the duchess of sussex

Photo: Archewell
The Duchess of Sussex has had a whirlwind year, from publishing her first children’s book to landing a mega deal with Netflix and welcoming daughter Lilibet on June 4. Yet, rather than indulging in a little R&R on her 40th birthday, the mother of two used her platform to launch 40×40, an initiative to support women returning to work following the pandemic.
The Duchess filmed the video announcement for her 40×40 scheme at home in California. Photo: Archewell
“Because I’m turning 40, I’m asking 40 friends to donate 40 minutes of their time to help mentor a woman who’s mobilizing back into the workforce,” Meghan shared in a video chat with actor Melissa McCarthy posted to the Archewell website. “Over two million women in the US alone and tens of millions around the world have lost their jobs due to Covid, and I think if we all do it, and all commit 40 minutes to some sort of act of service, we can create a ripple effect.”
Nonplussed after one of Melissa McCarthy’s jokes. Photo: Archewell
For the video, the Duchess kept her look pared-back and natural, in keeping with the rest of her California wardrobe thus far – leaving her jewelry to make a statement. In honor of Archie (born May 6) and Lilibet (born June 4), Meghan wore both Taurus and Gemini Constellation Necklaces from LA-based jeweler Logan Hollowell in the clip. Described by the brand as a “timeless keepsake of our celestial destiny”, the design is available in recycled gold or silver – with either diamonds or sapphires used to illuminate the form of the constellations. A suitably warm-hearted gesture from the royal Leo.
Taurus Constellation Necklace by Logan Hollowell
Gemini Constellation Necklace by Logan Hollowell
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Originally published on Vogue.co.uk

From whimsical midi-dresses to sophisticated crêpe gowns, Meghan Markle is nothing less than a beacon of style. Whether she’s making an appearance at the Royal Ascot in London or shimmering down a red carpet on her way to a charity event in Morocco, the Duchess’ style is always a manifestation of her classic, modern, and ever-elegant persona. Alongside clothing choices that are often made on account of the event she is attending, or the country in which it is being hosted, Markle isn’t one to skimp on accessories. In addition to frequently sporting a complimentary clutch or handbag, the Duchess, since having joined the royal family, has also found new and graceful ways to style a 17th-century European favorite; the fascinator.
In honor of her birthday today, we look back on some of Markle’s most iconic fashion moments, from off-the-shoulder gowns that gave maternity-wear new meaning, to denim dresses that effortlessly merged casual with formal. Traversing royal, formal and personal engagements, hosted between London, New York, Morocco and beyond, we explore the intricacies of this modern royal’s wardrobe, stopping along the way to celebrate her effortless amalgamation of femininity, grace, and modernity.
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Photo: CBS

At the level of fame experienced – and sometimes endured – by the Duchess of Sussex, nothing in terms of image is done by mistake. This was made abundantly clear in the trailer for Meghan and Harry’s much-anticipated interview with Oprah, in which the former Suits star placed symbolism and history at the forefront of her look. From the lotus flower embroidered on her Armani dress, which can be seen as an image of purity, enlightenment, and rebirth, to the brand itself which is synonymous with classic glamor, the Duchess’s fashion spoke a thousand words.
Photo: Getty

Meghan’s jewelry paid homage to Diana, Princess of Wales, who is touched upon in the short clip of the CBS special airing on 7 March. As Prince Harry expresses his fears of history “repeating itself”, Meghan sits silently wearing a Cartier tennis bracelet that once belonged to her mother-in-law, and which her husband used to create her diamond engagement ring in 2017 “to make sure that [Diana] is with us on this – on this crazy journey together,” he said at the time.
The Duchess’s engagement ring is seen left with the original gold band, and right at Trooping the Colour. Photo: Getty

“The messaging is clear,” says Rachel Garrahan, British Vogue’s jewelry and watch director. “By wearing Diana’s Cartier diamond bracelet alongside the Love bracelet she has owned for years, she demonstrates that she’s charting a new life with her husband, one that encompasses their shared pasts. The Love bracelet, which was designed by Aldo Cipullo in 1969 to be worn as a permanent symbol of enduring love, is now also worn by Prince Harry. He was first spotted wearing one last September in a video encouraging Americans to vote in the presidential election.”
The Pippa Small aquamarine Colette necklace – the stone is associated with tranquility and clarity – also “sends a message about Meghan’s commitment to ethical issues,” adds Garrahan. “Small’s business has always been dedicated to sustainability and providing skills and employment to artisans in countries like Afghanistan, Myanmar and Jordan.”
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Originally published on Vogue.co.uk