Meghan Markle's recent appearance at a charity event has drawn attention for her extravagant outfit. The Duchess of Sussex attended Kevin Costner's One805LIVE! charity concert, marking her first public outing with Prince Harry in several months. She wore a navy dress paired with expensive jewelry, including Princess Diana's Cartier Tank Francaise watch and designer tennis bracelets, which are estimated to be worth around $36,000. This figure does not include her engagement ring from Prince Harry, valued at approximately $100,000.
Experts have raised concerns that such a lavish display could distance her from her everyday supporters. Ryan McCormick, Managing Partner at Goldman McCormick PR, commented, "Meghan may desire to connect with everyday people, but if so, she has to be fully committed. Wearing that kind of expensive jewelry communicates, 'I am in the upper class.'" He noted that the value of her jewelry is "multiple times the average salary of most people," suggesting that this choice complicates her image as relatable.
Meghan is known for her luxurious lifestyle, often showcasing it on her Instagram and in her Netflix series, "With Love, Meghan." She frequently wears high-end designer clothing and has shared glimpses of her upscale home decor. Recently, she posted a video on Instagram featuring a new engraved vase for her lifestyle brand, As Ever, with her dog Mia resting on an armchair draped with an Hermès throw, priced at $2,885 in Australia.
Critics argue that this lifestyle may alienate her from the very audience she aims to engage through her brand and social media. However, Meghan has previously addressed claims of being unrelatable. In an interview with the New York Times in April, she stated, "Don't they know my life hasn't always been like this?" Journalist Julia Moskin noted that Meghan appeared visibly affected by the accusations of being out of touch.
As discussions continue about her public persona, the contrast between her high-profile lifestyle and her efforts to connect with everyday individuals remains a topic of interest.