An analysis of royal wardrobes has revealed a stark contrast in fashion philosophy, with the Duchess of Sussex, Meghan Markle, possessing the most expensive accessory collection despite far fewer public engagements.
The High-Ticket Taste of the Duchess of Sussex
According to luxury retail specialist Christos Garkinos, Meghan Markle's handbag collection alone is valued at a staggering $350,000. The 44-year-old former actress has also spent between $35,000 and $40,000 on shoes since 2022. Garkinos, who conducted a 'fascinating case study' of six royal women's wardrobes, noted that while his figures are 'purely directional', Meghan's per-item spend is the highest.
'Her mix [of shoes and bags] is smaller but higher-ticket,' he told the Daily Mail. The Duchess's curated selection includes iconic pieces like Dior's Lady bags and Fendi's Peekaboo designs, alongside minimalist offerings from brands like Polène and Strathberry. For footwear, she favours designers such as Aquazzura, Manolo Blahnik, and Chanel. 'Even with fewer official appearances, her accessories skew luxury-house core,' Garkinos observed.
The 'Kate Effect' and a $305,000 Timeless Wardrobe
In contrast, the Princess of Wales, Catherine, has cultivated a wardrobe valued at around $305,000 by 'mixing approachable British brands with a few heritage investments'. The 43-year-old, who recently topped British Vogue's inaugural 'Best Dressed' list, is celebrated for her 'timeless' style and the powerful 'Kate effect'—her ability to sell out items instantly.
'However, what makes it valuable isn't extravagance,' Mr Garkinos said. 'It's balance.' He explained that Catherine knows 'when to splurge and when to repeat', which allows her pieces to 'age so well in the public eye'. Her shoe collection shows loyalty to Gianvito Rossi, while her handbag archive, 'punctuated' by Chanel, is estimated to be worth approximately $250,000.
Comfort, Loyalty and Minimalism Among Other Royals
The analysis also shed light on the accessory choices of other senior royals. Queen Camilla's shoes and bags are likely worth about $165,000, with Garkinos noting her focus is on 'loyalty to brand and comfort'. She frequently carries bags from Aspinal of London and Launer—the late Queen Elizabeth's preferred brand—and wears shoes from Sole Bliss, reportedly owning 13 pairs of their specialist styles.
Princess Anne was highlighted as the 'minimalist of the group', with a collection totalling just under $25,000. However, Garkinos stressed that the number doesn't tell the full story. 'He explained how she rewears her pieces for decades - often British leather goods and sensible pumps - and that commitment to longevity is her 'quiet superpower'.' He concluded that if measured by cost per wear, the Princess Royal 'would top the list by far'. The collections of the Duchess of Edinburgh and Zara Tindall are each estimated at around $40,000.
The Power of the Royal Fashion Influence
The study underscores the immense influence both Meghan and Catherine wield in the fashion world. Meghan's impact was famously demonstrated in 2017 when the Strathberry tote she carried sold out within 11 minutes. She has spoken of using her platform to support smaller, emerging designers.
Meanwhile, Catherine is now shifting her strategy. A Kensington Palace source indicated earlier this year that, following her cancer journey, she wishes to keep the focus on her charitable work rather than her clothing, and will no longer routinely release outfit details as had been done since her 2011 wedding.
