Meghan Markle Channeled Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy

Photo credit: Hearst Communications, Inc. All rights reserved
Photo credit: Hearst Communications, Inc. All rights reserved

From Harper's BAZAAR

When Meghan Markle appeared for her first first royal engagement with Prince Harry this morning, she opted for a royal-friendly outfit: a professional yet sophisticated look in a neutral color palette with her own personal flair. While adhering to general royal dress code, she also inadvertently paid tribute to an iconic dynasty from her native USA with a look reminiscent of the late Carolyn Bessette Kennedy's.

The outfits are over two decades apart, but the basic elements are all there: a black sweater, a neutral beige midi skirt, and knee-high boots (plus high-profile arm candy). Bessette-Kennedy wore her look in 1996 while making an appearance with her husband JFK Jr. outside their Tribeca apartment.

Though she hated paparazzi, she was often photographed sporting chic yet down-to-earth looks that included classy coats and elegant formalwear. Today, Bessette-Kennedy's style is nearly as iconic as that of her mother-in-law, Jackie Kennedy, so it's no surprise Markle channeled it with her own look - even if the homage was accidental.

Markle's version included a thin black belt and heavy pleats on the skirt, made by British brand Joseph. Her black boots, by another UK label, Kurt Geiger, had more slouch than Bessette-Kennedy's mahogany pair.

Markle also paid tribute to her former country of residence, Canada, by wearing a Montreal-based outerwear brand, Mackage. (She lived in Toronto while filming Suits.) She wrapped up in the navy overcoat while greeting fans on the street.

Fashion fans and monarchy-lovers will be interested to see how Markle's royal wardrobe takes shape as she grows into her role as a duchess. If this look proves anything, it's that she may reference and pay tribute to special places from her past. This is just the beginning.

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