The first day of Meghan Markle and Prince Harry’s visit to Colombia was meant to be a goodwill tour, highlighting their global influence and dedication to charitable causes. However, it quickly devolved into a fashion misstep that captured more attention than any of the day’s intended engagements. What began as a seemingly innocuous day of events spiraled into controversy, with Meghan’s choice of attire becoming the focal point of criticism.
The day started with the royal couple attending a performance at the National Center for the Arts in Bogotá. Meghan appeared in a sleek, sleeveless Veronica Beard suit paired with Manolo Blahnik heels, presenting an image of understated elegance. This initial choice was well-received, especially during their subsequent visit to a local school. However, things took a turn when Meghan opted for a wardrobe change later in the day.
In place of her earlier ensemble, Meghan donned a Navajo Weaver dress by Colombian designer Johanna Ortiz. The dress featured a metallic-threaded Navajo pattern with blush pink panels and burgundy details, complete with a cutout bodice and a daring front slit. While the dress itself was a bold and eye-catching piece, it was deemed inappropriate for the context—especially as it was worn during a visit to a school filled with children.
The reaction was swift and critical. Colombia’s Vice President, who was present during the visit, was reportedly unimpressed by Meghan’s sartorial choice. In a country where modesty is valued, particularly given its predominantly Catholic culture, Meghan’s outfit was seen as a cultural faux pas. The local press branded the dress as an “absolute disaster,” and many critics voiced their disapproval, noting that Meghan seemed more interested in making a fashion statement than respecting the customs of her host country.
The vice president’s reaction was telling. Captured in a now widely circulated photograph, she cast a sideways glance at Meghan’s dress, her expression a mix of disappointment and bemusement. The image has since become emblematic of the disconnect between Meghan’s intentions and the reality of her impact.
Critics were quick to point out that this wasn’t the first time Meghan’s fashion choices had sparked controversy during a diplomatic visit. “She always treats these visits like a fashion show,” one critic remarked, questioning the appropriateness of such attire for a woman of her stature and age. Another observer noted, “She dresses for attention, not for the occasion or the audience,” underscoring the perception that Meghan prioritizes her public image over the sensitivity of the context.
As day one of the tour drew to a close, it was clear that Meghan had left a lasting impression on Colombia—but not in the way she had likely intended. The vice president’s regret at extending the invitation was palpable, as the event, meant to strengthen ties and promote goodwill, had instead become a spectacle of sartorial misjudgment.
This misstep serves as a reminder of the fine line public figures must walk between self-expression and cultural respect. For Meghan, it was a lesson in the importance of understanding and adapting to the customs of the places she visits, especially when representing herself on a global stage.
