Rumors of Meghan Markle taking a $1,700 dress without permission from a 2022 photo shoot have surfaced. And, her spokesperson is finally speaking out against these claims.

In an exclusive statement to People, the representative said that there is no truth behind these allegations. She explained how harmful it could be to the Duchess of Sussex’s reputation. “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,” she told the publication.

The photo shoot in question was for promotional material to advertise her Netflix show, With Love, Meghan. The dress was a green Ushuaia dress by Galvan. The rumors first began to spread due to Markle wearing the same dress for a Variety session three years ago. It is unclear why people rushed to believe that she kept the dress without permission when she very well could have, as her spokesperson claimed.

Professionals in the industry have more or less defended Markle. They explained how it is actually a very common practice for people to keep the clothing from photo shoots. This is done so as to prevent things such as unapproved auctions and resales. . They added that this has occurred in the past for members of the royal family, which makes keeping the clothes far more likely than for anyone else. However, the royal family does not allow its members to keep the clothes for free, so, in addition to getting permission, Markle also paid for the wardrobe. After she became a working royal in 2018, she was given a budget to retain select items from shoots.

The Duchess of Sussex first wore the dress for both Variety’s shoot and an interview to honor Queen Elizabeth II after she passed away. Despite their strained relationship, she praised the late queen and how much respect she has for her both as an individual and a leader. “What’s so beautiful is to look at the legacy that his grandmother was able to leave on so many fronts. Certainly, in terms of female leadership, she is the most shining example of what that looks like. I feel deep gratitude to have been able to spend time with her and get to know her.“

The Christmas special of Markle’s Netflix show, With Love, Meghan: Holiday Celebration, will air on the streaming platform on December 3, 2025.