One more thing about the darker colors, it does make people take someone more seriously. Even if just on the subconscious level. There is a reason why it’s recommended to wear black or navy suit/outfit for an interview (unless you are in the creative market). I think Meghan is more than aware of the biases people have against her simply because she was an actress without ever considering her as a person. In fact, I would venture to say that as an actress, she would’ve experienced people not taking her seriously because she has a pretty face and what she does when she first took on some serious issues. I don’t think appearing more business like is a bad thing if you really want to take on serious issues.
I agree with the possibility of Meghan understanding the perceptions you describe, and definitely black can seem more business-like. However, I don't know re the above sentiment being completely Meghan's motivation sartorially, because even prior to meeting Harry, I think Meghan has always tended toward basic monochrome dressing with lots of black, navy and many other shades of blue, plum, burgundy, lots of white, and green occasionally (now she's seeming to wear a lot more green). Previously, she also wore pops of red, but not that often. She once wore a gorgeous blue and red tie-dye evening gown, and she's worn beige, cream, and even gold on one occasion. Plus that metallic silver mini dress by Misha Nonoo which I don't care for, but Meghan looked good in it.
Probably Meghan simply feels she looks best in basic colors, plus it's hard to go wrong with black and navy. I also wonder if there's any truth to her having some color blindness. I read that her father is color blind. While Meghan has had some ups-and-downs in merging her fashion preferences with her new highly public role as a royal, I think that Meghan has always been a savvy fashionista. She knows what looks good on her body, as she has discussed in many fashion clips that are still available on Youtube.
The video linked below is one of my favorites, as Meghan speaks of admiring Gwyneth Paltrow for "really dressing for her body." Meghan also provides these five essential wardrobe item tips: 1. pair of black cigarette pants; 2. cashmere sweater; 3. pencil skirt; 4. perfect pair of jeans; LBD or
"just one sexy little dress that makes you feel really really good..." She forgot about listing her ubiquitous oversized well-made white shirt, wrap coats, white jacket; plaid blazer; nice shoes both flats and heels; minimalist jewelry; and gorgeous handbags and clutches. ? Wow, I'd love to hear Meghan talk about an essential pregnancy wardrobe.
I love the Meghan in the above video, as she was really beginning to shine and to come into her own as a woman and an entrepreneur in Toronto, with the success of
Suits, starting the Tig website, and meeting many new friends, some of whom would impact her life in unique ways. There's such a freedom in the Meghan we see in this video, whereas she's now a bit more cautious and contained, while still attempting to retain her laid-back casual style and edge that makes her who she is. She expresses in the video how coming into contact with top designers on the set of
Suits is what helped her style become more polished and sophisticated. How prophetic is it, when she was asked about her next career move she said,
"What's next for me career-wise is exciting, because it could be anything. It kinda feels like the world is my oyster." Wow, from your lips to God's ears Duchess Meghan.
The Duchesss of Sussex can generally carry off anything, except for the saggy, voluminous dress she wore to that country wedding this summer. And even then the blue and white flower print was pretty in its essential styling, especially the slit opening on the front side of the dress, which revealed her trim, fit legs. It was just way too much fabric and too baggy and unfitted in the arms, waist and bodice, with the sleeves hanging down below her wrists too. I still wonder about that choice! But maybe when Meghan ordered the dress, she thought it would be more fitted and it was too late to make a change at the last minute? It might work though now for her pregnancy, as her tummy continues to grow!