At her official royal engagement, Meghan Markle, the Duchess of Sussex, was spotted wearing shoes noticeably larger than her actual size — and no, it wasn’t a fashion faux pas. It was a smart style hack to avoid discomfort and unsightly blisters.
A brief overview
The Real Reason Behind the Oversized Shoes
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According to fashion expert Harriet Davey, celebrities often opt for shoes that are one or two sizes larger during high-profile events or red carpet appearances.
The reason? Blister prevention. Wearing larger shoes reduces the risk of painful rubbing during long hours on their feet. To avoid slipping, stylists fill the toes with padding like tissue or cotton, which can be easily removed as needed throughout the day.
Interestingly, Queen Elizabeth has a different solution — a dedicated staff member tasked with breaking in her shoes ahead of public appearances to ensure maximum comfort.
Meghan Markle’s Fashion Choices
From her chic neutral Givenchy outfits to her first Royal Ascot headpiece, Meghan’s wardrobe evolved significantly after her royal wedding.
Still, her choice of larger shoes stood out as a clever, practical move, ensuring she remained polished and comfortable during countless official events.
Comfort Over Style? Not Quite
For someone constantly under the public eye, like Meghan, avoiding blisters and discomfort isn’t just about comfort — it’s essential for maintaining grace and poise during appearances.
The trick of padding larger shoes offers a flexible solution, letting her adjust throughout the day without sacrificing style or risking painful injuries.
A Royal Footwear Strategy
While Meghan relied on this clever shoe hack, Queen Elizabeth’s team goes the extra mile — literally.
The Queen’s personal assistant reportedly breaks in new shoes on her behalf, ensuring every pair fits perfectly and eliminates any risk of friction or blisters before the monarch ever wears them herself.
