Instead of receiving praise for her support of sick children, Meghan Markle is facing a wave of backlash from the online community for attending a children’s charity gala in what some have labeled as a “half naked” appearance.

Read on to discover why Markle’s outfit has sparked such controversy!

While Prince Harry was in South Africa addressing the HIV/AIDS crisis, Meghan Markle made a surprise solo appearance at the 2024 Children’s Hospital Los Angeles (CHLA) Gala, a fundraising event for pediatric patients and caregivers.

Hosted by actor Jon Cryer and TV personality Lisa Joyner, the star-studded gala, held biennially, boasted an impressive guest list including producer Chuck Lorre and former boxing champion Sugar Ray Leonard, alongside his wife, Bernadette.

Markle, with her long-standing connection to CHLA, was invited as a “special guest.”

In a social media interview, the 43-year-old Duchess of Sussex described the hospital as “the best place in the world” for children needing treatment.

“Oh my goodness, the work at Children’s Hospital L.A. is out of this world. As a mother, no one wants to be in a position where they need this kind of care, but if you must, this is the best place to be,” Markle shared, while walking the red carpet with her close friend Kelly McKee Zafjen, whose daughter Lily is a former patient.

On Instagram, Zafjen posted, “I’m so grateful to have shared this beautiful evening with one of my dearest friends. Meg, your commitment to supporting Children’s Hospital Los Angeles and the community is truly inspiring.”

‘Completely Inappropriate’ However, the public response wasn’t as warm as Zafjen’s, with many ignoring Markle’s philanthropic efforts.

Markle arrived at the event in a strappy red Carolina Herrera gown, which she previously wore—without the dramatic train—at the 2021 Salute to Freedom Gala in New York alongside Prince Harry. This time, fans were less than impressed.

“Well, at least she recycles,” one user snidely commented. Another speculated, “She probably can’t afford new clothes anymore. She wore this same dress, and we criticized it then, and we’re criticizing it now.”

While some focused on her recycling of the dress, many took issue with the gown itself, saying it was too bold for the occasion.

One person questioned, “Why is she always showing so much skin, especially at events where it’s not appropriate?” Another remarked, “This dress doesn’t fit the event. Super inappropriate. She needs a new stylist—and a mirror.”

Another user bluntly stated, “That dress doesn’t suit this event. And she doesn’t look well. She should dress like a duchess.”

Others claimed Markle’s appearance was a ploy for attention.

“She only came for the media exposure,” one commenter said. Another added, “It’s all about publicity for her.”

But not everyone was critical.

Some fans praised Markle as a “natural beauty” who looked “absolutely stunning.”

One supporter noted, “She could save kids from a burning building, and some people would still criticize her. It’s strange.”

What’s your take on Markle’s appearance at the charity event? Share your thoughts and pass this story along to see what others think!