Meghan Markle is under fire for her handling of her lifestyle brand, with royal commentators claiming her refusal to take expert advice is causing internal chaos and stalling progress.
The Duchess of Sussex, who launched her new lifestyle brand As Ever earlier this year, has reportedly faced significant hurdles behind the scenes. Sources say Meghan’s struggle to delegate and collaborate with professionals is contributing to delays and confusion within the venture.
Speaking to The Sun, royal author Charles Rae expressed skepticism over the brand’s rollout strategy. “I’m not a businessman, but I would have thought that if you were setting up a new company, you would have enough products on the shelves or whatever is kept to satisfy the demand,” Rae remarked, highlighting the lack of available products despite the brand’s public launch.
Rae went on to suggest that Meghan is largely in control of the operation and perhaps too much so. “My view is that it is mainly, I would say, 90 per cent Meghan who’s running,” he said. “Who’s running the show, because this is a woman who does not want to take orders from anybody.”
The comment speaks to growing concerns about Meghan’s hands-on and reportedly controlling approach to her brand, which has yet to find a steady rhythm in the competitive lifestyle space.
Adding to the criticism, Royal Correspondent Sarah Hewson commented on the chaotic nature of the brand’s early days. “She doesn’t want to let go,” Hewson said. “And I guess, you know, she is putting her name to it. But yes, it has been chaotic.”
Observers note that while Meghan’s star power gives the brand immediate visibility, the lack of product readiness and behind-the-scenes disorganization have raised red flags. Critics argue that her insistence on maintaining full creative and strategic control may be holding back the business from achieving its full potential.
As the Duchess tries to establish herself as a serious player in the lifestyle market, industry experts suggest that greater collaboration with seasoned professionals could be key to long-term success. For now, though, the brand remains closely tied to Meghan’s personal vision — for better or worse.