Why Queen, country and family come first for Kate Middleton

Kate Middleton knows what's important. Photo / Supplied

The Duchess of Cambridge has told friends and family that nothing is more important to her than "Queen, country and family", according to a source.

Although she is a style icon who is rarely far from the headlines for her elegant fashion choices, Kate, 37, has revealed that she is driven by a far more serious purpose.

One source told the Daily Mail: "Kate's view is that Queen, country and family come first.

"She is very clear on her priorities and the values that guide how she lives and works."

And palace insiders have also given an insight into how the mother-of-three runs her household to achieve her aims, adopting a surprisingly collegial approach.

"She takes the time to listen to ideas from the most junior members in her team," said a source.

"Afterwards they'll say, 'Wow, she knows my name. She asked me what I thought.'

"She is also loyal and if you make a mistake will back you regardless."

Kate has eschewed the Instagram posts favoured by her sister-in-law the Duchess of Sussex and chosen to speak directly about good causes while on engagements.

The Duchess, who was once afraid of public speaking, which led to her talking in affected, clipped tones, now speaks faultlessly about causes close to her heart in a more natural voice.

Her increased confidence has, inevitably, been reflected in her wardrobe, too, with a subtle makeover replacing her old "armour" of knee-length tailored dresses and clutch bags with bold, designer blouses and chic mini-handbags. She has a new hairstyle and has toned down her makeup.

The insight into Kate's values emerges in a special edition of the Mail on Sunday's You magazine today, which reveals how she has become increasingly self-assured and focused. A source said: "She is very clear on her priorities and the values that guide how she lives and works. It's about treating other people well to get the best out of them.

"She takes her role very seriously and just wants to do the best job she can."

With attention fixed on recent controversies surrounding the Duke and Duchess of Sussex and Prince Andrew, Kate's quiet transformation has gone almost unnoticed. However, aides say she is finally letting her guard down and is not afraid to be vulnerable.