Advertisement

The Duchess of Sussex's initial necklace got her into trouble with the palace

Photo credit: Getty Images
Photo credit: Getty Images

From Harper's BAZAAR

The Duchess of Sussex was apparently scolded by the palace in the early days of dating Prince Harry for wearing an initial necklace, which drew unwanted press attention. In new book Finding Freedom, the authors claim that Meghan was caught off guard when told what jewellery she should and should not be wearing.

According to the book, excerpts of which have been published in various publications including People magazine, the actress was pictured in December 2016 wearing a necklace with the initials 'H' and 'M' on it, which made headlines and led to an uncomfortable conversation with Harry's staff.

"She was advised that wearing such a necklace only served to encourage the photographers to keep pursuing such images — and new headlines," the book claims, adding: "She said little during the call, choosing instead to simply listen to the counsel. But after hanging up, she felt frustrated and emotional. While she knew the aide had good intentions, the surreal experience of having someone from her boyfriend's office tell her what kind of jewellery to wear or not to smile at a photographer was too much."

Photo credit: Getty Images
Photo credit: Getty Images

The future duchess then reportedly phoned one of her close friends in tears, explaining that she felt "damned if she did and damned if she didn't".

"I can't win," she reportedly said. "They make out like I'm to blame for these pictures, that it looks like I'm encouraging them, that me even acknowledging the cameras may not be sending the right message. I don't know what to say. It was only yesterday that people online were saying I look miserable in pictures, because I was trying to just ignore the [photographer]."

The book, which is written by royal press specialists Omid Scobie and Carolyn Durand, tells the story of the Duke and Duchess of Sussex's struggle with life in the royal family, eventually leading them to step down as senior royals. The book is based on their experiences working in the royal press circuit, as well as interviews with people around the couple, but a spokesperson has confirmed that the Duke and Duchess of Sussex were not involved with the publication of the book.

Photo credit: Samir Hussein - Getty Images
Photo credit: Samir Hussein - Getty Images

In need of some at-home inspiration? Sign up to our free weekly newsletter for skincare and self-care, the latest cultural hits to read and download, and the little luxuries that make staying in so much more satisfying.

SIGN UP

You Might Also Like