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nown for her minimalist approach to style, the Duchess of Sussex, Meghan Markle, reiterated that charm during her and her husband, Prince Harry’s official visit to Nigeria. Kicking off on Friday, May 10, in the capital city of Abuja, and rounding off on Sunday, May 12, in the Lagos metropolis, the Duchess delivered style and pump with a dash of understated elegance. In this article, we’ll explore Meghan Markle’s chic outfits for this tour that made an unmissable case for quiet luxury.
In 2022, the Duchess revealed that she’s 43% Nigerian, so this trip was somewhat a homecoming–one she communicated with fashion that gave a nod to her authentic self while incorporating cultural elements of the West African nation. Invited to Nigeria by the country’s Chief of Defence Staff, the Dutchess arrived, bringing more color and zest than usual. From a yellow chiffon maxi dress to a red midi dress with ruffles and interesting additions of traditional “aso-oke” fabrics, the mother-of-two spoke a style language that was easy to understand.
Speaking on her incorporation of more color for her trip to Nigeria, the Duchess said, “I very quickly got the memo that I need to wear more color, so I can fit in with all of you and your incredible fashion.” We, for one, are glad she took a chance with vibrant hues, and the results are fantastic!
Check out Meghan Markle’s outfits during her official visit to Nigeria…
#1. Peachy poise
On the first day, Meghan and Harry set out to the Lighthouse Academy in Abuja. For the occasion, Meghan opted for a Heidi Merrick peach maxi dress styled with a beaded necklace and a gold choker, reminiscent of the one Princess Diana wore to Nigeria in 1990. Her strapless silk dress, named “the Windsor,” featured a flowing skirt and fitted bodice with a linear cut-out at the sides and back. The Heidi Merrick dress takes its name from the House of Windsor, making her first outfit on this tour a recognition of the Royal family. Indeed, it was an elegant and statement-making way to kick off the tour.
#2. Business whites
Paying homage to their host nation, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle shone in the colors of the Nigerian flag. Strutting boldly through the Defence Headquarters, Harry wore a well-fitted green suit, while Meghan donned a white Altuzarra suit styled with orange pumps and a flower bracelet. Like the royals of bygone eras, the couple followed in their footsteps by wearing the country’s colors as a form of respect.
Shop Altuzarra ‘Fenice’ Jacket here
#3. Lady in red
For a panel discussion during the “Women in Leadership” summit, the Duchess did justice to red. Her spaghetti-strap “Orire” midi dress with ruffles on the hem paired nicely with her Aquazzura sandal heels and dainty gold jewelry. Hosted by the Director-General of the World Trade Organization, Nigeria’s Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, and media mogul, Mo Abudu, the event highlighted the important role of women in leadership and Markle graced it in a fitting ensemble. Plus, it’s created by a Nigerian fashion brand—a show of support for local businesses while recognizing Nigeria’s affinity for vibrant colors.
Shop the red Orire ‘Dire’ dress here
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#4. Relaxed chic
For a sitting volleyball training session with Prince Harry in Asokoro, Abuja, Meghan rocked a Johanna Ortiz dress that flattered her frame. Indeed, the country’s heat had no chance against this elevated, laid-back look. She styled it with her usual Heidi Merrick sunglasses and finished off with Emme Parsons sandals for comfort.
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#5. A linen coordination
At the Armed Forces Officers’ Mess in Abuja, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex showed support to the military families and widows in collaboration with Prince Harry’s Invictus Games. For the outing, the Duchess slipped into a linen column dress by St. Agni, elevated with understated jewelry. Meanwhile, her husband looked dashing in a cream linen suit that coordinated with Meghan Markle’s outfit. The highlight of Meghan’s look was her mother-in-law’s (Princess Diana) diamond cross necklace, which was gifted to her by Harry. The simplistic look held much significance and sentimental value.
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#5. Aso-oke charm
Barely three days in the country, and Meghan Markle’s outfits already spoke like that of a true daughter of the soil. After reconsidering a pre-planned neutral-themed fit, the Duchess of Sussex touched down Lagos in a white Carolina Herrera button-down shirt styled impeccably with an “aso-oke” skirt. Aso-oke hails from the Yoruba people of Nigeria who dwell in the South-Western part of the country, so it’s only fitting that she slayed in the fabric during the Lagos leg of her trip. (Lagos is a city in South-West Nigeria).
Shop Carolina Herrera Classic Cotton Button-Front Shirt here
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#6. Yellow burst
Freshened up and ready to explore the city of Lagos, the couple attended a reception at the Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s house. For the trip, she was a sight in a yellow Carolina Herrera flowy dress that brought even more sunlight to the bustling city. This was the exact dress she wore for her son, Prince Archie’s birthday celebration, and her daughter, Princess Lilibet’s pregnancy announcement. Perhaps planned, she rocked this vibrant maxi on May 12–Mother’s Day. At the Governor’s house, his wife, Dr. Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu, gifted Meghan a green-and-white aso-oke fabric that she elegantly threw over her shoulder.
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#7. A neutral tale
We all know that neutrals are Meghan’s familiar sport. She played it again in a Johanna Ortiz halterneck number with subtle floral prints. She elevated the beautiful dress with gold Burberry Prorsum “Berkeley” sandal heels and drop earrings to a Charity Polo event in Lagos. The look was elegant and graceful, a fitting way to conclude her fashion marathon in Nigeria.
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