The return of the Duke and Duchess of Sussex to Britain has placed major British fashion labels in a tricky position, it is understood.
Multiple brands are now holding internal discussions over whether to dress Meghan Markle, with several forced to “pick a side” between the Duchess and the Princess of Wales, according to industry sources.
“We’ve had to have a meeting about it,” one insider told the Express.
“We were about to send some products to her team when someone asked, ‘Is it worth it?’, as we currently have Kate and other royals wearing our brand.”
The return of the Duke and Duchess of Sussex to Britain has placed major British fashion labels in a tricky position, it is understood
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The concern driving these conversations is straightforward.
Labels worry that styling the Duchess of Sussex could jeopardise their existing relationships with Catherine and other members of the Royal Family.
One source was unequivocal about where their loyalties lie: “The Princess is our priority and we’ve decided to continue supporting her.
“We don’t want to risk losing her so Meghan won’t be getting anything from us.”
Catherine tends towards understated sophistication, favouring clean tailoring and monochromatic ensembles
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PAIt is almost certain Catherine herself would not cut ties with a brand simply to avoid a sartorial overlap.
The Princess of Wales and the Duchess of Sussex have carved out markedly different fashion identities.
Catherine tends towards understated sophistication, favouring clean tailoring and monochromatic ensembles, while Meghan gravitates towards oversized silhouettes in muted, neutral tones.
Despite these contrasting aesthetics, both frequently gravitate towards the same designers.
Meghan gravitates towards muted, neutral tones
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GETTYThe pair are understood not to have been in contact for years.
The commercial power both women wield over consumer behaviour is well documented.
When Catherine is spotted in a particular label, the resulting surge in sales and demand, commonly referred to as “the Kate effect”, can be transformative for a brand.
Meghan commands a comparable influence and has actively sought to turn that power into revenue. In an interview with Women’s Weekly, Meghan said she wants to give fashion designers and brands the “credit” they deserve, saying: “Even if you don’t say a word, you can convey something in what you wear.”