Meghan Markle Criticized for Outfit Choice During Meeting with Malala Yousafzai
The Duchess of Sussex's choice of oversized palazzo pants drew criticism for its fit and perceived lack of sartorial awareness.
Meghan Markle, the Duchess of Sussex, has faced scrutiny over her fashion choices during a recent public appearance with Nobel Peace Prize laureate Malala Yousafzai outside Claridge's hotel. The outfit in question, a pair of wide-leg palazzo pants, has been described by critics as a "trainwreck" that "betrays what's really going on behind the scenes of her UK return."
The wide-leg trousers, characterized as "oversize" and "overdone," were noted for appearing to dwarf the Duchess's 5ft 6in frame. Photographs from the event show the fluid trousers looking wrinkled and disheveled, suggesting a poor fit for the occasion. This particular ensemble has been contrasted with other notable outfits from Markle's public life.
While Markle has been praised for other fashion moments, such as a tailored Celine jacket and cropped denim in 2022, or a sleek Dior tuxedo jacket in 2025, this recent choice has fueled discussion about her public image and style consistency. Critics pointed to other instances where her clothing choices, like a Roland Mouret dress in 2018 or a Ralph Lauren trouser suit in 2025, were also deemed ill-fitting or oversized.
Even her wedding gown, a custom Louis Vuitton creation, was noted by some observers to have betrayed "tell-tale signs of someone who overlooked tailoring."
The commentary surrounding Markle's attire suggests a broader conversation about her public persona and the expectations placed upon her as a member of the British Royal Family, even after stepping back from official duties. The meeting with Malala Yousafzai, a prominent advocate for female education, was intended to highlight important social causes, but the focus has, in part, shifted to the Duchess's wardrobe.