Meghan Markle’s fashion choices have consistently drawn public attention, often sparking both admiration and controversy. Recently, the Duchess of Sussex found herself at the center of a heated debate after donning a purple Northwestern University sweatshirt in an Instagram video. While some viewed this as a heartfelt tribute to her late mother-in-law, Princess Diana, others criticized it as an offensive attempt to emulate the beloved royal.
In the video, Meghan is seen engaging in casual activities in the garden of her Montecito home, wearing the purple sweatshirt from her alma mater, Northwestern University. This choice of attire mirrors a moment from 1996 when Princess Diana was photographed wearing a similar Northwestern sweatshirt, a gift she received during a visit to the university to support cancer research initiatives. Meghan’s decision to wear this specific piece appeared to be a nod to Diana’s off-duty style and their shared connection to the university.
However, the public’s reaction was polarized. Some social media users accused Meghan of inappropriately leveraging Diana’s legacy for personal attention. One critic suggested, “Harry should divorce her for this,” while another commented, “I think it’s offensive she keeps trying to emulate Diana for good press. Diana never would’ve done the things Ms. Markle has done.”
This isn’t the first time Meghan has drawn inspiration from Princess Diana’s wardrobe. In January 2019, during a visit to Birkenhead with Prince Harry, Meghan wore a striking combination of a red Sentaler coat over a purple dress by Babaton from Aritzia. This ensemble closely resembled an outfit Princess Diana wore in 1989 during a trip to Hong Kong, where she paired a red coat with a purple skirt and hat. Such sartorial choices have been interpreted by some as Meghan’s way of honoring Diana’s memory, while others view them as attempts to draw parallels between herself and the late princess.
Supporters of Meghan argue that her fashion choices are genuine tributes to Diana and reflect a deep respect for her legacy. They point out that fashion is a common medium through which public figures pay homage to predecessors, and Meghan’s selections are consistent with this tradition. Additionally, as a graduate of Northwestern University, wearing the school’s apparel can be seen as a natural expression of pride in her alma mater.
The debate over Meghan’s purple outfit underscores the intense scrutiny she faces in the public eye. While some interpret her actions as calculated and self-serving, others see them as sincere gestures of admiration and personal expression. This dichotomy highlights the broader challenges Meghan encounters as she navigates her role within the royal family and the media’s portrayal of her intentions.
In conclusion, Meghan Markle’s choice to wear a purple Northwestern University sweatshirt has ignited discussions about the appropriateness and motivations behind her fashion decisions. Whether viewed as offensive or as a heartfelt tribute, this incident exemplifies the complexities of public perception and the varied interpretations of actions taken by figures in the royal spotlight.
