The Duchess of Sussex, Meghan Markle, showcased a refreshingly relaxed aesthetic at the Sundance Film Festival, where she attended the screening of her executive-produced documentary, 'Cookie Queens'. The 44-year-old royal opted for a casual ensemble, comprising a simple white jumper and skinny jeans, a stark departure from her typical opulent accessories.
A Symbolic Swap: From Luxury to Sentiment
In a notable style choice, Meghan exchanged her usual jewellery collection, valued at an impressive £236,000, for a humble friendship bracelet. This accessory, featuring square beads on a neon green string, became a focal point of her appearance. She was photographed posing with a young girl at the event, comparing their bracelets; the fan's was woven in purple, while Meghan's displayed its vibrant design.
Royal Connections to Friendship Bracelets
This is not the first instance of Meghan embracing friendship bracelets, an accessory also worn by other members of the royal family, including Princess Charlotte and King Charles. Last March, ahead of the launch of her Netflix series, 'With Love, Meghan', she distributed bracelets to loyal supporters who had followed her since her now-defunct lifestyle blog, The Tig.
Two years prior, during the Invictus Games in Germany, Meghan made a heartwarming gesture by wearing a beaded friendship bracelet etched with the initials of someone unable to attend. At a glittering party in Dusseldorf, she addressed 1,600 competitors, friends, and family, holding up her arm to loud cheers as she explained the sentimental tribute. The bracelet read 'I am Invictus', nodding to the motto of the competition for wounded and disabled military veterans.
Personal Ties to the Girl Scouts
At the Sundance event, held at the Eccles Center Theater in Utah, Meghan took to the stage to discuss the premiere of 'Cookie Queens'. She revealed a deep personal connection to the film, having been a Girl Scout herself while growing up in California, with her mother, Doria Ragland, serving as her troop leader.
Speaking to reporters, Meghan reflected on the values instilled by the Girl Scouts, stating, 'It really embeds such great values from the get-go. I think the value of friendship, of being dedicated to a goal, as you see that in Cookie Queens, is so reflective of how these girls stick to something that is important to them and don't give up.' She emphasised self-belief as an integral value gained from the experience.
Family and Future Explorations
When asked whether her daughter, Lilibet, might become a Girl Scout, Meghan gave a vague response, indicating they would 'continue to explore whatever feels right'. She also highlighted the collaborative nature of the project, noting that working with director Alysa Nahmias was special as mothers, creating content their daughters could enjoy.
Alysa Nahmias shared that the film originated from her children's request for a project to share with friends, using Girl Scout cookies as a lens to explore girlhood and coming of age. Meghan previously expressed her pride in the partnership with Archewell Productions, describing the documentary's creative point of view and nostalgic yet modern tone as 'irresistible'.
Elegant Outerwear and Subtle Bling
To combat the chilly Utah weather, Meghan layered her casual look with a simple navy trench coat, adding a touch of sophistication. Her only piece of traditional jewellery was her favourite 18-carat gold Cartier Love bangle, which retails for approximately £7,050. This balanced combination of laid-back attire and elegant outerwear underscored her approachable yet polished demeanour at the festival.
The documentary 'Cookie Queens' is executive produced by Meghan and Prince Harry through Archewell Productions, in collaboration with Beautiful Stories and AJNA Films. The 91-minute film delves into the American tradition of cookie selling, a theme Meghan knows intimately from her own Girl Scout days.
