Meghan Markle, the Duchess of Sussex, continues to captivate the world with her style choices. Even amidst whispers of a potential quiet retirement, she once again stepped back into the public eye, this time on a trip to Colombia with Prince Harry. The couple’s visit aimed to learn about projects safeguarding young people from online harm, while immersing themselves in the vibrant South American culture.
For a visit to the Delia Zapata National Arts Center in Bogota, Meghan opted for a striking geometric Johanna Ortiz dress, paying homage to the intricate weaving traditions of the Native American Navajo tribe. The rich design showcased the meticulous research Team Markle undertook to honor their host region. Ortiz, a renowned Colombian fashion talent, added to the dress’s cultural significance.
Meghan’s accessories, however, reflected her evolving persona as a Montecito-based mogul. A pair of classic Jimmy Choos are a staple in any A-lister’s wardrobe, while a selection of Cartier jewelry subtly signifies her wealth. Markle rarely parts with her Tank watch, the same timepiece worn by Princess Diana, or her Love bracelet, a coveted status symbol for aspirational women. However, her Juste Un Clou choker, a recent addition to her jewelry box, was reserved for special occasions like the Invictus Games.
The Juste Un Clou collection, inspired by the simple yet elegant image of a nail wrapped around the skin, first emerged in 1971 as “the nail bracelet.” It exemplified Cartier’s mastery in transforming ordinary objects into luxurious treasures. The collection’s rebellious spirit, a testament to designer Aldo Cipullo’s defiance of traditional jewelry-making, resonated with the minimalist aesthetic of the 1970s. The bracelet gained renewed popularity in the 2000s, subsequently renamed “Just un Clou” (meaning “just a nail”) to honor its punk origins and expanded to include necklaces, rings, and brooches.
Markle’s choker, a small yellow gold version adorned with 57 diamonds totaling 0.20 carats, carries a price tag of over £12,000. This significant sum, coupled with her Tank and Love pieces, becomes particularly noticeable during state visits, where every personal effect is scrutinized for its deeper meaning.
This hybrid Cali-CEO-meets-thoughtful-traveller aesthetic followed the neat navy Veronica Beard separates Meghan wore upon arriving in Colombia. Paired with Manolo Blahnik shoes, a Loro Piana tote, Lorraine Schwartz diamonds, and her cherished Cartier watch and bracelet, Markle’s business attire once again conveyed the image of an ambitious entrepreneur, who consistently forges her own path. Her meticulously curated jewelry further emphasizes this independent spirit, showcasing a woman who embraces both her heritage and her personal ambitions.
