Meghan Markle made a striking appearance at the 2024 ESPY Awards in a white dress that drew significant attention for its resemblance to her iconic Stella McCartney reception gown from her 2018 wedding.
This time, Meghan opted for a custom creation by Oscar de la Renta, featuring a high-neck halter top and a long flowing skirt, mirroring the design of her wedding reception dress. However, this new dress had draped fabric around the neck, contrasting with the more fitted neckline of the Stella McCartney gown.
Meghan complemented her look with minimal accessories, including Lorraine Schwartz emerald-cut diamond stud earrings valued at approximately $450,000, her ex-husband's Cartier Love bracelet worth $7,350, her wedding and engagement rings, and a large golden diamond ring on her other hand. She completed her ensemble with strappy black heels, which showcased a pale pink pedicure that matched her neutral nail polish. Her look was styled by Jamie Mizrahi, who also works with celebrities like Adele, Jennifer Lawrence, and Nicole Richie. Daniel Martin was responsible for her makeup, creating a natural look that complemented the dress.
Despite the high-profile styling team, some critics felt the outfit was unremarkable, noting its similarities to her previous gown and describing the look as bland and poorly fitted around the hips. In a move likely influenced by the ongoing controversy surrounding Prince Harry's award, Meghan and Harry chose to skip the red carpet. However, Meghan did get the opportunity to showcase her dress in front of the cameras after her husband's appearance on stage, posing for photos with Serena Williams backstage. Standing next to Serena, Meghan's proportions drew attention. While she is petite, her broader shoulders were comparable to those of the tennis star. Critics also commented on her choice of a high neckline, which they felt did not suit the stiff fabric of the dress. The gown appeared too tight around the hips, causing it to pucker rather than gently hug her figure.
Despite Meghan's efforts, she couldn't outshine other notable attendees. Olivia "Livvy" Dunne, the Louisiana State University national champion gymnast, was crowned with the best red carpet look at the 2024 ESPYs. Dunne made a dazzling entrance in a pleated gold halter neck gown by Sherri Hill, featuring a keyhole cutout. Her dress embraced 1970s trends with its metallic hues and shimmery fabrics. She accessorized with a chain link bracelet and peep-toe platforms, wearing her blonde hair in a half-updo adorned with gold leaf clips. Her makeup was subtle, with brown eyeshadow, a mauve lip, and matching blush.
The night's host, tennis superstar Serena Williams, also turned heads in a form-fitting silver and black gown. She wore her light blonde hair in bouncy waves, enhancing her glamorous look. Lindsey Vonn showcased a daring yellow dress with a side cutout and thigh-high slit, completing her look with strappy black heels and cascading curls. Halle Bailey sizzled in a black and gold mini dress paired with strappy black heels and a dainty gold necklace spelling out her son's name, Halo. Rapper GloRilla highlighted her washboard abs in a sultry black dress with a front cutout, accessorized with black heels and a silver lariat necklace.
Overall, Meghan Markle's appearance at the ESPYs, while drawing attention for its resemblance to her wedding reception gown, was overshadowed by other attendees who made bolder fashion statements. Her choice to skip the red carpet and the controversy surrounding Prince Harry's award further added to the subdued reception of her outfit.
