Meghan Markle, the Duchess of Sussex, traded royal tradition for a glitzy night out in Los Angeles, partying alongside her Hollywood circle—but noticeably without her husband, Prince Harry. The former actress turned investor was front and center at the launch of a new haircare line by her close friend and hair colorist, Kadi Lee, sparking curiosity about the state of her high-profile marriage.
Held at the trendy Gjelina restaurant in Venice, California, the event celebrated the debut of the Highbrow Hippie hair wellness range, a product of Lee’s collaboration with business partner Myka Harris. Markle, 43, is reportedly an investor in the venture, which reflects her growing interest in backing “female founders” and trendy brands.
Dressed to impress, the former *Suits* star turned heads in a sleek black bustier and matching wide-legged pants, paired with gold jewelry and heels. Markle mingled with A-list attendees, including her glam squad, hairstylist Serge Normant and makeup artist Daniel Martin. Normant, famously responsible for Markle’s wedding-day look in 2018, is believed to have introduced her to Lee, deepening their Hollywood ties.
The duchess didn’t just work the room—she owned the dance floor. Videos shared on social media captured Markle grooving alongside a live gospel choir, appearing carefree and in her element. One clip, posted by jeweler Maya Brenner, shows Markle laughing and dancing with friends, embracing her LA lifestyle in stark contrast to the royal duties she left behind.
But Harry’s absence loomed large over the evening. While the prince’s non-attendance could simply reflect his desire to avoid the spotlight, some royal-watchers couldn’t help but speculate. The couple, who have faced mounting scrutiny since stepping back from royal life, have increasingly been seen leading separate social lives.
Markle’s latest appearance underscores her growing identity as a businesswoman. Beyond her involvement with Highbrow Hippie, she’s invested in other trendy brands, such as Clevr Blends, an oat latte company she’s supported since 2020. Markle even appeared in an ad for the brand last year, further entrenching herself in the world of modern marketing and entrepreneurship.
Her investments seem part of a broader effort to redefine her post-royal identity, focusing on feminist causes and high-end wellness products—a stark departure from the more restrained expectations of royal life.
Critics, however, are questioning Markle’s priorities. While her glowing support for female-founded businesses is admirable, some suggest she’s more interested in maintaining her Hollywood credentials than nurturing the royal legacy she once embraced. Her high-profile outings and glamorous lifestyle stand in stark contrast to Prince Harry’s more subdued public appearances, prompting whispers about diverging paths.
Markle praised Lee’s new line in *InStyle* magazine, saying, “Kadi has a mastery of hair health, and her Highbrow Hippie collection is a perfect reflection of that. I am so proud to invest in her as a friend and as a female founder.” Yet, for critics, this latest venture feels more like a calculated move to solidify her LA elite status than a sincere effort to connect with the everyday struggles of ordinary women.
As Meghan Markle continues to embrace her Hollywood roots, her glittering nights out serve as a sharp contrast to the quieter, more reserved image of royal life. Whether this bold new path strengthens her brand or alienates her critics remains to be seen. One thing is certain: the Duchess of Sussex is dancing to her own tune—Prince Harry or not.
