Vogue chief makes determined push for Princess of Wales, but Catherine declines again
Anna Wintour is said to have set her sights on Catherine, Princess of Wales for the 2026 Met Gala, following reports that Meghan Markle and the Duke of Sussex were not invited to fashion’s biggest night.
According to royal commentator Rob Shuter, Wintour made a very deliberate effort to secure Catherine’s appearance at the star-studded event, scheduled for May 4. Despite the strong push, Catherine is said to have declined the invitation once again, citing personal reasons.
The Met Gala, overseen by Wintour in her role at Vogue, will be co-chaired this year by Beyoncé, Nicole Kidman, and Venus Williams, adding even more star power to the annual fundraiser.
Insiders suggest Wintour sees Catherine as a standout figure who could easily dominate the red carpet. One source claimed she remains “the one guest Anna wants most but has never been able to secure,” describing the pursuit as something close to an ongoing fixation.
Part of that interest is tied to history. Catherine’s appearance on the Met steps would inevitably draw comparisons to Princess Diana, whose 1996 Met Gala look remains one of the most talked-about moments in fashion history. That night, Diana wore a sleek navy Dior slip dress paired with striking sapphire jewellery, pieces that later became associated with Catherine’s own royal collection.
Still, sources insist the motivation goes beyond nostalgia. For Wintour, Catherine represents what one insider called “the ultimate prize” for the event.
These claims surfaced shortly after reports suggested Meghan Markle and Harry were left off the 2026 guest list. According to insiders, tensions between Meghan and Wintour may have played a role, with the editor reportedly unimpressed by the couple’s public image and approach since stepping back from royal duties.
While none of the invitations or decisions have been officially confirmed, the ongoing speculation continues to add intrigue to one of fashion’s most closely watched nights.
