Author: bang2

  • Queen Camilla bestows Royal Warrant on seven of her favourite firms

    Queen Camilla bestows Royal Warrant on seven of her favourite firms

    Camilla has granted her first Royal Warrants of Appointment to her favourite companies – including a wine merchant and an office supply firm.

    Queen Camilla

    Queen Camilla has chosen to bestow a Royal Warrant to the famous Fortnum & Mason (Image: Getty)

    Queen Camilla today reveals her personal tastes when it comes to the best of British goods and services – as she grants her first ever Royal Warrants of Appointment to seven companies.

    The firms that will now proudly bear her coat of arms range from a family vineyard in Cornwall, to London’s world-famous department store and grocer Fortnum & Mason.

    All of Queen Camilla’s selections also appear in a list of 145 UK businesses to receive prestigious warrants from her husband, King Charles, having previously enjoyed his patronage when he was Prince of Wales.

    Among those toasting the accolades – which are granted for up to five years as a mark of recognition for supplying goods or services to the Royal Household – are Bob and Annie Lindo.

    They planted their Camel Valley vineyard in Bodmin, Cornwall in 1989.

     

    Of their warrants from both Charles and Camilla as a “purveyor of English sparkling wines”, managing director Bob said: “What an honour. Her Majesty has taken a keen interest in the development of English wines and as President of Wine GB, which represents the industry, she has been a terrific source of encouragement and enthusiasm. To now have been appointed as one of her first Warrant holders is very special.”

    The “delighted and honoured” Tom Athron, chief executive of historic Fortnum & Mason, said: “To receive a Royal Warrant in 2024 requires a rigorous focus on acting for a sustainable future, supporting the country’s rural and farming communities and protecting the arts and heritage crafts.”

    Queen Camilla’s remaining five Warrants have been granted to other London-based businesses, including a wine merchant, chemist, florist, jeweller and a stationery and office supply firm.

    Charles’s picks include Corgi Hosiery, a Welsh independent sock and knitwear manufacturer, Cambridgeshire-based Barcham Trees which grows “instant impact” containerised trees, and London Scribes, a specialist calligraphy, lettering, illustration and print service.

  • Two key signs that Prince Harry and Meghan Markle are ‘monetising’ royal ties exposed

    Two key signs that Prince Harry and Meghan Markle are ‘monetising’ royal ties exposed

    The couple were in Nigeria this weekend to promote their work with the Invictus Games.

    The Duke and Duchess of Sussex Visit Nigeria - Day 3

    Prince Harry and Meghan Markle have come under fire (Image: Getty)

    Prince Harry and Meghan Markle have been accused of cashing in on their links to the Royal Family once again.

    The couple were in Nigeria this weekend to promote their work with the Invictus Games.

    But several moments during an event at the Nigerian Defence Headquarters in the country’s capital of Abuja have raised questions about their true intentions.

    The couple’s chairs were labelled with “Duke” and “Duchess” at the reception, as opposed to their first names.

    Harry and Meghan tried to move away from their titles in 2020, after stepping down as senior working royals and relocating to the US to carve out careers away from the monarchy.

    The pair used their royal titles

    The pair used their royal titles (Image: Getty)

    Royal expert Robert Jobson told the Daily Express: “They seem to be clinging on to the very same thing they have been trashing. Why can’t they just be themselves?

    “This is about currency and not credibility.

    “It should be Meghan and Harry, not Duke and Duchess.

    “It’s a shame that Harry cannot be himself. After all, his mother was always simply Diana.

    “It was good enough for her, why isn’t it for him?”

    During the same event, Prince Harry was also slammed for inspecting troops from the Nigerian military.

    Video footage showed Harry being personally greeted by a ceremonial performance before carrying out the inspection.

    Royal commentator Kinsey Schofield described the moment as “odd” adding it was “something he would have done 10 years ago” before he was stripped of his royal title.

    She told GB News: “Despite being stripped of his military titles by the late Queen Elizabeth II, Prince Harry in Nigeria was seen inspecting the troops. This is odd.

    “He’s not a working member of the Royal Family. That’s something he would have done 10 years ago.

    “And I think that that is exactly what we see with Harry and Meghan. And the objective, again, is to monetise off of those connections.”

  • Prince George, Charlotte and Louis have to follow unusual playtime rule at home

    Prince George, Charlotte and Louis have to follow unusual playtime rule at home

    It seems the royal children are bound by a surprising rule and procedure when they are at their home cottage in Windsor.

    Prince George, Princess Charlotte, Prince Louis

    The royal children are cared for by their Norland nanny, Maria Borrallo (Image: Getty)

    It may come as a surprise to some that the royal children will head outside, no matter the weather, when they are away from front-facing public duties, it has been claimed.

    While having fun at their home in Adelaide Cottage in Windsor, Prince George, 10, Princess Charlotte, nine, and Prince Louis, six, are tended to by their nanny, Maria Borrallo.

    But it is said that Maria runs a strict protocol including daily outside playtime – even if it is pouring down with rain.

    Louise Heren, the author of ‘Nanny in a Book’ told Hello! Magazine: “There will be lots and lots of outdoor play…Lots of bike rides, playing with their dogs, potentially some gardening. … Yes, you are getting mucky with your hands in the soil.”

    She added: “If it is tipping it down, they [the royal children] will still go out.”

    The Royal Family on the Buckingham Palace Balcony

    The Royal Family on the Buckingham Palace Balcony (Image: Getty)

    Prince William once opened up about his children’s passion for the outdoors in the 2020 documentary ‘Prince William: A Planet For Us All’.

    Speaking about his inspiration for environmental work, the Prince said: “Seeing my children, seeing the passion in their eyes and the love for being outdoors. They find a bug or they love watching how bees are forming honey.”

    He added: “George, particularly, if he’s not outdoors, he’s quite like a caged animal. He needs to get outside.”

    According to former BBC royal correspondent Jennie Bond, the Wales family enjoys outdoor activities together. She previously said: “They like outdoor activities, so lots of sport, lots of fun, games in the garden and cycling.”

    She added: “Their half-terms are full of things you’d get up to at Girl Guides: bonfires, barbecues, helping out with the gardens and the farm in Sandringham.”

    Royal Family at Sandringham

    It is claimed the Royal Family love outdoor activities (Image: Getty)

    TRENDING

    Meanwhile, King Charles has lovingly revamped his gardens for the delight of Prince William and Kate’s children, showcasing his deep affection for his grandchildren.

    The monarch, known for his green fingers, has made significant changes to his royal gardens, ensuring they are a perfect playground for Prince George and his siblings, Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis.

    The King, a passionate environmentalist and the most ardent gardening enthusiast in the Royal family has made three substantial modifications to his gardens across his estates.

    Even in honour of Prince George’s birth, the King transformed a barren field into a lush woodland on the Birkhall Estate in Balmoral, Aberdeenshire.

  • Prince Harry and Meghan Markle BREAK SILENCE after Archewell charity ruled ‘delinquent’

    Prince Harry and Meghan Markle BREAK SILENCE after Archewell charity ruled ‘delinquent’

    Prince Harry and Meghan Markle have suffered a major setback after it was revealed that their charity Archewell has been ruled ‘delinquent’.

    Prince Harry and Meghan Markle in Nigeria

    Harry and Meghan’s charity has been ruled ‘delinquent’ in a major setback (Image: Getty)

    Prince Harry and Meghan Markle have broken their silence after it came to light their charitable foundation, Archewell, has been named “delinquent”.

    The charity – where the Duke and Duchess of Sussex work just “one hour per week”, according to official documents, has been sent a brutal letter from California’s state attorney, who warned them that Archewell is currently “not in good standing”.

    But in the couple’s first official statement following their three-day tour of Nigeria, the Sussex’s have failed to mention anything about the scandal, instead divulging more details of their trip.

    A note, released on the Sussex’s official website, read: “The Duke and Duchess would like to extend their deepest gratitude to all the event organizers, military officials and the whole Nigerian community for their tremendous hospitality and the first of many memorable trips.”

    Prince Harry and Meghan Markle in Nigeria

    Harry and Meghan have not yet released a statement on Archewell’s blunder (Image: Getty)

    As a result of Archewell’s apparent failure to pay required fees, the organisation has temporarily been banned from collecting and distributing charitable funds.

    The letter by the attorney general read: “An organisation that is listed as delinquent is not in good standing and is prohibited from engaging in conduct for which registration is required, including soliciting or disbursing charitable funds.

    “The organisation may also be subject to penalties, and its registration may be suspended or revoked by the Registry.”

     

    Archewell now has to submit records to show why its payment is late and pay late fees.

    Harry and Meghan’s foundation has filed for an extension – but California’s official registry continued to list Archewell as delinquent, according to reports in the US.

     

    During Harry and Meghan’s trip to Nigeria, the Duchess revealed rare details about their children Prince Archie, five, and two-year-old Princess Lilibet.

    Despite spending the US version of Mother’s Day thousands of miles away from her children, she appeared to keep the youngster close in their thoughts, as she revealed rare details about them to a group of scholchildren during the visit.

    In a sweet four-word statement, she admitted: “I’m missing my babies.”

    She told the crowds: “It feels appropriate that although of course we are missing our children, I’m missing my babies, it feels very appropriate to be in the motherland and amongst family.”

  • Prince Harry snubbed again after revealing wild secrets about his family and marriage to Meghan Markle

    Prince Harry snubbed again after revealing wild secrets about his family and marriage to Meghan Markle

    Prince Harry’s memoir Spare sold over 700,000 copies, more than any other book last year but it wasn’t a winner at the British Book Awards last night in London

    harry

    There was no British Book Awards celebration for the royal (
    Image: Anadolu via Getty Images)

    Prince Harry’s tell-all memoir Spare took a bashing at the British Book Awards and didn’t come close to winning – even losing out to a puzzle book.

    The Duke of Sussex sent shockwaves around the world when he released the bombshell book, which featured a number of accusations about members of the Royal Family. Harry also claimed to have taken drugs in his youth and detailed how he lost her virginity to an older woman before accusing Prince William of hitting him.

    It sold 706,978 copies but was beaten in every category it was nominated in at last night’s bash. It fell short and missed out on the book of the year award, which went to Murdle by GT Karber. In the non-fiction section, he missed out too with Politics On The Edge by former international development secretary Rory Stewart scooping the gong.

    There was no luck for the royal later. The panel of judges at Park Lane’s Grosvenor House, included Adrian Chiles and Lorraine Kelly, and they went for Katherine Rundell as Author of the Year, snubbing Harry who was also nominated. Royal family members were not painted in the best light in the book. The Duke claimed that William and Kate Middleton encouraged him to dress up in a Nazi uniform for a fancy dress party, an outfit that would draw extreme criticism.

    Prince Harry's memoir Spare
    Prince Harry’s memoir Spare proved to be an explosive read 
    Image:
    PA)

    Other revelations in Harry’s memoir include how he was against Charles marrying Camilla and thought of her as the “wicked stepmother” at the time. He also accused the future queen of having a “long-term strategy, a campaign directed at marriage and with time, the Crown (with the blessing of our father, we supposed).”

    But Royal photographer Arthur Edwards is one of a number of people claim Harry wasn’t accurate within the book. When he recalled how he found out the Queen Mother had died. Harry wrote: “At Eton, while studying, I took the call. I wish I could remember whose voice was at the other end; a courtier’s I believe.

    “I recall that it was just before Easter, the weather bright and warm, light slanting through my window, filled with vivid colours.” However, Arthur insisted Harry was actually in Klosters when the Queen Mother died. “I remember it clearly because I photographed him the next day leaving back for, going back to the UK for the funeral. So, a lot of that book is inaccurate,” Arthur told The Sun.

    He then suggested it’s possible Harry also lied about taking drugs. Harry recalled taking cocaine as a teenager, smoking marijuana and trying magic mushrooms in his memoir, claims which have been scrutinised by right wing think tank The Heritage Foundation. Lawyer John Bardo, representing the Department for Homeland Security, suggested Harry may have exaggerated his claims about taking drugs in order to sell more copies.

    Harry stated the original manuscript for his book was twice the length of the final draft and many details about interactions between him, Charles and William were edited out as there were things he didn’t want the world to know. Harry admitted he had 50 Zoom calls with his ghostwriter and sometimes struggled to decide which details to include and which to leave out.

    Harry told The Telegraph: “It could have been two books, put it that way. And the hard bit was taking things out.” The Duke added: “There are some things that have happened, especially between me and my brother, and to some extent between me and my father, that I just don’t want the world to know. Because I don’t think they would ever forgive me.”

  • Prince Harry and Meghan Markle Are ‘Discussing’ a Second Tell-All Book as Kate Middleton and King Charles Battle Cancer

    Prince Harry and Meghan Markle Are ‘Discussing’ a Second Tell-All Book as Kate Middleton and King Charles Battle Cancer

    Prince Harry and Meghan Markle Are ‘Discussing’ a Second Tell-All Book as Kate Middleton and King Charles Battle Cancer

    prince harry meghan markle discussing second book kate middleton cancer

    SOURCE: MEGA

    Prince Harry and Meghan Markle are continuing to build their Sussex brand in the U.S., but experts wonder if King Charles and Kate Middleton‘s recent cancer diagnoses will stop any potential tell-all projects from being released.

    In 2023, the Duke of Sussex put out his controversial memoir, Spare, and now the couple is expected to release a sequel.

    prince harry meghan markle discussing second book kate middleton cancer

    SOURCE: MEGAKate Middleton is battling cancer.

    “I’m told the couple have discussed Harry writing another book. He can’t write another Spare, but he will be aware that writing a more conciliatory book might even help thaw relations with his brother,” Tom Quinn told an outlet.

    “Beyond writing another book, Harry is very unlikely to come up with his own commercial project,” Quinn explained. “You only have to look at him in his various interviews to see that he probably just doesn’t have the drive or the ability – it’s the result of growing up in a world where other people do everything for you.”

    prince harry meghan markle discussing second book kate middleton cancer

    SOURCE: MEGAMeghan Markle and Prince Harry are expected to release a ‘Spare’ sequel.

    Commentator Ingrid Seward thinks the Duchess of Sussex is working on an autobiography.

    “I can’t see that Harry’s up for writing another book. I would think the other book, the real corker, would be Meghan. That’s got to be [on its way] because that’s really going to be the only way she’s going to make serious money is [to write it],” Ingrid Seward explained.

    prince harry meghan markle discussing second book kate middleton cancer

    SOURCE: MEGAKate Middleton and Prince Harry currently reside in California.

    On Friday, March 22, Kate updated fans on her health after months of avoiding the spotlight.

    “I wanted to take this opportunity to say thank you personally for all the wonderful messages of support and understanding whilst I’ve been recovering from surgery,” Kate began. “It has been an incredibly tough couple of months for our entire family. In January, I underwent major abdominal surgery in London. At the time, it was thought that my condition was non-cancerous. The surgery was successful, however, tests after the operation found cancer had been present. My medical team therefore advised I should undergo preventive chemotherapy, and I am now in the early stages of that treatment.”

    prince harry meghan markle discussing second book kate middleton cancer

    SOURCE: MEGAMeghan Markle and Prince Harry are pursuing careers in Hollywood.

    The Princess of Wales continued: “This of course comes as a huge shock, and William and I have been doing everything we can to process and manage this for our young family. It has taken my time for me to recover from my surgery. Most importantly, it has taken us time to explain to GeorgeCharlotte and Louis and to reassure them I am going to be OK. As I’ve said to them, I am well. Having William by my side is a great source of comfort, and the love and support and kindness that has been shown from so many of you. As a family, we need some time, space and privacy while I complete my treatment. My work has always brought me a deep sense of joy. I must focus on making a full recovery. At this time, I am also thinking of those whose lives have been affected by cancer. Please do not lose faith or hope. You are not alone.”

     

    Richard Fitzwilliams predicted the Sussexes’ carrying out their “American royal” plot wouldn’t be well received as Kate begins cancer treatment.

    “There isn’t anything that the Sussexes are going to be able to do to monetize their connections with the royal family in the future that I can imagine,” Fitzwilliams shared. “I would also think that Harry will be pretty devastated by the news of his father’s treatment for cancer, and also what’s happened to Catherine.”

    “Remember, their popularity is pretty low on both sides of the Atlantic, if anything else happened that was considered tasteless they would plummet,” he continued.

  • Prince Harry snubbed at the British Book Awards 2024 as he misses out on two gongs

    Prince Harry snubbed at the British Book Awards 2024 as he misses out on two gongs

    Prince Harry’s bombshell memoir, Spare, was nominated for two awards at The British Book Awards 2024 with a glitzy ceremony held in London.

    Prince Harry has missed out on winning two major awards at the British Book Awards 2024. A glitzy ceremony in the JW Marriott Grosvenor House Hotel in central London revealed a list of winners – and the Duke’s memoir, Spare, did not make the cut.

    Harry’s bombshell book released in January 2023, was in the running to win awards for both Book of the Year – Audiobook Non-Fiction and Book of the Year – Non-Fiction: Narrative.

    Books in the Non-Fiction Narrative category, also included Steven Bartlett’s The Diary of a CEO, Britney Spears’s The Woman in Me – but the top prize was won by Rory Stewart’s Politics On the Edge.

    Speaking in a pre-recorded message, the politician said: “Thank you very much this is a real, real honour.” The audiobook category was won by Scottish comedian, Fern Brady’s Strong Female Character and other contenders included David Mitchell’s book Unruly and Patrick Stewart’s book Making It So.

    A number of well-known figures took part in this year’s judging process including broadcaster, Nihal Arthanayake, TV presenter, Lorraine Kelly, and presenter, Adrian Charles.

    Prince Harry entering St Paul's Cathedral

    Harry’s bombshell book, Spare, has been nominated for two awards (Image: Getty)

    Prince Harry waving to crowds

    Harry waves to crowds during his visit to the UK in May (Image: Getty)

    According to The Bookseller, Harry’s memoir sold more than 700,000 copies through the TCM in 2023. The book, which is available through hardback, e-book, and audiobook, was also the fastest-selling non-fiction hardback since records began and finished 2023 as the biggest-selling book of the year.

    According to Penguin Random House, the chosen publisher for Spare, Harry is described as “a husband, father, humanitarian, military veteran, mental wellness advocate, and environmentalist.”

    Describing Spare, Penguin writes: “For the first time, Prince Harry tells his own story, chronicling his journey with raw, unflinching honesty. A landmark publication, Spare is full of insight, revelation, self-examination, and hard-won wisdom about the eternal power of love over grief.”

    Prince Harry first announced his memoir in July 2021, 18 months before it was released worldwide. Following its release on January 10, 2023, Spare sent shockwaves throughout The Firm as the former working royal launched unprecedented attacks on members of the Royal Family.

    Prince Harry standing with Meghan Markle

    Harry sold 700,000 copies of his bombshell memoir, Spare (Image: Getty)
     

    The royal’s headline-grabbing book saw him accuse his brother, Prince William, of pushing him into a dog bowl in a row over his wife, Meghan Markle.

    It also recalled the poignant moment his father, King Charles, told him of the tragic news of his mother’s death when he was just 12 years old.

    Aspects of the book were heavily criticised by veterans for detailing his military service in which he claims he killed 25 Taliban fighters in Afghanistan during his time as an Apache helicopter pilot.

    In an interview with The Telegraph, the Duke claims he had enough material to write another book, and even withheld some details which King Charles and Prince William would never forgive him for if they were released.

    The Duke said at the time: “It was 800 pages, and now it’s down to 400 pages. It could have been two books, put it that way, and the hard bit was taking things out.

    “There are some things that have happened, especially between me and my brother, and to some extent between me and my father, that I just don’t want the world to know. Because I don’t think they would ever forgive me.”

  • Zara and Mike Tindall’s huge life decision that’s filled King Charles with ‘extreme joy’

    Zara and Mike Tindall’s huge life decision that’s filled King Charles with ‘extreme joy’

    Zara and Mike Tindall’s latest decision has reflected their shared desire to maintain strong ties to the Royal Family.

    zara and mike tindall

    Zara and Mike previously ‘wanted to live in Australia’, but their plans have now changed (Image: GETTY)

    Zara and Mike Tindall have reportedly made a huge life decision that’s filled King Charles with “extreme joy” as it shows “their commitment”. The couple were previously said to be “toying with the idea” of moving to Australia.

    But sources have now said Zara and Mike have compromised on their plans. Instead of moving to the other side of world permanently, Mike and Zara will dedicate a significant amount of their time to Australia in the coming years.

    Zara and Mike currently live on Princess Anne’s Gloucestershire estate with their three young children – Mia, 10, Lena, five, and three-year-old Lucas.

    The source, who previously spoke to Express.co.uk, added that their decision shows their commitment to the King and the Royal Family.

    The decision has reportedly filled the King with “extreme joy” after he expressed to courtiers that he wanted to avoid another “Megxit” within the Royal Family.

    King Charles with his niece, Zara Tindall

    King Charles is close to his niece, Zara Tindall (Image: GETTY)

    The source added: “Mike and Zara had both been toying with the idea of moving to Australia for a while but have finally reached the decision that it wouldn’t be right to uproot their family at this time.

    “However, there are plans for the family to spend more time in Australia over the coming years which includes both winter and summer holidays abroad with the children [Mia, Lena and Lucas].”

    Mike, 45, previously spoke of his love for Australia and his desire to move there. He said: “If we weren’t so deeply rooted in England, Australia would be our top pick for a home.

    “Australians have a great sense of humour, they like a bit of banter, they don’t mind having a go at each other, they don’t take each other too seriously… and I’m all about that.”

    Zara and Mike pictured with their two eldest children last year

    Zara and Mike pictured with their two eldest children last year (Image: GETTY)

     

    As well as their devotion to the King, Princess Anne is also said to not want her only daughter and her family to move across the world.

    The source added: “When the idea was discussed seriously during a sit-down, it drew blank faces and teary eyes from several members of the family.

    “It became instantly clear that it wasn’t a move that could ever become permanent. Longer periods of time will be spent in Australia instead.”

    The couple, who are not official working royals, will soon celebrate their 13th wedding anniversary in July.

     

  • Meghan Markle’s Nigeria outfits ranked from major peach blunder to £3,184 dress

    Meghan Markle’s Nigeria outfits ranked from major peach blunder to £3,184 dress

    Meghan Markle’s Nigeria wardrobe ranked from best to worst as she mixes local fashion garments with her favourite high-end designer pieces.

    Meghan Markle’s three-day visit to Nigeria with her husband, Prince Harry, did not disappoint royal fashion fans. She graced the country with sentimental throwbacks, high-end looks, local fashion pieces – as well as the odd fashion blunder.

    Nevertheless, the Duchess of Sussex, 42, has established herself as a fashion icon among her fans, by wearing high-end brands such as Carolina Herrera and Johanna Ortiz, alongside championing local talent, such as Oríré for the visit.

    However, despite opting for expensive garments, this hasn’t stopped some fashion fans criticising some of Meghan’s looks during her three-day tour.

    The former Suits star, however, admitted she “got the memo” and therefore chose bright outfits for her visit to the West African country. Sat with a microphone and addressing the audience during her visit, Meghan said: “It has been a whirlwind 24 hours since we arrived, and I very quickly got the memo that I need to wear more colour so I can fit in with all of you in your incredible fashion.”
    Meghan, along with her husband, Prince Harry, is visiting the country to celebrate the 10th anniversary of the Invictus Games – the Duke himself created the international multi-sport event for wounded servicemen and women after serving in Afghanistan.

    Here are some of Meghan Markle’s looks from her visit to Nigeria ranked from best to worst…

    Meghan Markle wears Johanna Ortiz

    1) Tropical midi-dress

    The Duchess opted for a printed cut-out number from Johanna Ortiz, costing £2,270 to watch a volleyball match alongside Prince Harry on day two of her trip to Nigeria, which has sparked a positive reaction from fans. Meghan’s choice of dress sparked a fan frenzy as people commented on how “culturally appropriate” Meghan’s attire was.

    Meghan looked glamorous in a Johanna Ortiz silk black and white midi dress with a thigh-split and a black tropical print. Meghan teamed her dress with Emme Parsons ‘Cecelia’ black leather sandals and her signature oversized black sunglasses.

    One royal fan claimed: “I am not generally a fan of Meghan’s style, but she looks fantastic, and perfectly appropriate both for the climate and the event!” Another commented that the dress was “perfect for a sporting event” whereas another wrote: “The dress is perfect for the event and the weather and the culture”.

    (Image: Getty)

    Meghan Markle in maxi dress from Johanna Ortiz

    2) Cream halter midi-dress

    Meghan pulled out all the fashion stops for her last day in Nigeria with another glam number from Johanna Ortiz. The Duchess of Sussex wore a pretty printed halter dress to attend the Nigeria Unconquered game at the Lagos Polo Club alongside her husband, Prince Harry.

    She chose to wear the £1,691 ‘Summer Counts Wool and Silk’ maxi dress with Heidi Merrick black sunglasses and Nigerian coral drop earrings.

    (Image: Getty)

    Meghan Markle Carolina Herrera

    3) Sunshine floor-length gown dress

    Meghan Markle made a sweet nod to her daughter, Princess Lilibet as she wore one favourite item in her wardrobe, the Carolina Herrera Yellow Silk Overlay Gown, costing £3,184.

    Meghan paired the dress with a pair of nude slingback heels by Aquazzura, an AURate gold collar necklace and a pair of gold hammered disc earrings by Jennifer Meyer (£2,605).

    The Duchess wore the same dress back in 2021 to announce her pregnancy with Princess Lilibet.

    Celebrity PR Brenda Christensen told the Mirror that the choice of colour carried a deeper significance. She said: “In many African cultures, including Nigeria, yellow is reserved for those of high rank due to its resemblance to gold, symbolising wealth, quality, success, and royalty.”

    (Image: Getty)

    Meghan Markle

    4) Vibrant red maxi dress with ruffles

    Dressed in a vibrant red maxi dress with delicate ruffles and thin straps, Meghan exuded confidence at a Women in Leadership panel held in Nigeria. Meghan explained her choice of the red dress on stage, and as it turns out, she was using colours to get closer to her Nigerian heritage.

    Meghan wore a dress from the Nigerian brand, Oríré. The owner and designer, Orire Aleshinloye, holds a Masters in Fashion Business Creation from The British School of Fashion in London and is Nigerian, according to whatmeghanwore.net.

    (Image: Getty)

     
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    Meghan in St Agni Studio

    5) White strapless maxi dress

    For a reception held at the Nigerian Defence Headquarters in Abuja, Meghan wore a plain strapless column maxi dress by St Agni Studio, with Aquazzura ‘So Nude 105’ slingback shoes and her classic gold jewellery.

    Compared to her previous outfits, the dress was cheaper, costing £335. The event was a gathering holding major significance, as military families and members of the widow association united to commemorate shared bonds. Harry wore a cream linen suit and complemented his wife with the shade.

    For a reception held at the Nigerian Defence Headquarters in Abuja, she stunned in a strapless column maxi dress by St Agni Studio, with Aquazzura ‘So Nude 105’ slingbacks and, of course, lashings of gold jewellery.

    (Image: Getty)

  • Secrets of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s Nigeria tour from army of aides to outfits

    Secrets of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s Nigeria tour from army of aides to outfits

    Prince Harry and Meghan Markle returned to the US following a visit to Nigeria to mark the anniversary of the Invictus Games.

    The Duke and Duchess of Sussex Visit Nigeria

    Prince Harry and Meghan Markle in Nigeria (Image: Getty)

    Prince Harry and Meghan Markle have wrapped up their Nigerian tour, marked by a series of engagements and the presence of their loyal staff and security detail.

    The Sussexes returned to the United States yesterday after an action-packed three days in Nigeria.

    Their visit included charitable engagements, meetings with influential personalities, and several speeches.

    Amid security concerns, they took no chances, bringing along their own security team following advisories about Nigeria.

    Lets delve into the behind-the-scenes details of their visit.

    NIGERIA-BRITAIN-ROYALS-INVICTUS-GAMES

    Prince Harry and Meghan Markle travelled in a 16-car envoy (Image: Getty)

    16-car convoy

    Meghan and Harry were spotted at a hotel luncheon with prominent Nigerian figures last Sunday. Post-event, the couple made a swift exit, clasping hands, reports the Mirror.

    “Go, go, go,” shouted an aide to one of the drivers, as reported by the Daily Mail, signalling the departure of Meghan and Harry. They were part of a 16-vehicle motorcade, each car’s windows tinted for privacy.

    Accompanied by aides

    In Nigeria, Meghan and Harry were accompanied by a smaller entourage than usual, but they ensured their trusted aides were with them throughout the journey.

    As the couple embarked for Lagos, they were accompanied by an entourage of female aides. Dressed casually in shift dresses and Adidas trainers, Harry and Meghan’s staff maintained a discreet distance, following the royals rather than walking alongside them.

     

    Meghan Markle and Prince Harry in Nigeria

    Harry and Meghan were flanked by aides and security officials through the trip (Image: Getty)

     

    Security detail

    During the final day of their tour on Sunday, upon touchdown in Lagos, Harry and Meghan were joined by armed police officers and secret service agents, with distinctive earpieces denoting their roles. Special forces soldiers also formed part of their additional security detail.

    Given the heightened concerns about safety in Nigeria, the pair didn’t take any chances, bringing along their own security team.

    The US State Department has issued Nigeria with a Level 3 advisory, the second highest risk assessment due to prevailing crime, terrorism, civil unrest, and kidnapping threats along with the presence of armed gangs.

    Furthermore, the US State Department cautioned citizens to “reconsider travel” to Nigeria. Observers got an on-ground view of Harry and Meghan’s security detail in action during the Duke’s visit to a hospital in Kaduna on Saturday.

    The Duke and Duchess of Sussex Visit Nigeria - Day 2

    Harry and Meghan completed a mini-tour of Nigeria (Image: Getty)

    Harry was reportedly accompanied by a four-strong security team during his visit to a hospital where he met with injured Nigerian soldiers.

    The UK Government’s site also states: “Banditry and violent attacks are frequent and there is a high threat of kidnap. Incidents of intercommunal violence occur and trains are vulnerable to attack. If you’re travelling in the north-west against FCDO advice, be extremely cautious and monitor local media.”

    Outfit changes

    In terms of fashion, Meghan dazzled on the Nigerian tour with an array of vibrant outfits. At an event discussing women in leadership, she humorously admitted to adapting her style to “fit in”.

     

    Prince Harry and Meghan Markle visit Nigeria

    Meghan wore three outfits on their final day (Image: Getty)

    She shared: “It has been a whirlwind 24 hours since we arrived, and I very quickly got the memo that I need to wear more colour so I can fit in with all of you in your incredible fashion.”

    The Duchess of Sussex certainly lived up to expectations. For the Women In Leadership panel event, Meghan donned a red maxi dress, ethically designed by Nigerian designer Orire and priced under £230.

    On their final day in Nigeria, Meghan had three outfit changes. Fans particularly adored her canary yellow ankle-length dress, previously worn in 2021 when she announced her pregnancy with Princess Lilibet and for Prince Archie’s first birthday party.