Meghan Markle's Critics May Hate Her Style But Our Expert Says She's Laughing Her Way To The Bank

Few public figures have inspired such fervor — or fury — as Meghan Markle. Her choices, sartorial or otherwise, have been parsed with an ire usually reserved for criminals or bigots. But while discourse endlessly circles accusations of a desperate overexposure, Meghan's set her sights on an interesting new strategy: monetizing the spectacle.

In March 2025, the Duchess of Sussex addressed her 2.6 million Instagram followers with a breezy caption — "Many of you have asked, so here you go!" — and a link to a ShopMy page featuring a curated selection of her favorite products. The offerings were divided into three sections, "My Closet" (which featured some signature neutral monochrome outfit inspiration) "Beauty," and "The Wedding Edit," the last of which included items used on her wedding day, as detailed by makeup artist Daniel Martin's earlier appearance on the "Breaking Beauty" podcast, where he recounted the behind-the-scenes story of her bridal look.

Markle also added the disclaimer, "Please note, some products may contain commissionable links." Predictably, the reaction was swift and sharp. Though fans were eager to uncover some of the beauty secrets behind her transformation since her marriage to Prince Harry, critics accused her of influencer behaviour, once again transgressing some ill-defined boundary of royal decorum. But the impulse to capitalize on public curiosity is hardly new. As communications expert Amy Prenner (of The Prenner Group) exclusively tells Women, it may just be one of her savvier decisions.

Somewhere between her royal exit and her Hollywood return, Meghan Markle seems to have arrived at a satisfying revelation: if you're going to be scrutinized, you might as well benefit from it. Digital commerce, granted, is not the most obvious domain for a former working royal. But then again, nothing about Meghan's post-palace trajectory has obeyed convention.

According to communications expert Amy Prenner, the move "has the potential to raise some eyebrows." Markle's timing arguably does invite contrast. Just weeks before Meghan's ShopMy debut, Kensington Palace issued a statement declaring that Kate Middleton would no longer share details of her wardrobe with the press. "Focus on my work not my wardrobe," ran the headline in The Sunday Times, a carefully curated sentiment that was nonetheless difficult to detach from its context. Kate's clothing budget in 2022 alone reportedly exceeded £170,000 — an awkward figure in a year of lockdown, reduced royal duties, and deepening austerity across the UK.

With this in mind, Meghan's decision to disclose and even monetise her wardrobe choices lands differently. As Prenner notes, "it shows a willingness to be transparent and relatable, which can help build a stronger connection with her audience." In offering affiliate links directly, she is demystifying the influencer economy — offering a glimpse into her life and the chance to emulate it.

Meghan Markle's latest move may not involve a crown, but it certainly has the makings of a royal success. It's a strategy with real staying power, not least for its monetary gain. As Amy Prenner recognizes, "With millions of followers, Meghan could earn significant income through affiliate commissions or by securing brand partnerships." With future seasons of her Netflix show, "With Love, Meghan," waiting in the wings, the product placement opportunities and designer collaborations could further entrench her as a firm fixture in the fashion ecosystem — particularly for someone who's built a reputation on staying stylish while avoiding outdated trends. 

But the space she's carving out offers more than just revenue. "She can use her platform to promote emerging designers," Prenner adds, "which could boost their visibility and sales." Of course, Meghan's overall success will depend on more than aesthetic curation. She needs to maintain the delicate tension between her royal past and her current public persona. Prenner cautions, "It's important that she remains mindful of the potential backlash and ensures that her actions align with her broader goals and values." But if she manages that, this shift could mark more than just a simple commercial pivot.

She may have stepped back from official engagements, but in the digital age, this could be the building of a kingdom all her own.