Meghan Markle’s latest virtual engagement was special for two reasons. Not only did it mark the one-year milestone of one her favorite fashion projects, but it also gave viewers a small glimpse of her new California home, including the decor.
In honor of the one-year anniversary of the launch of her workwear capsule collection, the Smart Set, the Duchess of Sussex took part in a video call with Smart Works, a charity and patronage of the duchess that helps prepare women to enter the workforce. During the call, she spoke with women who were recently assisted by the organization in returning to work.
And while the 39-year-old looked stunning in her white blazer, side ponytail and glam makeup, we couldn’t help but take careful notice of her surroundings. Shot from her brand-new home in Santa Barbara, the clip featured Markle seated in front of a massive white-stone fireplace with a large plant over her right shoulder. On top of the fireplace was a vintage print of a bear holding the state of California. (How fitting). Harper’s Bazaar pointed out that the artwork is actually the cover of the sheet music for the state’s anthem, “I Love You, California.”
We’re not totally surprised by her choice of art—the duchess grew up in California and recently moved back from the U.K. with her husband Prince Harry, after they stepped down as senior members of the royal family. The couple purchased the multi-million-dollar estate in Montecito back in July, after spending the majority of quarantine in an L.A. home (formerly owned by Tyler Perry).
Things look a lot different for Meghan than they did a year ago. But we’re loving the view.
