When it comes to elegant finishing touches, Meghan Markle knows the power of a statement accessory, and her latest appearance showed exactly why. Stepping out at the NBA All-Star Game in Los Angeles alongside Prince Harry earlier this week, the Duchess of Sussex turned to one of her most recognisable royal pieces: the Cartier Juste un Clou choker necklace.

Worn with a sleek navy look, the sculptural “nail” design instantly elevated her outfit, adding a modern edge without overpowering it. The motif is a signature, trademarked style for Cartier, forming part of the Juste un Clou collection, which has expanded from the original bracelet to include rings, necklaces and earrings – designs Meghan, 44, regularly wears.

First created in New York in 1971 by celebrated designer Aldo Cipullo, the concept was simple but revolutionary: transform an everyday object into fine jewellery. Decades later, the clean, minimalist lines still feel fresh, and it’s easy to see why the Duchess continues to reach for the label’s tank watches and bracelets.

While the original sits firmly in the luxury category, retailing at a whopping £12,000, it seems to have inspired a wave of sleek high street interpretations. We’ve put together an edit below of necklaces that give a similar vibe, without the soaring price tag, including options from royal-loved labels.

This sleek torque-style choker comes in one size and features a softly curved gold tone with delicate stone-set ends, giving it that sculptural, collarbone-hugging look that instantly feels polished. Crafted from 18ct recycled gold plating on brass with sparkling cubic zirconia, it offers a similar statement and worthy investment feel to Meghan’s iconic nail necklace, though with a slightly softer and more organic finish.

It’s a great alternative if you love her minimalist jewellery vibe but want something a little more relaxed and easy to wear day to day. Even better, it comes from a British label both Meghan and Princess Catherine have championed over the years, adding that subtle royal seal of approval.

This sleek gold choker has a softly curved, sculptural shape that sits neatly along the collarbone, with the right side slightly thicker to give it that modern, asymmetric feel, and it comes in one size for an easy, fuss-free fit. Made from 100% quality gold-plated recycled brass, it channels a similar clean, minimalist vibe to Meghan’s statement necklace, though this version feels a touch more fluid and understated. It’s one of those pieces that instantly pulls a look together.

This polished gold-tone choker from Reiss has a smooth, curved silhouette that creates a bold yet wearable statement feel. Made from 100% brass with a sleek gold-tone finish, it feels similar to Meghan’s sculptural necklace but with a slightly softer, more fluid curve that’s perfect for everyday wear. From a label both Meghan Markle, Princess Catherine and Duchess Sophie have worn, it’s an easy way to tap into that refined, modern jewellery look without going full red-carpet.

This bold, chunky gold choker is a bit different to Meghan’s, and is more of a traditional necklace. But, we think the ribbed, coiled finish gives it a statement, high-impact look – an avant-garde take on Meghan’s sleeker look.

Made from 90% recycled steel with 10% zinc, it’s a great high-street option if you love that strong collar style. And it’s from a brand that some of the ladies of the Royal Family are fans of, too. Princess Catherine has been known to sport pieces from Accessorize over the years; proof that you don’t need to spend a fortune to channel a royal-inspired look.

If you want to splash out on Meghan Markle’s iconic nail necklace, it is crafted from 100% 18kt yellow gold in a sleek one-size choker design that curves neatly around the neckline for that instantly recognisable sculptural look. 

It may be undeniably pricey, but the Duchess proves that investing in luxury can pay off in cost per wear, having styled it on repeat from laid-back courtside moments to glamorous high-profile events, even debuting it on her Netflix show, With Love, Meghan. With its clean lines and bold yet understated feel, it is the kind of captivating piece that quietly elevates any outfit.

Express.co.uk exclusively spoke to celebrity stylist Ciara Russell, who shared her expert advice on how to style a torque choker so it feels modern and effortlessly elegant, proving exactly why investing in a high street version can be such a smart move if you want to capture the same polished effect.

She explained: “A torque choker should always be treated as the statement, not an accessory. I’d style it against a clean neckline like a halter, strapless silhouette or softly cut dress, allowing the collarbone to remain exposed and feminine rather than severe.”

Ciara added that keeping the overall look simple is key, which makes accessible versions particularly appealing for anyone wanting to recreate Meghan’s understated glamour without the luxury price tag. “Hair worn down or gently tucked behind the ears keeps the look polished yet effortless. I love how Meghan Markle wore the Cartier Juste un Clou torque, minimal, refined, and intentionally understated.”

She also advised avoiding too many competing pieces, reinforcing the point that a single statement choker can instantly elevate an outfit. “I’d avoid layering entirely, opting instead for discreet studs or a single ring so the piece feels modern, elegant, and quietly confident.”

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