What's Happening?
Meghan Markle, Duchess of Sussex, has released the 2026 holiday catalogue for her lifestyle brand, As Ever. The catalogue features new portraits of Markle, including one where she is seen carrying her Mulberry 'Bayswater' tote in oxblood, a bag she was
first photographed with in December 2016, shortly after her relationship with Prince Harry was confirmed. This appearance of the 10-year-old bag has been noted as a nod to her 'single era.' In the catalogue, Markle also shared a foreword reflecting on the 'joy' of her year, mentioning 'evening snuggles' with her children, Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet, and her focus on building her business. The images showcase Markle in various outfits, including a tailored houndstooth blazer and jeans, highlighting her personal style alongside her brand's holiday offerings.
Why It's Important?
The release of Meghan Markle's As Ever holiday catalogue, particularly the inclusion of a personal item like her vintage Mulberry bag, serves multiple strategic purposes. It leverages her personal brand and fashion influence to promote her lifestyle venture, creating a sense of authenticity and connection with her audience. The subtle nod to her 'single era' can resonate with fans who have followed her journey, adding a personal touch to the commercial endeavor. For the As Ever brand, this catalogue is crucial for driving holiday sales and reinforcing its identity as a purveyor of curated lifestyle products. The emphasis on 'joy' and 'memorable experiences' aligns with consumer desires during the festive season, potentially boosting engagement and sales. This approach demonstrates how public figures can effectively integrate their personal narrative into their business strategies to enhance brand appeal and market presence.
What's Next?
The immediate focus for As Ever will be on the distribution and promotion of its 2026 holiday catalogue and the products featured within it. The brand will likely utilize its online platforms and social media to highlight the catalogue's content, including the new portraits of Meghan Markle and any new seasonal offerings. The strategic use of Markle's personal style and narrative is expected to continue as a key marketing tool. Beyond the holiday season, As Ever will likely continue to expand its product lines, potentially introducing new categories that align with Markle's stated interests in cooking, gardening, and entertaining. The brand's performance during this critical holiday period will be a significant indicator of its market traction and future growth potential as it operates independently.
Beyond the Headlines
The decision by Meghan Markle to feature a 10-year-old Mulberry bag in her brand's holiday catalogue is more than a fashion statement; it's a carefully crafted message about continuity, personal history, and perhaps a subtle rejection of fast fashion. By showcasing an item from her pre-royal life, Markle connects her past identity with her current entrepreneurial endeavors, suggesting a consistent personal style and values. This move could also be interpreted as an attempt to project an image of authenticity and relatability, contrasting with the often-perceived extravagance of royal life. Ethically, it promotes the idea of re-wearing and valuing existing possessions, aligning with broader sustainability trends in fashion. Culturally, it reinforces the power of celebrity endorsement, where even a personal accessory can become a talking point and a subtle marketing tool for a brand.
