This Is Why We Can't Call Meghan Markle "Princess Meghan"
The royals have a very strict protocol about her title.


Today, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle are officially married, and Meghan has a new title: Her Royal Highness Princess Henry of Wales, not Princess Meghan. Yes, we know, plot twist of the century.
So why can't we call her Princess Meghan? Only those who are born into the royal family can use the title Prince or Princess, followed by their first name. Harry's mom was frequently referred to as Princess Diana, but her formal title was "Diana, Princess of Wales."
While Kate Middleton and Prince William are known as the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, Harry and Meghan will be known as the Duke and Duchess of Sussex. In order for them to receive this title, the Queen herself had to bestow this upon them. The royal family announced the news this morning in a statement:
A post shared by Duke and Duchess of Cambridge (@dukeandduchessofcambridge)
A photo posted by on
Prince William is next in line to the throne after his father, Prince Charles, which would then make him Prince of Wales when Charles becomes king.
Follow along here as we report on the royal wedding in real-time—from the dress to the tiara to Harry and Meghan's most adorable moments.
Stay In The Know
Get exclusive access to fashion and beauty trends, hot-off-the-press celebrity news, and more.
Rachel Epstein is a writer, editor, and content strategist based in New York City. Most recently, she was the Managing Editor at Coveteur, where she oversaw the site’s day-to-day editorial operations. Previously, she was an editor at Marie Claire, where she wrote and edited culture, politics, and lifestyle stories ranging from op-eds to profiles to ambitious packages. She also launched and managed the site’s virtual book club, #ReadWithMC. Offline, she’s likely watching a Heat game or finding a new coffee shop.
-
Jennifer Lopez Trades a Pink Catsuit for a Sparkly Jumpsuit
The superstar wore two totally different outfits at the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix.
By Amy Mackelden
-
PSA: Your Fragrance Horoscope for Taurus Season Did Not Come to Play
Whether you're cocooning or blooming, your scent is written in the stars.
By Aliza Kelly
-
The Royal Family Easter Rule Kate Middleton Broke in 2018
The Princess of Wales was pregnant with her third child—Prince Louis—at the time.
By Amy Mackelden
-
Tracee Ellis Ross Reflects on "Grief" Over Not Marrying or Having Kids, and Reveals Why She Prefers Dating Younger Men
"I grieve the things that I thought would be and that are not."
By Amy Mackelden
-
Prince Harry Requested "Certain Protection" After Receiving a Shocking Threat Against His Life
Britain's Home Office released new details about a terrorist threat that targeted the Duke of Sussex.
By Kristin Contino
-
Princess Diana's Close Friend Reveals What She Likely Would Have Thought About Meghan Markle
Richard Kay shared insights on the late royal and what her relationship with Prince Harry's wife could've been like.
By Kristin Contino
-
This Royal Couple Has the Most Pinned Celebrity Wedding of All Time—And a Surprising Royal Wedding Didn't Even Make The List
A new study found this ceremony gave Pinterest users the most inspiration.
By Kristin Contino
-
Royal Sources Give Update on "Distant" Relationship With Prince Harry and King Charles
Insiders close to the Duke of Sussex have revealed whether there is a chance at reconciliation in the near future.
By Kristin Contino
-
The Alleged "Olive Branch" Prince Harry Offered to Kate Middleton and Prince William During U.K. Visit
The Duke of Sussex's decision was reportedly an effort "to make peace."
By Amy Mackelden
-
We Taste-Tested Meghan Markle’s As Ever Jam, Honey and Flower Sprinkles—One Word Kept Coming Up
Women across America gave 'Marie Claire' their thoughts on the Duchess of Sussex's first seasonal drop of products.
By Kristin Contino
-
The Special Gift Princess Lilibet Received From "Papa" Prince Harry in Meghan Markle's Latest Instagram Post
"Made with love."
By Amy Mackelden