Princess Michael of Kent sparked controversy this week when she attended the Queen's Christmas luncheon wearing an offense blackamoor broach.
Blackamoor jewelry depicts ebony figurines, usually in positions of servitude and they're racially insensitive and inappropriate in any situation. Critics of the choice were quick to point out that it was particularly insensitive given that the luncheon was biracial duchess-to-be Meghan Markle's first holiday event with the royal family.
Princess Michael of Kent has issued an apology, via a spokesperson to TMZ, who explained that she is "very sorry and distressed" that she wore the offensive broach. According to TMZ, the broach was a gift and Princess Michael has vowed never to wear it again.
Kensington Palace and Buckingham Palace have released no official statements on the incident as of this writing.
Stay In The Know
Marie Claire email subscribers get intel on fashion and beauty trends, hot-off-the-press celebrity news, and more. Sign up here.
Kayleigh Roberts is a freelance writer and editor with more than 10 years of professional experience. Her byline has appeared in Marie Claire, Cosmopolitan, ELLE, Harper’s Bazaar, The Atlantic, Allure, Entertainment Weekly, MTV, Bustle, Refinery29, Girls’ Life Magazine, Just Jared, and Tiger Beat, among other publications. She's a graduate of the Medill School of Journalism at Northwestern University.
-
Glen Powell Hints That Those Persistent Affair Rumors with 'Anyone But You' Co-Star Sydney Sweeney Were Part of the Strategy to Sell Movie Tickets
Well, it worked—and we all fell for it.
By Rachel Burchfield Published
-
Ryan Gosling Credits Eva Mendes and Their Daughters for “Putting Things Into Perspective”
“It always comes back to family first.”
By Danielle Campoamor Published
-
‘Friends’ Castmates Are Coming Up with a “Bittersweet” Plan to Mark 20-Year Anniversary Since the Show’s May 6, 2004 Finale While Also Honoring Late Co-Star Matthew Perry
“They will most certainly be commemorating it somehow.”
By Rachel Burchfield Published
-
Sarah Hyland and Adam Devine Play 'How Well Do You Know Your Co-Star?'
The 'Modern Family' stars reunited for the 'Pitch Perfect' spinoff series.
By Brooke Knappenberger Published
-
The 78 Best Celebrity Couple Halloween Costumes of All Time
Honestly, we're impressed.
By Charlotte Chilton Published
-
Super Rare Photos of Queen Elizabeth as a Young Woman
From childhood snapshots to portraits as a young princess, beautiful and rare photos of the late Queen Elizabeth as a young woman.
By Mehera Bonner Published
-
King Charles III and Queen Consort Camilla's Relationship: A Timeline
With the passing of Queen Elizabeth II, Charles has ascended to the throne as king.
By The Editors Published
-
Who Is Next in Line for the British Throne, Explained
And yes—Harry and Archie are still in the line of succession.
By Andrea Park Published
-
Who Is Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez's Fiancé Riley Roberts?
AOC's husband-to-be is an "easygoing redhead" who lives with her in D.C.
By Katherine J. Igoe Published
-
68 Times the Kardashians Posed Fully Nude and Owned It
And we mean fully nude—as in, not a shred of clothing.
By Bianca Rodriguez Published
-
Who Is Jonathan Owens, Simone Biles's Fiancé and NFL Player?
"The easiest yes!" Simone wrote about the couple's engagement.
By The Editors Published