By the early 2010s though, Meghan had begun embracing plunging necklines, shorter hemlines, and form-fitting dresses.
Later, she went on to show the world she couldseriouslyrock an all-black outfit complete with leather pants.
While she still maintains her own unique flair, Meghan has retired some of her tried-and-true trends.
Allow us to explain.
The crop tops
“This may be one of Meghan Markle’s best looks yet!”
The publication was referring to the then-actress’white pencil skirt with matching crop topby the Canadian label Mackage.
The set was also “layered under a totally badass white leather moto jacket.”
At that time, crop tops had become a bit ofa staple in Meghan’s wardrobe.
This really just boils down to the conservative nature of British royalty.
So, what happened?
However, Meghan didn’tcompletelygive up low-cut numbers untilafterwalking down the aisle.
Unfortunately for Meghan, though, this is also when the criticism of her wardrobe took root.
Vanity Fairwriter Josh Duboff was also surprised to see Meghan sporting such relaxed attire.
Jeans even ripped ones are not necessarily a no-no for royalty, but it does depend on the situation.
While you will spot Meghanwearing denim occasionally, she follows this situational rule of playing it safe.
Those fun short suits
Before becoming a royal, Meghan was basically thequeenofshort suits.
The former actress pulled off the blazer and shorts combo effortlessly.
But since becoming a duchess, we haven’t spotted Meghan donning her classic look.
Well, there could be a couple reasons for this.
For one thing,showing a lot of skinis not exactly the royal family’s way.
The day you see the Queen of England rocking a mini, you let us know.
Shorts are actually the official wardrobe of royal male children.
“Thankfully in late 19th Century and early 20th Century this developed into shorts,” he added.
“This tradition is carried on by the Royal Family to this very day.”
Now you know whyPrince George is almostalwayswearing them.
Bright outfits
Meghan didn’t always wearthe monochromatic paletteyou’re so familiar with today.
Prior to her wedding day in May 2018, Meghan had worn a rainbow of colors (viaWmagazine).
However, Meghan made the decision to tone down her wardrobe upon becoming a duchess.
And, because no fashion choice Meghan makes can go unquestioned, some started criticizing her new muted ensembles.
But this wardrobe change was no accident.
“Looks that weren’t overpowering that wouldn’t take away from the work itself.
Yet and still, there’s an entirely different reason the Duchess of Sussex avoids wearing the color orange.
In fact, her sister-in-lawKate Middleton has also never worn the colorsince becoming royalty.
So, what’s up with orange?
The exact reason for the wardrobe exclusion is unclear.
Different strokes for different folks.
Meghan has such an influence on consumerism that this phenomenon has rightfully been dubbed “the Meghan effect.”
“[The duchess] has a policy not to accept any free offers of clothing.
In doing so, youcouldargue that she broke all sorts of royal fashion rules.
Etiquette expert Alexandra Messervy toldInStylethat royals “don’t usually wear sleeveless dresses.”
She also told the publication that the royals choose their fabrics carefully, often opting for stronger materials.
But it’s important to note that these rules only apply to most situations.
While some may have thought the outfit was inappropriate for royalty, Meghanwason vacation.
And, you know,pregnant.
However, it is true thatMeghan no longer wears linen with the same frequencythat she once had.
Why, Megs, why?!
Etiquette expert William Hanson has the answer.
Like the Duchess of Sussex,Kate Middleton is a strict follower of the footwear rule.
She, too, has worn sandals in Australia and will onlyveryoccasionally sport a peep-toe.
Other than that, it’s possible for you to expectbothsisters-in-law to hold steadfast to this closed-toe guideline.
It wasn’t until Meghan became a duchess that she traded in the crossbody for a clutch.
And this wasn’t a coincidence.
Royal women have also been known to use clutches to avoid awkward encounters.
As great as the crossbody may be, hands-free bags just donotcome with this cool perk.
