Meghan Markle shares subtle support for Taylor Swift's latest album after mixed reviews

The timing proved strategic, as the video launched shortly before Meghan's "Holiday Collection" became available for purchase on the As Ever website at 4pm GMT on Tuesday.

Ms Swift's latest album has generated significant disagreement within her fanbase, with detractors pointing to what they perceive as "less sophisticated lyrics" than her 2020 work "Folklore".

However, supporters argue that the apparent straightforwardness represents an intentional creative decision.

Some reviewers have awarded maximum ratings, praising the record for exploring "uncharted territory" despite its divisive reception.

The album was released on October 3 and has achieved commercial milestones despite generating heated discussions about its musical direction.

The record's reception remains split between those who view its accessible approach as calculated artistry and others who consider it a departure from her more complex compositions.

Meghan's decision to feature Ms Swift's music in her brand promotion demonstrates her engagement with contemporary pop culture whilst marketing As Ever's expansion into homeware products.

The choice of "Opalite" carries particular significance. Many interpret the song as referencing Ms Swift's relationship with her fiancé, Travis Kelce, whose October birthstone happens to be opal.

Meghan is known to be a Swiftie, as her attendance at the singer's Los Angeles performance in August 2023 is well documented.

During that SoFi Stadium concert, witnesses observed the duchess rising from her seat to participate when Swift performed "You Belong with Me" during the show's Fearless segment.

Ms Swift announced the transition to that era by telling the audience: "Let's go back to high school!" - prompting enthusiastic responses from attendees, including Meghan.

The Duchess's latest lifestyle venture represents one of several business initiatives Meghan has pursued since establishing her California base.

The footage on her Instagram story displayed her office setup, including a computer showing the As Ever website, before the camera swept across products from the brand's first home goods venture.

Among the items featured were hand-crafted candles, with one drawing inspiration from her 2018 wedding ceremony to Prince Harry.

The new "Holiday Collection" range encompasses the brand's established preserves and honey alongside seasonal additions, including mulling spice sets and a Napa Valley sparkling wine.

The video captured lighter moments, including the duchess's laughter and glimpses of her pets Momma Mia and Pula resting on their cushions.

The recording concluded with views through a sunlit window revealing palm trees outside their Montecito residence.