Martha Stewart, the undisputed queen of home and hospitality, has offered a frosty take on Meghan Markle's new lifestyle venture 'As Ever'—and her verdict is far from glowing.
At 83, Stewart remains a towering figure in the lifestyle industry, having spent over six decades building a multi-million-dollar empire from scratch. From bestselling cookbooks to hit television shows and homeware lines found in nearly every American household, Stewart's journey is the gold standard many aspirants look to emulate.
So it was perhaps inevitable that someone would ask her opinion on Meghan Markle, the Duchess of Sussex, who launched As Ever earlier this year. Tied to her Netflix special, With Love, Meghan, the brand offers kitchenware, linens, and hostessing products said to reflect her passion for entertaining.
But for Stewart, becoming a lifestyle mogul demands more than a title or good taste. Speaking to Yahoo Lifestyle Australia, Stewart was blunt when asked about the Duchess: 'Meghan, I don't know very well, and I hope she knows what she's talking about.'
Her remark, although couched in civility, struck many as a subtle dig—particularly when contrasted with her praise for another celebrity-turned-entrepreneur: 'Authenticity, to me, is everything, and to be authentic and knowledgeable about your subject matter is extremely important.'
Praise for Paltrow, But Doubts About the Duchess
The contrast became even starker when Stewart turned her attention to fellow lifestyle powerhouse Gwyneth Paltrow. Of the Goop founder, Stewart said: 'Gwyneth has been very successful; she created quite an interesting body of businesses. She's admired. She won an Oscar for heaven's sake as an actress! She's pretty powerful.'
The implication? That Paltrow's success stems from more than fame—it's also rooted in effort, longevity, and credibility. Meghan, on the other hand, appears—at least in Stewart's view—to be lacking in substance.
A Lifetime of Hustle vs Instagram Launch
Martha Stewart's story is one of hands-on grit. She began as a caterer, clocking long hours and mastering the craft before launching her first book. She moved into television and product lines only after establishing credibility at each step.
By contrast, Meghan entered the lifestyle scene with curated Instagram aesthetics and anecdotes from royal life. Critics argue that her résumé lacks the practical experience in cooking, hosting, or design typically expected of a lifestyle expert. While her position as a duchess, wife and mother gave her a platform, some feel it hasn't translated into the work ethic or know-how needed for long-term success in the industry.
Online critics were quick to echo Stewart's scepticism. A New York Post reader wrote: 'Martha is right. Markle never puts in the work if she can avoid it. Her As If product line is produced in small batches to guarantee a "sellout". Martha has built a successful brand that has endured because she's authentic. Markle, not so much.'
Another added, 'Martha was a caterer for many years before she started branching out. Meghan Markle spent no time learning about cooking or any other skill. She believes that being a "duchess" and spending Harry's money elevates her into the stratosphere from which she will build a billion-dollar business. Business doesn't work that way.'
'I Don't Mind. Good Luck.'
Despite her pointed remarks, Stewart made it clear she doesn't hold grudges. 'I don't mind. Good luck,' she said when asked about the influx of new influencers entering the lifestyle space.
Royal watchers believe Meghan's transition from duchess to entrepreneur won't be easy. In the lifestyle industry, credibility is earned—not inherited. While Meghan may attract initial buzz, long-term brand success will require resilience, innovation, and authenticity.
Still, despite the sceptics, Meghan's fans are optimistic. Many see As Ever as just the beginning of a new chapter and are eager to see how she shapes a brand that's uniquely hers in an already saturated wellness and lifestyle market.
