The Duchess and Her Disputed Title
Meghan Markle, Duchess of Sussex, is once again making headlines over her royal title. Though she and Prince Harry stepped back from senior royal duties in 2020, relinquishing the use of “His/Her Royal Highness” (HRH) in their official roles, a recent incident suggests the title might not be entirely retired. A gift card sent to beauty mogul Jamie Kern Lima signed off as “Her Royal Highness, the Princess of Sussex” has stirred debate online and reignited controversy.
The Gift That Sparked Debate
The controversy stems from a gift basket Meghan sent to Jamie Kern Lima, founder of IT Cosmetics. The attached card reportedly bore the title “Her Royal Highness, the Princess of Sussex.” While Meghan is a princess by marriage, the use of “HRH” contradicts the terms of the couple’s royal exit agreement with the late Queen Elizabeth II.
What Did the Sussex Agreement Say?
As part of their transition out of royal duties, Meghan and Harry agreed not to use their HRH titles in any professional capacity. While they retained the titles legally, they committed to using “Duke and Duchess of Sussex” without the HRH styling in public engagements and branded communications. This agreement provided them the flexibility to pursue independent careers outside the royal institution.
Was It a Breach or a Technicality?
This incident raises the question: is Meghan violating the agreement, or is this simply a misstep? Some argue that using “HRH” on a private note doesn’t technically break the rules, since it wasn’t a public engagement. Others believe any use of the styling—even informally—goes against the spirit of the agreement, which was meant to separate their professional lives from royal status.
Sussex Camp Responds
Sources close to Harry and Meghan reportedly claim the card was not meant for public viewing. The response appears to be an attempt to downplay the situation and frame it as a non-issue. Still, it highlights how closely the couple’s every move is scrutinized, especially when it touches royal protocols.
Princess or Duchess? A Matter of Style
By marriage, Meghan is Princess Henry of Wales, though she is typically styled as the Duchess of Sussex. The title “Princess of Sussex” is informal and rarely used in official contexts. Its appearance on the gift card adds to the confusion, blurring the line between accepted titles and those used for personal branding.
Brand Sussex: The Stakes Are High
The Sussexes have built a personal brand that walks a tightrope between royal heritage and modern independence. Small missteps like this can have outsized effects. Critics may see it as clinging to royal status for influence, while supporters view it as harmless. Either way, it can shape public perception and affect their long-term credibility.
How Is the Royal Family Reacting?
The royal household has stayed silent—a typical approach to media-driven controversies. Yet, insiders know that silence doesn’t equal indifference. Buckingham Palace often responds through subtle cues, briefings, or omission from official activities. Whether this incident prompts any action remains to be seen.
What This Means Going Forward
This small yet significant controversy underscores the delicate path Harry and Meghan must tread. They remain closely tied to the monarchy in the public eye but must manage that connection carefully. Future missteps may have greater consequences if public opinion shifts or if royal protocols are seen as repeatedly disregarded.
Conclusion: Image, Identity, and Influence
Meghan Markle’s HRH gift card incident is more than a simple protocol issue—it’s about image, legacy, and the balancing act of royalty in the modern era. As the Sussexes forge their own path, every word and title matters. The challenge ahead lies in honoring past agreements while building a brand that feels both authentic and respectful.
FAQs
Did Meghan Markle break the agreement with the Queen?
It depends on interpretation. Some say a private note doesn’t violate the agreement. Others argue the HRH style should be avoided in all contexts.
Is Meghan Markle still a princess?
Yes. By marriage, she is Princess Henry of Wales. However, she is commonly known as the Duchess of Sussex. “Princess of Sussex” is a courtesy title, not an official one.
What was the HRH agreement about?
Harry and Meghan agreed not to use their HRH titles in professional or commercial activities. They kept the titles legally but stepped away from public royal roles.
