Designer Emilia Wickstead takes back criticism of Meghan Markle’s wedding dress

She says she is 'extremely saddened' by the comments

Fashion designer Emilia Wickstead has responded to claims that she accused the Duchess of Sussex's wedding dress designer - Givenchy's Clare Waight Keller - of copying one of her gowns.

Since Meghan Markle walked down the aisle, there has been a lot said about her wedding dress but not all of it has been favourable.

According to the Daily Mail Wickstead drew comparisons between her brand’s “Helene wedding dress” and Markle’s, which too featured long sleeves and a boatneck collar.

“Her dress is identical to one of our dresses,” Wickstead reportedly said.

“Apparently a lot of commentators were saying, 'It's an Emilia Wickstead dress.'”

It has also been claimed she criticised the gown for not fitting properly and shared her dislike of Markle’s trademark messy bun.

The publication did not clarify where or when Wickstead gave the quote but just days later the designer has responded with a direct statement.

While she doesn’t deny making the comments, Wickstead says that she was “extremely saddened by them.”

“I am extremely saddened by commentary that has appeared in the press and online over the past few days,” she wrote in a statement posted to Instagram.

“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 the 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.”

Reactions to the statement have been mixed with many questioning the authenticity of the designer’s response.

"That's a non apology apology. And it's a bit too late to backpedal on your previous comments. Sometimes a simple apology undoes the damage the best," one person wrote.

Another added: “The Royal Family will probably never wear her garments again. Big mistake.”

Others jumped to Wickstead’s defence insisting that she didn’t deserve the backlash for her comments.

“Emilia keep your head high. Everyone criticising you must have said worse to themselves, friends or even family,” one person commented.

Another added: “Kate was criticised equally and worse by many other fashion power players.

“I don’t remember a backlash for it. And it’s not necessary.”