Battles are fought between nations, but in a British Royal Family swathed in the 21st-century pop culture, it is between duchesses, armed with candy canes, on top of everything. From glittering Christmas specials to carol concerts, this holiday season is offering a showdown brought to you by expert dissections, minus swords, of course, because the weapon is gift-giving, of course. 

Meghan Markle's Christmas kitchen might be turning into a holiday wonderland, complete with crafts and warmth, but experts seem to claim that a tiara might shine brighter. 

Royal commentator Richard Fitzwilliams recently weighed in on Meghan Markle’s With Love, Meghan: Holiday Celebration, which premiered on Netflix on December 3, 2025. Almost clashing with Kate Middleton’s well-loved annual carol concert at Westminster Abbey, which commenced on December 5, 2025, Fitzwilliams claimed that while Markle's was an optimistic spectacle, Middleton's gravitas remained undefeated.

“Meghan is secretly battling to emulate some of the magic that Kate clearly creates", Fitzwilliams said.

"But it is not working", his conversation with OK! magazine recorded. While Markle’s special spread warmth and festive joy, it seems not to have captured the traditional royal sobriety that Middleton naturally embodies for the royal expert.​

Markle wants to be some sort of "Californian Mary Poppins", as per Richard Fitzwilliams' description of her efforts to OK! Magazine. This difference has sparked lighthearted debates about how women in the royal family blend personal style with public expectations during such emblematic seasons.

Meghan Markle Kicks Off the Holidays With a Bright and Charming Video

If holidays were a recipe, Middleton might add royal heirloom spices. But Markle is more privy to sprinkling celebrity flair to offer deliciously different results.

Meghan Markle’s fifty-six-minute Netflix holiday special is a cozy mix of crafts, cooking, musical performances, and celebrity appearances like Naomi Osaka. It is designed to share joy through heartfelt moments and stylish celebrations. However, unlike Kate Middleton’s grounded and tradition-steeped Christmas events, Markle’s special does opt for the more modern, lifestyle-oriented holiday vibe.

Meghan Markle’s holiday special made its mark in a distinctly contemporary style, even as it compares, sometimes awkwardly, to the timeless grace of Kate Middleton’s festive appearances. Fitzwilliams’ remarks nicely sum up why Markle’s chic, informal celebration might feel different from the stately rituals Middleton has championed. But alas, it remains for the spectators to decide which suits them best. 

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Which of the two royal Christmas celebrations are you a greater fan of? Let us know in the comments below!