Prince Harry and Meghan Markle have made their first red carpet appearance since the trailer of their new Netflix documentary was released.
On Tuesday, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex arrived at the 2022 Robert F Kennedy Human Rights Ripple of Hope Award gala in New York City, where they and other “exemplary leaders” will be honoured for their “unwavering commitment to social change”.
For the occasion, the duke wore a navy suit and matching tie over a white shirt, while the duchess wore a white off-the-shoulder dress with a slit. She completed her look with her hair tied back, long gold earrings, a black purse, and heels.
According to Vogue, Meghan Markle’s white dress was custom by Nicolas Ghesquière for Louis Vuitton.
The fashion magazine says it is the first time that Meghan has worn the French label at a high-profile public event. Meghan also wore an aquamarine ring from Princess Diana’s personal collection, which she also wore on her wedding day.
During the gala, which is being hosted by Alec Baldwin, the couple will be honoured alongside Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and late NBA legend Bill Russell for their work to “protect and advance equity, justice, and human rights”.
The awards are given to those who have “demonstrated an unwavering commitment to social change and worked to protect and advance equity, justice, and human rights,” according to the website, which adds: “At the helm of major corporations, this year’s laureates have prioritised equity, inclusivity, and sustainability in the workplace and the world.”
Ahead of the awards ceremony, Kerry Kennedy, the daughter of Robert and niece of John F Kennedy, revealed that the couple was chosen to receive the prestigious human rights award because of their “heroic stand” against “structural racism” within the British monarchy.
Kerry, a human rights lawyer, told Spanish online news site El Confidencial’s Vanitatis magazine, that the duke and duchess “went to the oldest institution in UK history and told them what they were doing wrong,” adding that it was a “heroic” step.
“They have stood up for racial justice and they have talked about mental illness in a way that was incredibly brave,” Ms Kennedy, the daughter of Robert F Kennedy, added on the blue carpet.
The couple’s attendance at the event comes just days before the release of the first three episodes of their highly anticipated Netflix docuseries on 8 December. The last three episodes of the six-part series will air on 15 December.
Alec Baldwin praised Harry and Meghan for their handling of the intense press focus on their relationship.
“I was kind of shocked for them to come here and do this,” the actor said on the gala’s blue carpet. “To handle difficult circumstances in the press without having too much difficulty. There’s always going to be certain difficulties.”
Baldwin joked that he might become “their driver” and lauded them for having “chosen a different path.”
“They’re newly arrived in the states. They haven’t been here that long. I think it’s great that they have agreed to support this cause which we’ve supported for years.”
Meanwhile, some Twitter users heaped praise on Meghan’s look at the event.
“Harry and Meghan look great! Meghan, in, White, looks like a goddess!” tweeted @sussexdaily.
“What a sight! Goddess Meghan. Beautiful,” tweeted another user.
