'Radiant' Meghan Markle stuns in strapless dress for solo red carpet appearance

The Duchess of Sussex attended a fundraising gala on Saturday
Rebecca Carter

Meghan Markle looked stunning in a strapless dress as she graced a red carpet event, the 2026 Fifteen Percent Pledge Fundraising Gala, at the weekend.

The Duchess of Sussex, 44, attended the gala on Saturday (February 7) as it took place at Paramount Studios in Los Angeles.

The 15 Percent Pledge, a US-based non-profit organisation, encourages major retailers to dedicate 15 percent of their shelf space to Black-owned businesses. It was founded by Aurora James in 2020.

CNN anchor Abby Phillip hosted the 2026 gala at the weekend. It honoured Tina Knowles, mother of singer Beyoncé, for her work in empowering Black communities and creators.

Meghan wore a stunning custom strapless gown by Harbison Studio as she attended the event solo, without husband Prince Harry by her side.

Meghan Markle smiling in strapless dress at gala
The Duchess of Sussex looked simply stunning at the gala (Credit: John Salangsang/Shutterstock)

Meghan Markle stuns in strapless dress on red carpet

The duchess was a vision at the event. Her stunning oyster-hued, floor-length dress featured a sweetheart necklace with a black trim.

Meghan added a stunning floor-length black shawl, draped over her shoulders.

Everything is perfect: the dress, the makeup, her hair, her smile.

To complete the look, Meghan wore black strappy heels. Her brunette hair was styled perfectly in a sleek bun and she added statement black drop earrings to the look.

Meghan was among many famous faces, including her friend and entrepreneur Emma Grede, model Winnie Harlow, and singer Kelly Rowland.

As Meghan posed for photographs at the event, royal fans were stunned by her appearance.

Someone commented on X: “Queen Meghan, looks radiant and sooooo beautiful. The outfit is on fire.”

Meghan Markle and Emma Grede at gala
Meghan was joined by her friend, Emma Grede (Credit: John Salangsang/Shutterstock)

Another gushed: “Everything is perfect: the dress, the makeup, her hair, her smile.”

A third wrote: “What I love about Meghan is how she came in radiant. She looks genuinely happy to be there.”

Someone else said: “Duchess Meghan, the most beautiful woman wearing the most glamorous gown.”

Meghan’s latest public appearance comes at a time when the duchess is flourishing in the business world.

Last week, she announced the latest addition to her As Ever brand ahead of Valentine’s Day.

Meghan Markle smiling in black blazer at event
Meghan’s brand, As Ever, is gearing up for Valentine’s Day (Credit: Lev Radin/ZUMA Press/Cover Images)

Meghan Markle announces As Ever products ahead of Valentine’s Day

Meghan’s lifestyle brand announced a limited edition “Sweetheart Bundle”.

The Sweetheart Bundle includes the brand’s Signature Chocolate Collection, created in collaboration with Compartés chocolate. It also features As Ever’s raspberry and strawberry spreads.

The bundle costs $92 (around £67).

Alongside a photo of Meghan holding red balloons and another showing the bundle, As Ever’s Instagram account told fans: “A sweet surprise!

“Shop the Limited Edition Sweetheart Bundle featuring our Signature As ever x @compartes Chocolate Collection paired with our Raspberry and Strawberry Spreads in Keepsake Packaging — just in time for Valentine’s Day. A gift for yourself, or the one you love.”

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