By In a move that has stirred both admiration and controversy, Meghan Markle, the Duchess of Sussex, has unveiled her new lifestyle brand, American Riviera Orchard. The announcement, coinciding with the Princess Diana Legacy Awards, has sparked debate over its timing and intent.
The launch of American Riviera Orchard was not just any brand announcement. It came on a day laden with significance – the same day as the Princess Diana Legacy Awards, an event honoring the late princess’s humanitarian legacy. This overlap has led to discussions about whether the Duchess is aligning her brand with the values of Princess Diana or capitalizing on a momentous day for the royal family.
The brand’s reveal was subtle yet impactful, with an Instagram grid showcasing the name in elegant gold calligraphy, a style reminiscent of Meghan’s own handwriting. The accompanying bio, “by Meghan, Duchess of Sussex,” and a short video featuring the Duchess in her Montecito home, cooking and arranging flowers, set a personal and intimate tone for the brand.
A Calculated Move or a Tribute?
Critics have labeled the brand’s launch as ‘calculated,’ suggesting that it was designed to draw attention amidst the royal family’s ongoing health crises. Royal author Tom Quinn has expressed that the choice of date for the announcement might be seen as an attempt to ‘cash in’ on Princess Diana’s legacy, a claim that has added fuel to the fire of public opinion.
Supporters, however, see the move as a fitting tribute to Princess Diana, aligning Meghan’s personal brand with the late princess’s ethos of compassion and elegance. They argue that the Duchess is carving her own path while honoring her mother-in-law’s influence and legacy.
The Future of American Riviera Orchard
Looking ahead, American Riviera Orchard is poised to offer a range of products that reflect the Duchess’s taste and values. From cosmetics to yoga mats, and potentially even dog food, the brand is expected to encapsulate Meghan’s vision of a lifestyle that is both luxurious and accessible.
The controversy surrounding the brand’s launch has undoubtedly created a buzz, but it remains to be seen how the public will receive the products themselves. As the brand grows, it will continue to be a topic of conversation, reflecting the Duchess’s complex relationship with the public and the media.