According to industry insiders, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle's collaboration with luxury fashion house Dior is primarily a financial decision. The Duke of Sussex recently made headlines when he donned a custom Dior suit for his father, King Charles III's, coronation ceremony.
Looking sharp in a Dior morning coat, black vest, crisp white shirt, and pearl gray tie, Prince Harry's outfit was showcased on Dior's official Twitter account. The post featured the caption, "Tailoring fit for royalty. Dior is honored to have dressed Prince Harry, Duke of Sussex, for the coronation of King Charles III in a custom design by Kim Jones."
Tailoring fit for royalty.
Dior is honored to have dressed Prince Harry, Duke of Sussex, for the coronation of King Charles III in a custom design by Kim Jones. Seen arriving at Westminster Abbey, gain an insight into the savoir-faire of his three-piece suit next. pic.twitter.com/rg4r0ER4Ym— Dior (@Dior) May 6, 2023
Brand and culture expert Nick Ede shared his thoughts with MailOnline, explaining that since the Sussexes have stepped back from their royal duties, they are now free to form partnerships with brands like Dior. Ede said, "Fashion brands know that celebrity is a brilliant way to sell and create strong credentials," adding that Dior is capitalizing on its association with the couple to build brand equity.
Ede believes that Prince Harry and Meghan's relationship with the French fashion giant is financially motivated, possibly involving an exclusive contract or a payment arrangement for wearing the brand's designs.
Celebrity stylist and fashion expert Miranda Holder also weighed in on the matter, telling MailOnline that the majority of guests at the coronation chose to wear British brands to show support for the uniquely patriotic event. She speculated that Prince Harry either "did not get the fashion memo" or "was in a petulant mood" when he opted for Dior.
Holder also commented on the potential brand partnership between the Sussexes and Dior, stating that it could be "more than just an appreciation for the couturier." She noted that other members of the royal family have worked with fashion brands in the past and that both parties – the Sussexes and Dior – would benefit from the additional income and exposure.
As the couple continues to forge their own path outside of the royal family, it remains to be seen how their relationship with global fashion brands like Dior will evolve.