Is this the reason Duchess Meghan hasn't worn colours until now?

As Meghan Markle settles into her new life, her style has rapidly transformed from California casual to polished duchess, wearing roughly $1 million worth of clothes and accessories since becoming a royal.

However, earlier this week she made a return to her pre-royal days’ style, looking relaxed in a white button-down shirt from J.Crew, black cropped Everlane pants with matching Chanel flats, and an AU$78 Panama hat (reportedly by Madewell x Biltmore).

And on Thursday, the Duchess of Sussex made a statement fashion choice in a bright canary yellow dress during her appearance with Prince Harry at the “Your Commonwealth” Youth Challenge Reception in London’s Marlborough House.

The bold colour is a departure from her traditional neutral ensembles. It has been reported that Meghan refrains from wearing bright colours when accompanying Queen Elizabeth II to give Her Majesty the spotlight.

At every official royal event Meghan has attended since marrying Harry (excluding Celia McCorquodale’s wedding which was a private event), other senior royals have been present.

So it’s thought that her choice of blush, pale pink and white outfits could be an attempt not to take attention away from those closer to the throne – ie. Camilla, Charles, and of course, her grandmother-in-law the Queen.

Since all three were absent from this reception, Meghan chose to wear a more vivid shade than her usual pastels and whites.

The Brandon Maxwell dress is currently on sale as of this story, down from AU$2,000 to a reduced price of AU$13,00.

In a sweet reference back to her homeland, Meghan chose an American designed dress, which seemed extra fitting given the fourth of July celebrations there.

The duchess had her hair in a low bun that displayed a set of gorgeous AU$670 Adina Reyter diamond earrings. She completed the knee-length sleeveless sheath dress look with nude pumps.

Prince Harry complemented Meghan’s bright dress in a navy blue suit complete with an olive green tie.

The royal couple attended the reception to learn more about how the Commonwealth Youth Forum is supporting inspiring young people to shape the future.

According to Kensington Palace, the event is the “culmination of the Commonwealth’s youth leadership workshop.”

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