Meghan Markle accused of 'monetizing the monarchy' with new online shop
Meghan may earn commission from purchases, one expert suggests the earnings could be in the millions
Meghan Markle’s latest foray into online shopping has come under fire from a royal fashion expert, who claims the Duchess is continuing to “monetise the monarchy.”
On Monday, the Duchess of Sussex launched a curated online storefront using ShopMy, sharing links to some of her favourite fashion items — many of which come with hefty price tags.
In a post to Instagram Stories, Meghan, 43, wrote: “Many of you have asked, so here you go! A little shopping to start the week. More to come.”
While the platform includes a disclaimer stating that Meghan may earn commission from purchases, one expert suggests the earnings could be in the millions.
Writing for Express UK, royal fashion commentator Alicia Liberty criticised the Duchess’s latest move, saying: “When will Meghan Markle stop monetising the monarchy?”
Liberty argued that Meghan continues to lean on her royal title for financial gain, pointing out that her ShopMy storefront is titled “Meghan, Duchess of Sussex” — despite the fact that she and Prince Harry stepped back from royal duties in 2020.
The expert also referenced Meghan’s recent style choices, including one particular look she claims mimicked Princess Diana’s fashion — just days before the release of Meghan’s Netflix lifestyle series With Love, Meghan.
"She was accused of using her late mother-in-law as a promotional prop," Liberty wrote.
While Liberty acknowledged Meghan's influence in fashion — widely known as the “Meghan Effect” — she said the launch of a personal shopping platform marked a new level of commercialisation.
“The former Suits actress clearly recognises her power and influence,” Liberty noted. “Meghan is clever because when she feels her popularity may be slipping or needs a PR boost, she will use her royal links.”
The items listed on Meghan’s storefront range from high-street brands like Zara to luxury labels such as Oscar de la Renta, Carolina Herrera, and Saint Laurent — including a £1,072 gown and a £595 pair of sandals.
While Liberty praised the Duchess’s “exquisite taste,” she called the pricing “out of touch with reality.”
The launch comes amid heightened interest in Meghan’s evolving brand presence. In addition to her ShopMy storefront, the Duchess is preparing for the debut of her new podcast Confessions of a Female Founder, and her rebranded lifestyle line As Ever is expected to officially launch later this year.
Despite criticism, Meghan’s fashion influence remains strong — with many of the featured items on her new shop already generating buzz online.
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