Instead of praising Meghan Markle for supporting sick kids, the online community is slamming the Duchess of Sussex for appearing “half naked” at a children’s charity gala.
Keep reading to learn why fans are so heated over Markle’s outfit!
While Prince Harry was in South Africa discussing the HIV/AIDS crisis, Meghan Markle made a surprise solo appearance at the Children’s Hospital Los Angeles (CHLA) 2024 Gala, a fundraising event that supports pediatric caregivers and patients.
According to the hospital’s website, the star-studded event – held once every two years –was hosted by actor Jon Cryer and TV personality Lisa Joyner. Honored guests included producer Chuck Lorre (Two and a Half Men, Big Bang Theory) and former boxing champion Sugar Ray Leonard and his wife Bernadette.
Markle has a long-standing connection with CHLA and was “invited as a special guest.”
In an interview shared on social media, Markle, 43, describes 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.,” said the Duchess, who in her husband’s absence, walked the red carpet with her close friend Kelly McKee Zafjen.
On Instagram, Zafjen – whose daughter Lily is a former patient at the hospital – writes, “I was also beyond grateful to share in this beautiful evening with one of my closest friends. Meg, your commitment to supporting Children’s Hospital Los Angeles and community is truly inspiring. I’m so grateful to have you by my side.”
‘Super inappropriate’
Unfortunately, the public was not as kind as Zafjen and many fans failed to acknowledge the mother of two’s philanthropic efforts.
Markle showed up at the event with her locks effortlessly flowing over her toned shoulders, which were highlighted by the same strappy red Carolina Herrera gown – minus the dramatic train – that she previously wore.
She wore the bold red gown with a daring neckline in 2021 when she appeared alongside Prince Harry at the Salute to Freedom Gala in New York, and fans were not impressed.
“This is pretty bad, at least she recycles,” writes one netizen. A second offers their opinion on why Markle repurposed the dress: “Obviously she is out of money. She can longer afford new clothes. This dress she’s worn before with the big skirt…We criticized it then and we are criticizing it now.”
Many people glossed over the dress resurfacing and instead cast their judgements on her style, suggesting the gown was too risky for a children’s event.
One cyber user asks, “Why is she half naked at every opportunity in places where less skin is appropriate?” A second writes “this is a terrible fitting dress. Super inappropriate for this event as well. Get a new stylist and mirror.”
A third offers, “The dress is not appropriate for that event. And she looks sick. Dress like a duchess.”
Meanwhile, others suggest Markle made an appearance for some attention from the media.
“She was only there to support herself, trying to look relevant,” says one fan, while a second adds, “She doesn’t care, [it’s] all about publicity.”
A third notes, “She didn’t come to a charity children’s event, as always for the paparazzi.”
But not everyone was slamming the duchess.
Others said she “is such a natural beauty” and looked “absolutely stunning.”
“She could save a group of children from a burning building and a certain group of people would still say something negative about her. Strange,” adds another user.
What do you think of Markle’s appearance at the charity event? Please share your thoughts with us and then share this story so we can hear what others have to say!
The polarized reactions to Meghan Markle’s appearance at the Children’s Hospital Los Angeles Gala highlight the complex dynamics surrounding public figures and their fashion choices, especially in the context of charity events. While many individuals applaud her for her dedication to supporting a cause close to her heart, others feel compelled to critique her wardrobe, raising questions about appropriateness and intentions.
Critics of Markle’s outfit seem to focus heavily on her choice of attire, arguing that the daring neckline of her red gown was ill-suited for an event meant to honor sick children and their families. The backlash appears to stem from a combination of factors, including lingering resentment towards her and Prince Harry’s exit from royal duties, as well as a heightened sensitivity around public expectations of appropriate behavior and dress for charity events. Some netizens are clearly frustrated, insisting that such events require a level of decorum that they believe Markle did not meet.
In contrast, supporters of the Duchess argue that her fashion choices should not overshadow her philanthropic efforts. They point out that her longstanding relationship with the hospital and her passionate advocacy for children’s healthcare are far more important than the cut of her dress. “Why does her outfit matter when she’s supporting such a worthy cause?” questioned one commenter, emphasizing the essence of the event over the superficial aspects of her appearance.
Markle’s appearance at the gala was undoubtedly a significant moment, bringing attention to the work being done at Children’s Hospital L.A. Her heartfelt remarks about the hospital and its impact on families further underline her commitment to the cause, suggesting that her presence was motivated by genuine care rather than self-promotion. As she said, the hospital is the “best place in the world” for children in need, a sentiment that resonates deeply with those familiar with its mission.
Moreover, the contrast in reactions reflects broader societal trends around celebrity culture, gender norms, and the scrutiny public figures face. It raises questions about how women in the public eye, particularly those like Markle who have faced intense media scrutiny, are judged not only for their actions but also for their appearances. The double standard often observed in these situations calls for a more compassionate approach, recognizing that individuals can support noble causes while expressing their personal style.
As discussions around Markle’s outfit continue, it serves as a reminder of the complexities of public perception and the ongoing dialogue about fashion, femininity, and philanthropy. Whether in support or criticism, it is clear that Markle remains a figure of significant interest, and her choices will likely continue to spark conversations for years to come.
What are your thoughts on this situation? Do you believe her fashion choices detract from her philanthropic efforts, or should the focus remain on the important work being done at the hospital? Share your opinions below!
