Meghan Markle continues to face scrutiny after an outfit she wore during a visit to survivors of the Bondi Beach terror attack was featured on the AI fashion platform OneOff.
Critics called the promotion inappropriate, given the tragic context, which has now prompted the removal of the image.
The backlash has reignited debate over the commercialization of her public appearances, even as Meghan Markle and Prince Harry remain positive about their recent trip to Australia.
Meghan has reportedly had one of her recent outfits quietly taken down from an AI-driven fashion platform after criticism over its timing and context.
The Duchess, 44, had been featured on the site OneOff, which highlighted the exact outfit she wore during a visit with survivors and first responders connected to the Bondi terror attack in Australia.
The listing drew backlash, with critics arguing it was inappropriate to promote fashion linked to such a tragic event.
During the final day of their short tour, Meghan and Prince Harry, 41, met with lifeguards and individuals affected by the December 14 attack, which left 15 people dead and dozens injured.
The couple visited the Bondi Surf Bathers’ Life Saving Club, where they spent time with survivors, including Jessica Chapnik Kahn, who later described the encounter as an “honor.”
Soon after, an image of the couple walking alongside surf lifesavers appeared on OneOff, drawing attention to Meghan’s outfit.
The look featured pieces from several brands, including a striped shirt by Matteau, jeans by Rollas, and accessories from labels like P Johnson Femme and Scanlan Theodore.
Experts Accused The Duchess Of ‘Hijacking’ The Tragedy And Then ‘Commercializing’ It
The online reaction was swift. Commentators accused Meghan of monetizing a solemn occasion.
Tom Sykes criticized the move in his Substack newsletter, calling it inappropriate to profit from clothing worn during a visit tied to a deadly attack.
“Selling the clothes off her own back at the site of a massacre where 15 people died might come easily to Meghan, but, like any right-minded person, I find this sickening,” he wrote, per Sky News Australia.
He also cited a former Buckingham Palace staff member who described the promotion as disrespectful. “To hijack it then nakedly commercialize it in this way is not just hugely disrespectful, it is also unbelievably shortsighted,” he added.
Richard Palmer echoed similar concerns, suggesting the situation is “perhaps the starkest example yet of Harry and Meghan’s efforts to commercialize their royal brand.”
He noted that while the couple no longer represents the monarchy in an official capacity, their actions can still reflect on the institution, and “may ultimately prompt further discussion about whether there is a need to strip them of their royal titles, now the King has shown it can be done in effect with Andrew.”
OneOff Removes Meghan Markle Outfit Post After Backlash
Following the criticism, the platform removed the original image and replaced it with a different photo of Meghan from earlier that day, showing her alone in the same outfit.
Meghan is believed to earn a commission on sales through OneOff and is also listed as an investor on the platform.
Her profile features numerous outfits worn during the Australia trip, with her wardrobe for the visit estimated to reach almost $100,000.
There are also claims that, combining paid appearances and business-related opportunities, Meghan and Harry may have brought in close to $10 million during their time in Australia.
On April 19, Meghan shared a short video on her Instagram Stories capturing the couple’s return to California, where they were welcomed with a “Welcome Home” banner.
She also posted snaps of items brought back from Australia, including gifts for their children, such as Tim Tams, sweets, books, and handwritten notes.
Prince Harry And Meghan Markle Remain Upbeat After Australia Trip
Despite the controversy, sources say the couple felt positive about their four-day visit, viewing it as a success.
Their schedule included engagements highlighting Indigenous culture, sporting initiatives, and a visit to a national war memorial, elements typically associated with official royal tours, even though they attended in a private capacity.
According to Express, an insider shared that Prince Harry left the trip feeling reassured, believing public sentiment may be shifting in their favor.
While they anticipated some criticism, they were reportedly encouraged by the “overall reception they received from the general public – and the causes they supported – was incredible.”
The Duke And Duchess Still Care About Working Closely With The Monarchy
The experience is also said to have reinforced Harry’s belief that he and Meghan are carving out a new kind of public role, one that blends independence with global influence. He is reportedly hopeful that this evolving approach will “impress” the royal family.
At the same time, there are indications that Harry may be open to repairing his relationship with his father, King Charles III.
Insiders suggest he sees value in working more closely together, particularly amid ongoing scrutiny surrounding the monarchy.
A source added that Harry is ready to sit down with the King and move forward, potentially during his next visit to the UK in the coming months.
