Meghan Markle’s surprise appearance at Balenciaga’s Paris Fashion Week show earlier this month turned heads, but new details suggest her connection to the brand’s creative director, Pierpaolo Piccioli, may not be as close as initially believed.

A Stunning Entrance in Paris

The Duchess of Sussex made her Paris Fashion Week debut wearing a sleek white button-down tunic with a flowing cape and matching slacks, accessorized with diamond earrings and a simple black clutch. Her refined look quickly went viral, marking her first major fashion week appearance since stepping back from royal duties in 2020.

After the event, Meghan’s representative told People that she was in Paris to “support” Pierpaolo Piccioli, who had just debuted his first Balenciaga collection since being appointed creative director in July.

Designer Reveals Meghan Reached Out

However, Pierpaolo later clarified to The Cut that it was Meghan who initiated contact about attending. “Meghan and I met some years ago, and we’ve been texting ever since,” he said. “She reached out and said she’d love to come to the show.”

The designer, 58, who was photographed warmly embracing Meghan at the event, insisted her appearance wasn’t part of any publicity plan. “There was no strategy or big orchestration,” he explained. “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.”

Support or Spotlight?

A spokesperson for Meghan maintained that her presence reflected “many years of artistry and friendship,” explaining she wanted to support Pierpaolo as he began his new chapter at Balenciaga. They also noted that Meghan has worn several of his designs and that the two have “worked closely together” at important moments in her life.