On October 14, 2025, Meghan, Duchess of Sussex, stunned onlookers with a surprise visit to a Paris fashion show, capturing the attention of the fashion world with her unexpected presence.

The 44-year-old duchess made an unforeseen appearance at Paris Fashion Week to attend Pierpaolo Piccioli’s inaugural show for Balenciaga. Her attendance was shrouded in mystery, a deliberate move by the designer to create an unforgettable moment. Piccioli shared with The Cut magazine that Meghan had proactively reached out to him, expressing her desire to attend the event.

Meghan, Duchess of Sussex’s appearance at Paris Fashion Week was kept totally secret

“Meghan and I have known each other for a few years and have kept in touch through texts,” Piccioli explained. “She contacted me with interest in coming to the show.”

He further elaborated, “There was no grand plan or elaborate arrangement. I opted not to disclose her visit to anyone because I wanted it to remain a surprise. In the world of fashion, genuine surprises are a rarity, and this one was truly magical.”

“There was no strategy or big orchestration. I didn’t tell anyone she was coming because I wanted it to stay a surprise. In fashion, real surprises are rare, and this one was beautiful.”

He added of the runway event: “I worked until the very last second before the show; it’s how I manage my nerves. I was backstage talking to the girls, checking every look, encouraging them to deliver emotion.

“Then they said, ‘Go’. I walked out, saw everyone standing, and I was overwhelmed – it was a wave of love. I scanned the crowd for my wife, the first person I wanted to see, but I couldn’t find her in the packed room. It was deeply emotional, and I felt protected.”

After her appearance at the show – which marked Meghan’s first time at Paris Fashion Week – a representative for the royal told PEOPLE: “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.”

Meghan also shared a video of behind-the-scenes clips from her trip to Paris showing her enjoying a decadent breakfast, using a language-learning app to brush up on her French, as well as the view of the Eiffel Tower from her luxury hotel room and a bouquet of flowers sent by the team at Balenciaga.

She also shared clips which showed her getting ready with her make-up artist Daniel Martin and heading out to the fashion show.

Meghan shared the video on Instagram and wrote: “About last night. Thank you @pppiccioli and @balenciaga. I’ve missed you [France] thanks for the love.”

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