The Duchess of Sussex's relationship with the fashion industry has experienced significant turbulence behind its polished public facade, with one particular incident involving British Vogue reportedly escalating into an explosive confrontation.
The Vogue Collaboration That Sparked Tension
In 2019, Meghan Markle guest-edited the September issue of British Vogue, creating the groundbreaking Forces for Change edition that sold out in just ten days, making it the fastest-selling issue in the magazine's celebrated history. Working alongside then editor-in-chief Edward Enninful, the Duchess helped curate content celebrating pioneering and inspirational women.
However, behind the scenes, tensions were mounting. According to sources speaking to Page Six, Meghan made several substantial demands that the iconic fashion publication was reportedly unwilling to accommodate. The Duchess allegedly requested final creative control over every aspect of the edition, including photographer selection, writers, final edit approval, photographs, and cover lines.
When Demands Clashed with Fashion Protocol
Insiders revealed that Meghan's expectations extended beyond standard collaborative boundaries. Nobody gets that. Not even Beyoncé, a source emphasised, highlighting the unprecedented nature of the requested terms.
The situation intensified when the Duchess reportedly asked for the September covers of both UK and US Vogue editions, despite both publications having already confirmed their cover stars - Linda Evangelista for British Vogue and Serena Williams for American Vogue. When Enninful declined these requests, Meghan allegedly escalated the matter directly to Anna Wintour, the formidable former editorial director of US Vogue.
According to reports, Anna Wintour participated in a Zoom call with Meghan merely as a courtesy but ultimately declined to intervene. With her requirements unable to be met, the Duchess apparently withdrew from the feature entirely, leaving Enninful and Condé Nast leadership furious about losing the high-profile project.
From Conflict to Reconciliation
Despite the reported confrontation, relationships within the fashion elite appear to have healed over time. Enninful and Meghan now maintain warm terms, exchanging birthday wishes and flowers on occasion.
The Duchess and Anna Wintour were also observed sharing affectionate greetings during Paris Fashion Week, when Meghan made a surprise appearance at the Balenciaga show. Witnesses described Wintour complimenting Meghan's custom white ensemble, saying Beautiful, Cherie. You look amazing as they exchanged kisses on each cheek.
This incident forms part of the broader pattern of Meghan's carefully managed public engagements. The Duchess has participated in only a handful of major interviews throughout her public life, yet each has generated significant media attention - from her revelatory 2021 conversation with Oprah Winfrey where she disclosed feeling silenced as a working royal to this latest Harper's Bazaar discussion about her marriage and perspectives on perfectionism.
