It appears Meghan Markle’s recent social calendar didn’t include an invitation to the 2024 CFDA Awards. Once celebrated as a royal fashion icon, her “not invited” status at this year’s Council of Fashion Designers of America event has set the rumor mill spinning. The spotlight, instead, shone brightly on Blake Lively, who returned to the red carpet impeccably styled and warmly welcomed. Meanwhile, Meghan’s absence did not go unnoticed. For a self-styled independent woman and supposed fashionista, being off the guest list may sting a little.

Dubbed “the Duchess of Delusion” by some critics, Meghan has navigated a series of public ups and downs in recent years. From her grand entrance into the British royal family to a Hollywood rebranding effort complete with high-profile Netflix deals, her journey has had its challenges. Once backed by the allure of royalty, her American ambitions now seem to have stalled. Her absence from the CFDA’s exclusive guest list is telling, especially for someone who’s promoted herself as an inspiring role model.

This isn’t the first time Meghan has faced a social snub. Although she’s positioned herself as a feminist icon and advocate, recent stories of alleged mistreatment of staff—both in the UK and the U.S.—have impacted her reputation. Reports portray her as a difficult employer, and critics argue that her tendency to portray herself as a perpetual victim has worn thin. Some say her strained relationship with the royal family has also dimmed her public appeal.

Once celebrated on the red carpet, Meghan’s recent style choices have drawn mixed reviews. From utilitarian outfits to overly casual looks at formal events, her fashion statements have often puzzled rather than inspired. By contrast, Blake Lively, the evening’s standout, embodied grace and Hollywood glamour in a Michael Kors mini dress that wowed attendees and the fashion press alike. Meghan’s absence, without the usual attention-grabbing antics, was, for some, a welcome change.

The contrast between Blake’s elegance and Meghan’s no-show might explain why fashion’s elite aren’t eager to extend an invitation to a figure whose star has dimmed. Even close friends in the industry appear to be keeping their distance; Meghan’s once-exclusive circle of designers and brands seems to have shrunk. Meanwhile, her current projects appear uncertain—her podcast delayed until next year, and other potential ventures now feel more like unfulfilled promises.

As Meghan watches the CFDA Awards from afar, the question arises: is this the end of her time as a fashion darling or just another chapter in her public journey? Her title as the Duchess of Sussex may now serve as more of a cautionary tale, a lesson in the volatility of public perception.

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