By Katherine Tinsley
2:23pm PST, Jan 23, 2026
_
PR expert
Renae Smith shared her thoughts on Meghan Markle's evolving business.
"Looking ahead to 2026, Meghan Markle is at a real crossroads in terms of brand strategy," Smith told
Daily Express.
_
"She's clearly pivoting away from the high-gloss, purpose-led public image we saw during the early Sussex years and leaning more into lifestyle, personal branding and curated content," Renae Smith continued.
When Meghan Markle and Prince Harry first left the royal fold, the duo released several tell-all projects about the monarchy. But the Duchess of Sussex is seemingly distancing herself from her regal past.
_
Meghan Markle often uses her social media to promote As Ever and the California lifestyle, but the
Suits star's posts aren't cohesive.
"That's not inherently a bad move (as
I've said before), and frankly, it feels more genuine for her," Renae Smith said of the duchess' social media content. "But right now, it's inconsistent and underdeveloped."
_
Renae Smith previously hinted at Meghan Markle's brand lacking a clear vision.
"Seasonal drops are fine, but not when they're surrounded by long silences or conflicting statements," Smith said. "She needs a clear calendar, consistent storytelling, and a stronger sense of what the brand stands for beyond aesthetic nostalgia."
_
"A lifestyle brand without a lifestyle point of view doesn't go far, at least not in any meaningful way," Renae Smith continued.
_
Meghan Markle's business is reportedly profitable, but the duchess needs to maintain momentum in the new year.
"To turn the tide in 2026, she needs to lead with clarity, show consistency in her messaging, and decide whether this next chapter is about commerce, culture or personal reinvention — because trying to do all three at once simply isn't working," Renae Smith said.
