Brand makes feelings clear after Meghan Markle wears £206 mini dress in Melbourne

Dorothy Reddin
Thu, 16 Apr 2026 16:12:39 +0000

A brand has made its feelings clear after Meghan Markle wore one of its £206 mini dresses in Melbourne.

The former working royal made an appearance at Swinburne University of Technology's mental health engagement programme Batyr earlier today, continuing her Australian tour alongside Prince Harry.

For the visit, the Duchess of Sussex selected a sleeveless olive-green wool A-line shift dress with a mini hemline, complete with detailed dartwork and concealed pockets.

The piece, known as the "Anya" dress and priced at £206, comes from Friends With Frank.

This is an independent Melbourne-based womenswear label founded by Julia McCarthy in 2012.

Friends With Frank signalled its approval of Meghan, 44, wearing one of its dresses by adding a note to the item’s product description to avoid confusion among royal fans.

The brand wrote: “Recently worn by Meghan Markle,” making clear it was proud that an extended member of the Royal Family had worn one of its designs.

The website also noted that the product has "sold out sizes" and is "restocking late April".

In a notable styling choice, the duchess paired the khaki number with sheer black tights from Wolford.

This choice of hosiery marked a pointed departure from the dress codes Meghan was expected to follow during her time as a working member of the Royal Family.

Speaking to Emily Chang on The Circuit in August 2025, the duchess discussed the sartorial restrictions she once faced.

She explained: "I had to wear nude pantyhose all the time. Let's be honest, that was not very myself.

"I hadn't seen pantyhose since the '80s, when they came in the little egg. That felt a little bit inauthentic, but that's a silly example."

By opting for black tights rather than the previously mandated nude variety, Meghan has effectively reclaimed the accessory on her own terms.

Meghan completed the ensemble with £695 Manolo Blahnik BB pointy-toe pumps in black suede.

Her jewellery selections included a Cartier Gold Tank Française watch alongside the brand's signature "Love" bracelet in yellow gold, as well as vintage Chanel clip-on earrings featuring oversized circular studs.

The duchess also wore two Logan Hollowell constellation rings carrying personal significance: a £1,689 Leo design representing her own star sign, and a £2,177 Virgo diamond piece in gold for Prince Harry's zodiac sign.

Throughout the Australian tour, Meghan has consistently championed independent local designers with her wardrobe choices.