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Meghan Markle’s Memorable Royal Fashion Moments

14 min read

By ActiveBeat Author

The Duchess of Sussex Meghan Markle has always been stylish, even during her Hollywood days before being connected to Prince Harry! Markle is all about outfits that exude effortless sophistication and carried this style practice into her public appearances as a royal. At the time of diving into royal life, she seemed to have elevated her laidback Toronto style into a more polished professional look that was appropriate for a Duchess, yet still remained true to her own personal taste. Follow along for all of her royal fashion moments:

42. Announcing Archie’s Birth

After a step back from the spotlight in anticipation of the arrival of baby Sussex, Meghan Markle reemerged in early May 2019 with Prince Harry by her side to reveal their newborn to the world. For the monumental occasion, Meghan opted for a white trench dress by Givenchy which belted at the waist and featured gold buttons and pockets. She paired the look with minimal jewelry and a pair of simple nude Manolo Blahnik heels.

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41. Commonwealth Day

On Commonwealth Day, Meghan opted for a stunning Victoria Beckham dress that consisted of a bold, chain pattern. To channel a little tradition, Meghan accessorized with a mod-inspired circular pillbox hat, which was an iconic Jackie O look for many years. For a pop of color, Meghan topped the crisp white ensemble with olive-colored pumps and a matching olive clutch.

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40. Commonwealth Day, 2019

The Duchess of Sussex stepped out on the morning of Commonwealth Day to visit Canada House wearing a stunning emerald green coat by Canadian designer Erdem. We absolutely love how striking this rich jewel tone looks on Meghan’s complexion and how the touch of floral embellishment adds a little sparkle.

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39. International Women’s Day

Meghan stunned in early March when she stepped out to speak on a panel for International Women’s Day in this black and white monochrome look. We absolutely love the unique, trendy pattern of this look and how she added a sophisticated spin to the ensemble by layering with a tailored blazer.

© Albert Nieboer/DPA via ZUMA Press

38. Budding Baby Bump

In early March, the expecting mother-to-be opted for a striking gold dress which she topped with one of her favorite white coats by Amanda Wakeley. The golden number hit her just above the knee and featured an absolutely gorgeous cream and gold brocade pattern that gave off a metallic sheen. The shift style shape of this dress really flattered the Duchess’ budding baby bump and the golden tones made her appear even more glowing than she already is!

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37. Dazzling Sequins

In mid-January, Meghan absolutely dazzled in a navy glittering dress by Roland Mouret. This gorgeous sequined gown certainly made a statement with its three-quarter length sleeves, leg slit, and sparkly finish. For her beauty look, Meghan opted for a classic low bun that’s become her signature hairstyle. She deepened her makeup for the evening event with a bronzed smokey eye and a glossy berry lip.

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36. Royal Variety Charity Visit

Just before Christmas Meghan Markle stepped out in a floral and grey outfit for a visit to the Royal Variety Charity’s residential nursing and care home. We absolutely love the subtle lavender tint of this dress and how beautifully the cool tones pick up on the structured grey coat.

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35. Beautiful in Burgundy

The expecting Duchess stepped out in late November 2018 wearing an absolutely gorgeous monochrome ensemble in a rich shade of burgundy. Markle’s shift dress featured a polished peter pan collar that she layered with a coordinating wool jacket on top. She opted for black tights and booties as accessories and pulled her hair into a low updo to complete the ensemble.

AP Photo/Kirsty Wiggleswort

34. Auckland War Memorial Museum Visit

Nearing the end of the Royal tour through Australia, Meghan Markle stepped out wearing a chic midnight blue dress at the Auckland War Memorial Museum. The look featured a polished button up front that mimicked the look of a classic double-breasted blazer, but was still trendy and contemporary with the high-low cut.

AP Photo/Kirsty Wigglesworth

33. Government House Visit

The Duchess of Sussex has absolutely mastered the little black dress look, as seen with this striking number she wore to Government House in Wellington, New Zealand. Her look featured a dainty cap sleeve and ankle-length cut that was highly sophisticated and feminine looking.

AP Photo/Kirsty Wigglesworth,Pool

32. Maroon Wrap Dress

One of Meghan’s go-to colors is this rich shade of maroon, and we can see why! The color works wonderfully to complement her brunette tresses and dark features. We especially love the wrap style waist of this dress that perfectly shows off her figure and cinches in her waist. She paired the look with pumps that feature a chunky buckle and a dainty nude handbag.

AP Photo/Rick Rycroft, Pool

31. Australian Geographic Society Awards Dress

One of Meghan’s most memorable looks from the entire Royal Australian tour was this swoon-worthy Oscar De La Renta dress she wore to the Australian Geographic Society Awards at the Shangri-La Hotel in Sydney. The dress was a true Princess fairytale moment with the voluminous tulle skirt and intricate detail. We especially love the unique floating neckline of this look!

Joel Carrett/Pool Photo via AP

30. Baby Blue Dress

Meghan tends to stick with neutrals and jewel tones when it comes to her wardrobe, but when she does go for brights, you can bet it’s a notable fashion moment! This blue look, for example, was striking on Meghan. We love the polished collar, button-up front and tie detail around the waist. She pulled her hair back into a refined ponytail and topped the look with a fun pair of contrasting baby blue pumps.

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29. Tonga Tour, 2018

The Duchess of Sussex was a vision in white when she stepped out in Tonga wearing this crisp white gown. The look featured a sleek body-skimming shape and fluttering cap sleeves which featured a dainty pop of sparkle on the shoulder. This look fit Meghan like a dream and proved that sometimes going the simple route with fashion is best!

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28. Fiji Tour, 2018

Another striking white gown moment was when the Duchess stepped out for her arrival in Fiji wearing a midi-length long sleeve gown. We love these classic, sophisticated styles on Meghan. She topped the look with coordinating black accessories and a regal fascinator sitting slanted on her head.

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27. Anzac Memorial Appearance

No one does a little black dress better than Meghan Markle! She proved this to be true when she stepped out to attend the opening of the Anzac Memorial in Hyde Park, Sydney. Her look was highly modest and refined with it’s midi-length A-line shape and button-up front. She added a little royal glamour be topping her look with a matching black fascinator.

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26. Government House Reception

Another one of Meghan’s go-to shades is navy blue based on the variation of looks we’ve seen her wear in this shade when she joined the royal family. One of our all-time favorite navy looks of hers is this asymmetrical look she wore at the Government House Reception in Melbourne, Australia. The look is perfectly appropriate for a modest royal figure but still a little glam with all the detail and trendy elements.

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25. Princess Eugenie’s Wedding

Royal fans speculated Markle may be pregnant when she stepped out at Princess Eugenie’s wedding on October 12 covered up in this navy suit jacket set. While she hadn’t yet officially announced her pregnancy, the rumors definitely swirled when a budding baby bump was evident when she stepped out this day.

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24. Daring in Leather

On October 3rd, Meghan Markle stepped out in her namesake county of Sussex wearing a bold leather skirt by Hugo Boss paired with a matching silk top. Rarely have we ever seen a royal wear leather before, and while we’re not entirely sure whether the Queen would approve, we definitely think she made leather appear elegant and sophisticated.

Matt Crossick/ EMPICS

23. Stylish in Silk

Despite her highly modest dress code, Meghan Markle has proved that she isn’t afraid to bend the rules a little in the name of fashion! On September 25 she stepped out wearing a silk and velvet black dress that featured sheer balloon sleeves. Sheer paneling isn’t typically something we see royal figures wear, but on Markle, it looks trendy and still polished.

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22. Bold in a Blazer

Just when we thought Meghan Markle had retired her trusty trouser and blazer combo, she stepped out in early September, 2018 wearing a sharp black suit! Rumors swirled earlier that year that the Queen and Prince Harry much prefer Meghan to wear a skirt or dress, but this look proved that Meghan wasn’t willing to sacrifice her personal style for her new royal title. We think she looks fabulous in this silky blouse and suit set!

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21. Wimbledon, 2018

Kate Middleton is known for wearing her sleek, summery dresses when she’s spotted in the stands at Wimbledon. Meghan Markle, however, has taken a new approach to dress for the annual tennis championships. In 2018 the Duchess opted for a blue and white striped button-down paired with white linen trousers and held a white wide-brim hat in hand. We love that Meghan prefers to opt for trousers than dresses on occasion and think this look was the perfect choice for a sunny afternoon in the stands.

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20. Summertime Dresses

On July 26, 2018 Meghan Markle proved that she knows how to dress impeccably well for a heatwave! The star stepped out in a flattering Carolina Herrera dress which featured a chambray texture and a statement belt cinching in her waist. She pulled her hair back into a low-key bun and held a woven bamboo clutch in her hand. It’s truly the details that make Markle’s style standout from the rest and prove that she’s not only modest and professional but also a fashion-forward trendsetter.

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19. St. Louis Christening Appearance

Meghan Markle dressed in a chic olive green dress designed by Ralph Lauren for St. Louis Christening. The color of this outfit truly flattered Markle’s complexion and we love that all her accessories down to the gloves, purse, and shoes matched accordingly. The look was conservative, which was definitely appropriate for the religious event, yet still fashion-forward and savvy.

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18. RAF Centenary Visit

Meghan Markle stepped out in July, 2018 wearing a striking little black dress designed by Dior for the RAF Centenary at Westminster Abbey, London. The dress was quite similar to her wedding dress with its simple shape and bateau neckline. She dressed the look up with a chic fascinator and nude pointed heels. She also pulled her hair back into a sleek bun which really showed off the flattering neckline of the dress and her petite frame.

Doug Peters/EMPICS

17. Solo Appearance With the Queen

Meghan Markle stepped out for her first solo appearance with the Queen in 2018 wearing this chic and sophisticated taupe dress. The dress was designed by Givenchy which is the same designer that created her highly anticipated and iconic wedding gown. Her wedding gown also had an off-the-shoulder neckline which was proven to be the Duchess’ go-to for many of her royal public appearances.

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16. Off-the-Shoulder

In early June of 2018 the Duchess of Sussex stepped out wearing this crisp off-the-shoulder dress which featured buttons trailing down the front. She paired the look with a matching soft pink fascinator in classic royal style. Her look caused quite the stir with the public and many deemed the off-the-shoulder neckline inappropriate for a royal engagement. We, however, think she totally rocked this look and that the neckline was super elegant.

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15. Anzac Day Appearance

Meghan Markle stepped out in late April, 2018 wearing this chic taupe coat for a morning memorial service in honor of Anzac Day. The style moment was well-received by fans and many fawned over the fact that her navy wide-brim hat perfectly coordinated with Harry’s longline navy coat. These two make a seriously fabulous power couple when it comes to fashion!

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14. Edinburgh Visit

In mid-February of 2018 Meghan Markle stepped out wearing a chic duster coat by Burberry for a visit to Edinburgh. The plaid coat was highly appropriate for the appearance and clearly paid homage to Scotland with its classic print. She paired the look with a crossbody bag that coordinated perfectly and was quite low maintenance as she greeted the crowds.

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13. Power to Trousers

Meghan Markle has broken quite a few royal dressing traditions, one being that she often opts for pants over skirts! Kate Middleton and Queen Elizabeth rarely wear trousers which is why this particular Markle outfit was quite groundbreaking. We love that Markle continues to dress true to her own personal style despite her new royal status, especially because she looks super chic and sophisticated in a strong power suit!

Doug Peters/EMPICS Entertainment

12. Women’s Empowerment Dress

In late April of 2018, Meghan Markle stepped out wearing this sleek and polished little black dress for a Women’s Empowerment reception in London. The dress was highly buzzed about because it closely resembled a look that Jackie O wore dubbed the “Jackie belted dress.” Many believed Meghan’s look was intended to pay homage to the ultra-stylish First Lady.

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11. Invictus Games, 2018

Meghan Markle stepped out looking prepped and primped for spring when she rocked this pleated green dress to attend the Invictus Games Sydney celebration reception in April of 2018. The Self-Portrait number featured a V-neckline, ruffles along the bodice and a mid-length skirt. She paired the look with a sleek blazer which added an air of sophistication and formality to the soft, feminine dress.

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10. Wedding Prep Dress

The afternoon before her wedding Markle stepped out to greet her mother as she arrived in London wearing this sleek navy number. The bride-to-be was all smiles as she stepped out of the limo wearing this Roland Mouret ruffled dress. The neckline of the garment is clearly a Markle favorite and is the same boat-shaped style she rocked one day later on her wedding dress to marry Prince Harry.

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9. The Kennedy Look

Markle proved just how stylish she truly is with this look she rocked on December 1, 2017. The trend of knee-high boots paired with a midi length skirt was huge during the fall and Meghan jumped on board yet styled it in the most classic way possible. Many compare this look to that of Carolyn Bessette Kennedy, who Meghan has admitted is one of her greatest style icons.

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8. Christmas Reception, 2017

Meghan Markle proved she could blend seamlessly into British fashion when she stepped out on the arm of Prince Harry for the 2017 Christmas reception. She rocked a classic British fascinator in a chocolate color which matched perfectly with her boots. In classic Meghan Markle fashion, she rocked a taupe wrap coat which quickly became her signature look during the winter months this year.

AP Photo/Alastair Grant

7. Ireland Visit

Meghan is a huge fan of sleek shapes and minimal pattern when it comes to her style and this outfit is the perfect example of that. She visited Ireland in March of 2018 wearing a mermaid-cut olive skirt and a cream cashmere sweater designed by Victoria Beckham. To top her look, she wore a taupe wrap coat and pointed toe velvet heels. The true standout style element of this look is her tousled messy bun! Previously it was expected for royals to have prim and propper glossy curls, but Meghan broke boundaries and stayed true to her own low key style with the bun.

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6. Wedding Dress

We couldn’t have a Meghan Markle style roundup without mentioning her highly anticipated wedding dress! There were many mixed reviews when it came to her dress, but when it comes down to it, the dress rang very true to her style. She favors pieces that are quite low maintenance and simple, which is why a sleek long sleeve dress with a subtle boat neck collar was the perfect choice for her fairytale day!

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5. Engagement Announcement

One of Meghan Markle’s most iconic looks to date is the outfit she wore to announce her engagement to Prince Harry back in late November of 2017! The fashion moment became instantly infamous and created the “Meghan Markle effect” which caused the crisp white wrap coat to sell out within minutes of the appearance. The wrap coat has become a staple for Markle and one that we have come to expect from her during the colder months.

Eddie Mulholland/Pool via AP

4. Commonwealth Service

One of Markle’s chicest looks was the outfit she wore in mid-March for a Commonwealth Day service at Westminister Abbey in 2018. Her look consisted of a sleek and sophisticated white coat, a mid-length navy dress and matching navy pumps. She added a little flair by topping her outfit with a beret which sat perfectly on the side of her head. We love how this classy look is both traditional and trendy in the perfect combination!

Doug Peters/EMPICS Entertainment

3. First Official Royal Appearance

One of Markle’s most stunning fashion moments was when she stepped out in late May, 2018 for her first public appearance as Prince Harry’s official wife and the Duchess of Sussex. The soft blush pink look was glam with the dramatic fascinator yet still feminine and highly modest. She even wore a pair of stockings for good measure and looked every bit a Princess!

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2. Stunning in Yellow

One of Meghan Markle’s boldest royal looks so far is this sophisticated yellow dress she wore for a Commonwealth event in London in July of 2018. Previously, she had stuck to a relatively neutral wardrobe palette filled with blacks, blush pinks and nudes, so the bright canary yellow gown was a lovely surprise. Aside from the color, the midi dress also fit her body perfectly and featured an elegant bateau neckline which has seemingly become her signature.

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1. Wedding Reception Dress

Of all of Meghan Markle’s royal looks so far, the favorite has got to be the sleek white dress she changed into following the civil wedding ceremony! Again, the look was quite simple, but the halter neckline and sleek shape really brought the glamour. The dress fit her like a glove and opting to pull her hair back to show off the neckline was the perfect touch.

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