Meghan Markle's role on Today show with Savannah Guthrie before she married Prince Harry

The former actress was promoting her lifestyle blog at the time
Ella Clarke

Long before she became the Duchess of Sussex, Meghan Markle was offering fashion tips on one of America’s most beloved morning shows, the Today show.

Before meeting her husband, Prince Harry, the former Suits actress regularly appeared on Today as a guest fashion expert, often chatting with co-host Savannah Guthrie.

The appearances were tied to her now-defunct lifestyle blog The Tig, which served as a platform for her takes on wellness, fashion, travel, and food.

Meghan Markle and Savannah Guthrie on the Today Show
Meghan previously appeared as a fashion expert on the Today show (Credit: Today via YouTube)

Meghan Markle on the Today show with Savannah Guthrie

In clips still available online, from 2015 and 2016, Meghan, 43, can be seen offering up seasonal wardrobe advice.

In one segment, she walks viewers through gingham dresses, oversized sunglasses, and all-white outfits.

Another segment from early 2016 features Meghan breaking down cosy winter fashion. She recommends pairing metallics with textured tights and oversized knits, delivering the kind of chic, effortless advice that made her a standout even before her royal debut.

In other clips, the former actress even shared her tips on how to get runway looks for less.

But it wasn’t just fashion that Meghan did on the show. In July 2016, she also appeared for a cooking segment, showing viewers how to whip up a Caesar salad on the grill.

Meghan Markle cooking on the Today show
Meghan also appeared on the Today show for a cooking segment (Credit: Today via YouTube)

While Meghan’s role as Rachel Zane on Suits is still what many fans remember first, these fashion expert and cooking appearances reveal another layer of her pre-royal life.

She wasn’t just acting; she was building a brand. This past role also highlights an industry Meghan appears eager to reenter.

Earlier this year, the duchess made headlines with the launch of her ShopMyCloset. This curated affiliate storefront is linked on her Instagram.

The platform showcases her signature style, featuring favourites like oversized shirts and designer sunglasses, with a disclaimer noting some links may earn a commission.

Branding expert Mayah Riaz told The Mirror that the decision was anything but random.

“Meghan creating a ShopMy account aligns with a broader trend among public figures diversifying their revenue streams,” she explained. “She’s not just another influencer. She’s leveraging her personal brand to connect with an audience already deeply invested in her style and lifestyle.”

Meghan Markle at Invictus Games
The former actress was promoting her lifestyle blog on the Today show (Credit: SplashNews.com)

Meghan Markle and Prince Harry ‘dealt blow’ over Netflix deal

In the present day, however, the Sussexes may be facing new challenges. According to reports, Netflix is unlikely to renew their reported $100 million deal signed in 2020.

Meghan’s recent lifestyle and cookery series, With Love, Meghan, debuted strongly but failed to maintain momentum.

It ranked 383rd on Netflix’s global engagement list, having initially charted in the top 10.

Royal expert Richard Fitzwilliams believes this shift will raise eyebrows within the palace.

“This devastating blow from Netflix raises the question of how they fund their lifestyle without dishing more dirt,” he told Express.

He warned: “If you behave as outrageously as the Sussexes have, you are not trusted. Unless the royal family knows something we don’t, they will be very worried.”

Mr Fitzwilliams also speculated that another memoir could be on the cards, perhaps even one from Meghan herself.

Despite the Netflix setback, Meghan’s As Ever lifestyle brand has had success.

Her recent rosé wine launch sold out in minutes.

Meghan’s ability to pivot and reinvent, as seen from her days styling models on Today, remains one of her strongest assets.

Read more: Meghan Markle and Prince Harry ‘move’ could leave royal family ‘concerned’ after ‘devastating Netflix blow’

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