Meghan Markle was reportedly given the cold shoulder by one of her "good friends" at a high-profile fashion event in Paris recently, it has been revealed. Pierpaolo Piccioli unveiled his debut haute couture collection for Balenciaga last Wednesday, celebrating his first year as Creative Director of the fashion brand.
Balenciaga's 55th Haute Couture collection was showcased in the gardens of the Cité internationale universitaire in Paris. Attendees at the prestigious fashion show included Hollywood luminaries such as Demi Moore, Cynthia Erivo, and Naomi Watts.
However, despite reportedly being "good friends" with the Duchess of Sussex, Prince Harry's wife was conspicuously absent.
Alleged Snub and Controversial Past
Insiders alleged that the Duchess was not invited to the fashion show, delivering a harsh judgement: "Not after what happened last time". Meghan famously attended the designer's Ready-To-Wear fashion show during Paris Fashion Week in October 2025, but her presence ignited controversy for various reasons, including her conduct, claims that she arrived late, and reports that she "invited herself". She also provoked outrage after posting a video that she filmed near the site of the late Princess Diana's car crash, reports the Express.
Now, American journalist Paula Froelich has offered some insight into why Meghan was excluded from the front row seats at last week's show. In her Substack post, she noted: "Noticeably, one person was not at the show: his supposed good friend and 'collaborator' (according to her), the Duchess of Sussex." She said: "'Oh God no, she was not invited,' My source said. 'Not after what happened last time.'"
Contrasting Accounts of Friendship
Last year, a representative for the duchess commented on her Paris appearance: "Over the years, the duchess has worn a number of designs by Pierpaolo. They have worked closely together, collaborating on design for key moments on the world stage. She has long admired his craftsmanship and modern elegance, and tonight was no different. This evening reflects the culmination of many years of artistry and friendship, reflected in her support for his new creative chapter at Balenciaga."
However, the designer's memory of events was slightly different, as he later told The Cut: "Meghan and I met some years ago, and we've been texting ever since. She reached out and said she'd love to come to the show."
