In a twist that feels straight out of a royal soap opera, the Duchess of Sussex has stirred the pot by asserting her claim to the color burgundy in the fashion world.
This rich hue, long cherished by aristocrats, suddenly finds itself at the center of a fashion feud that has amused and baffled royal watchers alike.
Zara Tyndall, daughter of Princess Anne and known for her down-to-earth demeanor, couldn’t help but chuckle at the suggestion that Meghan Markle is breaking new ground with her burgundy choices.
After all, this is a color that has been gracing royal wardrobes since before Meghan even knew how to curtsy.
At a recent equestrian event, Zara humorously referenced her late grandmother, Queen Elizabeth II, who had an impressive collection of burgundy outfits dating back to the 1950s.
This lighthearted remark underscores the absurdity of the claims being made by Meghan’s camp.
As the fashion archives reveal, this deep wine shade has been worn by notable royals like Princess Anne, Kate Middleton, and even the iconic Princess Diana, who dazzled in a burgundy velvet gown at a state dinner back in 1984—when Meghan was just a toddler.
Recently, royal ladies have been spotted sporting various shades of burgundy at public events, showcasing their individual styles.
Catherine, Princess of Wales, turned heads in a chic burgundy suit during a charity visit, while Zara Tyndall looked sophisticated in a burgundy dress coat at a racing event.
Princess Beatrice also made a statement in a stunning burgundy evening gown at a gala dinner.
Each appearance was met with admiration, but the real conversation starter lies not in their fashion choices but in the apparent attempt to rewrite history.
Insiders suggest that Meghan’s team has been working diligently to position her as a fashion innovator, despite her relatively short time as a working royal.
Royal fashion historian Margaret Bellamy found the situation amusing, likening it to claiming one invented wearing black to a funeral.
The notion of staking a claim over such a longstanding royal staple only highlights a disconnect from the traditions that define the monarchy.
The timing of this fashion drama is particularly intriguing, coinciding with the release of several new books about the royal family.
One biography hints that Meghan has always approached royal fashion as a means of making bold statements rather than adhering to tradition.
Royal commentator Charles Hampton notes a pattern in Meghan’s behavior—a desire to be seen as the originator or innovator.
However, he emphasizes that within the royal family, respect for tradition is paramount, and this burgundy debacle misses the mark entirely.
The other royal women seem unfazed by the controversy.
At a recent public appearance, Zara shared a knowing glance with Princess Beatrice when the burgundy issue came up, their expressions revealing a mix of amusement and exasperation.
What might seem trivial on the surface actually reflects a deeper narrative within the royal sphere, highlighting the divide between those who embrace royal traditions and those who view the monarchy as a platform for personal branding.
Social media users have quickly jumped on the absurdity of the situation, with one Twitter user quipping about the historical significance of burgundy in royal fashion.
Another joked that Meghan might soon claim to have invented wearing tiaras.
This playful banter underscores how the public perceives the ongoing rivalry and the lengths some will go to assert their influence.
Fashion historian Victoria Carmichael points out that royal fashion has traditionally served as a tool for diplomacy and public relations, not a competition over who wore what first.
The essence of royal dressing is about representing the crown with dignity and grace, rather than turning it into a race to don the latest trend.
As winter approaches, it’s likely we’ll see more burgundy ensembles from various royals, a color that photographs beautifully and carries the weight needed for royal duties.
None of the working royals appear to be losing sleep over who wore burgundy first.
A former palace staff member, wishing to remain anonymous, offered a telling insight: true security in one’s royal role means focusing on the work at hand rather than claiming ownership of a color.
In the end, it’s not about the shade of fabric but the contributions made to the institution.
This latest royal fashion fracas has revealed the complexities and rivalries within the House of Windsor.
The relationship between the Duchesses of Cambridge and Sussex has been fraught with speculation since Meghan entered the royal fold.
Royal commentator Harrietta Hodge notes that the two women come from vastly different backgrounds, which has often led to contrasting approaches to royal life and duties.
As tensions simmer, the competition between Kate and Meghan transcends fashion, touching on influence, popularity, and public affection.
Meghan’s entry into the royal family, as a biracial American divorcee, was seen as a challenge to the established norms, particularly following her decision to step back from royal duties, which many viewed as a betrayal of the institution.
The Daily Mail’s sensational headlines have only added fuel to the fire, portraying Meghan as a disruptive force within the royal family.
Royal journalist Emily Wilkinson points out that the publication has a long history of critiquing Meghan, and this latest article fits a pattern of seeking to highlight her perceived challenges to royal tradition.
The burgundy battle may seem trivial, but it serves as a microcosm of the ongoing dynamics within the monarchy, reflecting deeper issues of identity, tradition, and the role of modern royals.