When Meghan Markle joined the British royal family for her first Christmas at Sandringham, she didn’t just show up — she made a statement. Long before she swapped designer coats for cozy PJs in Montecito, Meghan showed up for the traditional Christmas Day walk at Sandringham in an outfit that reportedly totaled nearly $10,000. And yes, every fashion-loving eye was on her.
Meghan Markle made her debut Christmas Day appearance with the Royal Family at Sandringham in 2017, just a month after her engagement to Prince Harry was announced.
(tatlermagazine/Instagram)
Honestly? I was obsessed instantly. This wasn’t over-the-top glam — it was elegant, understated, and totally Meghan. She wasn’t just wearing clothes; she was making an entrance.
A Look Worth Remembering
Let me break down what she wore because, trust me, every piece mattered. On that crisp December morning, Meghan had:
A beige Sentaler wrap coat — basically winter royalty approved
Her favorite Birks snowflake diamond earrings, which she’s rocked at other high-profile events since then
The outfit added up to about $10K, but honestly, the price didn’t matter as much as how she wore it. Meghan fit into the royal tableau perfectly but still stood out — like, “Yes, I’m here, and yes, I know exactly what I’m doing.” I couldn’t stop staring.
Meghan Markle joins the Royal Family for their traditional Christmas Day service at St. Mary Magdalene Church in Sandringham. For her first royal Christmas, she opted for a tan wrap coat by Sentaler paired with a Philip Treacy hat.
(meghanxsussex/Instagram)Tradition, Style, and a Royal Welcome
What I loved most? This wasn’t just a Christmas stroll. This was weeks after her engagement announcement, and months before her 2018 wedding. Normally, only spouses get invited for the Sandringham walk, but Meghan got the royal green light — and she walked in like she belonged.
Prince Harry later called it “fantastic” and said the family “loved having her there”. And honestly? You could tell. Christmas with the royals isn’t just about outfits — it’s a whole vibe. Meghan nailed it.
Then vs. Now: A Festive Evolution
Fast forward to 2025, and Meghan’s holiday vibes couldn’t be more different. Designer coats? Sure. Church walks? Not so much. Now she’s spending Christmas at home in Montecito with Harry and their kids, keeping it cozy, intimate, and totally family-focused.
I love seeing the evolution. That $10K Christmas look? Her royal debut. Now? Her celebrations are about memories, legacy, and just enjoying her family. The power move has shifted from outfits to heart moves. And honestly? I’m here for it.
Meghan Markle celebrates the holiday season in her Netflix special, “With Love, Meghan: Holiday Celebration.” The Duchess of Sussex is pictured here wearing a festive red pajama set by Eberjey while preparing a holiday brunch for friends.
(dresslikeaduchess/Instagram)What It All Means
Here’s the thing: Meghan’s 2017 Sandringham outfit wasn’t just fashion. It was a cultural moment, a first impression that still resonates. Luxury, tradition, and a bit of personality collided in a way that said: “I’m new here, but I belong.”
Designer coat, diamond earrings, poise for days. That’s how you do your first royal Christmas, people. And yeah, I’m still taking notes.