‘Dress Is Not Appropriate’: Users Slam Meghan Markle, 43, for Wearing ‘Ill Fitting’ Dress at Children’s Hospital Gala

Meghan Markle | Source: Getty Images

The 43-year-old royal turned heads at a children’s charity gala, but it didn’t take long for photos of her outfit to spark debate online, with one commenter claiming she was “half naked [sic].”

Meghan Markle attended the Children’s Hospital Los Angeles Gala on October 5, wearing a striking red gown with a deep plunging neckline and thin straps. Her appearance sparked mixed reactions online.

A netizen’s reaction to Meghan Markle’s outfit at the Children’s Hospital Los Angeles Gala, posted in October 2024 | Source: Instagram.com/justjared

The “Suits” alum’s form-fitting dress, paired with matching red open-toe heels, was completed with soft waves in her hair and minimal makeup, emphasizing her natural beauty.

Meghan Markle attends the 2024 Children’s Hospital LA Gala in Los Angeles on October 5, 2024 | Source: Getty Images

Meghan was one of many high-profile attendees at the prestigious event, which aimed to raise funds and honor the hospital’s patients and caregivers . Among those present were philanthropists Francis and Ella Nelson, along with other notable guests who gathered to support the cause.

Meghan Markle with Francis and Ella Nelson,at the 2024 Children’s Hospital LA Gala on October 5, 2024 | Source: Getty Images

During the event, Meghan took the opportunity to highlight the incredible work done by the Children’s Hospital Los Angeles. In a recent interview, she expressed admiration for the hospital’s services.

Meghan Markle expresses admiration for the services at the Children’s Hospital Los Angeles, posted on October 7, 2024 | Source: x.com/extratv

“Oh my goodness, the work that they do at Children’s Hospital L.A. is otherworldy, and I think from my standpoint as a mother, no one wants to have 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 .

However, despite the event’s focus on children’s healthcare, Meghan’s outfit became a point of contention for some observers. One netizen quickly commented , “Why is she half naked [sic] at every opportunity in places where less skin is appropriate.”

Meghan Markle at the 2024 Children’s Hospital LA Gala in Los Angeles on October 5, 2024 | Source: Getty Images

Another expressed discontent, “The dress is not appropriate for that event. And she looks sick. Dress like a duchess.” Others found the dress ill-suited for the event, with one user remarking , “Ill fitting [sic] dress. This is wayyyyy [sic] off for a children’s gala. She should definitely hire a stylist.”

Meghan Markle at the 2024 Children’s Hospital LA Gala in Los Angeles on October 5, 2024 | Source: Getty Images

Criticism continued to roll in, as one added , “Only Meghan would wear a skimpy gown to a children’s charity event. No decorum whatsoever.” Someone else pointed out that Meghan’s outfit lacked decency.

A netizen’s comment to Meghan Markle’s outfit at the Children’s Hospital Los Angeles Gala, posted in October 2024 | Source: Instagram.com/people

Despite the criticism, Meghan’s supporters quickly came to her defense, praising her style and presence. “There’s nothing inappropriate about that dress people, relax. It’s a charity gala, not a charity family picnic,” a fan retorted .

Meghan Markle at the 2024 Children’s Hospital LA Gala in Los Angeles on October 5, 2024 | Source: Getty Images

One fan gushed , “Meghan looks beautiful and younger every day 😍,” while another wrote , “Just gorgeous and Meghan, Thank you for showing up- time and time again ❤️ [sic].” Another admirer declared , “Princess Meghan is gorgeous inside and out 🔥❤️.”

Meghan Markle at the 2024 Children’s Hospital LA Gala in Los Angeles on October 5, 2024 | Source: Getty Images

This isn’t the first time Meghan has chosen this bold red gown for a high-profile event. She previously wore it at the Salute to Freedom Gala in November 2021 in New York City, alongside her husband, Prince Harry.

Meghan Markle smiles beside Prince Harry at the 2021 Salute to Freedom Gala in New York City on November 10, 2021 | Source: Getty Images

Both versions of the dress featured plunging necklines and thigh-high slits, though the 2021 gown had a more structured, voluminous skirt. Meanwhile, Harry complemented her look with a classic black tuxedo and his military medals prominently displayed on his chest.

Prince Harry and Meghan Markle attend the 2021 Salute to Freedom Gala in New York City on November 10, 2021 | Source: Getty Images

Meghan’s outfit choices continue to face online scrutiny, as seen during her four-day trip to Colombia in August with her husband. While she showcased vibrant dresses and tailored suits, some fans criticized one look, comparing it to pajamas.

A user comments on the appearance of Meghan Markle’s outfit during her third day in Colombia, from a post dated August 16, 2024 | Source: x/Lily_Garcia_11/

Meghan and Harry’s trip began on August 15, and they looked incredible in their chosen attires. Some of Meghan’s outfits combined the country’s vibrant fashion with the business-like formality of her official state visit. On August 18, she wore a pumpkin spice toned silk shirt by Victoria Beckham.

Prince Harry and Meghan, Duchess of Sussex attend the “Responsible Digital Future” forum at EAN University in Bogota, Colombia on August 15, 2024 | Source: Getty Images

In 2020, Meghan wore the same brown silk top for a “Time 100” special on ABC, where she spoke about the importance of voting .

During her Colombian trip, she styled the silk shirt differently. She embraced a monochromatic palette and slipped into a pair of silky Colby Pants by La Ligne, with the shade name spice.