Meghan Markle and Prince Harry faced backlash over the extravagant cost of Meghan’s high-end wardrobe during their recent visit to New York City.
The royal couple spent three days in the Big Apple engaging with global leaders and participating in a vaccine equity event held in Central Park.
Among their activities was a visit to a school in Harlem, known for being one of the city’s more deprived areas.
However, it was Meghan’s pricey ensemble, totaling £7,000 ($10,741), that stirred controversy among critics.
Journalist Daniela Elza, in a scathing opinion piece for the NZ Herald, expressed outrage at Meghan’s fashion choices, stating, “Just let that sink in for a moment.”
Elza highlighted the stark contrast between Meghan’s lavish outfit and the setting in which she wore it, emphasizing the disconnect as she arrived in a black Range Rover wearing a $10,741 ensemble to meet students from a Harlem public school where 94% of students receive free meals.
The former actress opted for a luxurious $5,840 (£4,288.95) cashmere coat paired with $1,685 (£1,237.45) pants from the Italian label Loro Piana during her visit to PS 123, a school that supports 12 shelters, including those for women and children escaping domestic violence.
Despite the practical challenges of interacting with students, Meghan appeared unfazed by the potential risks to her eye-wateringly expensive attire.
Meghan and Harry concluded their New York trip by participating in a global citizen live event in Central Park, where they addressed the crowd about the importance of ensuring widespread access to the Covid vaccine.
The scrutiny on Meghan, 40, intensified as she flaunted thousands of pounds worth of clothing and jewelry throughout their visit, marking their first public appearance since the birth of their daughter, Lilibet, in June.
Under the banner of their non-profit organization, Artool, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex engaged in a series of significant meetings during their stay in New York.
Following their activities, the royal pair dined at the soul food restaurant Melba’s in South Harlem, generously donating $25,000 to the restaurant’s employee relief fund, aimed at supporting hourly workers affected by the pandemic.
At the global live citizen event, Meghan donned a Valentino shift dress and carried a Christian Dior Lady D light bag, paying tribute to Princess Diana with her choice of accessories.
She also adorned her late mother-in-law’s Cartier tank watch, a sentimental piece given to Princess Diana on her 21st birthday.
Meghan emphasized the collective effort needed to combat the pandemic, stating, “There is so much that we can do today to get us closer to ending this pandemic, and that’s why we’re all here.”
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