Emilia Wickstead responds to claims she accused Givenchy of copying Meghan Markle's wedding dress

Designer Emilia Wickstead has responded to claims that she criticised Meghan Markle’s wedding dress.

The New Zealand-born designer, whose designs are regularly worn by the Duchess of Cambridge, reportedly said Meghan’s bridal gown was “quite loose” when the fit should have been “perfect”.

Mail Online also claimed the designer thought the dress to be “identical” to one of her own creations.

Wickstead also took aim at Meghan’s hairdo, saying, “I was like, ‘Hold the wisps back – it’s a Royal Wedding for God’s sake.”‘

Speculation over who would design Meghan Markle’s royal wedding dress was rife for months. But, on Saturday 19 May it was revealed that Clare Waight Keller of Givenchy created the 36-year-old’s flawless, bateau neck gown.

While Keller hasn’t responded to Wickstead’s reported remarks, the latter took to Instagram this weekend to issue a formal statement addressing the comments.

“I am extremely saddened by the commentary that has appeared in the press and on-line over the past few days,” the letter reads.

“Her Royal Highness, the Duchess of Sussex looked absolutely beautiful on her wedding day and I have the utmost admiration and respect for her.

“I do not think that her wedding dress was a copy of any of our designs. I have the greatest respect for Clare Waight Keller and the House of Givenchy – a huge source of inspiration to me.

“I wish Their Royal Highnesses, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex a wonderful, happy and love filled life together. Emilia.”

The response to Wickstead’s statement has been mixed.

“Scared of a royal boycott are you?” commented one Instagram user.

Another wrote: “I can’t believe someone who dresses royal clients would bash one of them. Having a personal view is fine, but not publicly bashing her. So unprofessional and I hope they don’t wear your clothes again.”

Others supported the designer and her bravery in posting the statement. “Honestly, even if you make an apology you will received mean comments here,” commented one follower.

Emilia Wickstead’s history with the royal family

The designer’s been dressing royals for years now. The Duchess of Cambridge has worn ensembles by the label up to 10 times, including at key royal engagements such as St Patrick’s Day celebrations.

Meghan has also worn a look by the brand. The former actress donned a black, two-piece set in April for the Anzac Day Service at Westminster Abbey.

Wearing an appropriate outfit was more crucial than ever for that engagement as it was Meghan’s first time attending an official event with the Queen.

Sophie, Countess of Wessex has also been dressed by Emilia Wickstead. Prince Edward’s wife wore a pink midi dress by the designer for Ascot last year and a textured dress at the races in 2015.

Whether the royals will continue to support the label remains to be seen.

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