Meghan Markle‘s return to British soil appears to have set off an unexpected ripple effect in the fashion world. According to a new report, some of the UK’s biggest brands are facing a delicate question: can they dress Meghan and Kate Middleton without upsetting either camp, or must they choose sides?
Fashion brands reportedly forced to choose between Meghan Markle and Kate Middleton
The rivalry, real or perceived, between the two royal women has apparently spilled into boardrooms of fashion houses. As per a report by the Daily Express, fashion houses are holding internal discussions about whether styling Meghan Markle could jeopardize their relationships with Kate Middleton and other royals. One insider told the outlet, “We’ve had to have a meeting about it.” They were “about to send some products to her team when someone asked is it worth it.”
The insider noted that they “currently have Kate and other royals wearing our brand.” They did have plans to send products to Meghan’s team since her arrival in the UK. However, they paused these plans after concerns were raised about the brand’s existing ties to Kate.
The report suggested this is not an isolated concern. Multiple labels are reportedly being pushed to “pick a side.” This is largely because the fashion brands picked by Meghan and Kate often overlap. Despite the two women having sharply different personal styles, they often prefer the same designers. Kate is typically associated with tailored, single-tone outfits, while Meghan tends to favour looser silhouettes in neutral palettes.
Interestingly, Kensington Palace has consistently tried to steer public focus toward Kate’s engagements rather than her wardrobe. Still, the phenomenon known as the “Kate effect,” where her outfit choices trigger sales surges for specific brands, remains a powerful commercial force. Meghan has reportedly cultivated a similar effect around her own style choices in the past.
For now, brands appear to be leaning toward Kate. According to the source, one brand representative reportedly said that they did not want to risk losing her business by extending support to Meghan, saying, “The Princess is our priority and we’ve decided to continue supporting her.”
