Meghan Markle is facing accusations of hypocrisy for selling luxury candles after previously mocking high-priced home fragrances as "obnoxious" [1].
The controversy centers on the perceived gap between Markle's past public statements and her current business ventures. Critics argue that the Duchess of Sussex is profiting from the same luxury pricing models she once criticized.
In a video from 2016 [3], Markle discussed the pricing of home goods during a UK interview. "There are no $100 candles on my site – that's so obnoxious," she said [1].
However, Markle launched her As Ever brand in 2023 [4]. The line includes candles that retail for $64 each [1]. Higher-end options, such as the As Ever Signature Scent Collection set, are priced at $256 [2].
UK barrister and broadcaster Andrew Eborn commented on the price discrepancy during a broadcast. "You get $64 for one, and you can get a set up to $256. Eyewatering figures," Eborn said [1].
Eborn further criticized the move by stating, "This one will smell of the scent of hypocrisy" [1]. The comments follow a trend of public scrutiny regarding the commercial activities of the Duchess of Sussex and her lifestyle brand.
“"There are no $100 candles on my site – that's so obnoxious."”
This situation highlights the tension between the personal branding of the Duchess of Sussex and her transition into a luxury entrepreneur. By contrasting her 2016 comments with the 2023 launch of As Ever, critics are attempting to frame her commercial shift as a contradiction of her previously stated values regarding consumerism and pricing.
