Queen Camilla's 'small gesture of anxiety' when approached by the Prince and Princess of Wales

Despite attempts to show a 'united front,' Queen Camilla's 'small gesture of anxiety' was highlighted during a recent royal engagement

Queen Camilla's 'small gesture of anxiety'
(Image credit: Getty Images)

Queen Camilla's 'small gesture of anxiety' has been revealed by a body language expert who analyzed members of the Royal Family at a recent engagement.


South African President Cyril Ramaphosa visited the UK on official state business this week. In celebration of the President's arrival, senior members of the Royal Family met with the President at a ceremonial welcome at Horse Guards Parade.

As the senior royals gathered together, their familial relationships were made clear. Judi James, a body language expert, told The Express that while some members of the family were delighted to see one another, others showcased very different emotions.

"There were strong signals of positive anticipation from Charles as his daughter-in-law Kate walked up the steps to greet him," said Judi. "His hands seemed to pause above his pockets and his warm eye-gaze looked focused on her, while Camilla appeared to perform an even warmer, affectionate smile aimed at William."

Kate Middleton

(Image credit: Karwai Tang / Contributor / Getty Images)

Judi added that despite some warmth from Camilla towards her stepson, she showed anxiety as she greeted Catherine and used her handbag to block herself from Kate unintentionally.

"There was a small gesture of anxiety from Camilla as the very elegant William and Kate approached she lifted her bag in front of her torso in a barrier gesture," said Judi.

Kate Middleton allowed Camilla to shine, seen here side-by-side

(Image credit: Future// Image 1: Photo by Leon Neal/Getty Images// Image 2: Photo by Karwai Tang/WireImage via Getty)

The expert added that despite anxiety, there was a clear aim from all of the members of the family to present themselves as a united front. "There is clearly a desire to show a unified front and a family vibe from the new top tier of the Firm though, with smiles, chatting, and polite body language signals all round," said the expert.

"Camilla seemed especially keen to promote a family look here, not just with her maternal-looking smiles but in the way she turned her head to join in the conversation between William and Kate," Judi added.

"Kate’s dimpled smile and her raised brows showed a polite and attentive engagement as Camilla spoke to her across William, who adopts a fig leaf hand pose to suggest he is in listening rather than speaking mode," she concluded.

Catherine, Princess of Wales attends the Ceremonial Welcome at Horse Guards Parade

(Image credit: Photo by Karwai Tang/WireImage via Getty)

At this event, Kate Middleton teamed a fuchsia Emilia Wickstead dress with Princess Diana's pearl earrings and classic Mulberry Bayswater bag. It is thought that by wearing this look, Kate Middleton allowed Camilla to shine as Queen Consort. Letting Camilla have the spotlight was particularly poignant, as this was the first State Visit since members of the family have taken on new titles.

Laura Harman

Laura is the Entertainment Editor for woman&home who primarily covers television, film, and celebrity news. Laura loves drinking and eating and can often be found trying to get reservations at London's trendiest restaurants. When she's not wining and dining, Laura can also be found travelling, baking, and hiking with her dog.