Duchess of Sussex Meghan Markle is facing backlash for putting a royal cipher on display during a promotional video for her upcoming holiday line.
The clip, which appeared on her Instagram story as well as the story for her lifestyle brand As Ever, shows the Duchess of Sussex enjoying a coffee while browsing the brand’s website.
Sitting beside her laptop is a notebook featuring the royal cipher on its cover, which viewers immediately noticed. Online critics were quick to react, accusing Meghan of using royal symbolism to promote her business despite stepping back from royal duties.
One user on Reddit wrote, “Of course she just has to find ways to sneak that royal cypher into her business projects. The Royal who was never really a Royal. The 72 day Royal failure.”
Another added a personal attack, saying, “Vapid b—- always clutch their status symbols like life rafts, to keep their egos afloat.”
The collection includes two scented candles offered at $64 each, as well as a $16 spice kit intended for mulled cider or hot toddies. There is also an $89 bottle of 2021 Vintage Napa Valley Brut champagne, marking one of the higher-priced additions.
Each candle carries a number tied to a meaningful date. 519, referencing Meghan’s wedding anniversary, and 084, linked to her birthday.
Gift bundles also appear in the release, including the $42 signature fruit spread set and a honey duo gift set priced at $62. The company is positioning these items as versatile options for holiday gifting, reflecting the lifestyle-focused direction As Ever continues to pursue.