Meghan Markle is under fire for the steep prices of her latest lifestyle products after unveiling her “As Ever” holiday collection earlier this week. The Duchess of Sussex, who launched the luxury range on Tuesday, has drawn criticism for what many see as excessive pricing. Her new line, which includes candles, home décor, and wellness items, aims to capture a sense of mindfulness and California serenity—but critics say the prices are far from down-to-earth.
Royal expert Alicia Liberty, writing for The Express, shared a blunt assessment of Meghan’s latest venture. “The Duchess of Sussex’s latest As Ever holiday collection has genuinely stopped me in my tracks,” Liberty wrote. “Not because it’s breathtakingly beautiful or particularly inventive, but because it’s eye-wateringly expensive and a complete rip-off.”
She added, “The products appear to evoke luxury, mindfulness, and a touch of Montecito calm. But once you look past the dreamy branding, you’ll realise these are everyday items dressed up with designer price tags.”
The criticism comes as Meghan continues to build her image as a lifestyle entrepreneur, balancing personal branding with high-end marketing. The As Ever brand, which launched earlier this year, emphasizes intentional living and emotional wellness—values the Duchess often connects to her own life in California with Prince Harry and their children.
However, the reaction to the pricing has been mixed. While supporters praise the brand’s elegant design and charitable messaging, others argue that Meghan’s products are inaccessible to most consumers. Some royal observers have also suggested that the former actress’s luxury-focused image contrasts sharply with her past advocacy for social equality and empowerment.
This isn’t the first time Meghan has faced public backlash over her business ventures. Her previous collaborations, including a podcast and wellness initiatives, have received both praise and skepticism, with critics often questioning the balance between authenticity and commercial appeal.
Since stepping down from royal duties in 2020, Meghan and Prince Harry have settled in Montecito, California, where they’ve built a new life away from royal obligations. The couple’s decision to distance themselves from the monarchy followed a series of public revelations, including allegations of racism within the royal family and concerns over their treatment by the British press.
Despite the ongoing scrutiny, Meghan continues to expand her entrepreneurial efforts. Still, with critics calling her latest products “overpriced” and “pretentious,” the Duchess faces the familiar challenge of balancing luxury with relatability—a tension that seems to follow her wherever she goes.