Meghan Markle’s absence from the 2024 CFDA (Council of Fashion Designers of America) Awards has sparked considerable speculation.
Once heralded as a royal fashion icon, Meghan’s non-invitation this year has left many wondering about her evolving position in the fashion world. Instead, the spotlight was on Blake Lively, who returned to the red carpet in impeccable style, garnering praise for her elegance and poise. Meghan’s absence didn’t go unnoticed, and some believe that for someone once touted as a self-made, independent woman and style icon, missing an invitation to one of fashion's biggest nights might be a difficult pill to swallow.
Critics have dubbed her "the Duchess of Delusion," pointing to her public ups and downs, from her entrance into the British royal family to her subsequent rebranding as a Hollywood personality with high-profile Netflix deals.
In recent years, Meghan’s journey has seen both support and criticism. Once backed by the allure of royalty, her American ambitions appear to have stalled. Not being on the CFDA’s exclusive guest list this year could be particularly telling, especially for someone who has consistently promoted herself as an inspirational figure and role model. Meghan has faced other social snubs, despite positioning herself as a feminist advocate. Reports have surfaced alleging mistreatment of staff both in the UK and the US, which has cast a shadow over her public persona. Critics argue that her tendency to portray herself as a perpetual victim is growing tiresome to audiences, and her strained relationship with the British royal family has only added to the perception that her public appeal is waning.
In the past, Meghan was a frequent red-carpet favorite, admired for her style. However, her recent fashion choices have garnered mixed reviews. Her outfits have ranged from overly practical to casually unpolished, even at formal events, leaving many fans and critics puzzled rather than inspired. In contrast, Blake Lively’s appearance at the CFDA Awards was a standout moment, her Michael Kors mini dress and classic Hollywood glamour making waves among attendees and the fashion press alike. Meghan’s no-show, without her usual attention-grabbing presence, was a shift that some in the fashion world welcomed. The stark contrast between Blake’s elegance and Meghan’s absence highlights why some in fashion’s elite circles might be distancing themselves from a figure whose popularity has seemingly faded.
Meghan’s once-tight circle of influential designers and brands appears to be shrinking, and even close friends within the industry are notably distant. Her current projects, including her podcast, have experienced delays, with some ventures seemingly stalled or unfulfilled. As Meghan watched the CFDA Awards unfold from a distance, it raises questions about whether her reign as a fashion darling has truly ended or if this is merely another phase in her ongoing public journey. Today, her title as the Duchess of Sussex may serve as a reminder of the unpredictability of fame and public perception—a cautionary tale in the volatility of life under the spotlight.
