, and William, 37, have been spotted being more hands-on during their royal visits in recent weeks. And, body language expert, Judi James, said it's because they feel more comfortable pushing the boundaries.

She told Fabulous Digital, "Their body language has always veered on the side of bland, but it is also pitch-perfect for their royal role.

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"William and Kate do seem to be bringing more non-verbal signals and touches into their 'routine' post-Megxit though, apparently understanding that they can push the boundaries a little without suffering from obsessive interest and criticism.

"As a result we're seeing an increase of rituals that are showing the fun and the love but without compromising royal tradition."

Kate and William looked more loved-up than ever during an outing in Wales earlier this week. And Judi said, "Kate is now instigating more tie-sign touch rituals in public and William is reciprocating.

"We might not be seeing the kind of intensely tactile behaviour that we did from Harry and Meghan but the increase in caring or thought-sharing touches shows a post-Megxit approach to a relaxing of the 'rules'."

READ MORE: PRINCE HARRY AND MEGHAN BREAK THEIR SILENCE SINCE MOVING TO CANADA

Meghan and Harry shocked everyone when they announced they'd be stepping back from their roles as senior royals in order to pursue a quieter life in Canada with their son Archie.

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But, despite the furore, the Queen made it clear she fully supports their decision.

"Harry, Meghan and Archie will always be much loved members of my family," she said. "I recognise the challenges they have experienced as a result of intense scrutiny over the last two years and support their wish for a more independent life.

"It is my whole family's hope that today's agreement allows them to start building a happy and peaceful new life."

Georgia Farquharson

Georgia writes across Woman & Home and Good to Know and specialises in all things royal. Previously labelled the "Queen of the royals," Georgia knows the whose who and what's what when it comes to the monarchy. When she's not eagerly following the royal family, Georgia enjoys shopping and self-care. She lives with this motto in mind; "if your dreams don't scare you, they aren't big enough."