Meghan Markle vs Kate Middleton fashion wars: How conflict over fashion industry contacts sparked tension in their relationship early on

Before their well-documented disputes over bridesmaids’ dresses became public, Meghan Markle and the Princess of Wales experienced earlier tensions stemming from a fashion-related misunderstanding. In his memoir *Spare*, Prince Harry recounted that Meghan had attempted to clarify the rift between the couples by addressing what she saw as a misunderstanding with Kate. Harry explained that Meghan believed Kate might have thought she was seeking her fashion connections, when in fact Meghan had her own network. This miscommunication may have been a factor in their rocky start.

Although this initial fashion-related disagreement might seem minor compared to later conflicts—such as Meghan accusing Kate of being distant and Kate being offended by Meghan’s remarks about her ‘baby brain’—it has gained new significance with recent developments. Sarah Burton, the designer behind Kate’s iconic wedding dress, has been appointed as the new creative director of Givenchy. This is notable because Givenchy was the fashion house responsible for designing Meghan’s wedding gown when Clare Waight Keller was in charge, and it became a key part of Meghan’s wardrobe during her time as a royal.

With Sarah Burton now leading Givenchy, it raises an interesting question: could Kate, with her close connection to Burton, become the new muse for the fashion house? Such a scenario would certainly add another layer to the ongoing fashion rivalry between Meghan and Kate. Meghan, who has been known for her penchant for French couture and high-profile fashion labels like Prada, Oscar de la Renta, and Dior, might feel a sting if Kate’s style becomes associated with Givenchy.

In an additional twist, Clare Waight Keller has recently been appointed as the creative director for the Japanese brand Uniqlo. This shift means that if Meghan continues to favor Keller, her fashion choices might shift from high couture to more casual styles, depending on her loyalty to Keller or the fashion house.

The rivalry between Meghan and Kate, manifested through their fashion choices and the designers associated with them, continues to be a prominent aspect of their public lives, even as they reside on different continents. This ongoing fashion feud highlights the broader tensions between the two women, which have been reflected in their sartorial preferences and affiliations with different designers.