Meghan Markle’s barefoot confession: What left Prince William and Kate Middleton freaked out?

Meghan Markle has opened up about her unique way of welcoming guests and how it once left Prince William and Kate Middleton visibly uncomfortable.

Speaking at a California bookstore event, the Duchess of Sussex explained why going shoeless at home feels more natural to her, even if it’s not quite royal-approved.

Here are some of the key insights of her confession:

1. Meghan loves greeting guests “barefoot” and in an apron

During a talk at Godmother’s Bookstore in Summerland, California, Meghan shared her favorite way to host visitors.

“I love to answer the door barefoot and with an apron on,” she said, describing her casual approach to hospitality at her Montecito home.

2. Her goal? Making guests feel comfortable

“It demystifies,” she told the audience.

Meghan further added, “People walk in and go, ‘Oh, she’s in this with me.’ And what are they drawn to? Your kitchen. They come right in, and suddenly everyone’s a little bit softened.”

3. The casual style once shocked Prince William and Kate Middleton

Meghan’s easygoing attitude wasn’t always well received. In his memoir Spare, Prince Harry revealed that when Meghan first met his brother and sister-in-law in 2016 that "completely freaked him out". 

He recoiled. Willy didn’t hug many strangers, whereas Meghan "hugged most strangers", as per the prince.

4. She recalled the awkward encounter in her netflix series

In Harry & Meghan, the former Suits star reflected on the moment, saying, “I remember I was in ripped jeans, and I was barefoot,” she said, adding “Like, I was a hugger, I’ve always been a hugger. I didn't realize that that is really jarring for a lot of Brits.”

5. She found royal formality “surprising” 

Reflecting on her first encounter with William and Kate, Meghan admitted she was taken aback by the royal stiffness that extended beyond public appearances.

“I guess I quickly realized that the formality on the outside carried through on the inside. That there is a forward-facing way of being,” she explained, adding that she found it “surprising.”

Despite the critic and backlash, Meghan Markle seems unbothered and she still embracing her “barefoot and apron” philosophy for a warmer, more personal welcome.