Representatives for Meghan Markle have issued a firm rebuttal to comments made by a journalist in a podcast, prompting discussion about a dress worn in the Duchess of Sussex’s forthcoming “With Love, Meghan” festive programme.
The new Netflix special features Meghan, 44, wearing a green Galvan gown previously seen in a 2022 Variety magazine photoshoot.
The dialogue surrounding the dress emerged after remarks made in 2024 by journalist Vanessa Grigoriadis began circulating on social media.
During an appearance on Andrew Gold’s podcast Heretics last year, Ms Grigoriadis alleged that items used during previous photoshoots may not always have been returned. Her comments did not include evidence and were made in reference to the Variety session.
Meghan Markle’s team issues firm response after ‘categorically false’ photoshoot claims
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Meghan’s team responded swiftly and forcefully to the renewed online attention, rejecting the characterisation outright.
A spokesman told People Magazine: “The insinuation that any items were taken without the full knowledge and agreement of the on-set stylists or their respective teams is not only categorically false, but also highly defamatory.
“Any items kept were done so in total transparency and in accordance with contractual arrangements.”
The spokesman confirmed that all clothing retained from professional engagements had been handled appropriately.
INSTAGRAM: @MEGHAN
Meghan’s representatives rejected any suggestion of improper handling of wardrobe items, emphasising transparency and established industry processes throughout her professional commitments.
GB News has contacted the Duchess of Sussex’s representatives for an independent comment. The People’s Channel has also reached out to Ms Grigoriadis for a right of reply.
The gown at the centre of the discussion is a one-shoulder green Galvan design named “Ushuaia”, valued at $1,695 (£1,284).
Meghan first wore the dress for her 2022 Variety feature and chose to use it again in her festive programme.
Meghan Markle is widely considered a fashion icon
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GETTYMeghan Markle has said she makes intentional choices with her fashion
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PAThe Duchess has previously spoken about the scrutiny attached to her fashion choices during her time as a working royal.
“If you couldn’t hear me, how could I be heard through what I was wearing if that was what people were focusing on?” she said during an interview on The Jamie Kern Lima Show in April.
She has also highlighted the importance of supporting brands that align with her values, particularly those led by women or operating with strong ethical foundations.
Speaking to The New York Times in August, she said she uses moments of significant public visibility to promote both emerging designers and long-standing collaborators, describing this as “one of the most powerful things that I’m able to do.”