Meghan Markle made a striking red carpet last night, stepping out in a sleek navy gown for a glamorous night in Beverly Hills with her girl pals – but her latest look quickly set tongues wagging. The Duchess of Sussex, 44, attended the Alliance for Children’s Rights 34th Annual Champions for Children event at the Beverly Wilshire, alongside Kelly McKee Zajfen.

The sweeping Ralph Lauren design was undeniably elegant, and totalled to an eye-watering £3,000 sum. However, it quickly sparked a wave of mixed reactions online.

One user took to X, writing: “What a basic look for a basic woman.” Another referenced her post-royal comments when she said she avoided colour to blend in, sarcastically writing: “For someone who spoke so much about wanting to wear colour, it says it all.”

A third chimed in: “bland and basic, next.” However, not everyone shared the same view. Supporters were quick to praise the Duchess, with one fan writing: “Look at her smile, so beautiful.” Another added simply: “Cuties!”

The figure-hugging design featured a clean, strapless neckline and a streamlined silhouette that skimmed her frame, falling into a floor-length finish that felt both timeless and understated.

Keeping the focus on the dress, Meghan styled her hair in a sleek updo, allowing the neckline to take centre stage.

Her accessories followed suit, leaning into her signature pared-back aesthetic. She wore her iconic Cartier watch, stacked with a matching gold bangle, alongside simple gold chunky earrings.

Meghan appeared unfazed by the chatter as she beamed on the red carpet, stepping out to support her close friend Kelly McKee Zajfen, who is currently expecting a baby boy.

The Duchess was even seen playfully cradling Kelly’s baby bump as the pair posed together, offering a more personal glimpse into their longstanding friendship.

Kelly is part of Meghan’s inner circle and has remained a constant presence in her life over the years, even appearing in an episode of her Netflix series With Love, Meghan last year.

Speaking about their bond, Kelly reflected on their friendship and shared that Meghan has been consistently supportive throughout her life.

When asked about sharing the moment together at the event, Kelly explained that Meghan always “shows up” for her.

She continued to tell Hello: “Meghan is one of my best friends, and I’m honoured that she said yes [to presenting] and that she’s been along this journey with me as well. She supports the alliance and has been doing so for a few years now.

Referring to Meghan’s children, Prince Archie, six, and Princess Lilibet, four, she added: “She not only shows up for my family, but it’s a real privilege to be able to watch her mother too, and so it means a lot for her to be a part of this.”

The pair’s friendship dates back nearly two decades, having first met through Meghan’s former husband, Trevor Engelson.