An expert has suggested Meghan Markle’s outfits in Nigeria could have broken royal protocols.
Meghan Markle’s dresses could have broken royal protocol, an expert says (Image: Getty)
Meghan Markle dressed to impress during her visit to Nigeria with husband Prince Harry – but critics have suggested her bold outfit choices could have broken royal protocol.
The Duke and Duchess of Sussex were in Nigeria to meet injured servicemen, key figures, and to attend a charity polo match.
Meghan’s outfit choices certainly made a splash with the former Suits actress spotted in a backless blush pink dress on her first day in Nigeria.
She also donned the stylish Carolina Herrera silk gown she wore when announcing her pregnancy with Princess Lilibet.
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Meghan made bold outfit choices in Nigeria. (Image: Getty)
While her fashoin choices have been admired by many, one fashion expert believes they possibly bared too much skin, a move that would have gone against royal protocols.
Speaking to the Mirror, fashion guru Susie Nelson said: “As Meghan is no longer a working royal, and this was a private visit, she didn’t have to think about royal rules and protocol regarding her clothes.
“The blush pink Heidi Merrick dress would not have been seen on an official royal tour having an open back.
“A royal official would have taken note of Nigerian travel site suggestions that modesty in clothing is preferred. I believe Nigeria is predominantly a Muslim country.”
Meghan wore striking prints and bold colours in Nigeria. (Image: Getty)
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On Saturday, Meghan was spotted cheering as Harry played volleyball, donning a £2,275 striped sundress with a daring slit. Fashion commentator Susie opined: “The slit on the Johanna Ortiz dress would be too long for an official tour.”
During their visit, the Sussexes also met with Nigeria’s Chief of Defence Staff. Meghan chose a sharp white suit for the occasion, but Susie remarked that “some may think the trousers were too tight.”
However, Susie, the proprietor of Modes and More, commended Meghan for embracing vibrant hues.
After initially opting for subdued tones, Meghan made a statement in a vivid red dress at a Women In Leadership panel, where 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 eye-catching dress, crafted by Nigerian designer Orire for under £230, was hailed as “ethically” made. Susie praised Meghan’s choice adding: “The wearing of bright colours was a good idea, Nigerian clothes are colourful and Megan wanted to be noticed.”
Meghan wore a chic number to a polo match (Image: Getty)
She continued: “The red dress was by a Nigerian brand Orire, a thoughtful choice.”
While Meghan faced some flak for her revealing ensembles, stylist Sarah Nearis argued that Duchess’ fashion choices were strategically savvy.
Speaking to The Mirror, she said: “From the moment they touched down, Meghan displayed her sense of style ranging from chic maxi dresses to perfectly fitted suits.
“While there is really no dress code in Nigeria, people have been asking if Meghan bared too much skin while attending multiple events or if she broke any of the formal dress codes that the royal family must follow.”
“I thought Meghan’s style for this trip was timeless, effortless and chic – and she usually doesn’t disappoint. One thing to note is that she was very much dressing for the temperatures in Nigeria which was were in the high 30’s (Celsius) and very humid. Maybe she could have added a scarf for a little more coverage, but I thought she was respectful and elegant.”
