Few public figures spark as much fashion debate as Meghan Markle, whose wardrobe choices this year have oscillated between luxury triumphs and moments that divided even her most loyal style followers. From headline-making appearances at Paris Fashion Week to carefully curated looks that channel old-Hollywood restraint, the royal’s style narrative in 2025 has been anything but predictable.
At times, her fashion choices leaned into minimalism with sharp tailoring and muted palettes, signalling a desire to be taken seriously on the global style stage. Elsewhere, bolder silhouettes and unexpected proportions proved more polarising, reigniting conversations about fit, occasion and execution. What remains undeniable is her commitment to fashion as messaging rather than mere decoration.
This year, the Duchesses’ wardrobe reflected a clear moment of transition and ambition as she stepped more confidently onto the Hollywood scene, even surprising fans with an appearance at Kris Jenner’s Christmas party. Here, we take a closer look at her standout moments of the year, from the risks that failed to land to the looks that reminded audiences why her style still commands attention.
4. Too safe to truly shine:
Coming in at number four, this look leaned heavily into the oversized tailoring trend, but without quite mastering it. The relaxed matching Ralph Lauren blazer and wide-leg trousers worth over £1,000, felt deliberately loose – yet the lack of structure swallowed her frame, leaving the silhouette craving sharper definition and a little more intention. The neutral colour palette ticked the box for modern minimalism, but it stopped short of making any real statement. It ultimately blended into the background rather than commanding the room. Chic, yes – but for a moment meant to stand out at the TIME100 Summit, this felt more boardroom-safe than fashion-forward.
(Image: Getty)
3. A timeless wardrobe staple:
Coming in at number three, this look proves that the Duchesses’ most enduring fashion moments are often her simplest. The blue-and-white striped shirt is a familiar staple for her, notably worn before at Wimbledon, and it subtly nods to her royal-era uniform. Here, it’s styled with navy trousers and a tan belt, striking that sweet spot between smart and approachable. There’s nothing trend-led or flashy about it, and that’s precisely the point – this is investment dressing in its purest form. The crisp cotton shirt and restrained palette make it endlessly repeatable, whether on stage, at a sporting event or during a low-key public appearance. It may not command headlines, but its quiet confidence and longevity secure its place near the top, underscoring Meghan’s shift toward timeless pieces that prioritise substance over spectacle.
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2. All black commands attention:
Coming in at number two, Meghan’s black look at the 2025 Baby2Baby Gala was sleek, self-assured and unmistakably hers. The Duchess opted for a streamlined black turtleneck teamed with a fluid, floor-length skirt featuring a subtle leg slit. While purists might argue the look lacked overt evening opulence, the pared-back silhouette allowed her confidence and composure to take centre stage. Accessories were kept intentionally restrained, with sculptural drop earrings and delicate jewellery adding polish without disrupting the clean lines. Standing alongside close pal Serena Williams, Meghan’s ensemble proved that she doesn’t need sequins or excess to command attention. The Duchess rewrote the dress code on her own terms.
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5. British tailoring takes the crown:
Taking the number one spot was Meghan’s heritage look at the Invictus Games in Vancouver back in February. This look perfectly sums up Meghan’s fashion story this year – one defined far more by everyday elegance than headline-grabbing red-carpet theatrics. Throughout the year, Meghan has quietly shifted her focus away from statement gowns and overtly dramatic silhouettes, choosing instead to present herself through wearable pieces that prioritise presence over performance. Even at high-profile, glossy events, she consistently opted for understated tailoring rather than Oscar de la Renta drama or commanding scarlet gowns, signalling a clear intention: to be recognised for why she was there, not just what she wore. And this chic ensemble crowned that approach. The result was chic, confident and quietly powerful, proving that Meghan’s most compelling style moments now come when she lets simplicity do the talking.
(Image: Getty)
