On September 20, 2025, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle attended the One805Live! benefit concert in Santa Barbara, an event dedicated to supporting first responders. Meghan wore an elegant Carolina Herrera halterneck dress, while Harry opted for a relaxed look with dark jeans and a black jacket. Meghan’s dress, featuring faux tortoiseshell buttons and a waist-cinching sash, quickly became the focus of online conversations, sparking both admiration and criticism.
Social media reactions were divided. Some praised Meghan’s style, calling her “stunning,” while others criticized the fit and design of the dress, with comments about it appearing wrinkled or unflattering. Comparisons even emerged with Melania Trump, who recently wore a Carolina Herrera gown to a royal state banquet hosted by King Charles III. Her look, though elegant, also received mixed feedback, with some admiring her bold color choice and others questioning its suitability for the formal occasion.
Despite the debate, both Meghan and Melania followed event dress codes. Meghan’s dress reflected California chic for a relaxed outdoor concert, while Melania’s floor-length gown aligned with the formal white-tie requirements of a state banquet. Fashion experts like Marian Kwei, a Vogue contributor, weighed in, noting that Melania’s strapless design was daring but did not break royal protocol.
While the evening’s purpose was to honor local heroes, much of the spotlight ended up on fashion discussions. Ultimately, both Meghan and Melania showcased their unique personal styles, sparking lively conversations about royal fashion, modern elegance, and how public figures navigate style expectations at high-profile events.