The Duchess of Sussex wears $25,000 outfit to her first official solo engagement as a royal

WHILE we’re used to seeing Kate Middleton in accessible high street labels, the Duchess of Sussex is making use of her new royal clothing budget and spending up big.

MEGHAN Markle has worn a designer outfit worth $25,000 to her first official solo outing as a royal.

The Duchess of Sussex stopped by London’s Royal Academy of Arts on Tuesday for the opening of the new “Oceania” art exhibit.

She wore a $4551 black long sleeve dress by Givenchy, the same fashion house who designed her wedding dress. The brand has been a favourite of Meghan’s ever since she tied the knot with Prince Harry earlier this year.

The 37-year-old accessorised with a matching Givenchy clutch, priced at $2744, black Aquazzura pumps ($1034) and Birks Snowflake Snowstorm diamond earrings ($16,550).

That brings the total cost of her outfit to about $25,000.

Meghan, Duchess of Sussex opens “Oceania” at Royal Academy of Arts. Picture: Chris Jackson/Getty Images

Meghan’s Givenchy clutch. Picture: Chris Jackson/Getty Images

Meghan’s designer pumps. Picture: Arthur Edwards/POOL/AFP

Meghan has not shied away from wearing expensive designer clothing during official engagements.
She favours designers such as Roland Mouret, Alexander McQueen and almost always wears Aquazzura shoes.

Her expensive style is in contrast to the Duchess of Cambridge, who frequently wears high street labels and is an outfit repeater.

Picture: Chris Jackson/Getty Images

Dubbed “the Kate Effect”, outfits the Duchess of Cambridge wears from more affordable labels frequently sell out.

Kate often wears dresses from retailers such as UK brand Reiss, Zara and British designer Jenny Packham.

The iconic blue Issa dress she wore for her engagement photoshoot to Prince William, matching the sapphire engagement ring he gave her, was an instant sellout.

Prince William and Kate Middleton officially announcing their engagement in 2010.

Meghan is expected to wear lots of Australian designers during her and Prince Harry’s upcoming royal visit in October.

She has previously worn Aussie labels, including a Camilla and Marc blazer and an Oroton bag.

Meghan pictured earlier this year wearing a Camilla and Marc blazer and Oroton handbag. Picture: Yui Mok/AFP