Meghan Markle appears determined to break new ground, but her latest endeavor may feel more like a reinvention of the wheel.
She is promoting her upcoming lifestyle series, "With Love, Meghan," which is scheduled for release on January 15th. However, for those paying close attention, there is an undeniable sense of déjà vu. The concept behind Meghan’s elevated lifestyle brand seems remarkably similar to Pippa Middleton’s 2012 book, Celebrate. Yes, this is the same Pippa Middleton, sister of Catherine, Princess of Wales, who captured global attention with her standout appearance at the royal wedding.
Her book, Celebrate, showcased her expertise in party planning, brimming with tips for hosting quintessentially British celebrations—from Bonfire Night to Christmas—complete with elegant recipes for luxurious events. At the time, Pippa secured a £400,000 advance for the book, which, despite its occasionally simplistic advice (like instructions for making ice cubes), managed to avoid significant criticism. Public sentiment remained largely favorable because Pippa had a credible background in event planning, thanks to her family’s party business. Her polished, sweet, and unpretentious demeanor helped solidify her appeal.
Fast-forward to 2025, and Meghan Markle is stepping into a similar arena with With Love, Meghan. Her attempt to curate a high-end lifestyle brand is evident, yet it carries a notable inconsistency. Meghan’s aesthetic blends California beachside vibes with lavish dinner parties adorned with ornate china, creating a curious juxtaposition that feels somewhat forced. Unlike Pippa, whose expertise was rooted in authentic experiences within Britain’s social circles, Meghan’s background lacks the same connection. Pippa’s work exuded genuine knowledge and lived experience—traits that endeared her to readers. Meghan’s offerings, by contrast, can feel disjointed, as if caught between laid-back West Coast charm and opulent British traditions.
Another striking difference between the two lies in their public personas. Pippa Middleton has long been admired for her grace and relatability. Her unassuming confidence, warm smile, and grounded nature have made her an enduring favorite. She successfully balanced public attention with personal accomplishments, completing marathons, earning a master’s degree, and managing family life with minimal fanfare. She did all this without a steady stream of orchestrated publicity. Conversely, Meghan Markle’s approach seems more reliant on media narratives and her royal association to maintain relevance. The constant effort to remain in the spotlight has often overshadowed her initiatives, giving the impression of a calculated pursuit of fame rather than a natural evolution of her brand.
Ultimately, With Love, Meghan feels reminiscent of Celebrate but with a less polished execution. Pippa’s work, despite its simplicity, felt genuine and cohesive. Meghan’s project, on the other hand, comes across as a mismatched fusion of styles that leaves audiences puzzled. While Pippa quietly carved out her place in society with charm and competence, Meghan’s endeavor resembles an attempt to replicate success without the foundational authenticity—like borrowing someone else’s homework and hoping it goes unnoticed. The result? A concept that, while ambitious, struggles to resonate with the same warmth and sincerity.
