Meghan Markle has sparked online controversy after appearing at two exclusive Beverly Hills gatherings over the weekend without displaying a remembrance poppy.
Social media commentators noted the absence of the traditional symbol at both the charity Baby2Baby Gala and media mogul Kris Jenner’s milestone birthday celebration.
Prince Harry accompanied his wife to both events, sporting a red poppy on his dinner jacket in observance of Remembrance Day.
The contrast between the couple’s choices prompted immediate reaction across social platforms, with numerous users questioning why the former actress had chosen not to wear the commemorative emblem during the significant weekend.
Meghan Markle sparks heated debate over poppy decision unlike Prince Harry
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Online critics voiced their displeasure at the duchess’s decision to forgo the commemorative symbol.
“Meghan didn’t even pay respect with her husband and wear a poppy,” one social media user commented.
Another person questioned: “Where is Meghan’s remembrance day poppy? Why doesn’t she wear it?”
The absence of the traditional emblem on the duchess’s attire became a focal point of discussion amongst observers.
Meghan Markle and Serena Williams pictured at the Baby2Baby Gala
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Multiple social media accounts highlighted the disparity between the couple’s choices, with commentators expressing disappointment that the former Suits star had not matched her husband’s gesture during the remembrance period.
Several supporters countered the criticism by pointing to the duchess’s American heritage.
“Americans wear poppies on Memorial Day (May) in honor of veterans. She was poppy-less, rightfully so,” one defender stated.
“Meghan is American, that is possibly why she isn’t wearing a poppy,” another supporter noted.
A third person remarked: “Why would Meghan? She’s American, doesn’t live in England and it would spoil her beautiful top.”
Prince Harry wore a red poppy in honour of Remembrance Day
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The defenders emphasised that the duchess, as an American citizen, follows different commemorative traditions.
They argued that expecting her to observe British remembrance customs was unreasonable, given her nationality and current residence in California.
The Sussexes attended the annual Baby2Baby charity event in Beverly Hills, which supports children experiencing poverty.
The gathering attracted numerous celebrities, including tennis champion Serena Williams, who received the Giving Tree Award for her maternal health advocacy work.
Other notable attendees included Paris Hilton, Kerry Washington, Jessica Alba, Meghan Trainor and Demi Lovato. Tyler Perry, who serves as Princess Lilibet’s godfather, was also present at the fundraiser.
Meghan was also pictured with Kelly Sawyer Patricof and Norah Weinstein
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Following the charity gala, the couple proceeded to Ms Jenner’s James Bond-themed 70th birthday celebration.
Amazon founder Jeff Bezos and his partner Lauren Sánchez hosted the lavish party, which drew Oprah Winfrey, Ellen DeGeneres, Portia de Rossi, Mariah Carey and Martha Stewart.
The duke displayed his remembrance poppy on his formal dinner jacket throughout both occasions.
His wife opted for sophisticated all-black attire at the charity gala, maintaining the same ensemble for the subsequent birthday festivities.
The duchess selected a bespoke Balenciaga outfit. She accessorised with Aquazzura’s Black Tie Sandal 105 heels in espresso velvet, priced at £790, paired with the brand’s matching Bow Tie Velvet Clutch.
Her jewellery featured Aquazzura’s £450 Love Link Earrings, adorned with smoky topaz crystals. The pendant-style pieces, crafted in light gold-toned metal, extended to a dramatic jaw-grazing length.