Meghan Markle made a surprise appearance at Paris Fashion Week on Saturday, October 4. The visit marked the 44-year-old’s first appearance in Europe since 2023.
Attending the Balenciaga show, a spokesperson revealed that she was present to support the recently-appointed designer Pierpaolo Piccioli. The spokesperson added: “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.”
Speaking to HELLO!, they added: “This evening reflects the culmination of many years of artistry and friendship, reflected in her support for his new creative chapter at Balenciaga.”
An awkward moment was captured on camera after a video, which was posted by @saintleon on TikTok, appeared to show Meghan going in for a kiss on the cheek to congratulate Piccioli on his Spring/Summer 2026 womenswear design – but instead she appeared to hit her nose on his sunglasses.
As the cameras were on them, the designer appeared ton laugh off the incident before grabbing Meghan’s hand to get a picture taken together. After thanking the designer, Meghan then finshed off the awkward encounter with a brief hug. Joined by her longtime friend Marcus Anderson, Meghan also greeted Vogue’s global editorial director Anna Wintour and Australian film director Baz Luhrmann.
For her one night stay in the French capital, Meghan spent the night at the $3,000-per-night [£2,210-per-night] Hôtel Plaza Athénée.
She made her way to the show in a sleek car with blacked-out windows, and inside the show, there were gasps from the crowds as she arrived with security. She later changed outfits into a gorgeous black dress with an asymmetrical neckline for a Balenciaga after-party.
Upon seeing her first look of the evening, fans appeared less than impressed by her ensemble – with many taking to social media to share their opinions on her look.
One fan commented: “My bed sheets after a restless night”, whilst another wrote, “Ugh! it’s giving Bed bath and Beyoncé”.