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Meghan Markle’s Backless Linen Suit Is the End-of-Summer Uniform We Need to Beat the Heat

It’s timeless, chic and office-friendly

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meghan markle G9 hamptons linen suit universal
Andrew Esiebo/Getty Images

Summer in New York—it’s a hot one, that’s for sure. So, when Meghan Markle popped up in the Hamptons last weekend looking chic as can be and working the room at the G9 Ventures Summer Summit, I immediately began taking style notes. Yes, she was likely there to info-gather and talk shop with celebs ranging from Gwyneth Paltrow to Reese Witherspoon and Bobbi Brown ahead of the launch of her lifestyle brand, American Riviera Orchard—coming soon. But it was her choice of a backless, sleeveless linen suit from St. Agni ($419; $255 for the vest and $445; $309 for the pants) that caught my eye. (Yes, several sizes are still in stock.)

Here’s why I love it: It’s CEO in the front, summer chill in the back. As with all of Meghan’s attire, it’s tailored to perfection—a must when it comes to pulling off a look like this—but the high collar mixed with the linen material gives off a vibe that’s both professional and at-ease. (Swipe right above to see.)

There’s also a uniform aspect to it, given the nod to traditional suiting. But it’s the pivot on the classic suit jacket to be backless and halter-esque, plus the floor-skimming hemline that makes the whole look feel modern and fresh. Given the temps, linen—despite its potential to be easily creased—is a seasonal favorite, but it’s the breeze-welcoming silhouette that stands out the most and likely kept Meghan feeling crisp, calm and cool.

So, how can we mirror Meghan’s Hamptons style in our own workplace attire? Like I said, St. Agni still has several sizes of Meghan’s exact look still in stock. But I also found a few alternatives—perfect for that al fresco lunch meeting or a summer Friday at the office.

st. agni linen helm vest
St. Agni

This vest and trouser combo from St. Agni is Meghan’s exact Hamptons look. (I especially love the length of the “blazer.”)

veronica beard stretch linen vest
Veronica Beard

Yes, this vest has a few more buttons—not to mention a full back—but it still gives off a similar summer energy and one that will continue to keep you cool.

tuckernuck crudo vest and shorts
Tuckernuck

A minor pivot here—to shorts! (Yes, they’re office-friendly.) But the aesthetic is still similar to Meghan’s. Easy breezy, yet business-ready.


rachel bowie christine han photography 100

Senior Director, Special Projects and Royals

  • Writes and produces family, fashion, wellness, relationships, money and royals content
  • Podcast co-host and published author with a book about the British Royal Family
  • Studied sociology at Wheaton College and received a masters degree in journalism from Emerson College