A new website has sparked controversy by mimicking Meghan Markle’s lifestyle brand, selling products under the same name and promoting anti-monarchy sentiments

Meghan Markle, the Duchess of Sussex, has encountered a setback as a new website has allegedly appropriated her initiative with the launch of a copycat version of her lifestyle brand, American Riviera Orchard. This website, bearing the identical name, has begun selling adult colouring books, notably one titled “Working Class Royalty.”

Priced at $9.99 (£7.89), the book promises to uncover the hidden royalty within everyday life through its pages. Described as celebrating the strength and grace of women from diverse backgrounds, the book blends elements of royalty with the resilience of the working class. It features five scenes intended to honor the majesty found in ordinary moments, encouraging users to engage with empowering illustrations that highlight the idea that every woman possesses innate regal qualities.

Meghan Markle had previously soft-launched her American Riviera Orchard brand earlier in the year, establishing an official presence on Instagram and launching a website, although no products are currently available for purchase.

The copycat website, hosted on Shopify, has no affiliation with Meghan Markle or her brand. Its blog asserts that royal titles hold no significance in American society, emphasizing equality and celebrating the working class as the cornerstone of the nation.

Analysis:

• Political: The emergence of the copycat website reflects broader societal attitudes towards monarchy, particularly in countries like the United States where royal titles are not recognized officially. It underscores a cultural shift towards celebrating egalitarian values over aristocratic distinctions.
• Social: The controversy highlights ongoing debates about cultural appropriation and intellectual property rights in the context of celebrity brands. It raises questions about the ethical boundaries of mimicking established initiatives, particularly those associated with prominent public figures.
• Racial: While race is not directly addressed, the situation evokes discussions about representation and ownership within creative endeavours. It prompts consideration of how initiatives tied to individuals from diverse backgrounds are received and replicated.
• Gender: Meghan Markle’s brand initiative, centred on empowering women of all backgrounds, contrasts with the copycat’s attempt to commodify similar themes. This dichotomy illustrates competing narratives of female empowerment and the commercialization of feminist ideals.

Economic: The competitive dynamics between Meghan Markle’s brand and the copycat website underscore challenges in maintaining brand integrity and market differentiation. It underscores the importance of brand protection and strategic positioning in a competitive marketplace