Meghan Markle has been issued a dire warning by a PR expert after launching a new online shop this week. The Duchess of Sussex posted a ShopMy link on her Instagram on Monday, featuring a collection of her favourite clothes and accessories, with the message: 'Many of you have asked, so here you go! A little shopping to start the week. More to come'.
The website allows users to create custom collections of products, and Meghan will earn a commission on purchases made through the links. This type of shopping has seen a surge in the UK, with influencers using platforms like liketoknowit. However, the move comes as Meghan prepares to launch her own brand, As Ever.
Renae Smith, founder and director of The Atticism, told the Express that the new shop could confuse followers once As Ever officially launches. She said: 'Yes, I absolutely think this could confuse fans once As Ever officially launches as a product line. Right now, she’s acting as a curator of other people’s products while simultaneously teasing her own brand. That could feel disjointed.'
Smith advised Meghan to clearly separate the two ventures, suggesting that the ShopMy page could be treated as a 'Meghan’s Picks' side channel, while positioning As Ever as the serious flagship brand. Without that distinction, she warned, Meghan risks blurring the lines and diluting the messaging around both.
Meghan's online shop features several signature items, including a £128 oversized white shirt by Reformation, a £99.90 beige Uniqlo raincoat, and a £383 gold Maya Brenner necklace made in collaboration with her former Suits co-star Abigail Spencer. The total value of all listed items rounds up to around £11,000.
