Headwear has always been considered a symbol of good taste and respect for history in the wardrobe of royal figures. British ladies still adhere to this centuries-old tradition and know that choosing a hat requires more responsibility than choosing a costume. Interestingly, until the mid-20th century, society ladies rarely appeared in public without their signature accessory - such a move was considered audacious and disrespectful to themselves and others, so hats could not be removed at public events.
Even then, royal ladies expressed their attachment to hats at the Royal Ascot races, where wearing a flashy headpiece was part of the strict dress code. With feathers and veils, with big and small brims, the variety of hats at the races could only be enjoyed from a bird's eye view. After authorities abolished the need to always wear a hat, aristocrats could not leave this tradition in the past. Now they wear headpieces to honor their lineage and show their privilege to the world. So, for British ladies, a hat is also a status symbol, so as not to be mistaken for commoners.
Meghan Markle, since becoming the wife of Prince Harry, has been constantly attacked and accused of violating royal rules. Her hats have also been under scrutiny and sparked a storm of discussions in the press. She exposed her shoulders at a parade in honor of Queen Elizabeth II's jubilee, turned her back to the Queen, gave autographs against all prohibitions, and wore the wrong hat. Yes, the Duchess had a tough time.
But, to be fair, it should be noted that Meghan Markle always took a responsible approach to choosing her headwear. All her hats, as protocol requires, perfectly matched her outfits. Meghan's stylists usually opted for blue shades, which have always been associated with the refined luxury of Great Britain. She often wore blue hats with feathers, velvet with various curls and bows. The main wizard who creates exquisite accessories for Meghan and other royal figures is Irish hat designer Philip Treacy. She appeared in his unusual headpieces at official events and ceremonial balls.
Some hats, on the other hand, received mixed reviews. In the same year, Meghan made her first public appearance with the royal family on Christmas service wearing an elegant brown round hat that not everyone liked. The accessory was compared to a truffle and a chocolate pudding, called absurd, and at the same time criticized the style of the newly minted royal figure.
Nevertheless, Meghan's refined taste did not leave anyone indifferent. In the circle of royal figures, she always remained a lady in hats adorned with "chandeliers" in the form of flowers and bows, she undoubtedly loves minimalism and luxurious classics.