The Duke and Duchess of Sussex have made headlines once again, this time during their visit to Colombia on August 15.
The couple graced the stage at the National Center for the Arts in Bogota, showcasing not only their royal charm but also their distinctive fashion sense.
Meghan, in particular, has stirred up quite the conversation with her outfit changes throughout the day.
Earlier in the day, Meghan dazzled attendees in a sleeveless Veronica Beard suit paired with chic Manolo Blahnik heels during an official welcome and a school visit.
However, she later opted for a striking Navajo Weaver dress by Joanna Ortiz for the evening performance.
This dress is versatile, allowing for statement ruffle sleeves or a strapless look, but Meghan chose to wear it with spaghetti straps, giving it a fresh twist.
In a notable shift from her earlier slicked-back bun, Meghan let her hair down, enhancing her look with elegant gold jewelry.
But it was not just her fashion that caught attention; a leaked clip revealed Colombian Vice President Francia Marquez seemingly unimpressed by Meghan’s attire.
Marquez’s reaction drew comparisons to the legendary Sofia Loren’s disapproving gaze toward Jane Mansfield, leaving little doubt about her feelings.
Marquez’s scrutinizing glance seemed to communicate a clear message as her eyes traveled over Meghan’s dress, taking in the exposed upper thighs and keyhole cutouts.
It raised eyebrows, particularly given the nature of the event.
Critics quickly seized upon this moment, suggesting it highlighted Meghan’s ongoing struggle with the intricacies of royal protocol during international visits.
This isn’t the first time Meghan’s fashion choices have ignited controversy while on royal duties.
She often finds herself in a tug-of-war between her personal style and the expectations tied to her role as a duchess.
Observers note that she frequently opts for outfits that reveal more skin than what is traditionally deemed appropriate for royal engagements.
Interestingly, this was the third time Meghan donned the Joanna Ortiz design, yet each instance has been met with criticism.
While the dress certainly makes a fashion statement, many question whether it aligns with the decorum expected at such events.
Past outings, including appearances at the Hertz Awards and a sports event in Nigeria, have also seen this dress face scrutiny.
Public opinion on Meghan’s attire remains sharply divided.
Fashion enthusiasts cheer her for her daring choices and her effort to spotlight Colombian designers during her visit.
Conversely, traditionalists and royal watchers express disapproval, arguing that her outfit looks more suited for a night out than a formal royal engagement.
One critic even remarked that Meghan appeared more like a socialite than a duchess.
This raises an intriguing question: What message is she trying to convey through her fashion?
Is she rebelling against royal traditions, or is she simply unaware of the standards expected from her position?
Meghan’s sartorial decisions are more than mere fashion statements; they spark conversations about identity, tradition, and modernity.
As she navigates her role, one can’t help but wonder if she can strike a balance between her bold personal style and the expectations that come with being a member of the royal family.
As the Sussexes continue their South American tour, Meghan’s fashion choices will likely remain a hot topic.
Whether she manages to blend her unique style with royal expectations is still up for debate.
Perhaps there’s wisdom in the saying, “When in Bogota, do as the Bogotans do.” After all, who needs traditional royal elegance when you can make a bold statement?
With each daring neckline and unexpected cutout, the Duchess of Sussex is redefining what it means to dress royally.
Her choices may provoke mixed reactions, but they undeniably keep her at the forefront of fashion discussions worldwide.
