Under the patronage of King Charles II, the Princess Foundation has embarked on a joint venture with Chanel to offer an intensive embroidery course tailored for aspiring student designers. This initiative presents British students with a unique opportunity to engage in immersive learning and practical work within the foundation's campus, guided by experienced tutors.
The program, aptly named "The Mentors," spans 24 weeks and is hosted at the monarch's Highgrove residence in Gloucestershire.Recent university graduates are eligible to apply for this program, with six students selected annually and awarded bursaries to cover their living expenses.
These fortunate individuals benefit from the expert guidance of tutors, typically operating from the prestigious Arena Lazzaj Delian Perry location. This venue serves as a hub for workshops and collaborations with creative directors from various luxury fashion brands, including Monte Italia and La Marie Emily.
Emily Sharington, the director of the Princess Foundation, expressed her enthusiasm for this collaboration, emphasizing its goal of equipping students with a diverse set of creative and practical skills. This partnership with a global industry leader like Chanel is viewed as a remarkable opportunity within the fashion and textile sector
Many admirers of the royal family see this development as a positive step, particularly in terms of opening doors for young individuals interested in the fashion world. It is seen as a means of providing support to those who may not have the means to attend fashion school or receive formal training in the arts but possess genuine passion and talent for these fields.
This collaboration also carries implications for Meghan Markle, who may perceive it as a subtle response to her, given Chanel's decision to distance itself from the Duchess following a controversy at the Invictus Games. During the event, Meghan wore Chanel cap-toe flats paired with a wide-shaped crew-knit jacket featuring contrasting black piping. However, her behavior at the time led to a backlash that affected the perception of the brand's association with her.
Despite wearing designer clothing, Meghan did not receive offers for collaborations or endorsements from fashion brands. Her fashion choices have faced criticism on various occasions, especially when meeting Catherine, the Duchess of Cambridge, and the future Queen. Critics argued that Meghan's attire during such occasions lacked the expected level of formality, with the perception that she prioritized her comfort over adhering to the standards of dressing for royal engagements.
Some commentators speculate that Meghan's initial expectations upon entering the British royal family were not aligned with the family's ethos, which is characterized by historic wealth and a commitment to serving the public. Ultimately, Meghan's experiences within the royal family, as well as her fashion choices, have been subjects of scrutiny and discussion, with varying opinions on her approach and behavior during her time as a member of the British monarchy.
