With rumours swirling that the Duchess of Sussex may return to the UK for London Fashion Week next year, a PR expert has revealed how the trip could be a “daring step” to rehabilitate her public image
Commentators have speculated that Meghan could attend London Fashion Week next week(Image: John Angelillo/UPI/Shutterstock)
Rumours have emerged that Meghan Markle may make a triumphant return to the UK for London Fashion Week next year, after her surprise appearance at Paris Fashion Week earlier this month.
The Duchess of Sussex has not been in the UK since 2022 when she attended the late Queen Elizabeth ’s funeral alongside Prince Harry and the entire royal family, as their relationship remains estranged and fractured.
But now, as Meghan seems to be making her foray into the fashion world, many royal commentators have begun to speculate if she could make an appearance at London Fashion Week, happening in February next year.
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A PR expert has revealed what Meghan’s potential trip to the UK could mean for her public image(Image: Evan Agostini/Invision/AP)
While Meghan’s popularity in the UK is still at a record low, with the most recent public survey showing she has only a 20 per cent approval rating, a PR expert has analysed what a return to the UK might mean for the Duchess.
Expert Mayah Riaz told the Mirror that Meghan’s potential appearance in London would be likely to divide the public, but could have a positive impact on how she is viewed, depending what the visit entails.
She said: “Meghan showing up at London Fashion Week would be a daring step and a strategic test of public opinion. It’d certainly be one that would grab headlines instantly. It could be her biggest PR gamble since stepping back from royal life.
“Whether it helps or hurts her image really depends on how she does it. The British public is still divided, so if this was to happen, it wouldn’t be a time for a glossy photo-op, but a time for a thoughtful re-entry.
Meghan Markle travelled to France for Paris Fashion Week(Image: Getty)
“If she simply turns up to be seen at a glamorous event, it risks feeling tone-deaf and could easily backfire. But if she ties her visit to something meaningful, perhaps championing British designers, sustainability, or women-led causes, it could mark the start of her quiet comeback in the UK.”
Riaz added that while it is yet undetermined whether Meghan will show up for London Fashion Week, the Duchess is only likely to make an appearance if “it’s part of a wider plan”.
“Meghan and Harry’s brand has always been global, and a UK appearance could signal she’s ready to rebuild bridges, but on her own terms,” she said.
“Of course, the media reaction would be intense as her every outfit, smile and seat placement would be analysed. Handled well, it could be the moment that turns curiosity into cautious respect. Handled badly, it could reinforce the narrative she’s been trying to escape.
“I’ll be really interested to see if she takes that chance. A well-timed return could redefine how the public sees her but timing and tone will be everything.”
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