Meghan Markle Took a Big Risk at Her First Trooping the Color—And It Paid Off in a Big Way
Markle's fashion during her royal tenure reflected her identity and modernity, contrasting with traditional British royal aesthetics.
The newly welcomed member of the royal family, Duchess of Sussex, Meghan Markle, sure knew how to grab the headlines right after her honeymoon. She made a highly anticipated first appearance with Prince Harry for Trooping the Color in 2018 in a controversial outfit. Critics deemed the Duchess's daring look, which defied traditional protocol of long sleeves and high necklines for formal daytime military events, a major fashion disaster and a breach of royal etiquette.
Markle made her first Trooping the Color appearance on June 9, 2018, just three weeks after her wedding to Prince Harry. She rode in a horse-drawn carriage and joined the Royal Family on the Buckingham Palace balcony for Queen Elizabeth II's official birthday celebration
She chose a custom pale pink, off-the-shoulder dress by Carolina Herrera. The dress showcased a modern silhouette with an asymmetric neckline and a structured bodice adorned with large fabric-covered buttons. Markle accessorized her shoulder-bearing outfit with a matching pale pink Philip Treacy hat. Many outlets at the time praised her for the bold move. The Telegraph hailed it as a modern twist. The publication praised her modern sense of style, which defied traditional rules of attire while remaining true to her royal obligations. It also highlighted that the pale pink top with an exaggerated bateau neckline was reminiscent of her Clare Waight Keller wedding gown. The publication further hailed Markle's exposed yet fashionable decolletage as an uncommon look for Buckingham Palace events. Meanwhile, HELLO! went a step further by comparing the Duchess's style to a subtle nod to the late Princess Diana.
Fashion critics noted the resemblance to a 1987 off-the-shoulder pink Catherine Walker ensemble worn by Princess Diana for the opening of the Berlin Opera House. Meanwhile, many other experts pointed out that both Queen Elizabeth II and Princess Margaret had donned similar styles in their youth without controversy. The choice of attire was seen as a statement about the new Duchess's approach to her role, merging Hollywood elegance with royal sophistication, generating debate among supporters and critics.
Markle had a fantastic debut, and throughout, Prince Harry stayed close to her, quietly helping her navigate the day's royal protocol. In one particularly sweet moment, he was caught gently cueing her on when to curtsy as the Queen made her official arrival—a customary gesture for royals greeting the monarch for the first time that day. As the moment drew near, Meghan reportedly leaned in and asked Harry, "Do it?" He gave a quiet "Yes" in response, and she dropped into a graceful curtsy while he bowed his head toward his grandmother.
Markle's fashion during her royal tenure reflected her identity and modernity, contrasting with traditional British royal aesthetics. Her choices, such as tailored pantsuits and crossbody bags, highlighted her desire for autonomy and practicality. By integrating elements from her pre-royal wardrobe, she maintained her individuality while challenging royal norms. This sartorial approach garnered mixed reactions; some viewed it as a feminist modernization of the monarchy, while critics saw it as a breach of established traditions. Overall, her fashion choices conveyed the complexities of an outsider navigating royal expectations while under public scrutiny.
