The Duchess of Sussex attended the Children’s Hospital Los Angeles 2024 Gala in the same dress she previously wore at a veterans event in 2021
Meghan Markle is sustainable and stylish!
The Duchess of Sussex, 43, made a surprise appearance at the Children’s Hospital Los Angeles 2024 Gala on Saturday, Oct. 5, and in an eco-friendly move, she opted for the same stunning red Carolina Herrera gown she wore back in 2021
Meghan looked sensational in the dress, designed with a plunging neckline design and a front slit, and red strappy heels as she posed for photos on the red carpet at the event, which was held in tribute to CHLA’s patients and hospital pediatric workers, per the organization’s website.
The striking Carolina Herrera gown was previously worn by Meghan in November 2021 when she and Prince Harry attended the Salute to Freedom gala honoring veterans at the Intrepid Museum in New York City ahead of Veterans’ Day in the U.S. and Remembrance Day in the U.K.
When Meghan sported the dress at the hospital gala on Oct. 5, one part of her look from her 2021 appearance in the gown was noticeably missing though — in the form of her glamorous train.
In 2021, Meghan wore the dress with a sweeping train in matching red, paired with red heels by Giuseppe Zanotti. She and Harry, 40, also wore a red poppy each, the symbol used since 1921 in commemoration of military members who died in the war.
At the CHLA gala, a smiling Meghan chatted and took photos with a family whose kids are patients at the hospital, as well as with a group of nurses from the hospital. She was later escorted out of the event by a side door by a staff member, after chatting to more guests as she made her exit.
Meghan previously led a Literally Healing session at the Children’s Hospital L.A. in March, and in an interview at the gala shared on Instagram, she described the hospital as the “best place in the world” for children to receive treatment.
“Oh my goodness, the work they do at Children’s Hospital L.A. is otherworldy, and I think from my standpoint as a mother, no one wants to be in a position where you need to go to a place like this, but if you have to, the best place in the world you could go would be Children’s Hospital L.A.,” she said.
“The staff is incredible, and the amount of work they do for families that really could not afford this level of care is something that I think should never be overlooked,” Meghan continued. “So I’m just grateful for everything they do,” she said, adding that she was, “happy to be here to support.”
Meghan also spoke about the importance of sustainable fashion, expressing her desire to make thoughtful choices when it comes to her wardrobe. “I think it’s important to show that you can be both stylish and conscious of the environment. Re-wearing pieces that you love is a small way to do that, and it’s something I’ve been committed to for years,” she shared in the interview.
Throughout the evening, Meghan was seen interacting with various hospital staff, volunteers, and donors. She made sure to thank them for their continued efforts and dedication to the children and families they serve. “It’s truly inspiring to see so many people come together with a shared passion for helping others,” she said.
Prince Harry was not present at the event, as he was reportedly attending an engagement in the UK, but he sent a message of support that was read aloud during the gala. In his statement, he commended the hospital staff for their “tireless and life-changing work” and expressed his gratitude for the impact they’ve had on so many families.
The event also featured performances by several young patients who shared their stories of hope and resilience. Meghan was seen applauding them warmly and later joined them for group photos, where she shared heartfelt words of encouragement.
The gala marked Meghan’s latest public appearance in support of children’s health, an issue she and Harry have championed for years. The couple’s Archewell Foundation has been involved with various healthcare initiatives, including partnerships with organizations focused on pediatric care and mental health services for children.
As the night concluded, Meghan was spotted speaking with hospital executives about future collaborations and ways to continue supporting CHLA’s mission. A representative for the Duchess later confirmed that she plans to work closely with the hospital on upcoming projects aimed at expanding access to healthcare services for children in need.
Reflecting on the evening, Meghan shared a heartfelt message on her social media account: “It was an honor to support Children’s Hospital L.A. and meet so many incredible people. Their strength and dedication are truly remarkable, and I am grateful to be a part of this community. Thank you for having me.”
