Meghan, Duchess of Sussex's appearance at a fashion show in Paris was kept totally secret so it would be a "beautiful surprise"

He told The Cut magazine: "Meghan and I met some years ago, and we've been texting ever since. She reached out and said she'd love to come to the show.

"There was no strategy or big orchestration. I didn't tell anyone she was coming because I wanted it to stay a surprise. In fashion, real surprises are rare, and this one was beautiful."

He added of the runway event: "I worked until the very last second before the show; it's how I manage my nerves. I was backstage talking to the girls, checking every look, encouraging them to deliver emotion.

"Then they said, 'Go'. I walked out, saw everyone standing, and I was overwhelmed - it was a wave of love. I scanned the crowd for my wife, the first person I wanted to see, but I couldn't find her in the packed room. It was deeply emotional, and I felt protected."

After her appearance at the show - which marked Meghan's first time at Paris Fashion Week - a representative for the royal told PEOPLE: "Over the years, the Duchess has worn a number of designs by Pierpaolo. They have worked closely together, collaborating on design for key moments on the world stage.

"She has long admired his craftsmanship and modern elegance, and tonight was no different.

"This evening reflects the culmination of many years of artistry and friendship, reflected in her support for his new creative chapter at Balenciaga."

Meghan also shared a video of behind-the-scenes clips from her trip to Paris showing her enjoying a decadent breakfast, using a language-learning app to brush up on her French, as well as the view of the Eiffel Tower from her luxury hotel room and a bouquet of flowers sent by the team at Balenciaga.

She also shared clips which showed her getting ready with her make-up artist Daniel Martin and heading out to the fashion show.

Meghan shared the video on Instagram and wrote: "About last night. Thank you @pppiccioli and @balenciaga. I've missed you [France] thanks for the love."