As Ascot week commences, it is an ideal moment to reflect on Meghan Markle's first and only appearance at Royal Ascot in 2018.
Ascot, a renowned racecourse in Berkshire, transforms into Royal Ascot for five days each year. This prestigious event attracts royalty, who arrive in horse-drawn carriages and mingle in the exclusive Royal Enclosure, known for its strict dress code. The late Queen Elizabeth II was particularly fond of Ascot, often racing her horses there.
Meghan attended Royal Ascot in June 2018, about a month after her spectacular wedding to Prince Harry. The formality of the event requires men in the Royal Enclosure to wear morning suits. Meghan adhered to the dress code, wearing a skirt of appropriate length, covered shoulders, and a hat. However, her choice of attire—a white Givenchy shirt dress with a black belt and a handkerchief hem—stood out as relatively informal next to Harry's traditional striped trousers, waistcoat, tailcoat, and top hat.
While many Royal Ascot attendees favor charming prints, bold textures, fun silhouettes, and rich pastels, Meghan opted for a more subdued look. Her long-sleeved dress appeared a bit matronly rather than chic, especially when paired with a black-and-white hat and black clutch. The handkerchief hemline added to the overall lackluster impression. Meghan's dress left many wanting more, with the New York Post declaring her royal style frumpy shortly after her debut.
In contrast, other royals have showcased impeccable fashion sense at Royal Ascot. For example, Princess Eugenie and Zara Tindall made memorable appearances at the 2024 Royal Ascot. Princess Eugenie arrived in a pastel green Diane von Furstenberg dress featuring a twisted neckline and a flowing skirt.
She completed the look with bow-embellished Aquazzura pumps, a slanted fascinator, and a gigantic pearl hair clip, enhancing the fresh floral energy of her outfit. Zara Tindall also made a striking fashion statement, wearing a bright yellow midi dress with a semi-sheer bodice and exaggerated puff sleeves. Tindall color-coordinated from head to toe with a slanted sun hat and a pair of nude pointed-toe pumps. The royal cousins' outfits subtly coordinated, both adhering to the regal dress code while showcasing their unique styles.
The juxtaposition of Meghan's understated outfit with the more vibrant and stylish choices of Princess Eugenie and Zara Tindall highlights the diverse fashion interpretations at Royal Ascot. Meghan's appearance, while adhering to the dress code, seemed to lack the whimsical and colorful flair often associated with the event. In contrast, Eugenie and Tindall embraced bold colors and elegant details, embodying the spirit of Royal Ascot fashion. Meghan's single appearance at Royal Ascot serves as a reminder of the expectations and scrutiny that come with being a member of the royal family. Her choice of attire, though meeting the formal requirements, failed to resonate with the fashion-forward atmosphere of the event. This stands in stark contrast to other royals who have managed to balance tradition with contemporary style.
As Royal Ascot continues to be a highlight of the social calendar, it remains a platform where fashion and tradition intersect. The event not only showcases the elegance and grandeur of horse racing but also the sartorial choices of its distinguished attendees. Meghan's appearance, albeit a one-time event, adds to the rich tapestry of Royal Ascot's history, reminding us of the diverse fashion narratives that unfold each year.
