Whether she's on a trip with the Queen [1], celebrating important royal events [2], or simply attending a family member's wedding [3], Meghan Markle [4]'s outfits always end up being the centre of attention. Since her relationship with Prince Harry became public, eagle-eyed fans have been analysing every single ensemble the Duchess of Sussex has been wearing, even learning some lessons [5] along the way. The latest one, however, might just be Meghan's best fashion trick yet.
As noticed by some royal followers after her stunning appearance at Royal Ascot [6], the duchess seems to have a habit of wearing heeled shoes that are too big for her — and according to fashion expert Harriet Davey, the reason is pretty simple [7]. "Celebs often go a size up, or even two, in the shoe department when they're at an event or on the red carpet," she explains. "And it's for one reason we can all relate to: to avoid blisters."
Luckily, wearing heels that are too big for her doesn't mean that Meghan has trouble walking in them. "A trick of the trade is to stuff the toe with padding like tissue or cotton wool, and this can be taken out once they feel like they need a bit more room in their shoes," reveals Harriet.
As it turns out, Royal Ascot wasn't the first time that the 36-year-old has used this trick — and it wasn't the last either. On the day her engagement to Prince Harry was announced, she was pictured in a pair of strappy Aquazzura heels [8] that seemed to be several sizes too big. The same thing happened during the couple's visit to Belfast, Northern Ireland [9], and Meghan appears to also have been a fan of this trick before she was even introduced to Harry. Ahead, take a look at all the times she's worn heels that were too big for her.
When she attended the Queen's Young Leaders Awards at Buckingham Palace, Meghan wore a gorgeous pink double-breasted dress by Prada [11].
She styled her prim and proper ensemble with a pair of Aquazzura heels that had the most adorable detail when seen from behind [12].
For her first appearance at Royal Ascot, Meghan chose a surprisingly simple Givenchy dress [13], which she wore witha glamorous Philip Treacy hat [14] and black clutch.
She finished her outfit with a pair of black heels.
For a trip to Belfast, Northern Ireland, Meghan Markle [15] kept to a simple palette of cream and brown neutrals. She wore a belted wool coat by Mackage [16], a Victoria Beckham [17] jumper, and a Greta Constantine skirt.
To finish her outfit, Meghan chose a pair of velvet Jimmy Choo pumps.
In November 2017, Meghan wore a sleek, white trench coat from Canadian label Line [18] and a green Parosh dress to announce her engagement to Prince Harry.
She finished the look with a pair of Aquazzura lace-up pumps.
For an appearance on the Today Show in July 2016, Meghan wore a gorgeous red dress with a sweetheart neckline.
Meghan wore her dress with a beige pair of sky-high heels.
In June 2015, Meghan Markle [19] wore a simple black dress to the UJA-Federation New York's Entertainment Division Signature Gala.
She finished her look with a bright pair of heels.
For an evening with her Suits co-stars, Meghan opted for a pussy-bow blouse and black pencil skirt.
She also wore a simple pair of black Louboutin heels.
In September 2012, Meghan wore a grey dress to the Hollywood Foreign Press Association Party.
She finished her look with her Louboutin heels.