Meghan Markle is determined to attend Valentino’s funeral, seeing it as a golden opportunity to not just pay her respects but to also solidify her place in the inner circle of the fashion world. According to an insider, Markle views this moment as crucial for her image and timing in the industry.

Despite her eagerness to be a part of the funeral, Markle was denied an invitation. However, this didn’t stop her from trying to use her connections to secure a spot at the event. Her husband, Prince Harry, was in court in London the day before the funeral, showing support for Elizabeth Hurley as she testified in their lawsuit against Associated Newspapers Limited.

Markle also had a link to Pierpaolo Piccioli, Valentino’s former creative director who had moved to Balenciaga in 2024. Piccioli attended the funeral along with Italian designer Versace.

The Duchess of Sussex had previously invited herself to Piccioli’s first Paris Fashion Week show for Balenciaga in October 2025. Despite being a last-minute addition to the guest list, Markle was given VIP treatment, including access to the brand’s designs and a front-row seat at the show.