DAVEsmithAs Meghan Markle settles into her new life in Santa Barbara, California, her style has evolved to reflect the laid-back yet sophisticated vibe of her adopted hometown. The Duchess of Sussex has seamlessly transitioned from her royal wardrobe to a more relaxed, yet still chic, aesthetic that perfectly encapsulates the essence of Santa Barbara style.
Embracing the Casual Luxe Look
One of the hallmarks of Santa Barbara style is the ability to effortlessly blend casual pieces with high-end items. Meghan has mastered this art, often pairing designer denim with classic button-down shirts from brands like Misha Nonoo, Ralph Lauren, and With Nothing Underneath. For a more polished look, she may style these shirts with wide-leg trousers or pair them with a sleek jumpsuit, as she did for the grand opening of Godmothers bookstore in California.
Prioritizing Sustainability and Ethical Fashion
Meghan’s Santa Barbara style also reflects her commitment to sustainability and ethical fashion. She has been known to support eco-friendly denim labels like Hiut Denim from Wales and Australia’s Outland. The Duchess has also been spotted in pieces from Boyish, a California-based brand that uses recycled materials, and Triarchy, which makes denim using 85% recycled water.
Accessorizing with a Touch of Luxury
While Meghan’s Santa Barbara style is all about relaxed elegance, she still incorporates a touch of luxury through her accessories. Her collection of Cartier jewelry, including the classic Love bracelet and Tank watch, adds a refined touch to even her most casual outfits. The Duchess also favors designer handbags, such as the Cesta Collective crossbody bag, which she has been seen carrying during her outings in Santa Barbara.
Embracing the Outdoors
Living in Santa Barbara means embracing the great outdoors, and Meghan’s style reflects this. She has been spotted in athleisure pieces like Patagonia fleece pullovers, which have become a staple in the wardrobes of many Santa Barbara residents. The Duchess has also been rumored to be investing in a wetsuit, as Prince Harry has been seen surfing in the area.
Investing in Her Own Lifestyle Brand
Meghan’s commitment to Santa Barbara style extends beyond her personal wardrobe. In 2024, she launched her own lifestyle brand, American Riviera Orchard, which takes inspiration from her new home in Montecito. The brand’s focus on home, garden, food, and general lifestyle content aligns perfectly with the Santa Barbara ethos of living well and enjoying the finer things in life.
Giving Back Through Fashion
As always, Meghan’s style choices are not just about looking good but also about making a positive impact. She continues to support female-founded companies and brands that align with her values, such as Cesta Collective, a sustainable accessories brand that empowers artisans in Colombia. By investing in these brands and wearing their pieces, Meghan is using her platform to promote ethical and sustainable fashion.
Conclusion
Meghan Markle’s Santa Barbara style is a reflection of her personal growth and evolution as a public figure. By embracing a more relaxed yet still chic aesthetic, she has found a way to stay true to her personal style while also adapting to her new surroundings. Through her commitment to sustainability, ethical fashion, and supporting female-founded brands, Meghan continues to inspire her fans and followers to make conscious choices when it comes to their wardrobes.
