Meghan Markle has been serving up major inspo since way before becoming Duchess of Sussex. A true icon, every look she sports is somehow impossibly flawless—Meg is basically a Disney princess incarnate. If we’re having a bad day, it helps to know that Markle sparkle is in the world. Still doubting the Duchess? Our fave looks from the Queen’s new bestie, and arguably one of the most fashionable people to ever grace Kensington Palace will change all that. Consider this your crash course in Princess Hair.
Sleek and Center
If you want to feel like a Duchess, part your hair dead center and pull it into an ever-so-chic royal low bun. Don’t skimp on the gel and risk looking like a commoner –Oribe Gel Serum: $63 brings out our inner regal.
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Shinier Than Thou
Duchesses, they’re just like us! Except here, a pre-princess Meg has summoned all the gloss in Los Angeles into her locks. To hold court over super shine, apply Verb Ghost Oil: $16 generously. Also, let the record show that from this day forth, no one can go wrong with a classic mid-length cut coupled with face-framing (flash-boosting) auburn highlights.
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One Sided
Sleek, straight strands are seemingly effortless when pushed all the way to one side—make this a go-to look for your next outing in the countryside.
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Signature Waves
Perfecting her signature wave—and her signature waves—we love the heightened texture on Megan’s ends and the center part that anchors it in Buckingham.
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Wind Swept
If we were to re-create this, someone might need to squat just out of frame with a blow-dryer. We’re not mad that the Duchess actively defies gravity, though – we swear. For static-free hair in all weather (and while wearing all hats) apply Color Wow Dream Coat Supernatural Spray: $28 before adding heat.
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Effortlessly Royal
Even royals don’t want to look stuffy. The easiest way to avoid looking like you’re trying too hard is with strategically placed face-framing pieces. The un-done up-do is its own art form that Megan has obviously mastered (because, of course she has).
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Queen of Curls
Upping the size of your barrel brush maximizes volume. Even in an understated outfit, hair with this much movement will get you noticed. Think of your mane as basically your crown, and bigger is better, darling.
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Tress Tuck
The best way to make room for your tiara is by tucking your tresses behind your ears. Whether that means pushing your bangs back with a hair wrap, or priceless heirloom diamonds. This is the subtle update that will get you out of a tried-it-all rut.
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Chignon Twist
A chignon is an obvious choice for a Duchess and Markle doesn’t disappoint. She adds her own twist on the timeless style via an off-center hat, which works to perfectly balance the look.
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Full Bombshell
If you want to be a bombshell, wear your hair like one. This va-va-voom style is sexy and chic, and might have been what got the attention of the Prince…
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Grown-up Glam
Though toned down compared to her bombshell days, Megan’s signature up-do (center-parted, fringe pushed back) is still teased at the crown and voluminous while also being ladylike and in no way stiff.
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Feeling royal AF? Check out the top 10 British tiaras of all time HERE.