Meghan Markle at Paris Fashion Week

Meghan Markle drew attention during Paris Fashion Week by attending the Balenciaga show, a brand that faced heavy criticism for its advertisements featuring children that many found disturbing.

A representative for Markle shared with Page Six that her presence at the event was to support her longtime friend, Pierpaolo Piccioli, the brand’s Creative Director since July. Because these events are not open to the public, it implies that Markle received a formal invitation, hinting at potential ongoing collaborations between her and the brand. Notably, she could have declined the invitation at any point.

At the show, the Duchess of Sussex expressed her support for a brand criticized for controversial ads in 2022, where children appeared with teddy bears dressed in fetish attire. One ad even appeared to include a printout of a legal ruling regarding child pornography.

Comments on social media reflected a mixed reception, with one user stating, “She’s forever ruined her image,” while another described her as the “duchess of hypocrisy.”

Markle chose to wear a striking all-white outfit, featuring a long-sleeved tunic paired with matching pants and a flowing cape.

Balenciaga had previously apologized for the ads labeled “demonic” and announced plans to sue the production company responsible, as reported by KUOW.org.

While Markle often faces public criticism, Balenciaga’s controversies, including its fallout with Kanye West over his antisemitic remarks, have further complicated the brand’s image. Many internet users took the opportunity to critique Markle for associating with a brand that has faced such backlash.

One user remarked, “Balenciaga with their child p*rn and abuse and pedophilia shows what Meghan really cares about… herself and whoever will give her a spotlight.”