Meghan Markle, the Duchess of Sussex, is once again in the spotlight, but this time it’s not for her royal duties or humanitarian efforts.
Instead, her foray into the fashion industry is generating significant controversy.
The former actress has invested in a handbag brand called Sesta Collective, and the backlash surrounding this move is growing louder by the day.
What was meant to be a stylish endorsement has quickly turned into a public relations headache.
The trouble kicked off during a recent trip to Colombia with Prince Harry, where Meghan showcased her investment in Sesta Collective.
The couple took the opportunity to donate educational supplies and drum sets, using the trip to promote Meghan’s involvement with the brand.
Sesta Collective, celebrated for its handwoven bags crafted by Rwandan women and finished in Italy, appeared to align perfectly with Meghan’s commitment to ethical fashion.
However, what started as a noble endeavor is now unraveling faster than the threads of a $750 handbag.
Criticism erupted almost immediately after the announcement of Meghan’s investment.
Many have begun to question her motives, suggesting that her celebrity status might actually harm the brand rather than elevate it.
Some critics have gone so far as to claim Meghan has a “reverse Midas touch,” implying that anything she touches turns to disappointment instead of gold.
In an exclusive chat with The New York Times, Meghan expressed her belief in the power of celebrity endorsements.
She stated, “One of the most powerful things that I’m able to do is simply wearing an earring,” underscoring her dedication to promoting lesser-known brands.
Despite her enthusiasm, the reality on the ground tells a different story.
A growing number of royal fans have initiated a boycott against Sesta Collective.
Social media platforms are buzzing with comments from users who are disenchanted with the brand’s association with Meghan.
One user lamented, “I was considering this version of the bag, but now that Meghan Markle is involved, I’ll never buy from them.” Such sentiments reflect a broader discontent among consumers.
At the heart of the backlash lies a perceived lack of authenticity in Meghan’s venture.
Critics argue that the essence of Sesta Collective—celebrating female artisans—has been overshadowed by Meghan’s high-profile presence.
One particularly harsh critique dismissed the handbags as mere “woven balls” receiving a superficial upgrade in Italy, suggesting that the talented artisans in Rwanda aren’t benefiting from Meghan’s involvement as they should.
Complicating matters further is Meghan’s rocky history with lifestyle brands like The Tig and her challenges with American Riviera Orchard.
Her attempt to pivot from these past setbacks by investing in Sesta Collective now seems fraught with complications.
With the brand’s annual revenue hovering around $1 million and production processes taking considerable time, it’s unclear whether Meghan’s investment will be enough to mitigate the swelling backlash.
Despite her ability to generate headlines, Meghan’s influence hasn’t guaranteed sustained success for Sesta Collective.
As negative sentiment mounts, the founders of the brand, Aon Ryder and Courtley W. Bloodfano, may be rethinking their decision to partner with Meghan.
While they’ve confirmed her minority stake in the company, the specifics of her financial commitment remain shrouded in mystery.
The critical question now looms: will Sesta Collective distance itself from Meghan or find a way to navigate through this storm of public opinion?
Once seen as a potential asset, Meghan’s influence is now becoming a double-edged sword.
As enthusiasm wanes, the future of the brand’s association with the Duchess hangs in the balance.
In the fast-paced world of celebrity endorsements and fashion, where perception often trumps reality, Meghan Markle’s latest venture serves as a cautionary tale.