Meghan Markle is under fire for a new business venture that appears to capitalize on her royal status. Critics accuse the Duchess of “monetizing the monarchy” through her commission-based ShopMy platform where she sells thousand-dollar dresses.
At a glance:
• Meghan Markle launched a commission-earning Instagram shop using her royal title “Duchess of Sussex”
• The shop features luxury items including a $1,415 cashmere sweater and $1,350 silk maxi dress
• Critics accuse her of “monetizing the monarchy” through affiliate sales commissions
• Some items in her collection match those worn in her Netflix series “With Love, Meghan”
• The venture comes after Meghan and Harry left royal duties partly due to the monarchy’s restrictions on commercial endorsements
Royal Profits: Meghan Uses Duchess Title to Sell Luxury Fashion
Meghan Markle, who famously left royal duties, partly because the monarchy wouldn’t allow commercial endorsements, is now using her royal title to sell expensive clothing. The Duchess of Sussex recently launched a ShopMy page branded as “Meghan, Duchess of Sussex” where she earns commissions on luxury fashion items costing up to thousands of dollars.
The online store features high-end products including a sleeveless gown over £1,000, Saint Laurent sandals for £600, and earrings priced at £200. Brands featured in her collection include Heidi Merrick, Reformation, and J Crew, with a focus on neutral-colored basics that mirror Meghan’s personal style.
The Duchess announced the venture on Instagram with the message: “Many of you have asked, so here you go! A little shopping to start the week. More to come. Link in bio ❤️” The ShopMy website clearly displays a disclaimer about commissionable links, confirming that Meghan stands to profit from each sale made through her recommendations.
Critics Slam “Monetizing the Monarchy” During Economic Hardship
The launch sparked outrage from critics who question the ethics of leveraging royal connections for profit. One commenter bluntly stated: “I can’t believe she is allowed to get away with monetizing the monarchy,” while others pointed to the tone-deaf timing of selling luxury goods during widespread financial hardship.
“Do people need another celebrity selling them things they don’t need at this moment in our country’s financial status? I wish her well!” wrote one person on social media. Others mocked the high prices, with one commenter noting: “Meghan Markle’s affiliate marketing store. Get them while they’re hot!!! They look like sandals Walmart has on sale for $19.95 but to each her own lol.”
Marketing expert Maddy Alexander-Grout explained the potential windfall for the Duchess: “She could potentially earn millions from this and is probably earning a commission on every sale she makes. Looking like Meghan and being like Meghan – she’s going to make a killing off people.”
Netflix Cross-Promotion Raises Eyebrows
The timing of the shop launch appears well planned, as it includes items featured in her Netflix series. Several pieces available through her ShopMy page match outfits worn in “With Love, Meghan,” suggesting a calculated cross-platform marketing approach.
The launch reportedly caused some third-party websites to crash due to high demand from Meghan’s fans. She has already hinted at future expansions with her lifestyle company As Ever, following a rebrand from American Riviera Orchard, which plans to sell pancake mix and fruit spreads.
Meghan and Harry have an estimated £34 million private fortune and continue to pursue new business ventures. Their departure from the Royal Family was partially motivated by the monarchy’s restrictions on commercial endorsements.
