Photo: Instagram/sussexroyal
When Rachel Zane first popped up on Suits (urh, ICYMI, that’s Meghan Markle’s character), it was hard to not admire how bad-ass she was (seriously, there are tonnes of videos on Youtube of her taking down her opponents in court) and how stylish she was – the perfectly tailored blazers, the delicate gold jewellery, the pencil skirt that hit just above her knees, and the way she pulled off neutrals (with the customary coffee cup in hand of course).
Fast forward a few years later and suddenly, she’s the sweetheart of the British royalty family and what better way to commemorate her birthday on Aug 4 than the 10 ways that has proven she’s one seriously stylish royal. For other reasons, simply go to World Vision – this is a Duchess with a big heart.
1. She keeps her jewellery classy.
In today’s world where the motto is to pile on as many accessories as possible for the ‘gram, Meghan’s take on jewellery is pleasingly simple – her engagement ring stacked lovingly on her wedding ring. For those of us #singleladies, we should be following this rule too: Two rings maximum for you to truly make a statement.
2. Her simple dress solution.
It’s cut a little loose on the body which makes it very forgiving (pre-brunch or post-brunch. Now throw in a buffet), it comes in a flattering shade of blue, and it actually has pockets. We don’t know what Meghan was laughing about here in this photo but we’re pretty sure she’s pleased she was wearing this summery dress on what seemed like an equally summery day.
3. Her easiest way to elevate.
When you’re tasked to “fancify” a dress because of your evening plans or because Susan from HR has lodged a complaint, you don’t need to whip out your jewellery or swap out your shoes (unless you’re urh, wearing slippers). Just follow what Meghan does: cinch your waist in with a contrasting colour belt. Simple. Bonus: The Queen’s lime green outfit has sparked many a meme. Seriously, google it.
4. She does love her neutrals.
Yeah we’d be happy too if we were married to Prince Harry but if there’s one way to emulate Meghan’s life, it’ll be to don on an off-white coat that’s an outerwear game changer – it’s not as stark as black, common as brown or as clinical as white. It’s in the perfect shade of off-white that softens what you’re wearing underneath. Just stay clear from any sauces.
5. She keeps her makeup natural.
We don’t know what beauty youtubers have been telling you but that contour + eyelid cut crease + severe highlighted look shouldn’t be your everyday routine (no judgement if it is though) because Meghan proves that wearing a light foundation that allows your natural skin to show through is the latest #stylestatement and looks best paired with subtle smokey eyes.
ALSO READ: MEGHAN MARKLE’S MAKEUP ARTIST REVEALS THE DUCHESS’S FAVOURITE BEAUTY PRODUCTS AND MORE
6. She’s all about the statement earring.
Sometimes, the easiest way to look polished enough to party isn’t dramatic makeup or look-at-me-outfits. The simplest solution is a statement earring like the one Meghan’s wearing: it’s the chandelier earring that’s as fun to look at as it is to wear. Whilst there are so many varieties out there at different price points, it’s almost small enough to stash into your bag if you need an immediate “pick-me-up”.
7. Her love for shift dress.
It might be the post-Suits hangover because her character wore them so much but Meghan wears the classic shift dress (it always hits just below her knees) for everyday life too. It’s conservative as it is easy-living (seriously, it’s your new weekend wear) and looks good whether a blazer or denim jacket is tossed over it. Try one that’s a jewel toned colour instead to seriously flatter your skin colour.
8. She does sexy, albeit subtly.
This isn’t Kardashian meets Hadid meets the-average-youtuber sexy, this is the subtle sexy that Meghan has perfected over the years. Instead of hiking up her dress’s hemlines or showing some seriously deep cleavage, the Duchess goes instead for transparent sleeves on her dress because sometimes, it’s more fun to keep people guessing.
9. Her downtown cool get-ups.
Sometimes, even the royalty need a break and we don’t blame Meghan for keeping it casual like in this photo. Whilst we doubt you can ever wear such an outfit in our little red dot, let this outfit serve as your next inspiration for #airportootds – a giant scarf you can use to shield your eyes or use as a blanket, a chunky comfortable knit sweater and black jeans in case you spill something on yourself mid-flight.
10. Her constant sense of style.
Cliché yes, but we love how the Duchess has never really strayed from her own personal style even when she ascended the throne. Pictured here at her first public appearance with Prince Harry, she’s wearing un-royalty like clothing but comfort was still key to her – the oversized white shirt, jeans and ballet flats. If there’s anything we’ve learnt from the Duchess, it’s that whilst comfort is key, what makes you happy is still inevitably more stylish.
ALSO READ: FIRST PICTURES OF ROYAL BABY ARCHIE (AND WHY HE HAS A DIFFERENT LAST NAME FROM PRINCE HARRY)