The Duchess of Sussex may be deepening the rift with the royal family following her latest announcement.
Meghan Markle’s newest business venture is poised to stir controversy within royal circles.
At 43, the Duchess has unveiled an exclusive online boutique featuring a curated selection of luxury fashion items, including a £1,068 "Windsor" gown and £600 Saint Laurent sandals.
Traditionally, royal protocol has prohibited working royals from engaging in commercial endorsements, a major factor that contributed to Meghan and Prince Harry’s decision to step back from their roles in 2020.
Now, with Meghan’s expanding business empire under her lifestyle brand, As Ever, her latest project raises concerns over the intersection of personal branding and royal associations.
Introducing the collection to her 2.6 million Instagram followers, Meghan highlighted items from renowned brands such as Heidi Merrick, Reformation, and Saint Laurent.
"Many of you have asked, so here you go! A little shopping to start the week," she captioned a video showcasing the storefront.
The shop offers an array of high-end wardrobe staples in neutral hues, including a £600 pair of Saint Laurent sandals and a nearly £400 Maya Brenner necklace, aptly named The Happiness Retreat.
Interest in the collection was so overwhelming that some third-party retail sites temporarily crashed as eager shoppers rushed to make purchases, proving that the "Meghan effect" remains as influential as ever.
