At the 2024 ESPY Awards, Meghan Markle made headlines not just for her presence but also for her fashion choice, which drew mixed reactions from fans and critics alike.
Sporting a custom Oscar de la Renta gown, Meghan opted for a high neck halter top paired with a flowing skirt.
The dress bore a striking resemblance to her iconic Stella McCartney wedding reception gown from 2018, raising eyebrows and igniting discussions on the red carpet.
Her ensemble featured draped fabric around the neck, a departure from the fitted neckline of her previous wedding dress.
While she kept accessories minimal, Meghan dazzled with emerald cut diamond stud earrings valued at around $450,000, alongside her ex-husband’s Cartier love bracelet worth $7,350, and her wedding and engagement rings.
She completed her look with strappy black heels that highlighted a pale pink pedicure, perfectly complemented by a neutral nail polish.
Styled by Jamie Mahe, who has worked with stars like Adele and Jennifer Lawrence, Meghan’s appearance was further enhanced by Daniel Martin’s makeup artistry, creating a natural look that aimed to complement her attire.
However, despite the high-profile styling team, some critics were less than impressed, describing her outfit as bland and poorly fitted, particularly around the hips.
In a strategic move, Meghan and Prince Harry opted to skip the red carpet, likely due to the ongoing controversy surrounding Harry’s award.
Nevertheless, Meghan did take the opportunity to showcase her dress in front of cameras after Harry’s on-stage appearance, posing for photos with tennis legend Serena Williams backstage.
The contrast between their physiques drew attention, with Meghan’s petite frame and broader shoulders compared to Serena’s athletic build.
Critics were quick to point out that the high neckline of Meghan’s gown didn’t flatter the stiffer fabric, leading to unflattering puckering around the hips.
Despite her efforts to shine, other attendees seemed to steal the spotlight.
Libby Dunne, the National Champion gymnast from Louisiana State University, was hailed for her stunning red carpet look, arriving in a plated gold halter neck gown by Sherri Hill that embraced a 1970s vibe with its metallic hues.
Dunne accessorized her eye-catching gown with a chain link bracelet and platform heels, completing her look with a half-updo adorned with gold leaf chips.
Her subtle makeup, featuring brown eyeshadow and a n-de lip, allowed her outfit to take center stage.
Meanwhile, the event’s host, Serena Williams, turned heads in a form-fitting silver and black gown, showcasing her signature bouncy waves and glamorous style.
Lindsey Vonn also made a statement in a striking yellow diamond dress that featured a daring side cutout and thigh-high slit.
She paired her look with strappy black heels and cascading curls, proving her fashion prowess on the red carpet.
Halle Bailey sizzled in a black and gold mini dress, accentuating her figure with strappy black heels and a delicate gold necklace inscribed with her son’s name, Halo.
Rapper Quavo turned up the heat in a sultry black dress with a front cutout, flaunting her toned abs while accessorizing with black heels and a silver lariat necklace.
As the night unfolded, it became clear that Meghan’s appearance, while noteworthy for its resemblance to her wedding attire, was overshadowed by the bolder fashion statements made by other celebrities.
Ultimately, Meghan Markle’s choice of gown at the ESPYs sparked a lively fashion debate.
