As her profile catapults in the wake of engagement to a UK royal, Meghan Markle’s fashion choices have put her in a position to make or break a fashion line. She made it clear that her affinity for suits goes far beyond the television set when she broke from social expectations recently, sporting an Alexander McQueen suit and a pussy-bow shirt to a high profile charity gala. Apparently, she was the only woman celebrity attendee not to wear a gown.
Perhaps Markle is just what the monarchy needs to bring the royal institution into modernity, one pricy power suit at a time. Forbes predicts Markle’s marriage to Prince Harry and the fanfare it’s bound to command will benefit the British economy to the tune of £500 million. So, before everything they touch turns to gold (or sells out), here are a few styles to steal from the UK’s new crown jewels.
1. Winter White Peacoats
Ditching the natural intuition to match winter’s mood with dreary colours, Markle steps out in winter white. Canadian designer John Muscat chose to rename this peacoat in Markle’s honor after she immortalized it recently. “The Meghan” sold out overnight as soon as images of the royal-to-be swept the internet. While it may be hard to get your hands on the original coat by LINE, Max Mara has a beautiful wool-blend coat in the similarly hard to find hue. It’s the perfect ¾ length and has a similar, universally flattering self-tie waist. It’s a smart and unique addition to any wardrobe, seamlessly wearable from the office to a smart dinner engagement. Price: $1095.
2. Harry’s Blue on Blue
Despite the young prince’s reputation for being the rebel in the family, the man cleans up nicely. While I urge you not to be so bold as to copy his affinity for a scruffy beard to the boardroom, you may want to note the way he layers color. It seems the prince’s go-to is blue on blue, paying with any combination: suit and tie above, or here with the color of the tie almost identically matching the jacket. When recreating the look, try to find a tie that’s made from an interesting fabric, or has a small detail like a woven fiber or a polka dot; something to prevent monotony. To really soak up the trend, go for the trifecta: blue jacket, blue tie, and blue dress shirt. Just be sure to carefully match your shades, and get a second opinion from the salesperson before you make your final selection. Layering like-color is tricky but chic. Try this affordable blue combination from Indochino.
3. Pointy-Toe Loafers
Meghan’s love of stylish comfort shines through in many of her outfit choices. She manages it without seeming lazy with her wardrobe, however, highlighting that having a strong fashion sense doesn’t always have to be antithetical to functionality. This trend that easily translates to the boardroom and is good news for a busy professional! While Markle does rock many-a-power heel, she’s stepped out in some very stylish loafers as well. Experiment with the print if you’re wearing a more neutral outfit to add a more dressy effect, or choose something in a timeless hue if your outfit is already infused with a lot of personal touches. Find reasonable facsimiles to the sold-out “Natalie” flat by Sarah Flint that Markle was seen in at the Invictus Games with Harry here.
4. Neutral Layers
For a smart-casual look, this outfit of Harry’s is spot-on. He mixes rich earth tones in moss green and stone grey in a masterful combination of layered neutrals. The pop of white collar brightens up the outfit near his face to add a bit of light reflectiveness where it counts. Finished off with a smart suede loafer for some of that textural innovation we’re always harping on, and you’ve got yourself a perfect casual client meeting ensemble. A scarf would have added an opportunity for some more color here if the neutral palette isn’t quite your style. Unsurprisingly, Polo Ralph Lauren is the perfect place to start if you’re looking to recreate Harry’s look. The brand’s classic sophisticated sporty look aligns perfectly with imagery of the posh UK countryside.
In the months to come, this small roster of inspiration will expand quickly. Prepare yourselves for a dizzying number of trend-switches and keep your eyes peeled for office inspiration.
