Meghan Markle, 44, Makes Her Paris Fashion Week Debut Donning Two Different Outfits – But One Grabbed More Attention

It was her first time on fashion's most elite stage — and Meghan Markle made sure the world noticed, stepping into the Balenciaga spotlight in a look that sparked reactions.

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. But 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. Her look — minimalist, stark, and undeniably bold — was punctuated by black pointed-toe heels and a sleek, pulled-back bun.

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?"

The love was loud. But the hate? Even louder. 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…"

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 Meghan’s 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 — will be revealed in the next chapter of this unfolding fashion saga.

Here’s a closer look at Meghan’s two striking ensembles from her Paris Fashion Week debut:

A Regal Beauty in Black

Stealing the Spotlight in White

...