Introducing Self-Portrait: The Latest Brand Meghan Markle Had Selling Out In Minutes

last updated 5 August 2021

New drinking game: Take a shot every time Meghan Markle's outfit sells out within minutes of her stepping into the light. Seem dramatic? That's the game fashion brands are playing along with (opens in new tab) these days anyways, rushing to see who can land Markle's next sartorial choice for her public outings.

The latest to enter Markle territory? Self-Portrait (opens in new tab), a favorite of celebs from Reese Witherspoon, to Lucy Hale, to Kristen Stewart, to Sofia Richie, and yes, even Michelle Obama. The 36-year-old sold out one of the feminine fashion label's dresses within minutes of being spotted on her way to a Christmas lunch with the Queen. (opens in new tab)

Clothing, Fashion, Performance, Event, Fashion design, Dress, Performing arts, — Michelle Obama wearing a Self-Portrait dress in 2016 at the United Nations General Assembly in NYC.

What Is Self-Portrait?

Though Self-Portrait might not be on your radar (until now), it's been a favorite among the fashion set (opens in new tab). Created in 2013 by Malaysia native Han Chong, the British contemporary fashion label has made a home on retail giants like Net-a-Porter (opens in new tab), Neiman Marcus (opens in new tab), Nordstrom (opens in new tab), and Bergdorf Goodman (opens in new tab), with outfits typically ranging from $100-$600.

Although Markle has put the brand on the map recently, this isn't the first time a royal has chosen to wear the feminine label (opens in new tab). Pippa Middleton, the Duchess of Cambridge's sister, wore a Self-Portrait dress to Wimbledon this year. (opens in new tab) The Duchess herself also wore one (opens in new tab) to the world premiere of A Street Cat Named Bob in 2016.

Red carpet, Carpet, Clothing, Dress, Flooring, Premiere, Fashion, Gown, Event, Fashion model, — Kate Middleton wearing a Self-Portrait gown at the UK Premiere of A Street Cat Named Bob November 2016. The dress is still sold out.

The Royal Game-Changer

Markle joined Prince Harry, the Duke and Duchess, Queen Elizabeth, and more members of the royal family to celebrate Christmas at Buckingham Palace (opens in new tab) on Wednesday afternoon wearing the brand's nightside midi dress. The dress sold out in minutes (literally minutes...as in it was there and poof, gone again).

The dress hasn't even made a full appearance on Markle (just a view of it from her car), but Self-Portrait has already updated their website (opens in new tab) to reflect Markle's influence: "What to wear when meeting your entire extended Royal Family-to be? In Meghan’s case is was this gorgeous Self-Portrait dress in a stunning cut with lace and a style all its own. The black, white and pink Self-Portrait Nightshade midi dress has a mock neck, lace contrast, short sleeves, tan underlay at bust, dual slit pockets at sides, pleats at flared skirt and exposed zip closure at center back."

Face, Hair, Facial expression, Head, Beauty, Eyebrow, Smile, Black hair, Snapshot, Eye,

Clothing, Dress, Black, Cocktail dress, Sleeve, Day dress, A-line, Fashion, Neck, Collar,

What's Next for the Brand

Self-Portrait had a breakthrough year in 2015 (opens in new tab), but it looks like it's going to end 2017 on a royal high note. The contemporary fashion brand will likely need to stock up heavily now that all eyes are on the label. And since we know you'll probably want to peruse a few pieces for yourself, we've rounded up some of our favorites below to snag before Meghan or, you know, another royal decides to add *another* Self-Portrait piece to her wardrobe.

Clothing, Outerwear, Maroon, Sleeve, Magenta, Jacket, Design, Sweater, Tartan, Pattern,

Self-Portrait, $340

BUY IT (opens in new tab)

Beige, Fashion accessory, Collar, Belt, Necklace, Jewellery, Sleeve, Chain,

Self-Portrait, $263

BUY IT (opens in new tab)

Clothing, Green, Sleeve, Outerwear, Blouse, Collar, Pattern, Top, Shirt, Lace,

Self-Portrait, $580

BUY IT (opens in new tab)

Clothing, Overall, Black, One-piece garment, Denim, Dress, Jeans, Trousers, Day dress,

Self-Portrait, $204

BUY IT (opens in new tab)

Clothing, Pencil skirt, Fashion, Beige, Wool, A-line, Waist,

Self-Portrait, $312

BUY IT (opens in new tab)

Clothing, Jeans, Trousers, Sportswear, Denim, Active pants, Footwear, Outerwear, Pocket, sweatpant,

Self-Portrait, $375

BUY IT (opens in new tab)

Handbag, Bag, Fashion accessory, Leather, Beauty, Fashion, Shoulder bag, Hand luggage, Luggage and bags, Material property,

Behind the Hype About Bag Brand Strathberry

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.