PDF Summary:HRH, by Elizabeth Holmes

What messages and meanings lie behind the clothing choices of the British monarchy? In her book HRH, Elizabeth Holmes unravels the complex sartorial strategies that the royal family employs to establish and reinforce their public image.

From the unwavering uniformity of Queen Elizabeth II's attire, conveying stability and tradition, to the modern expressiveness embodied in Princess Diana and Meghan Markle's bold fashion statements, Holmes explores how fashion is a powerful instrument for the monarchy. Her analysis delves into the blend of individuality, cultural representation, and diplomatic influence woven into the royals' carefully curated wardrobes, unveiling the thought behind each piece.

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Diana harnessed the power of her clothing choices to express herself and regain her sense of self amidst marital turmoil.

Diana's marriage to Prince Charles, marked by turmoil, took place in the unyielding scrutiny of the public eye, with each of her actions meticulously monitored. Holmes explains how Diana, increasingly frustrated by her husband’s infidelity and strained relationship with the royal family, turned to fashion as a means of personal expression and reclaiming her voice. She exhibited her defiance of the conventional norms associated with her role by selecting dresses of a shorter stature and applying a striking shade of red to her nails, which indicated her resistance to the usual limitations of her status.

Diana often chose her most striking outfits during periods when her personal marital difficulties were attracting public attention, as noted by Holmes. Her clothing appeared to represent a reaffirmation of her dominance. Her attire served as a silent testament to her feelings, offering a means of expression where words about her struggles were not freely spoken. Holmes views Diana's intentional fashion decisions as a powerful method for engaging with the public, who saw her as a symbol of resilience and a self-reliant woman navigating her own path.

Practical Tips

• Create a personal style manifesto to articulate your unique fashion identity and values. Start by writing down what you believe in and how you want to express yourself through your clothing. For example, if sustainability is important to you, commit to purchasing second-hand or from eco-friendly brands. If you want to challenge gender norms, incorporate unisex or androgynous pieces into your wardrobe.
• Design a "resilience accessory" that you can wear or carry daily as a personal symbol of strength. This could be a piece of jewelry, a keychain, or a scarf that you've created or customized to represent your journey. Whenever you face a tough situation, this accessory will serve as a tangible reminder of your resilience, much like a totem or amulet.
• Host a "silent storytelling" fashion swap with friends. Invite them to bring clothing that represents a significant time in their life and share the story behind it without speaking, using only the clothing item and perhaps a written note to convey the emotion or event it represents. This encourages a deeper understanding of how fashion can express personal history and feelings.
• Use fashion as a form of non-verbal communication to express your emotions or significant life changes when you feel unable to articulate them verbally. For instance, if you're going through a tough time, you might choose an outfit that makes you feel empowered or wear a particular color that signifies resilience to you. This can be a subtle way to signal to those around you that you're facing challenges without having to discuss them openly.

Meghan Markle's fashion selections reflect her biracial heritage and her commitment to social impact.

Meghan Markle's arrival at the royal family marked a pivotal moment, which Holmes noted, impacting the monarchy as well as its interactions with the world of fashion. As the first person of mixed heritage in the modern royal family, Meghan brought a new perspective and heightened awareness of social impact through her choices in fashion. Her clothing choices reflected her unique character and served as a testament to her commitment to celebrating diversity and advocating for environmental sustainability.

Meghan intentionally chose a diverse range of designers and labels that demonstrated her dedication to inclusivity and representation.

Meghan's fashion selections from the beginning were a testament to her dedication to inclusivity, as she favored designers and brands that not only came from a variety of backgrounds but also shared her principles. Meghan frequently showcased clothing from a blend of established luxury designers and emerging talents in the fashion industry, placing particular focus on brands established by women or committed to sustainable practices. Her deliberate diversification of apparel options highlights a profound commitment to supporting underrepresented communities and promoting ethical conduct within the typically exclusive domain of luxury fashion.

In her book, Elizabeth Holmes highlights Meghan's support for designers like Stella McCartney, renowned for her commitment to sustainable fashion, as well as Sarah Flint and Gabriela Hearst, brands founded by women that represent a contemporary and subtle elegance. Meghan's selection of Clare Waight Keller of Givenchy as the designer for her wedding gown was a powerful endorsement of female empowerment. Choosing Waight Keller of Givenchy, who broke new ground as the first British woman at the helm of the renowned French fashion house, underscored a commitment to elevating women's roles in a sector often dominated by male leadership. Meghan's subtle yet impactful declaration mirrored her individual ethos and the position she sought to embody within the monarchy.

Context

• The emphasis on sustainability in her fashion choices also connects to a growing global awareness and concern about environmental issues within the fashion industry, known for its significant ecological impact.
• The decision to wear clothing from emerging designers provided these brands with significant exposure and commercial opportunities, as royal fashion choices are closely followed and often lead to increased sales and visibility for the designers involved.
• By selecting emerging talents, Meghan helped bring attention to new designers who might not have had the same level of exposure, potentially boosting their careers and encouraging diversity in the industry.
• This is a growing trend where consumers choose products based on ethical considerations, such as the brand's environmental policies, labor practices, and social impact. Meghan's choices reflect this broader consumer shift towards more responsible purchasing decisions.
• An American designer celebrated for her luxury footwear, Sarah Flint emphasizes craftsmanship and comfort. Her brand is known for its direct-to-consumer model, which allows for high-quality products at more accessible prices.
• The decision to work with Waight Keller highlighted a shift towards modernity and progressiveness within the royal family, aligning with Meghan's own values and public persona.
• The fashion industry has traditionally been male-dominated, especially in leadership roles at major luxury brands, making Waight Keller's position a significant achievement for gender representation.

Meghan utilizes her style choices to connect with and uplift communities that frequently go unnoticed.

During her royal engagements, Meghan often chose outfits that paid tribute to local customs and fostered connections with communities that were typically underrepresented. Meghan demonstrates her respect for local traditions and her commitment to forging genuine relationships by choosing to don traditional attire and selecting regional designers when she travels. Her choice of attire resonated with spectators, particularly within certain circles, illustrating a monarch who advocated for inclusivity and considered fashion as a means to promote understanding.

Holmes emphasizes the numerous occasions Meghan chose to wear clothing by Canadian designers, a nod to the Commonwealth country she resided in during her time acting in the TV show Suits. The veil Meghan chose for her wedding was adorned with floral patterns representing each country within the modern royal family's international reach. During her 2019 tour of Southern Africa, Meghan, attired in a vibrant red outfit, spoke about her complex identity, acknowledging her positions as a mother, spouse, and her cultural background as a person with mixed ethnic heritage. Her fervent support for gender equality and social justice, combined with these moments, cemented her status as a symbol of compassion and inclusivity on the world stage.

Context

• While generally positive, this approach can also face challenges, such as accusations of cultural appropriation if not done respectfully or authentically, highlighting the importance of genuine engagement and understanding.
• Canada is a member of the Commonwealth, a political association of 56 member states, most of which are former territories of the British Empire. Meghan's fashion choices can be seen as a nod to the shared history and values within this group.
• The veil was designed by Clare Waight Keller, the artistic director of Givenchy at the time. It was a significant piece, measuring 16 feet in length, and took hundreds of hours to embroider.
• Southern Africa holds historical and cultural significance for the British royal family, and Meghan's visit was seen as an opportunity to strengthen ties and address contemporary social issues.
• Her approach to public engagements often involves direct interaction with marginalized communities, emphasizing listening and learning from their experiences to better advocate for their needs.

The sartorial choices made by female members of the royal family have an impact on economic patterns, cultural shifts, and global diplomatic ties.

The attire choices of the British royal family extend their impact beyond mere fashion and symbolism, playing a substantial role in the United Kingdom's economic, cultural, and international relations. Holmes examines how the choices of royal family figures, particularly those of Kate and Meghan, influence economic situations, shape cultural norms, and bolster global diplomatic ties.

The duchess's ability to heighten public engagement and strengthen different areas of the economy at a national level.

Since Kate Middleton became associated with the royal family, her choice of attire has consistently triggered a surge in consumer demand, boosting revenue and raising the visibility of the brands she wears. The influence of the duchess in shaping public preferences and boosting the global visibility of British fashion labels is commonly known as the "Kate Effect."

Kate intentionally selected attire created by domestic designers to support the UK's fashion sector.

Kate consistently chooses outfits from British designers and brands for various events, ranging from routine commitments to major official gatherings, throughout her association with the royal family. Holmes notes that this deliberate support has significantly strengthened the financial robustness of the UK's clothing industry, improving profits and promoting positive acknowledgment for local fashion pioneers, from the renowned designer brand Alexander McQueen to smaller scale businesses like Reiss and comparable firms. Kate's attire selection demonstrates her understanding of the royal family's responsibility to boost national morale and highlight the significant economic consequences of these choices.

Context

• The "Kate Effect" refers to the phenomenon where items worn by Kate Middleton often sell out quickly, boosting sales for the brands she chooses.
• Alexander McQueen is a prestigious British fashion house known for its innovative and avant-garde designs. The brand has a significant impact on global fashion trends and is often associated with high-profile events and celebrity endorsements.
• The concept of "soft power" is relevant here, as the royal family uses cultural influence rather than direct political power to impact public perception and international relations.
• Supporting local designers aligns with broader economic strategies to promote domestic industries and reduce reliance on imports.

The public has shown a significant fascination with the fashion decisions made by Kate, leading to the creation of numerous blogs that focus on replicating her clothing choices.

Kate's style selections are meticulously observed and scrutinized by media and ardent fans, sparking a global fascination with her wardrobe decisions. The increasing interest has resulted in the creation of many blogs and social media platforms that analyze her fashion choices and provide tips for adapting her wardrobe to suit various financial limits. Holmes perceives the allure as emblematic of the inherent affability and motivational essence reflected through the sartorial choices of Kate.

This tendency, while rooted in the world of style, extends past mere admiration for Kate's sartorial selections; it involves establishing a connection with her by emulating her clothing preferences. Fans who resonate with her fashion choices feel a sense of camaraderie and shared experience when they emulate Kate's sartorial decisions. The enduring fascination with the royal family emphasizes the significance of accessible fashion.

Other Perspectives

• The term "scrutinize" implies a critical examination, but much of the attention Kate's style receives could be characterized as admiration or inspiration rather than scrutiny.
• The term "fascination" could be considered too strong to describe the general public's interest in Kate's fashion, as for many people it might be a passing curiosity rather than a deep or sustained fascination.
• The proliferation of blogs centered on one individual's fashion choices could stifle creativity and individual expression in fashion, as it promotes emulation over personal style development.
• The replication of Kate's style does not necessarily equate to accessibility in fashion, as the cost of even the adapted versions of her wardrobe may still be prohibitive for many individuals.
• Emulating fashion choices does not necessarily create a genuine sense of camaraderie, as true connection often requires deeper shared experiences or values beyond superficial style mimicry.
• The fascination with royal fashion could be criticized for perpetuating a narrow standard of beauty and style that does not reflect the diversity of the public.

Meghan's strategic choice of designers and labels during royal engagements showcases her sartorial diplomacy.

Meghan Markle, similar to Princess Diana, has skillfully used her fashion selections to engage in diplomacy at royal functions, honoring local customs, supporting national industries, and highlighting her commitment to social influence. Holmes argues that Meghan's background in the performing arts, along with her global perspective, played a role in her intentional and strategic choice of clothing.

She advocates for fashion brands led by women, particularly those dedicated to sustainable practices, highlighting their positive impact.

The book underscores her unwavering commitment to supporting clothing brands that prioritize sustainable and ethical production, underscoring the importance of their dedication to responsible practices. She has worn clothing from designers who are celebrated for their dedication to sustainable fashion, including pieces from Reformation, a brand distinguished by its emphasis on ethical manufacturing methods and the incorporation of materials that are kind to the environment. Meghan prioritizes the creation of social impact, reflecting her core values and highlighting the importance of mindful consumption within the often extravagant world of royal fashion.

Practical Tips

• You can support women-led fashion brands by consciously choosing where to shop. Start by researching local and online stores that are owned or managed by women, and make a commitment to purchase a certain percentage of your wardrobe from these sources. This not only helps you become a more informed consumer but also directly contributes to the success of women in the fashion industry.
• Implement a "30 wears test" before buying new clothes, where you commit to only purchasing items you can envision wearing at least 30 times. This mindset encourages you to think long-term about your fashion choices and to invest in higher-quality, more sustainable pieces that will last, rather than impulse buying trendy items that quickly go out of style.
• Develop a habit of reaching out to companies to inquire about their responsible practices. After each purchase, take a moment to send an email or fill out a contact form on the company's website asking about their sustainability initiatives or ethical sourcing. This not only increases your awareness but also signals to companies that their customers care about these issues.

Meghan's choice of clothing labels often results in a substantial increase in their economic success.

Meghan's selection of clothing, while temporary, greatly elevated the visibility of the brands she wore, with smaller and less recognized labels experiencing substantial gains. Meghan's intentional choice of clothing from emerging designers often resulted in a significant increase in sales and gave these brands extraordinary global exposure. Meghan's impact, while not as thoroughly documented as that of Kate, underscores her ability to leverage her role to empower and support those who align with her values.

Other Perspectives

• The perception of economic success could be skewed by media attention and not necessarily reflect a substantial change in the company's financial health or profitability.
• The focus on Meghan's influence on brand visibility could overshadow the efforts of the brands' own marketing and public relations strategies in building their visibility and success.
• The term "extraordinary" is subjective, and the actual impact on brands may vary, with some brands possibly not experiencing as significant a boost as others.
• The notion of empowerment could be overstated; while sales may increase, the long-term sustainability and growth of these brands depend on numerous factors beyond a celebrity endorsement.

The clothing choices of these women of royalty distinctly showcase their ability to blend timeless elegance with modern style trends, while also holding significant personal and sentimental value.

The evolution of regal fashion reflects a broader tension between the time-honored traditions of the monarchy and the demands of modern existence. Each woman adeptly merged her individual fashion sense with the traditional norms of royal etiquette. Holmes explores the deep personal and emotional impact of these fashion decisions, illustrating their role in managing the inherent challenges and stresses of life within this distinctive establishment.

The Queen's steadfast adherence to classic royal dress symbolizes the perpetual stability inherent in the monarchy.

The way Queen Elizabeth II dresses reflects the royal family's dedication to preserving tradition and ensuring continuity. Holmes argues that her steadfast adherence to customary clothing demonstrates her awareness of the symbolic importance of dress associated with the royal institution and her dedication to upholding its enduring values. Her choice of clothing, often seen as a unique combination suited for her formal duties, demonstrates her unwavering commitment to her roles and her deep belief in the significance of the royal institution.

Over the years, the Queen's fashion evolved from her initial period of lively sophistication to a distinctive and uniform appearance throughout her monarchy.

Holmes emphasizes the subtle but significant evolution of the Queen's fashion choices, even as she preserved a consistent image throughout her rule. Upon assuming her role, she embraced a fashion sense that exuded eternal sophistication, often choosing attire that accentuated feminine contours evocative of the 1950s. As societal perceptions shifted and scrutiny of the monarchy intensified, the sovereign adopted a fashion approach that was uniformly understated and consistent.

This shift towards a consistent approach in fashion, as detailed by Holmes, occurred alongside a growing public dissatisfaction with the royal establishment and calls for greater fiscal responsibility. The Queen embraced a timeless and practical approach to fashion, avoiding fleeting fashions or extravagant trends. This change in attire was a deliberate strategy to convey a sense of steadiness and consistency amidst a period of societal transformation and turmoil.

Practical Tips

• You can explore your personal style by creating a mood board that captures the essence of sophistication and femininity. Start by collecting images, fabric swatches, and color palettes that resonate with the concept of eternal sophistication and feminine contours. This visual collage can serve as inspiration when you're shopping for clothing or deciding on an outfit, helping you to make choices that align with the sophisticated aesthetic you admire.
• Implement a wardrobe audit every season to maintain a streamlined closet that reflects your understated style. Go through your clothes and remove anything that doesn't fit, is worn out, or doesn't align with your chosen aesthetic. This keeps your wardrobe in line with your understated fashion approach and makes it easier to mix and match pieces, ensuring consistency in your style.
• Use color psychology to maintain a consistent image during times of change. Incorporate colors into your wardrobe that are known for their psychological effects, such as blue for trustworthiness or green for balance. This subtle strategy can help you project an image of steadiness without saying a word.

The sovereign intentionally chooses bright colors and matching accessories to stand out and project a timeless sense of style.

Her Majesty skillfully uses bright hues in her wardrobe to stand out, inspire cheerful sentiments, and leave an enduring mark. The Queen often opts for vivid and eye-catching hues, particularly when surrounded by crowds or when she is with family members during public appearances. This meticulously crafted approach, refined through many years by her committed fashion advisors, guarantees her prominence in all settings, embodying both vibrancy and command.

Holmes suggests that the Queen's selection of hues transcends mere visual appeal. Bright and lively colors, frequently in sync with the seasonal transitions, communicate an optimistic tone and emphasize a message filled with hope. They also contribute to maintaining her image as both contemporary and stylish, characteristics frequently not associated with older individuals. The Queen imparts an aura of enduring importance and vibrant vitality through her choice of vivid hues.

Practical Tips

• Use colorful visuals in your presentations or communications to make a memorable impact. When preparing a PowerPoint, report, or email, include vibrant charts, images, or fonts to highlight key points. This can help engage your audience and make your message more memorable.
• Use color-coded notes and stationery to bring a hopeful tone to your daily tasks and communication. When writing to-do lists, notes, or even emails if the platform allows, use optimistic colors to highlight important points or to signify tasks that you're looking forward to. For instance, you might use a bright pink pen for notes about upcoming celebrations or a light blue highlighter for tasks that align with your personal goals, visually cueing positivity.
• Redecorate a space in your home or office with a focus on color to inspire creativity and energy. Choose a room where you spend a significant amount of time and incorporate vibrant colors through wall paint, artwork, or decorative items. Notice if the change in environment affects your mood and productivity over the following weeks.

Kate's style transformation is characterized by a meticulous blend of modern trends while maintaining a dignified elegance.

Kate Middleton adeptly navigates the complexities of attire that is befitting of royalty, blending traditional respect with her own emerging style. Holmes observes a consistent, deliberate move towards choices that are more contemporary and innovative in recent times, while still upholding a dedication to time-honored traditions.

Kate adeptly strikes a balance between adhering to formal protocols and infusing her own style during public engagements.

At the beginning of her royal tenure, Kate's fashion choices reflected a deep understanding of traditional royal protocols and a careful adherence to the norms of modesty and decorum. As Kate grew more assured in her position, she began to personalize her formal wardrobe with unique elements that showcased her personal style, endowing her outfits with a modern and unique elegance.

Holmes highlights the evolution of Kate's wardrobe, now featuring bright colors, modern designs, and playful elements, demonstrating her increased understanding of fashion's role in communication and charm, in line with royal traditions.

Practical Tips

• Create a feedback group with friends or colleagues to evaluate your ability to blend formal protocols with personal style in various social settings. Host a dinner party or a mock networking event where you can experiment with different levels of formality in your behavior and attire. Afterward, discuss with your group what seemed to work well and what could be improved, focusing on how your personal style either enhanced or detracted from the social protocol.
• Experiment with temporary fashion accessories that add a playful touch to your existing outfits. Look for items like clip-on earrings, removable patches, or shoe clips in bright colors and whimsical designs. These can be easily swapped out, allowing you to test different styles without committing to a permanent change.

Kate utilizes her style to project an image of sophistication, confidence, and preparedness for her role alongside the monarch.

Holmes proposes that the progression in Kate's style choices signifies her preparedness to assume the significant position of a queen consort in the future. Her style has matured from her early inclination towards mainstream fashion, transitioning to a sophisticated and chic aesthetic appropriate for her elevated status, as she now opts for high-end designer wear. Kate's growing stature and readiness for her forthcoming responsibilities in the royal family are underscored by her choice to wear distinguished pieces of jewelry that have significant historical importance and originate from the Queen's personal treasury.

Holmes observes a significant boost in the Duchess's confidence, coupled with a discerning fashion sense evident in her recent wardrobe choices. She has demonstrated comfort in using clothing as a tool for personal expression and influence, exploring bolder designs and a variety of colors. Her clothing, while aligning with royal norms, has evolved to showcase a contemporary flair, mirroring her evolution as a style influencer and readiness for upcoming international duties.

Practical Tips

• Practice power posing every morning to embody confidence and preparedness. Power posing involves standing in a posture of confidence, even when you don't feel confident, to trigger a psychological and physiological change that can increase your actual confidence. Spend a few minutes each day in front of a mirror adopting poses that make you feel powerful and in control, such as hands on hips or arms raised in a V shape. This exercise can help you internalize a sense of authority and readiness for your role.
• Document your evolution in a visual diary to track changes in your self-presentation over time. Use photos or a digital app to capture your outfits, hairstyles, and even body language on a regular basis. This will help you see how your external changes mirror internal growth, much like creating a timeline of your readiness for new challenges or roles in life.
• Elevate your wardrobe to reflect your career ambitions by investing in a few key designer pieces that align with the industry you're aiming to excel in. For instance, if you're in the corporate world, a tailored designer suit can make a powerful statement in meetings and interviews, signaling your commitment and professionalism.
• Start a tradition of gifting meaningful jewelry within your family or friend circle to celebrate milestones, much like royal heirlooms are passed down through generations. This could be as simple as giving a niece a bracelet when she graduates or presenting a custom-engraved watch to a friend who has reached a personal goal, thereby creating a legacy of memorable pieces that carry stories and significance.
• Develop your fashion sense by starting a style inspiration board on a platform like Pinterest, where you can curate fashion looks that resonate with you. Over time, this will help you identify patterns in your preferences and guide you in making more discerning fashion choices that reflect your personal style.
• Use a fashion app that allows you to mix and match pieces virtually to see how bolder designs and colors look on you without having to purchase them first. This can save you time and money while giving you the confidence to try new styles in real life.
• You can create a personal style that's both classic and modern by starting a 'fashion fusion' journal. Document outfits that combine timeless pieces with trendy accessories or patterns. For example, pair a traditional blazer with a bold graphic tee, or wear classic trousers with a pair of contemporary sneakers. This practice will help you visualize and plan outfits that reflect a blend of classic and modern styles.
• Collaborate with local fashion designers or boutiques for a style makeover project. Reach out and propose a partnership where they provide you with outfits that challenge your usual style choices. Wear these outfits for a set period, documenting the experience and your audience's feedback. This will push you out of your comfort zone, potentially attract a new audience, and show your adaptability to different styles, which is crucial for anyone looking to become a style influencer.

Meghan frequently chose attire that challenged the traditional norms of royal attire.

The arrival and later departure of Meghan Markle from the British royal family marked a significant deviation from the traditional styles linked to the monarchy. She skillfully navigated the sartorial terrain, frequently challenging conventional norms while maintaining her unique fashion identity. Holmes explores how Meghan skillfully navigated the intricate and rigid customs of the revered institution, using her fashion choices as a form of personal expression and to exert influence on societal norms.

Meghan adeptly showcased her personal convictions and unique character by carefully choosing her attire, all the while fulfilling her responsibilities as a member of the royal family.

Meghan utilized her style of dress as a deliberate tool to convey her unique identity and values while adhering to the notoriously rigid boundaries of the royal family, as noted by Holmes. Her choices often strayed from the conventional norms, reflecting a relaxed and contemporary fashion that was representative of her Californian background and her success in acting. Her deliberate departure from traditional norms underscored her quest for individuality and self-expression, all the while remaining faithful to her responsibilities.

Holmes emphasizes how Meghan’s sartorial choices were not simply about bucking tradition. They adeptly navigated the intricacies of royal dress, blending traditional protocol with the expression of her contemporary fashion sense. Her choice of clothing, often matching sets that highlighted a more understated fashion, radiated confidence and approachability, showcasing her desire to establish personal bonds in a manner reminiscent of Diana's own style.

Context

• Meghan Markle, before joining the royal family, was an actress known for her role in the TV series "Suits," which influenced her understanding of public image and personal branding.
• Her style sometimes incorporated elements from her American heritage, such as relaxed silhouettes and modern cuts, which contrasted with the more formal and traditional British royal attire.
• The British royal family has a long-standing dress code that emphasizes modesty, formality, and tradition. This often includes wearing hats for formal events, avoiding bright nail polish, and adhering to specific guidelines for hemlines and necklines.
• Clothing that exudes confidence often fits well and aligns with the wearer's personal style, making them feel comfortable and self-assured. Approachability in fashion can be achieved through softer colors, relaxed fits, and styles that invite interaction rather than intimidate.
• Princess Diana was known for using her fashion choices to connect with the public, often opting for approachable and relatable styles that broke away from royal tradition. This approach helped her build a strong rapport with people, making her a beloved figure.

Meghan's choice of clothing holds significant personal and emotional value, particularly when observed by the public eye.

Meghan's transition into the royal lifestyle attracted a high level of scrutiny from the media, where her every move and fashion choice were closely monitored and critiqued. Meghan often chose her attire to symbolize her personal struggles and feelings during times when the public scrutiny intensified.

Holmes highlights how Meghan's initial embrace of pale blush and beige tones coinciding with the peak of her “love bubble” with Prince Harry, as well as her strategic incorporation of pieces from Australian and New Zealand designers during her first tour. Her selection of brands that prioritize ethical business practices, especially those founded by women or dedicated to environmental protection, closely reflected her core principles. Meghan displayed her resilience and resolve by carefully selecting her attire while facing racial attacks and intense scrutiny from the press, as described by Holmes. She demonstrated a resolve to select attire based on her personal preferences, regardless of the occasion.

Context

• By choosing designers from countries she visits, Meghan engages in fashion diplomacy, a practice where clothing is used to honor and build relationships with other nations.
• Companies that prioritize ethical business practices may engage in fair trade, ensuring that producers in developing countries receive fair wages and work in safe conditions.
• The intense media scrutiny Meghan faced is part of a broader pattern of how women, especially women of color, are often subjected to harsher criticism in public life, making her fashion choices a statement of defiance and identity.