The latest trend taking celebrities and social media by storm is not a designer handbag, but rather a super-sized, insulated water tumbler.
These gigantic adult sippy cups have become a common sight in boutique gyms, symbolizing a healthy and active lifestyle.
The hashtag #StanleyCup has amassed over 7 billion views on TikTok and has garnered a cult-like following online, with celebrities like Shay Mitchell and Molly Rae Haig endorsing the trend.
These tumblers, available in various colors, consistently sell out within minutes of their release.
Recently, Stanley, a popular brand, collaborated with Starbucks for a limited edition Valentine’s Day collection, causing a frenzy on social media.
Videos emerged of eager shoppers in America queuing overnight to secure the coveted bright pink and red cups, with one man even being tackled and beaten up by other customers in an attempt to grab a box.
These cups are now being resold on eBay for as much as £150 each.
Not one to miss out on a trend, Meghan Markle seized the opportunity to align herself with these brands.
In a recent advertisement for Clever Blends, a coffee brand she invested in back in 2020, Meghan is seen engaging in typical office activities, with a Simple Moderns Trek tumbler prominently placed on her desk.
The tumbler, known for its birch design, has become a popular accessory among stylish social media enthusiasts.
By featuring the tumbler in the ad, Meghan aimed to promote both the brand and its core value of generous giving, as Simple Moderns donates at least 10% of its profits to various non-profit organizations.
However, sources close to WME’s staff have revealed that Simple Modern did not acknowledge Meghan’s intention, despite her inclusion of their product in the ad.
It appears that the brand did not hire her or have any formal contracts with her, resulting in their refusal to share 10% of their profits with Meghan’s company, Archwell.
Mike Beckham, co-founder and CEO of Simple Modern, expressed concerns about the negative impact Meghan’s participation in the coffee commercial had on his brand.
He believes that Meghan, being a woman in her 40s, is no longer an influential figure unless she ventures into the realm of mummy blogging.
Beckham doubts she will attract big luxury brands like Gwen Paltrow or Kourtney Kardashian.
Critics from the palace courtier camp argue that Meghan’s appearance in the ad is solely motivated by money and serves as another attempt to boost sales, even at the cost of demeaning her royal title.
They also take a dig at Clever Blends, questioning whether the brand has resolved its lead toxicity issue with their products.
These critics find it fitting that Meghan, known for her controversial reputation, would endorse such a brand.
From gracing royal balconies to promoting coffee and stress patches in parking lots, Meghan Markle seems to have found her freedom, but not without facing rejection from Simple Modern and stirring up controversy along the way.