Meghan Markle has broken many traditional royal style rules. Embracing her status as a new member of the ‘Fab Four’ and fashion icon, Markle has elevated her SoCal bohemian style to that of a sharp dressed London sophisticate. Indeed, she has taken style notes from her character Rachel Zane on Suits and incorporated many classic pieces into her wardrobe which heavily relies on a few key pieces.

Here are Meghan Markle’s 5 Style Essentials:

A Camel Coat is a Non-Negotiable

A wool waterfall coat is a must. No matter the weather, a long maxi-length coat in a neutral shade like cream, taupe or tan, makes every outfit look more high-end. Perfect for rainy English days or sun soaked royal appearances, a long duster-style topper can be used to add extra coverage to a dress or pants and heels ensemble.

Meghan Markle Instagram

A Chambray Shirt + Pencil Skirt = Perfection

Meghan is the queen (no pun intended) of mixing casual and formal pieces. She regularly wears downtown urban bottoms like pencil skirts or leather leggings with button down denim or men’s oxford shirts. A true style trendsetter–she looks effortlessly cool in her casual cool girl separates.

Meghan Markle Instagram

Fancy Heels are a Must

Not one to subscribe to royal rules of wearing demure pumps and basic heels, Markle has broken new ground when it comes to her choice of footwear. Favoring suede Jimmy Choos and Aquazurra lace-up heels, she’s inclined to give every outfit a bit of sparkle with a luxe pair of towering pointy heels.

Meghan Markle Instagram

What’s the Point Without a Fedora?

Yes, Meghan does wear expensive and fashion-forward designer labels but she also loves to travel and can’t possibly have time for blowouts and high-maintenance hair when she’s abroad and having fun taking trips around the world. What does a fashionista do? She wears a fedora! Meghan’s Instagram feed was full of her wearing these simple straw hats to sightsee and enjoy good food, wine and company across the globe.

Meghan Markle Instagram

Distressed Jeans Always Look Chic

Many people were shocked when Meghan Markle and Prince Harry debuted their love and coupledom in the first outing at the Invictus Games. Markle wore distressed Mother denim skinny jeans, ballet flats and (gasp!) a crisp white Misha Nonoo shirt untucked!  But it was nothing new for the Los Angeles born actress, in fact, Markle frequently wears jeans with frayed hems and distress detailing as it gives her clothing a bit of rocker edginess and a fresh, youthful attitude.

Meghan Markle Instagram