BAGGING ATTENTION: MEGHAN MARKLE’S ‘DUCHESS OF SUSSEX’ EMBROIDERED HANDBAG SENDS ROYAL FANS INTO TIZZY

Meghan Markle recently made headlines and sparked a fan frenzy when she was spotted carrying a Dior handbag embroidered with “Duchess of Sussex” during an outing in Montecito, Calif., on Sunday, July 21.

Accompanied by actress Kimberly Williams-Paisley, Meghan’s casual yet chic appearance quickly garnered attention on social media amid uproar over the non-working royal using her royal title.

The Duchess of Sussex’s ensemble was a stylish blend of simplicity and sophistication. She wore a crisp white shirt paired with blue jeans, complemented by tan flats and a wide-brimmed hat. Her accessories, including a gold watch, Ray Ban sunglasses and delicate bracelets, added a touch of elegance to the casual outfit. But it was the Suits stars’ choice of a personalized handbag that stole the spotlight.

This outing with Williams-Paisley, known for her roles in movies like Father of the Bride and TV series such as Nashville, highlighted Meghan’s ability to effortlessly mix high fashion with approachable style. The appearance also sparked some conversations about Meghan’s ability to pay homage to royal traditions while setting her own unique fashion statements.

Observers on social media noted that Meghan’s outfit and accessories bore subtle resemblances to the late Princess Diana’s style. The white shirt and jeans combo, along with the hat, evoked memories of Diana’s casual looks that were both relatable and iconic. Meghan’s choice of a gold watch was also seen as a nod to Diana, who was often seen wearing a similar accessory.

Some commenters simply were not having the “royal exploitation.”

“She’s so predictable,” one wrote, while another labeled her outfit and inclusion of the royally-titled bag as “weird, weird, weird.”

Critics and observers alike continue to argue that while Meghan and Prince Harry sought independence from the royal family, her use of the title seems contradictory and serves as a strategic move to maintain her royal connection in the public eye. This incident has fueled ongoing debates about the couple’s post-royal identity and their use of royal titles for personal branding.

As the British sovereign, King Charles III can remove Harry and Meghan’s HRH styles by simply issuing a Letters Patent making it so. He could also remove Harry’s “prince” style, which also extends to Meghan as “Princess Henry” by virtue of marriage. It would take the U.K. parliament passing acts of legislation to remove the “Duke/Duchess of Sussex” titles and/or to strike Harry and his two children from the line of succession to the throne.

Despite the scandals that have erupted since the monarch acceded to the throne, analysts point out that the King will likely never do his part in removing his youngest son and daughter-in-law’s royal address.