Meghan Markle embraced a blend of equestrian-inspired style and philanthropy with her latest initiative. On October 2, in honor of International Day of the Girl, the Duchess of Sussex made an unexpected visit to Girls Inc. of Santa Barbara.
Her visit marked the beginning of a partnership between the nonprofit and #HalfTheStory, an organization dedicated to educating younger generations on their relationship with technology and promoting digital well-being for girls.
The collaboration receives support from Markle’s Archewell Foundation, alongside contributions from the Melinda French Gates Foundation and the Oprah Winfrey Charitable Foundation.
Markle’s visit highlights her commitment to empowering the next generation while promoting digital well-being and self-esteem among young girls
For her appearance, Markle’s outfit brought a California twist to traditional stable-inspired fashion. She opted for a blue button-up shirt with a white collar from J.Crew’s collaboration with French designer Marie Marot, pairing it with wide-leg white trousers cinched by a brown leather belt.
Rather than equestrian boots, she chose suede Manolo Blahnik pumps, evoking a look that felt just as fitting for a Ralph Lauren gathering in the Hamptons as it did for a charitable event.
Returning to her signature bouncy blowout, Markle ditched the beach waves she recently wore on the red carpet. Her jewelry was minimal, with famous accessories like her gold Cartier necklace and Princess Diana’s butterfly earrings left behind. She kept it simple with only a hint of rosy pink blush.
Throughout the afternoon, Markle engaged with the young participants by making crafts and discussing empowerment and healthy digital habits—both key areas of focus for the Archewell Foundation.
The activities, which included friendship bracelet-making, also provided a space for meaningful conversations. “#HalfTheStory founder Larissa May shared with Vanity Fair that Meghan reflected on her own experiences with online harassment, calling herself one of the most bullied individuals in the world during the discussions.
Markle has consistently showcased business-casual styles at events promoting digital wellness this year. At a South by Southwest International Women’s Day panel in March, she addressed online bullying while wearing a coordinating set from Giuliva Heritage. During her royal tour of Colombia, she incorporated tailored vests by Veronica Beard and refined day dresses into her wardrobe.
While the preppy button-up and white trousers signal a slight departure from Markle’s usual aesthetic, her style typically leans more toward minimalism than equestrian chic. Even at events like the Sentebale Polo Classic, she has preferred sleek, understated pieces, such as backless dresses from St. Agni.
Her look here feels reminiscent of Jennifer Lopez’s 2024 summer fashion shift, where Lopez embraced Ralph Lauren shirts, relaxed pants, and flip-flops during her Hamptons getaway. Perhaps both women will embrace barn jackets and riding boots next?
