Meghan Markle’s absence from King Charles III’s coronation this month has caused quite a stir in the world of royal fashion. Fans of the iconic event were left disappointed, according to a leading celebrity stylist who recently spoke to Newsweek’s The Royal Report podcast.
The buildup to the coronation had been rife with speculation about whether or not the Duchess of Sussex and Prince Harry would make the trip to Britain for the historic service. Family tensions were at an all-time high, fueled by the couple’s recent media releases. Despite the drama, Buckingham Palace finally confirmed in April that Harry would attend the ceremony solo, without his wife by his side.
The royal princesses in attendance certainly didn’t disappoint when it came to putting on a glittering fashion spectacle for the event. From elegant gowns to dazzling jewels (though there was a distinct lack of tiaras), they certainly stole the show. Of course, all eyes were on Queen Camilla, who donned a custom Bruce Oldfield coronation gown that left everyone in awe.
However, amidst all the glamour and glitz, fans couldn’t help but feel a twinge of disappointment. They were left wondering about the fashion moment that Meghan Markle might have created had she attended the event. With her impeccable taste and signature style, there’s no doubt that she would have made a statement with her outfit choice.
As Meghan Markle and Prince Harry approach their fifth wedding anniversary this month, we can’t help but reflect on the most important fashion moment of Meghan’s life: her wedding day.
On May 19, 2018, all eyes were on Meghan as she made her way down the aisle in a stunning, simplistic gown designed by Clare Waight Keller of Givenchy. The gown’s impressive train and modern boatneck neckline were perfectly complemented by a cathedral-length veil, which was embroidered with the flowers of the Commonwealth and held in place with an heirloom diamond tiara.
Although the wedding was a fairytale come true, the couple’s happiness was short-lived. In the aftermath of the ceremony, Harry and Meghan faced numerous challenges, including intense scrutiny from the British press, tensions with royal households, and conflicts with family members. Finally, in 2020, they decided to leave the monarchy and start a new life in California.
Since then, the complex relationship between Prince Harry and Meghan Markle on one side and Prince William and Kate Middleton on the other has been laid bare in interviews and media releases. Celebrity stylist, Holder comments on this, expressing hope that the relationship may repair itself in the future.
“It was lovely having two young couples at the fore of the family, and they made it so exciting with their choices. I think we missed the ‘fab four,’” Holder said. “I really do.”
She added, “I genuinely hope that one day things will come back [together]. I know that’s a little bit of a reach, but I was praying for tiaras [at the coronation] and I’m gonna pray for a reconciliation.”
It’s been a while since we’ve seen Meghan and Harry at a large-scale royal event together. The last time was in 2022 for the state funeral of Queen Elizabeth II, where Harry walked in the funeral procession alongside his father and brother. Meanwhile, Meghan, dressed in a stunning custom Stella McCartney outfit, joined the senior royal princesses and Queen Camilla for the solemn occasion.