From her wedding dress to her maternity wear, Meghan Markle’s wardrobe is a topic which no doubt fascinates many. Frequently stepping out in stunning designer outfits, admirers from both the UK and on an international scale seem to love keeping up with what the Duchess of Sussex has been wearing. While being a senior member of the Royal Family, the 37-year-old is unlikely to ever become queen consort, with her husband Prince Harry being sixth in line to of succession to the throne, a situation which, in the past, was similar to Sarah Ferguson’s. Meanwhile, Kate Middleton, 37, may well take on a huge role in the monarchy one day – with her husband Prince William, 36, currently second in the running to be King.
Despite being of similar ages, sisters-in-law Kate and Meghan’s royal futures seem set to look very different.
And, according to an expert stylist whose client list features Princess Eugenie, 28, and Princess Beatrice, 30, this could be a for one particular reason.
Holly Jade O’Leary spoke exclusively to Express.co.uk about the fashion choices of the two Duchesses, as well as those of Sarah Ferguson, 59, and the late Princess Diana – who was at one point in line to become queen consort.
Addressing how Kate is, and Diana was, set to be consort to the crown, the fashion designer explained that the Duchess of York and the Duchess of Sussex play a different role in the Royal Family.
And, seeing as it’s unlikely either of them will have take a leading role in the monarchy, this provides them with more “opportunity” to wear incredible designer outfits.
“Meghan Markle and Sarah both play a glamorous role in the fantasy created around the life of the royals, with opportunity to wear show stopping couture couture whilst pregnant, celebrate maternity and engage the public’s intrigue with the Royal Family,” she said.
Holly went on to address how the pair have reflected their personality in the style choices they make for public appearances.
The stylist continued: “Both Meghan and Sarah Ferguson are strong, independent and beautiful women, with charismatic personalities which perhaps lend them more opportunity to define their own characters in the public eye through choice of outfits, whilst retaining the classic tailoring within their style and heritage values.”
Earlier this week, Kate was pictured arriving in Lewisham for a visit to the charity Family Action.
The Duchess of Cambridge sported a stunning green Beulah London dress, as well as a black belt at her waist.
She teamed the look with a pair of dark green pointed heels by Gianvito Rossi and an LK Bennett clutch bag.
Her outfit, which was accessorised with sparkling drop earrings, is thought to have cost around £2,600 in total.
And, it seems that Kate may have sent a subtle message through her fashion choice.
By wearing the dress that she did, Kate supported a cause which is close to her heart.
That’s because of the values which Beulah London describe themselves as having.
Their social media description says that they are “a luxury womenswear brand with a social mission.
“Every beautiful garment we sell helps us support vulnerable women through employment.”
Who is Meghan Markle? Quick profile
Meghan Markle was born Rachel Meghan Markle, on August 4, 1981 to parents Doria Ragland and father Thomas Markle.
Her father was previously married to Roslyn Loveless and Meghan has two elder half sibling – sister Samantha Markle and brother Thomas Markle Junior.
Actress
Meghan’s first television appearance in the USA was in an episode of the medical drama General Hospital in 2002.
She later moved on to roles in CSI, Without a Trace and Castle along with bit parts in Hollywood films including Get Him to the Greek, Remember Me and Horrible Bosses.
Meghan was also a “briefcase girl” on Deal or No Deal – but her most famous role was as Rachel Zane in legal drama Suits, which launched in 2011.
She was written out in the finale of the seventh series when her character got married, which aired in April 2018 – just before she got married herself.
Charity and humanitarian work
Meghan Markle’s career in television has gone hand-in-hand with her support for causes close to her heart.
She wrote about the stigma around menstrual health in an article for Time magazine and was a Global Ambassador for World Vision Canada – with whom she travelled to Rwanda for the charity’s Clean Water Campaign.
And her commitment to gender equality has seen her work with the United Nations – receiving a standing ovation in 2015 for her speech to mark International Women’s Day.
Relationships
In September 2011, she wed film producer Trevor Engelson, who she began dating in 2004.
But the pair divorced two years later in August 2013, citing irreconcilable difference.
She was in a relationship with celebrity chef Cory Vitiello for almost two years, before they broke it off in 2016 but the two remain good friends.
And in June 2016, she met Prince Harry on a blind date set up by a mutual friend.
Their relationship began in October that year and just over one year later, on November 27, 2017, the pair announced their engagement.
They married on May 19, 2018 at St George’s Chapel in Windsor Castle.
Meghan’s heritage
Some have claimed Meghan Markle is the first mixed-race member of the Royal Family.
Historians are still arguing about Queen Charlotte, the wife of King George III.
But Meghan will be the first royal to openly embrace a mixed-race heritage.
She has written about the difficulties of being a biracial actress in Hollywood as she claims she is not black enough for some roles and not white enough for others.