This incident took place a few months ago when the Duchess of Sussex, aged 41, was spotted heading to a salon appointment in Santa Barbara. During her walk, she engaged in what seemed to be a deep conversation while frequently checking her phone. Notably, Meghan sported a casual, makeup-free look, donning black ballet flats, black skinny jeans, a striped sweater, and several gold bracelets. She accessorized her ensemble with a Fendi Peek-a-Boo ICU bag valued at $5,400.
Later on, Meghan returned to her Montecito residence, and at that time, her husband, Prince Harry, and their children were not seen with her.
Nikki Martinez, a manager at Fendi's Beverly Hills Rodeo Drive store, retweeted an old article related to Meghan's visit and confirmed that the Duchess did indeed visit the store on that particular day. However, Martinez also shared that Meghan's shopping excursion didn't go as smoothly as planned. Meghan displayed impatience and accused Martinez of not respecting customers.
It was later revealed that a few days prior to her visit, Meghan had sent an official letter to Fendi, signing it with her royal title, in which she requested free bags and shoes for upcoming press appearances. However, the Fendi team chose not to respond to this request, as they were well aware that sending complimentary items to members of the royal family was not an accepted practice.
The notion of providing her with freebies was seen as detrimental to their brand. If anything, Meghan seemed to represent a less polished and more haphazard image, contrary to the polished appearance typically associated with fashion brands. Her lack of loyalty to any particular brand or product spoke volumes about her priorities and approach.
Martinez emphasized that he tried to maintain politeness during Meghan's visit but ultimately had to decline her request. Additionally, Meghan appeared uncomfortable with the Fendi Peek-a-Boo ICU bag she carried during her visit.
Since that time, Meghan has not been seen with any items or accessories from Fendi. In an interview with the Washington Post to promote a new book, a source noted that Meghan had a history of enjoying celebrity gifting events before her marriage to Prince Harry. At such events, celebrities are invited to select products as freebies with the expectation that they will be photographed with these items for media coverage.
Meghan had attended several of these events, accumulating various freebies before her royal role. However, after becoming a member of the royal family, Meghan and Harry had to abstain from such commercial activities and deals, despite numerous opportunities that arose. Meghan had to forgo potentially lucrative deals due to her royal status.
In the past, Meghan had been seen at various pre-Emmy kit lounges and beauty product events, fully embracing the celebrity gifting culture. These events allowed celebrities and influencers to receive complimentary products while interacting with the media. Meghan's transition from enjoying celebrity freebies to adhering to royal protocols marked a significant shift in her public life.
