Meghan Markle, the Duchess of Sussex, made headlines on Tuesday night as she celebrated her upcoming birthday with Prince Harry at a high-end restaurant near their Montecito home.
However, it was her fashion choice that caught the attention of critics and resulted in a significant blow to a popular Australian fashion brand.
Stepping out of Treloon restaurant, Meghan donned a trendy strapless dress from Australian brand Posse.
The $240 black and white column style maxi dress, designed to accentuate every curve, showcased her slender figure.
Complementing the outfit, she opted for a pair of flat black sandals, but added a touch of flair with a $428 beaded wooden clutch from Cool Gear.
Posse, known for its popularity among influencers and A-listers, had an unexpected turn of events when Meghan wore their dress.
Negative opinions flooded in, criticizing her choice for the occasion.
Many felt that she was overdressed for Très Lune, suggesting that a more casual outfit would have been appropriate.
Some even questioned her obsession with black and white, especially after her previous comments about not being able to wear colorful clothing during her time as a royal.
The backlash against Meghan’s outfit had a tangible impact on Posse’s sales.
According to a recent report, the brand experienced a staggering 56% reduction in orders following the incident.
Founder Daniel Mullen had not utilized Meghan’s image for advertising purposes, but the negative impact stemmed from photos and articles showcasing her wearing the dress.
Social media users also joined in the criticism, expressing their thoughts on Meghan’s attire.
Some believed that the dress’s ankle-length was a poor choice for the occasion, likening it to a beach cover-up rather than an evening ensemble.
Others speculated that Meghan’s affinity for strapless dresses stemmed from her desire to highlight her neck and shoulders, as evidenced by her modification of the straps on the Hertz dress.
Amidst the criticism, suggestions were made for Meghan to explore more affordable options, with one person recommending she order a simple dress from Amazon to avoid any fashion mishaps.
The fit of the dress was also called into question, with observations of horizontal pulling across the legs and hips.
The negative feedback surrounding Meghan’s outfit not only impacted Posse’s sales but also raised questions about her standing within Hollywood.
The absence of famous friends photographed alongside her for the birthday dinner led some to speculate about her current status, describing her as desperate and alone.
As Meghan Markle continues to navigate her new life outside the royal family, her fashion choices will undoubtedly continue to be scrutinized.
The incident serves as a reminder that even the most influential figures can experience fashion missteps, resulting in unintended consequences for the brands they choose to wear.