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A new controversy emerges ahead of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle's Colombia tour
As Prince Harry and Meghan Markle prepare to embark on their highly anticipated tour of Colombia next month, a new controversy has emerged surrounding the Duchess of Sussex's choice of attire for the official engagements. Colombian fashion designer Johanna Ortiz, whose colourful dresses Meghan has worn on previous occasions, has reportedly expressed disappointment that the royal has declined to pay for the outfits she will showcase during the visit.
Johanna Ortiz is one of Colombia's premier fashion talents, known internationally for her vibrant, mixed print designs that celebrate Latin American culture and heritage. Meghan has been an avid fan and supporter of Ortiz's label for years, choosing to wear several of her creations during royal tours to Australia, New Zealand and Africa with Prince Harry. Ortiz herself has appeared thrilled by Meghan's endorsement in the past, stating the Duchess "understands and appreciates Latin styles."
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However, it seems Meghan's courtesy toward the designer does not extend to this upcoming trip. A source close to Ortiz has revealed that while the designer hoped to outfit Meghan for her Colombia engagements in exchange for exposure, the Duchess refused to compensate Ortiz for the clothes. "Johanna was really excited about the opportunity and offered Meghan a selection of her latest pieces to consider. She thought showcasing her designs on such a high profile trip would be great for her brand. But Meghan apparently declined to pay for anything, which has left Johanna feeling disappointed and used," the insider told reporters.
Ortiz was banking on the tour being a chance to further establish her label on a global scale. With Meghan's star power and influence, having her spotted in multiple Ortiz creations was seen as a huge promotional boost that could potentially translate into new customers and increased sales overseas. To have that opportunity dangled and then taken away over an apparent payment dispute has hurt both Ortiz personally and her fledgling business. Supporters see Meghan's actions as disrespectful towards a fellow female entrepreneur and local Colombian talent.
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This fresh controversy comes amid increasing criticism of Meghan and Harry's South America trip, which is being funded by British taxpayers. Some have argued it appears more like a chance for Meghan to showcase herself rather than focusing on pressing issues in Colombia. "Meghan Markle seems to be using this tour as an opportunity to promote her own personal style and brand rather than the philanthropic work she and Harry are supposed to be doing," said royal commentator Nigel Farage. He points to the alleged refusal to pay Ortiz as another "example of her self-serving behavior."
Others echo Farage's sentiment that Meghan has a habit of making visits about herself rather than the causes. "It's all about Meghan, Meghan, Meghan with her - she's more concerned with looking good than doing any real work. Now she doesn't want to pay for clothes from a Colombian designer? Typical entitled celebrity behavior," argued another royal watcher. Even some of Meghan's harshest critics acknowledge her flair for fashion but argue it often overshadows more substantive elements of royal engagements.
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However, supporters of the Duke and Duchess are pushing back against these accusations. They argue Meghan has a proven track record of using her platform to advocate for women-owned businesses and designers worldwide. "Meghan has always championed independent labels, from small UK brands to artisans overseas. The idea that she's exploiting Johanna Ortiz is ridiculous," said a Meghan confidant. Others note that this latest tour forms part of Harry and Meghan's ongoing global philanthropic work, highlighting issues like ending violence against children. "The couple is focusing on important causes and organizations, not fashion. Her style may attract initial headlines but it's never been the focus of their efforts," said a Sussex source.
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So as Meghan and Harry arrive in Colombia next month, controversy continues to swirl around everything from taxpayer-funding to reports of the Duchess snubbing a local talent. For Ortiz, while disappointed by the situation, she maintains a dignified stance, telling reporters "I wish the Duke and Duchess all the best for their visit and hope they are able to make a real difference." Ultimately, Harry and Meghan's supporters say their commitment to initiatives in Colombia and beyond will speak louder than headlines about fashion fees. But once more, Meghan finds herself at the center of an unflattering debate mere weeks before undertaking consequential international work. Only time will tell if her actions on the ground are able to drown out noise surrounding her sartorial selections.
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