Meghan Markle sets a new trend with a cross-body bag

London: Seems like Meghan Markle is taking a significantly more casual approach to royal style.

The Duchess-to-be recently visited Edinburgh Castle alongside Prince Harry during their first official joint visit to Scotland.

She not only skipped a demure dress in favour of polished black pants, but also slung a Strathberry bag across her body - a royal first.

Though her handbag broke a royal tradition, the move left the former 'Suits' actress hands free to accept gifts and shake hands with the adoring crowds.

While the Queen favours a small black Laurner handbag, Kate Middleton tends to opt for a clutch bag.

According to royal insiders, Kate does this to avoid awkward encounters with people who may try to shake her hand, the Sun reported.

Beaumont Etiquette expert Myka Meier told Good Housekeeping: "When the duchess is at an event, she holds her bag in front of her in both hands when shaking hands might be awkward. Or she can place it in one hand to have the other free. It never gets tucked under an arm or placed on the ground or table."