It was supposed to be a fun, breezy video. A casual glimpse into Meghan Markle’s new lifestyle brand. Instead, it turned into a viral head-scratcher that left viewers asking one major question: what exactly did we just watch?
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In a short promotional clip posted across social media, Meghan appeared seated on a manicured lawn, sipping wine, laughing with a friend, and—oddly—dangling her bare feet in full view of the camera. Around her wrist? A sparkling Cartier watch. The visuals were polished, the vibe was luxurious, but the message? That’s where people got lost.
The footage was reportedly part of the soft launch for her lifestyle brand, “American Riviera Orchard,” a name that evokes sunshine, coastal elegance, and organic indulgence. But instead of clarity about the brand’s purpose or upcoming products, viewers were met with vague symbolism: wine swirling, toes wiggling, and luxury accessories catching the light. It felt more like a Pinterest dream board than an actual promotional piece.
Comments poured in almost instantly. Some were amused. Others were confused. A few fans praised the aesthetics—calling it “aspirational” and “chic”—but many others just couldn’t figure out what was being sold. Was it wine? A cookbook? A jewelry line? A foot cream?
Critics were quick to point out the jarring mix of elements. “If this is branding, what’s the brand?” one viewer posted. Another asked, “Why are we zooming in on Meghan’s feet when the caption says nothing about what this is for?”
Of course, Meghan is no stranger to bold media moves. Since stepping away from royal duties, she and Prince Harry have made headlines with Netflix deals, podcast dramas, and high-profile business ventures—some of which have fizzled out quietly. This new brand appears to be her latest solo project, aiming to carve out a space in the luxury wellness and lifestyle market. But with this video, the messaging seems more abstract than strategic.
Then there’s the Cartier. Meghan’s gold Tank Française—reportedly once worn by Princess Diana—makes a prominent appearance in the video, subtly linking her to both royal glamour and high fashion. Whether that was a calculated branding choice or just an accessory she enjoys wearing, the placement was too noticeable to be accidental. It may have been meant to whisper “elegance,” but to some it screamed “distraction.”
What’s clear is that Meghan is trying to cultivate a particular image: laid-back luxury, natural beauty, effortless wealth. But in trying to blend California casual with British high society, the video may have blurred the lines too much. There’s a difference between being mysterious and being confusing. This clip, for many, fell into the latter category.
Marketing experts have already weighed in, suggesting the campaign may be an early-stage teaser designed to stir conversation and intrigue before a full product reveal. If that was the goal, it’s safe to say mission accomplished—everyone’s talking, even if they don’t quite know why.
Still, in the world of lifestyle branding, especially one attached to a celebrity as polarizing as Meghan Markle, first impressions matter. And when your first impression involves close-ups of bare feet and a swirling wine glass without context, you run the risk of losing the audience before you’ve even told them what you’re offering.
Perhaps a more straightforward follow-up is coming. A product drop. A website. Something concrete to back up the dreamy montage. Until then, the internet remains curious, skeptical, and just a little bewildered.
Because when it comes to modern celebrity branding, clarity is king. And right now, Meghan’s message feels more like a mood than a mission.