Meghan Markle's tenure as guest editor of British Vogue in 2019 created waves not only in the fashion world but also within the high-stakes realm of royal visibility and media representation. The Duchess of Sussex's special issue, titled "Forces for Change," celebrated 15 influential women from diverse backgrounds, marking a significant moment in the magazine's history. It was the first time someone from outside the publication's editorial staff had taken the reins for such a prestigious issue. This edition quickly emerged as the fastest-selling in Vogue's history, flying off shelves in just ten days, and was lauded for its focus on empowerment and diversity.
However, behind the scenes, reports have surfaced detailing a contentious relationship between Markle and British Vogue’s then-editor, Edward Enninful. Sources indicate that Meghan made a series of demands which reportedly strained her collaboration with Enninful. She is said to have outlined six specific requests including control over the photographer, writer, final edit, and cover lines, as well as insisting on a "global issue." When these were not met, she allegedly escalated her requests to Anna Wintour, the influential editor-in-chief of Vogue. In a move perceived as an overreach, Meghan's direct approach to Wintour was characterised by some as an act of defiance against the established editorial protocols.
While Enninful extended an offer that included extensive features across the magazine’s digital and print editions—highlighting her public engagements and speeches—he could not accommodate Meghan’s expectations for cover appearances, as other stars had already been booked for that month. Both Serena Williams and supermodel Linda Evangelista had been lined up for the US and UK covers, respectively. Enninful's declination to meet her demands reportedly led to a heated fallout, leaving Meghan and Edward's relationship strained. Nevertheless, there are contrasting accounts suggesting that while tensions existed, their rapport was not irreparably damaged, as they purportedly continue to send birthday wishes to one another.
The Vogue incident highlights an ongoing narrative of rivalry between the Duchess of Sussex and her sister-in-law, Catherine, Princess of Wales. Recent reports have suggested that Kate Middleton has been offered an opportunity for a "global cover" in Vogue, a move that has stirred unease within Markle's camp. Sources indicate that Meghan was displeased by this development, perceiving it as an encroachment on her territory, particularly given her previous experience with Vogue and her removal from the cover of the 2019 issue.
The broader context reveals a complex dynamic within royal family interactions and their representation in the media, potentially exacerbated by Meghan's controversial exit from royal duties. As the fashion landscape evolves, both duchesses find themselves in the spotlight, yet public perceptions of their roles appear to diverge significantly. While Kate seems to garner considerable editorial influence, with the magazine extending offers that would allow her substantial creative control, Meghan's relationship with high-fashion entities has come under scrutiny.
Anna Wintour's silence on Meghan’s current standing within both the fashion industry and the royal family has raised eyebrows and sparked speculation regarding the latter's future collaborations with Vogue and similar outlets. Although Wintour had previously praised Meghan as "amazing," her apparent absence from discourse surrounding the Duchess and her husband, Prince Harry, could be indicative of the shifting tides in public and media sentiment towards the Sussexes.
As new opportunities arise for the royals, the divide in their paths takes centre stage, underscoring an ongoing narrative that is as much about fashion as it is about familial dynamics, public perception, and the intricate dance of modern royalty in the media spotlight.
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Source: Noah Wire Services