Meghan Markle made her first appearance at Paris Fashion Week during the Balenciaga show, showcasing their Spring/Summer 2026 womenswear collection to show support for her friend Pierpaolo Piccioli, a fashion designer.
The Duchess of Sussex’s presence garnered attention for various reasons, from her controversial outfit choice to an encounter with former Vogue editor-in-chief Anna Wintour. Former BBC royal correspondent Jennie Bond commented on Meghan’s trip to Europe after two years, drawing parallels between Meghan and other royals who have attended prestigious fashion events.
Bond highlighted Meghan’s growing interest in fashion and potential collaborations within the industry. She noted how Meghan’s attendance at the runway show signaled a new venture into the fashion world for the stylish icon.
Reflecting on past royal appearances at fashion weeks, Bond mentioned how the late Queen and Princess Diana attended similar events but under different circumstances compared to Meghan’s spontaneous Paris visit.
During her time in Paris, Meghan faced criticism for sharing a video of her drive through the city, unknowingly passing by the site where Princess Diana tragically died in 1997. Bond suggested that while Meghan’s actions were likely unintentional, a public apology would be appropriate to address the inadvertent insensitivity.
Bond emphasized the importance of considering the implications of one’s actions, especially in the age of instant sharing on social media platforms like Instagram. She suggested that Meghan should have acknowledged her mistake and issued an apology to avoid any further controversy.
In conclusion, Meghan’s debut at Paris Fashion Week sparked discussions within royal circles and among fashion enthusiasts, highlighting the intersection of celebrity, royalty, and the world of high fashion.