Beyond the most avid watchers of the hit USA TV series Suits, few people really knew about Meghan Markle–the woman we now know as the Duchess of Sussex. It was only after her high profile marriage to Princess Diana’s second son, Prince Harry, Duke of Sussex, in 2018 that she was really thrust into the spotlight.
Now, she is one of the most talked-about members of the British royal family–for better or worse. The couple’s abrupt departure from the United Kingdom and their similarly shocking decision to step back as senior members of the royal family made waves in 2020; 3 years later, they continue to be the subject of headlines all over the world, especially after the release of their limited Netflix docu-series, Harry & Meghan.
One thing’s for sure, though. The Duchess has an impeccable sense of style that is chic yet relaxed–meaning, it’s utterly accessible. Here are some of the fashion rules that Meghan lives by so that you can adopt them for yourself:
Breaking down the Duchess’ style
Born and raised in Los Angeles, California, Meghan Markle’s style is defined by the city from whence she came (and now lives in). It’s easy, breezy, and never too high brow.
That isn’t to say that she doesn’t wear designer clothes. Like all celebrities, she has access to some of the most recognizable name brands in the world. However, the Duchess chooses her pieces carefully, and on her downtime, she’s as comfortable in ripped jeans and a white button down with the sleeves folded up as much as the next person.
“Classic with a twist” is how it’s usually described. While Meghan isn’t afraid to step out in fancy threads for special occasions, she keeps it low-key on the daily, in high-quality basics that you can get from just about anywhere.
Effortless elegance, the Meghan way
Put on simple jewelry
Meghan (or M, as her prince calls her) is hardly ever seen without an accessory on, even on her downtime. Whether she’s stepping out for a yoga class or sitting down for an interview, the Duchess usually wears at least one piece of jewelry besides her famous engagement ring.
For the most part, she’s fond of minimalist trinkets and narrow silhouettes: think dainty rings on multiple fingers, or a delicate, thin strand of gold around her neck with a small pendant or bar hanging from it.
Women’s simple jewelry like this is easy to find: Honeycat Jewelry specializes in them. The California-based brand offers women’s simple jewelry in styles that the Duchess would love. Consider picking up a couple of their minimalist rings to start, or incorporating one of their bar necklaces into your daily outfits. Their Classic Bar Necklace, for one, is a dead ringer for the Missoma “Name Bar” necklace that the Duchess wore on the Harry & Meghan documentary.
Invest in white shirts
The Duchess is a huge fan of white button downs, and has been seen wearing them on numerous occasions. She wore a white button down during her first public appearance with Prince Harry at the Invictus Games in 2017, as well as during the couple’s visit to Dubbo, Australia on their first royal tour. It’s a great foundational piece that can be dressed up or down, and it deserves a spot in your Meghan capsule wardrobe.
Throw on a cardigan
If there’s one thing that’s readily apparent about the Duchess just from looking at her, it’s the fact that she loves to be cozy. This is evidenced by her collection of cardigans, which she wears often during the aforementioned docu-series, as well as in other multiple occasions.
Just like a great white shirt, a solid cardigan or sweater is an excellent foundational piece that can be easily paired with other things in your wardrobe. For added style points and comfort, invest in one in a luxurious cashmere fabric.
