The Duchess of Sussex attended without her husband Prince HarryPhoto: © Getty Images

Meghan Markle reveals reason behind surprise LA gala appearance

When the Duchess of Sussex unexpectedly showed up at the LA Children’s Hospital Gala on Saturday, she delighted royal fans.

A number of well-known people, including Meghan’s friend Kelly McKee Zajfen, whom she has known for more than ten years, also attended the event alone.

 

Meghan recycled her Carolina Herrera gown
Photo: © Shutterstock

 

Since then, the 43-year-old has disclosed her visit’s purpose and explained how she was invited as a special guest.

“This weekend, Meghan, the Duchess of Sussex, attended the biennial Children’s Hospital Los Angeles (CHLA) Gala, an inspiring event dedicated to celebrating the exceptional services provided to children across LA,” according to an excerpt from the Duke and Duchess of Sussex’s official website.

“Invited as a special guest by CHLA’s president and CEO, Paul Viviano, the Duchess was proud to stand alongside esteemed guests in support of this vital cause.”

 

Meghan attended the Children’s Hospital Los Angeles Gala on Saturday evening
Photo: © Getty Images

 

Meghan’s team went into further detail about the mother-of-two’s relationship with the hospital elsewhere. A report said: “The Duchess has a long-standing connection with CHLA, having visited the hospital on several occasions to meet with patients, and participate in the annual Make March Matter campaign.”

It read: “Her presence at the gala underscored her commitment to advocating for the health and well-being of children around the world.”

The former Suits star dug into the archives for the glamorous occasion, pulling out her stunning red Carolina Herrera gown. Her dress, which had a low V-neck, a thigh split down the front, a fitted bodice, and a slimline silhouette, was perfect.

 

Meghan and Kelly have been friends since they were introduced by the Duchess’s ex-husband   Photo: © Getty Images

 

Meghan first donned the eye-catching dress in 2021 when she attended the Salute To Freedom Gala with Prince Harry. Her stunning gown made headlines at the time, drawing in admirers of royal fashion because of its unusually “daring” neckline—one that Meghan would never have worn if she hadn’t left the royal family.

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Meghan changed things up this year by taking off the overskirt, giving the ensemble a more modern feel.

 

Meghan first wore her vibrant gown in November 2021 at the Salute To Freedom Gala
Photo: © Getty Images

 

She accessorized her ensemble with a shimmering gold bracelet and a pair of strappy red heels. With regard to hair and cosmetics, Meghan styled her raven locks into carefree beachy waves and accentuated her features with a warm eyeshadow and a swipe of nude lipstick. Magnificent!

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