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Duchess Meghan opts for much-adored wardrobe staple for the Queen's funeral

The Duchess of Sussex turned to a classic cape dress


meghan markle queen funeral© Photo: Getty Images
Orin Carlin
Content Writer
Updated: September 19, 2022
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The Duke and Duchess of Sussex have joined other members of the royal family in bidding farewell to the Queen by attending her state funeral on Monday.

Since the announcement of the Queen's death just over a week ago, an outpouring of heartfelt tributes have been offered by the nation in commemoration of the late monarch's extraordinary life.

MORE: How the fashion world has paid tribute to Queen Elizabeth II

Prince Harry and Meghan Markle were both present at the Queen's state funeral, with Meghan looking radiant in a black midi cape dress by British trailblazer Stella McCartney, paired with sheer tights and chic court shoes. Adhering to tradition, she wore an all-black ensemble which included several accessories which elevated her look and exuded a sense of enduring grace.

Meghan Markle Stella McCartney Cape Dress© Photo: Getty Images

Meghan opted for a wide-brim translucent asymmetric hat which she styled alongside a sleek chignon bun and a pair of earrings which were infused with sentimentality. She wore pearl earrings that had been gifted to her by the Queen back in 2018 – a fitting and touching jewellery tribute.

READ: Princess Kate opted for her favourite dress style at the Queen's Funeral

RELATED: How London Fashion Week has honoured the Queen

Meghan Markle Cape Dress The Queen Funeral© Photo: Getty Images

It is not the first time that the Duchess of Sussex has turned to Stella McCartney for a masterfully chic outfit - she wore a ravishing white halterneck dress by the British label at her wedding reception - but neither is it the first time she has opted for a dress with a cape design. 

While the cape dress' origin story isn't entirely clear, what we do know is that the style blossomed in the 1950s. Cape dresses are often thought of as demure and modest, and so they are popular among women living within conservative, religious communities. However, the hybrid style is also a hit with the royals – in fact, Princess Kate wore an extraordinarily decadent gold version by Jenny Packham at the premiere of No Time To Die last year.

Meghan Markle Navy Cape Dress© Photo: Getty Images

Back in 2018, Meghan attended a concert at the Royal Albert Hall, held to celebrate the Queen's 92nd birthday, wearing a style thought to be identical to that which she wore on Monday, differing only in colour. For the celebratory concert Meghan opted for navy, whereas she opted for a sleek black version for Her Majesty's funeral.

The service was held at Westminster Abbey in the heart of Central London and her coffin will be taken to St George’s Chapel at Windsor Castle for a televised committal service.

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