In her first-ever podcast interview as a guest, Meghan Markle opened up about how she strategically used fashion as a form of communication—especially during the years when, as she put it, she “wasn’t out talking.”

Speaking to her friend and entrepreneur Jamie Kern Lima on the April 28 episode of The Jamie Kern Lima Show, the Duchess of Sussex reflected on her influence as a global fashion icon and how the so-called “Meghan Effect” became a meaningful tool for impact.

The Meghan Effect: More Than Just Style

When asked how it feels to know that her fashion choices often sell out instantly and spike brand sales, Meghan responded with gratitude—especially when her influence boosts female-led or ethical fashion brands.

“It feels really great when it helps uplift brands with a great ethos and female founders,” Meghan said.

She recalled a time early in her royal life when public appearances were highly scrutinized but her voice was limited. “If you couldn’t hear me, how could I be heard through what I was wearing if that was what people were focusing on?”

Using Fashion for Good: Outland Denim and More

One notable example Meghan shared was her decision to wear Outland Denim jeans during the 2018 royal tour of Australia. The company employs survivors of human trafficking, and Meghan knew her endorsement could be life-changing.

“By wearing those jeans, I knew it was going to allow them to save more women,” she said.

Meghan emphasized that she didn’t need to say a word—her clothes could do the talking. The fashion spotlight she carried became a platform for underrepresented brands and social causes.

Fashion as a Message: Meghan’s Ethical Style Choices

Since stepping into the public eye, Meghan has remained intentional about her fashion choices. In a 2024 interview with The New York Times, she revealed she spends significant time researching emerging designers and socially responsible brands.

The “Meghan Effect” was first noticed in December 2017, shortly after her engagement to Prince Harry, when she carried a Strathberry handbag that sold out in just 11 minutes. The brand later expanded its workforce due to the surge in sales.

“It changed everything in terms of how I then looked at putting an outfit together,” Meghan said.

Silent Statements, Real-World Impact

“Sometimes it’s just wearing a bracelet, and it changes someone’s entire business,” Meghan explained, referencing the Valencia Key Joy bracelet she wore to the 2025 Invictus Games—an accessory that led to an 11,000% sales spike.

The Duchess reflected on the emotional impact these moments can have for small business owners: “It could have been the day they were going to give up. If I can come in with a sprinkle of fairy dust…that’s a huge honor.”

She concluded, “To still be heard and allow others’ voices to be heard through me—that, to me, is worth its weight in gold.”

Key Takeaways:

• Meghan Markle podcast interview reveals how she used fashion as communication.

• The Meghan Effect has helped female founders and ethical brands achieve global recognition.

• Meghan supports socially conscious fashion through purposeful style decisions.

• Her influence goes beyond royalty—her wardrobe empowers small businesses.