Meghan Markle | Source: Getty Images
Meghan Markle, 44, Makes Her Paris Fashion Week Debut Donning Two Outfits – But One Grabbed More Attention
It was her first time on fashion's most elite stage — and she made sure the world noticed, stepping into the Balenciaga spotlight in a look that sparked reactions.
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It was a moment fit for a Duchess as Meghan Markle, 44, made her long-anticipated debut at Paris Fashion Week on Saturday, October 4. As the Duchess of Sussex stepped into the ultra-exclusive world of high fashion, the internet erupted in a firestorm of praise, criticism, and jaw-dropping comparisons.
Wearing an oversized white cape draped dramatically over a crisp, matching button-down, Meghan floated into the Balenciaga show with the poise of a seasoned runway veteran. Black pointed-toe heels and a sleek, pulled-back bun punctuated her look — minimalist, stark, and undeniably bold.
It was a statement, and the internet had plenty to say about it. Within moments, the Duchess's entrance had social media swooning.
"Wow she looks so radiant!" one admirer gushed, while another declared, "She looks absolutely stunning. As ever. So chic." The compliments didn't stop, "❤️❤️❤️ please continue to walk like a woman who knows her worth🤍" read one glowing comment. Someone else wrote, "She looks stunning. She has such a peaceful aura about her."
And perhaps most dramatically, "CAN MEGHAN BE MORE PERFECT?"
However, not all reactions were wrapped in admiration. In fact, many online critics took brutal aim at her voluminous ensemble. "Gag me. A bad use for old hospital blankets," one wrote coldly. Another dismissed her outfit as "swallowed up in fabric…"
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But the most cutting insult? Multiple netizens cruelly likened her look to a "toilet paper roll." One jeered, "Once again wearing a big, shapeless, poorly-fitted outfit in a neutral shade 😂."
It was a fashion battlefield with Meghan at the center. Yet behind the spectacle, there was a deeper meaning to her appearance. According to a spokesperson, the Duchess had not just dropped in. She had arrived to support Pierpaolo Piccioli, Balenciaga's newly appointed creative director.
"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," the spokesperson revealed.
The statement explained that Meghan had held a deep appreciation for Piccioli's refined style and creative vision for many years, and that her appearance at the show was the result of a longstanding professional relationship and shared artistic journey.
As the buzz continues to swirl, Meghan's second look of the day — and the reaction it's already sparking. Here's a closer look at Meghan's two striking ensembles from her Paris Fashion Week debut:
A Regal Beauty in Black
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Back shot of Meghan Markle attending the Womenswear Spring/Summer 2026 show at Paris Fashion Week, wearing a refined black ensemble that highlights her minimalist elegance and poise.
Meghan Markle arrives at the Womenswear Spring/Summer 2026 show in Paris, exuding quiet sophistication. She turns heads in a sleek black outfit that blends modern style with effortless grace.
Meghan Markle attends the Womenswear Spring/Summer 2026 show at Paris Fashion Week, showcasing her signature minimalist style. The Duchess of Sussex keeps her look polished and refined amid the glamour of the event.
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Meghan Markle attends the Womenswear Spring/Summer 2026 show at Paris Fashion Week, dressed in a sophisticated black gown. The minimalist design and flawless tailoring emphasize her refined style as she takes her place among the fashion elite.
Meghan Markle is seen greeting attendees at the Womenswear Spring/Summer 2026 show during Paris Fashion Week. Dressed in a chic black dress, the Duchess of Sussex smiles warmly as she exchanges greetings, exuding poise and ease in the lively fashion crowd.
Meghan Markle is captured arriving at the Womenswear Spring/Summer 2026 show during Paris Fashion Week. Wearing a refined black dress, she offers a poised smile as cameras flash, marking a graceful entrance to one of the season’s most anticipated events.
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Stealing the Spotlight in White
Meghan Markle arrives at the Womenswear Spring/Summer 2026 show in Paris in an elegant all-white ensemble. The Duchess of Sussex pairs a flowing cape with a crisp shirt, her minimalist look and sleek bun drawing attention from photographers and onlookers alike.
Meghan Markle attends the Womenswear Spring/Summer 2026 show in Paris, dressed in an elegant white cape layered over a matching shirt, her hair styled in a sleek bun as she smiles for the cameras.
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Meghan Markle is seen arriving at the Womenswear Spring/Summer 2026 show during Paris Fashion Week in a striking all-white ensemble. The Duchess of Sussex pairs a flowing cape with a crisp shirt, greeting the crowd with a composed smile as cameras capture the moment.
Meghan Markle, the Duchess of Sussex, walks with confidence and elegance at Paris Fashion Week, dressed in a sophisticated all-white ensemble that highlights her refined, minimalist style.
Meghan Markle, the Duchess of Sussex, is seen walking at Paris Fashion Week in an elegant white ensemble. With a calm, confident stride and a sleek bun completing the look, she commands attention amid the buzz of the event.
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Meghan Markle, the Duchess of Sussex, is seen in a close-up at Paris Fashion Week wearing a refined white ensemble. Her composed expression captures a moment of quiet confidence amid the buzz of the event.
Meghan Markle is seen sharing a warm greeting with Pierpaolo Piccioli after his debut collection for Balenciaga at Paris Fashion Week. The Duchess of Sussex congratulates the new Creative Director in a heartfelt exchange between longtime collaborators.
Meghan Markle is seen speaking with Pierpaolo Piccioli following his first collection for Balenciaga at Paris Fashion Week. The Duchess of Sussex warmly congratulates the designer, marking a moment that celebrates his debut and their longstanding creative bond.
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