Meghan Markle's Suits: Style & Impact
Meghan Markle, the Duchess of Sussex, has become a global style icon, and her sartorial choices have consistently captivated audiences worldwide. Before marrying Prince Harry, Meghan starred in the hit legal drama Suits, where her character, Rachel Zane, showcased a wardrobe filled with sophisticated and professional attire. Meghan's Suits style not only reflected her character's ambition and confidence but also influenced broader fashion trends. Let's dive deep into Meghan Markle's Suits wardrobe and explore how it made an impact.
Rachel Zane's Wardrobe: A Closer Look
In Suits, Rachel Zane's wardrobe was a masterclass in professional chic. Her outfits typically consisted of tailored blazers, pencil skirts, elegant blouses, and classic dresses. The color palette was generally neutral, featuring shades like black, navy, gray, and white, with occasional pops of color through accessories or a bold red dress. These choices underscored Rachel’s professionalism while allowing her personality to shine through.
Key Elements of Rachel Zane's Style
- Tailored Blazers: Blazers were a staple in Rachel's wardrobe. She often wore them in various cuts and colors, perfectly fitted to accentuate her figure. These blazers projected authority and confidence, essential for her role as a paralegal aiming to become a lawyer.
- Pencil Skirts: Another key element was the pencil skirt, usually knee-length or slightly above. These skirts were paired with blouses or sweaters, creating a polished and sophisticated look. The pencil skirt emphasized her professional demeanor while maintaining a feminine touch.
- Elegant Blouses: Rachel often wore simple yet elegant blouses in silk or cotton. These were usually tucked into her skirts or worn under blazers, adding a layer of refinement to her outfits. The blouses were understated yet crucial in completing her professional ensemble.
- Classic Dresses: For more formal occasions or important meetings, Rachel often opted for classic dresses. These dresses were typically sheath or A-line styles, hitting just above or at the knee. They were simple, elegant, and always appropriate for the workplace.
- Strategic Accessories: Accessories played a subtle but significant role in Rachel's style. She often wore delicate necklaces, stud earrings, and classic pumps. These accessories added a touch of sophistication without being overpowering, ensuring that her overall look remained polished and professional.
Brands and Designers Featured
Rachel Zane's wardrobe included pieces from a variety of well-known brands and designers. While the exact brands were not always explicitly mentioned, costume designers for Suits often selected items from labels known for their quality and classic designs. Some brands that likely influenced Rachel's style include:
- Ralph Lauren: Known for its classic American style, Ralph Lauren pieces would have fit perfectly into Rachel's wardrobe.
- Theory: Theory is renowned for its minimalist and well-tailored workwear, making it a natural fit for Rachel's professional look.
- Banana Republic: This brand offers a range of affordable yet stylish workwear options that could easily be incorporated into Rachel's wardrobe.
- Michael Kors: Michael Kors is known for its sophisticated and timeless designs, making it another suitable option for Rachel's on-screen attire.
Impact on Fashion Trends
Meghan Markle's role in Suits significantly impacted fashion trends, particularly in the realm of professional attire. Her character's style resonated with many women who sought to emulate her polished and sophisticated look. Several key trends emerged as a result of her influence:
The Rise of the Power Blazer
Rachel Zane's affinity for tailored blazers helped popularize the "power blazer" trend. Women began incorporating blazers into their work wardrobes as a way to project confidence and authority. The power blazer became a symbol of female empowerment in the workplace, inspired by Rachel's character.
The Modern Pencil Skirt
The pencil skirt, once considered a somewhat dated garment, experienced a resurgence thanks to Rachel Zane. Her modern take on the pencil skirt, paired with elegant blouses and blazers, made it a fashionable and versatile piece for the contemporary professional woman.
Minimalist Workwear
Rachel's minimalist approach to workwear, characterized by clean lines, neutral colors, and simple accessories, influenced a broader trend towards understated elegance in the workplace. Women began to favor timeless pieces over overtly trendy items, focusing on quality and fit.
The Professional Dress
Classic dresses, particularly sheath and A-line styles, became increasingly popular as women sought easy yet polished outfit options. Rachel's dresses were simple, elegant, and always appropriate, inspiring women to embrace this versatile wardrobe staple.
Meghan's Personal Style vs. Rachel Zane's Style
While Meghan Markle's Suits style undoubtedly influenced her personal fashion choices, there are notable differences between Rachel Zane's wardrobe and Meghan's off-screen style. In Suits, Rachel's style was carefully curated to reflect her professional environment and ambition. Meghan's personal style, on the other hand, reflects her broader interests, values, and royal duties.
Key Differences
- Formality: Rachel Zane's style was inherently more formal due to the nature of her work. Meghan's personal style, while still elegant, often incorporates more casual elements, such as jeans, sneakers, and oversized sweaters.
- Color Palette: Rachel's wardrobe primarily consisted of neutral colors, while Meghan's personal style features a wider range of colors and patterns. Meghan is often seen wearing bold colors and prints, reflecting her vibrant personality.
- Accessories: Rachel's accessories were understated and classic, while Meghan's personal style often includes statement jewelry, designer handbags, and more adventurous footwear.
- Brands and Designers: While Rachel's wardrobe included pieces from established brands, Meghan's personal style often showcases a mix of high-end designers and more accessible brands. She has been known to support sustainable and ethical fashion labels, reflecting her commitment to social and environmental causes.
How to Recreate Rachel Zane's Style
If you admire Rachel Zane's style and want to incorporate it into your wardrobe, here are some tips on how to recreate her look:
Invest in Tailored Blazers
A well-fitted blazer is the foundation of Rachel Zane's style. Look for blazers in classic colors like black, navy, and gray. Ensure that the blazer fits you properly, accentuating your figure without being too tight or too loose.
Stock Up on Pencil Skirts
Pencil skirts are another essential element of Rachel's wardrobe. Choose skirts in neutral colors and ensure that they are knee-length or slightly above. Pair them with blouses or sweaters for a polished and professional look.
Choose Elegant Blouses
Select simple yet elegant blouses in silk or cotton. These should be versatile enough to be worn under blazers or tucked into skirts. Look for blouses in neutral colors or soft pastels.
Opt for Classic Dresses
Invest in a few classic dresses in sheath or A-line styles. These dresses should be simple, elegant, and appropriate for the workplace. Choose dresses in neutral colors or subtle patterns.
Accessorize Strategically
Complete your outfits with delicate necklaces, stud earrings, and classic pumps. Avoid overly flashy or distracting accessories. The goal is to add a touch of sophistication without overpowering your overall look.
Focus on Fit and Quality
When recreating Rachel Zane's style, focus on fit and quality. Choose well-made pieces that fit you properly and flatter your figure. Investing in quality pieces will ensure that your wardrobe looks polished and professional.
Conclusion
Meghan Markle's Suits style, as embodied by her character Rachel Zane, has left a lasting impact on fashion trends. Her sophisticated and professional wardrobe influenced women worldwide, popularizing trends such as the power blazer, the modern pencil skirt, and minimalist workwear. By understanding the key elements of Rachel Zane's style and incorporating them into your own wardrobe, you can emulate her polished and confident look. Whether you're aiming to make a statement in the workplace or simply seeking to elevate your personal style, Rachel Zane's fashion choices offer valuable lessons in timeless elegance and professional chic.
So, go ahead and experiment with these style tips to channel your inner Rachel Zane. After all, fashion is all about expressing yourself and feeling confident in your own skin. Embrace the style and make it your own! You've got this, guys!