Meghan Markle made headlines once again after stepping out in Santa Barbara, continuing to embody a public image that seems perpetually at odds with royal expectations.
This time, her appearance wasn’t solely about fashion but also served a noble cause. On October 2, Meghan was spotted at the Girls Inc. of Greater Santa Barbara, supporting a new digital wellness program designed to benefit teenage girls. Conveniently, the program’s launch on October 11 coincided with the International Day of the Girl. While the program’s positive mission should have been the main focus, as usual, much of the conversation shifted toward Meghan’s sartorial choices, sparking yet another round of heated debate.
Meghan’s outfit, a casual blue J.Crew "Marie Marit" shirt paired with white wide-leg trousers, was meant to evoke an effortlessly stylish look. However, the ensemble quickly became a talking point for reasons beyond the brand names. The shirt, now sold out online, was unbuttoned down to a level that some felt was more appropriate for a beach day than a mentorship event for young girls. The look was completed with a Ralph Lauren belt and Manolo Blahnik heels, keeping her signature high-end touch intact. Yet the choice to leave the shirt unbuttoned to such an extent, combined with the visibly wrinkled trousers, left many wondering if the relaxed style was intentional or careless.
J.Crew, once known for its polished, preppy American aesthetic, now seems to have embraced a more laid-back approach in its association with Meghan. Her crinkled trousers and casual-chic vibe gave rise to questions about whether the brand was moving away from its traditional image in favor of Meghan's less structured look. The ensemble sparked widespread commentary, particularly on social media, where royal watchers were quick to weigh in. One critic on Twitter sharply commented, "Unbuttoning my shirt below the bra line when visiting a girls’ charity—what kind of message is that?" Another added, "She seems to lack the ability to dress appropriately for occasions, especially around children."
While Meghan shared personal stories about digital bullying and the importance of mental wellness during the event, many couldn’t help but note the irony. Critics pointed out the awkward timing, accusing Meghan of overshadowing Princess Catherine’s recent public appearance following her medical treatment. The proximity of Meghan’s event to Catherine's created further speculation, suggesting that Meghan’s public moves often appear to be strategically timed.
The idea that Meghan and her stylist would intentionally opt for trousers that looked as though they had been "dragged through a hedge" struck some as puzzling. J.Crew, a brand once synonymous with crisp, clean lines, might not have anticipated this shift in style when collaborating with Meghan on her shirt. Could it be that J.Crew is having second thoughts about this sartorial alliance, as its clothing now appears in a more casual, even disheveled light?
Social media users were relentless, with one remarking, “Wrinkled AF, as usual,” while another pointed out that her oversized trousers resembled "giant man pants." At this point, some believe Meghan may be daring the public to continue critiquing her, whether it's through her bold fashion choices or the timing of her appearances. There’s a growing sense that these controversial moments are not merely coincidental but part of a larger strategy to keep her name in the headlines. Whether intentional or not, Meghan’s fashion and public appearances remain a constant source of discussion, leaving many to wonder if there is a calculated plan behind the spectacle.
