Meghan Markle's High-Fashion Appearance at Melbourne Homeless Shelter Draws Attention
The Duchess of Sussex, Meghan Markle, created a striking visual contrast on Tuesday as she served lunch to homeless women at a shelter in Melbourne while adorned in designer clothing and valuable gold jewellery. This occurred during the first day of the Duke and Duchess of Sussex's four-day tour of Australia, marking their return to the country since their 2018 royal visit.
Arrival and Initial Engagements in Melbourne
Harry and Meghan arrived at Melbourne's Tullamarine Airport shortly after 6:30 am, having flown from Los Angeles on a Qantas Boeing 787 Dreamliner in business class. Passengers noted the couple appeared relaxed despite the fifteen-hour flight. After a brief hotel stop, they visited the Royal Children's Hospital Melbourne at midday, where they were greeted by enthusiastic crowds.
The Duchess's Costly Ensemble Details
For these engagements, Meghan selected a hand-picked Priscilla dress by local Australian designer Karen Gee, which retails for $1,250. She complemented this with Dior's 'Dioressence' pointed-toe pumps, valued at up to $1,000, which royal watchers indicate she has worn at three other events in 2023. Her jewellery included 14k yellow gold Puffy Heart earrings by Australian Real Fine Studio costing $1,118, a Tiffany gold bracelet, and a gold Cartier Tank Française watch believed to have belonged to the late Princess Diana. This watch is considered priceless as an heirloom, though similar models without royal connections are valued at least $41,200. With her wedding ring and another bejewelled ring, her total look was estimated at around $50,000.
Contrast at the McAuley Homeless Centre
Meghan later visited the McAuley homeless centre alone, where she served zucchini slice to women who have fled troubled homes and violence. She covered her dress with a blue and white pinstripe apron but remained visibly adorned with gold jewellery. McAuley CEO Jocelyn Bignold expressed that the visit brings valuable attention to homelessness and family violence issues, noting residents were excited yet nervous to meet Meghan, with some familiar with her lifestyle show.
Afternoon Wardrobe Change and Public Reception
For her final engagement, Meghan changed into a long skirt, beige top, and toffee suede jacket, matching Harry's khaki shirt, and wore simple diamond studs to meet veterans' families at the Australian National Veterans Art Museum. The couple arrived punctually at 3:30 pm in a grey Range Rover. Crowds were smaller compared to their 2018 tour but displayed genuine affection, particularly for Harry, whom onlookers described as more like Australians and a 'great bloke'. When asked for a message, Harry replied, 'Thanks for having us back.'
Tour Context and Upcoming Schedule
This tour is notably more low-key than their 2018 Pacific tour, as the couple are no longer working royals but retain their titles. The privately-funded visit focuses on mental health, community resilience, and support for veterans. On Wednesday, Harry will attend a Movember event at Whitten Oval, visit the Australian War Memorial in Canberra, meet Indigenous veterans, and participate in Invictus Australia events. He will rejoin Meghan in Melbourne for a cultural walk and mental health charity visit before giving a keynote speech. In Sydney, they will sail on the harbour and attend a rugby match, with Meghan as a special guest at a luxury women's retreat where tickets start from $2,699.
