Meghan Markle’s royal year: twelve months of marvellously modern outfits

It’s hard to believe that Meghan Markle was only given the title of Duchess of Sussex a year ago.

The former actress has experienced several firsts since entering the royal family. She’s undertaken her first international royal tour, first joint engagement with the Queen and, most importantly, she’s now a first time mum, welcoming baby Archie to the world earlier this month.

As well as adjusting to royal life, she has also adapted her wardrobe to suit the new royal role. 

We investigate Meghan’s royal wardrobe… 

The new nudes

Since becoming a card-carrying member of the royal family, Meghan has shown a particular penchant for neutral shades. 

The 37-year-old stuck to tones of white, cream and blush during her first few months as the Duchess of Sussex. Since then, she has mixed in a few vibrant shades, including bottle green, cherry red and cobalt blue, which have, for the most part, made an appearance when the royal couple have been on overseas tours to Morocco, New Zealand, Australia and Tonga. 

Her love for soft shades has also not diminished and she donned cream throughout her pregnancy, plus presented baby Archie to the world earlier this month wearing a white trench dress by Grace Wales Bonner. 

Go-to Givenchy 

There is no denying that Meghan’s go-to royal designer is Clare Waight Keller, creative director of Givenchy. 

Not only did the designer create Meghan’s breathtaking royal wedding dress, but has continued to dress the duchess for numerous important occasions, including her Royal Ascot debut, first official engagement with the Queen and her surprise appearance at the British Fashion Awards. 

Meghan has also been seen wearing designs by numerous female-led fashion houses, possibly giving a nod to her feminist side. The duchess has also paid homage to local designers whilst travelling to different countries, a royal custom, as well as showing off her modern side by championing sustainable brands. 

Cross-body to clutch bag

Meghan has also adhered to royal etiquette by ditching her beloved cross-body and shoulder bags in favour of a clutch.

Again, a sartorial custom, royals are encouraged to accessorise with a clutch bag, so that should they prefer not to shake hands they can politely hold their bag instead. 

Her favourite bag brands this year have been, in particular order, Gabriela Hearst, Givenchy, Mulberry, Altuzzara and Dior. 

Click through our gallery at the top of this page to see Meghan’s stylish royal year.