Meghan Markle’s journey from feminist advocate to lifestyle influencer has raised eyebrows and sparked debates. After stepping down from official royal duties alongside her husband, Prince Harry, Meghan vowed to continue advocating for women’s rights.

However, her transformation into a homemaker-focused figure has led to comparisons with lifestyle moguls like Martha Stewart. According to royal experts, this shift in public persona intertwines her advocacy with a more traditional, domestic image.

Meghan Markle assembles a charcuterie board to show how her family celebrates Fourth of July

After stepping away from royal duties, Meghan launched her lifestyle brand As Ever and a Netflix series that explores cooking, home hosting, and elevating everyday life. Royal correspondent Jack Royston noted that Meghan’s public image dramatically shifted.

She moved from a feminist advocating for women’s empowerment outside the kitchen to one celebrating the pleasures of homemaking. Brand culture expert Nick Ede compared Meghan’s approach to Martha Stewart, as she shares cooking tips, hosts interviews, and offers lifestyle advice.

Before becoming the Duchess of Sussex, Meghan was known for her advocacy work, such as her 2015 speech at the United Nations. She spoke about her commitment to empowering women and inspiring them to lead. However, her recent ventures have raised questions.

Critics argue that her lifestyle brand and Netflix series seem to prioritize personal branding over her original feminist goals.

Meghan’s lifestyle brand and commercial ventures

The Netflix series, which attracted more than 2.6 million views in its first week, has been a commercial success, contributing to Meghan’s reported $100 million deal with the platform. Despite this, her new image has not been without controversy.

Meghan’s brand As Ever focuses on homemaking, jam-making, and floral arrangements, yet critics argue her portrayal of these tasks is disconnected from the reality many face. Her products, which include high-priced jam and luxury home items, have drawn comparisons to the more charitable endeavors of her father-in-law, King Charles, whose brands benefit charity.

Meghan has also been criticized for using the “Sussex” name in her business ventures, despite agreements not to use royal titles for commercial purposes after stepping down. A controversial moment occurred when she corrected a celebrity about her title, sparking backlash from those who felt she was violating the terms set by Queen Elizabeth II.

Feminism vs. Influence: The comparison with Sophie, Duchess of Edinburgh

Meghan’s shift has not gone unnoticed by those working in real humanitarian efforts. Royal commentator Richard Fitzwilliams noted that while Meghan maintains a feminist stance, it is Sophie, Duchess of Edinburgh, who has truly embraced the cause.

Sophie’s work with survivors of sexual violence and in war-torn areas contrasts sharply with Meghan’s focus on luxury living. This difference highlights the challenge of balancing public advocacy with real-world action.

Markle’s post-royal career is a blend of influence, fame, and business. While her lifestyle brand and Netflix series have gained attention, her transition from feminist to influencer raises questions about her priorities. Whether this reinvention strengthens or weakens her feminist credibility remains uncertain.