Today, Kensington Palace released the official engagement photographs of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle. It’s safe to say that no matter the quality of these portraits, the Internet was bound to go wild. But these pictures do happen to be stunning, as well as surprisingly intimate.
In the first photograph released, Markle wears a gown designed by Ralph & Russo, with a somewhat sheer beaded bodice. Yes, the dress is still long-sleeved and crew-necked, but it’s safe to say we haven’t ever seen Kate Middleton wear something like that. (For comparison, just look at the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge’s recent holiday card, in which Kate Middleton wore a powder blue suit.)
But back to Harry and Meghan. In the first photograph, we see the couple sitting on outdoor steps, leaning against one another; hardly a typical pose for the Windsor family. On top of that, the second photograph, taken by Alexi Lubomirski, shows the couple in an even more intimate (and heart-melting) set-up.
Their faces touch, and both Prince Harry and Meghan Markle smile with their eyes closed, as Prince Harry wraps Meghan in his coat and she touches her hand to his face—helpfully showing off her engagement ring.
That was supposed to be it. But then Kensington Palace released one more image, with the following caption: “Thank you so much for all of the wonderful comments following the release of Prince Harry and Ms. Meghan Markle’s engagement photographs. The couple are so grateful for the warm and generous messages they have received during such a happy time in their lives. As a way to say thank you, they have decided to share this candid photograph from the day of their portrait sittings directly with all of you.” Well done, everyone!
—Madeleine Luckel
