Meghan Markle debuts new hairstyle on first day of Australia tour | Royal | News

Meghan Markle has unveiled a noticeably sleeker hairstyle as she stepped out in a perfectly polished outfit on the first day of her visit to Australia. The Duke, 41, and Duchess of Sussex, 44, kicked off a four-day tour down under to carry out a selection of engagements.

During their trip, the duo are expected to meet with passion projects close to their hearts like mental health, sport and youth empowerment organisations – with visits planned in Melbourne, Sydney and Canberra. All eyes fell to Meghan’s second look of the day, as she rocked a noticeably different updo.

The Duchess was snapped in a khaki and beige outfit, with her hair slicked back in a neat bun. If you’ve been keeping tabs on royal fashion, you will know that Meghan usually opts for a messy chignon style.

Earlier in the day, Meghan chose a low ponytail, which is a more relaxed look she has favoured in recent years.

However, this new refined stylem paired with her understated outfit, marked a return to a more structured and classic aesthetic often associated with her time as a working royal.

Since stepping back from royal duties, Meghan has largely embraced a more relaxed, California-inspired approach to dressing.

On red carpets and at public appearances, she has frequently opted for loose, beachy waves and a softer, more bohemian feel – reflecting her life in Montecito.

The dramatic shift has become a signature of her post-royal style, with undone textures and natural movement taking priority over more formal finishes

However, her latest look signals a U-turn change in direction. During her time as a senior royal, Meghan regularly turned to pristine hairstyles for official engagements, particularly when travelling.

The slicked back bun became one of her go-to choices – practical yet polished, and well-suited to busy schedules and unpredictable weather conditions.

She wore variations of the style at several high-profile moments, including her wedding to Prince Harry back in 2018.

The hairstyle is widely regarded as both functional and elegant, offering a neat finish while ensuring hair remains in place throughout long days of engagements. It also provides a clean silhouette, allowing outfits and accessories to take centre stage

Speaking to the Daily Express, Wella hair expert Georgina Murphy, owner of The Vintage Lounge, explained that achieving a look like Meghan’s requires careful attention to detail.

“Styles like Meghan’s might appear effortless, but they’re actually very precise,” she said. “The key is ensuring the hair looks smooth and flawless from every angle.”

The expert also noted that the style is particularly well-suited to warmer climates. “Meghan’s hair has a natural shine, which works beautifully with this kind of look,” she explained.

“In places like Australia, where heat and humidity can be a factor, a sleek ponytail helps maintain a polished appearance throughout the day. It keeps everything in place while still looking refined.”

The Duchess’s choice of hairstyle complements the practical considerations often associated with international travel, where appearances are closely scrutinised and conditions can vary.