Stylist reveals what Meghan Markle’s fashion choices say about her – and the wardrobe U-turn since relocating to California

Meghan Markle‘s penchant for strapless dresses was evident long before she married into the Royal Family.

However, as a working royal, the Duchess adhered to strict protocol that prohibited such silhouettes, instead favouring modest clothing. 

This even saw her modify the glamorous black and white Safiyaa co-ord worn to the 2018 Royal Variety Performance by adding a halterneck strap for a more demure look. 

Since relocating to California with Prince Harry, Meghan’s wardrobe has undergone a noticeable transformation.

Adopting a more relaxed and contemporary aesthetic, she has shifted away from formal attire and returned to the bold, décolletage-baring dresses and jumpsuits she once loved. 

One standout moment last year was when she removed straps from an iconic gold gown by Johanna Ortiz. 

Kelly Caira, stylist at House of Colour, believes that Meghan’s considered fashion choices convey confidence, while showcasing her best asset: her shoulders.

She tells MailOnline: ‘Meghan is blessed with a slender shape and beautiful shoulders and arms, which are given absolute focus in a strapless outfit.’

Kelly continues: ‘She has hit upon a fabulous formula with the strapless style. There is cohesion with her latest choices that show inner confidence while revealing her soft femininity.

‘There is something wonderful about seeing someone in the public eye who has been much criticised really honing her style and taking control of her public image.

‘In a harsh world where everyone is quick to criticise, Meghan lets her confidence shine through with the simplicity of the silhouette and lack of adornment. She is enough!’ 

Interestingly, Meghan’s fondness for strapless styles dates back to her high school prom in 1998, where she wore a pastel blue gown as she was crowned ‘Homecoming Queen’.

In the years that followed, Meghan continued to flaunt her shoulders in an array of strapless outfits, particularly while attending red carpet events as an actress. 

This comes as no surprise, considering her dedication to yoga, hiking and full-body workouts has resulted in toned arms and sculpted shoulders, often highlighted as her best assets.

The Duchess’s newfound freedom is no doubt reflected in the laid-back style, luxurious fabrics and skin-revealing silhouettes that now form her wardrobe.

Below, we delve into her best strapless moments throughout the years. 

Sleek sophistication

Meghan dazzled during a solo red carpet appearance on Wednesday, as she supported her friend Tyler Perry at The Paley Honors gala in Beverly Hills.

She opted for a sleek black Oscar de la Renta gown with a flattering sweetheart neckline, skimming silhouette and daring front slit.

The Duchess accentuated her minimal look with barely-there Celine heels, an exquisite Logan Hollowell diamond tennis necklace and her signature Cartier ‘Love’ bracelet. 

Kelly says: ‘Accessories are used very sparingly here, but each individual piece is adding significant detail, pointing towards the image she would like to create – sophisticated, glamorous and fully in control.’ 

Effortless tailoring

In November, Meghan made an appearance at the launch party for Highbrow Hippie, a new haircare line by her colourist Kadi Lee.

The Duchess was decked out in an all-black ensemble, comprising a Khaite wool-blend bustier and wide-leg satin trousers.

She added lashings of jewels, including a Logan Hollowell angel eye necklace, engraved with Archie and Lilibet’s names.

The result was flawless, according to Kelly. She says: ‘This outfit honours Meghan’s shape while having shoulders on show adds a glimpse of glamour and playfulness. 

‘Paired with minimal, small-scale jewellery, the look is simple, feminine and understated.’ 

Off-the-shoulder 

Meghan embraced a décolletage-baring aesthetic at the 2022 Ripple of Hope Gala, held at the Hilton in New York City. 

Radiating elegance, she wore a custom-made white dress by Louis Vuitton, paired with black accessories. 

The distinctive design featured long sleeves and a wrap front, revealing just the right amount of flesh.

Kelly says: ‘The absence of a necklace is an interesting and deliberate choice here. Meghan’s exposed collarbone gives the impression of vulnerability but also of openness, not to mention putting a spotlight on her face and shoulders.’

Put a bow on it 

In one of her earliest public appearances as a working actress, Meghan wore a strapless ABS Allen Schwartz dress to the 2007 Golden Globe Suites in Los Angeles.

The striking mini dress featured a contrasting bow and a playful bubble hem, showcasing her bold style even in her young career. 

Going for gold

The Duchess wore a sultry bandeau dress to the 2023 Ms. Foundation Women of Vision awards held at the Ziegfeld Theatre in New York.

Her figure-hugging frock by Johanna Ortiz boasted a metallic gold jacquard effect and cut-out detailing at the bust, as well as a daring front split.

Meghan altered the original design by removing the straps to flaunt her shoulders – and the result certainly paid off. 

‘Meghan absolutely shines in this gold dress,’ Kelly says. ‘It is pure Hollywood glamour with a modern twist. The silhouette shows her slender shape and the front slit and cut-out give it an edgier look.

‘The gold silk jacquard fabric is opulent and regal looking. A wonderful choice for her.’

White wonder

During her trip to Nigeria with Harry in May, Meghan stunned in a sleek column dress by St Agni and Aquazzura heels.

The elegant design featured a bandeau neckline, figure-hugging silhouette and subtle back slit, seamlessly blending simplicity with glamour. 

Adding meaningful touches, Meghan accessorised with Princess Diana’s diamond cross necklace, Dior knot earrings and her signature wrist stack. 

Kelly says: ‘Meghan’s strapless style embodies understated glamour with a nod to Hollywood, but very much in keeping with her position.’

Sheer delight 

At the closing ceremony of the Invictus Games in Dusseldorf, Meghan captivated onlookers in a teal lace gown by Cult Gaia, featuring a strapless neckline and intricate laser-cut detailing.

To elevate the ensemble, she paired it with Aquazzura pumps and her signature chignon hairstyle, showcasing intricate Kimai hoop earrings. 

Kelly says: ‘Demure in length and shape, but a touch of glamour and understated sultriness peeps through in this look.’

Style stripes

On her birthday last year, Meghan made a lasting impression in an outfit that championed laidback glamour. 

Celebrating with friends in Montecito, she chose a Posse striped maxi dress, featuring horizontal black-and-white panels. 

She accessorised with flat Emme Parsons sandals, a chic Cult Gaia clutch and dainty gold earrings from Tabayer Oera.

Kelly says: ‘The silhouette is slender and feminine, while hemlines are long, giving a demure look and emphasising lower calves and ankles, which are all great features for Meghan.’

All-in-one 

In July 2022, Meghan selected a tailored jumpsuit by Gabriela Hearst for an upscale dinner in New York City.

The bold design featured a striking black-and-white contrast, signature knot detailing and a flattering flared leg. 

Meghan took her look to new heights with sky-high Aquazzura heels and a Bottega Veneta pouch.

Kelly says: ‘The strapless look symbolises grace and status, while giving an air of self-assuredness.’ 

Berry delight 

Attending a celebratory dinner with Elle Magazine in January 2013, the former Suits actress oozed confidence in a sophisticated dress by Marchesa Notte.

The berry-coloured silk creation was characterised by a strapless neckline, draped bodice and pencil skirt. 

Meghan added glitzy accessories, including a Rebecca Minkoff ‘Fling’ clutch, and styled her hair in loose waves.

Kelly says: ‘With a soft bustline and feminine silhouette, Meghan brought her outfit up to date by carefully choosing a modern fabric and colour.’

In bloom 

For the 2015 NBCUniversal Upfront, Meghan showed off her shoulders in a bandeau top, paired with tailored trousers. 

Her feminine top, featuring floral embroidery and an organza overlay, perfectly teamed with Roland Mouret wide-leg trousers and Gianvito Rossi heels.

Kelly says: ‘It is clear Meghan has found a shape and style that allows her to appear bold and confident without being overwhelmed or swamped by the designs.’