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Meghan Markle dazzles in jaw-dropping red gown at NYC gala

The Duchess of Sussex looked incredible at the glittering gala

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Kate Thomas
Lifestyle Managing Editor
Updated: November 11, 2021
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Meghan Markle put in a stunning appearance at the Intrepid Museum's 2021 Salute to Freedom gala in New York on Wednesday night. 

MORE: The real reason why Prince Harry and Meghan Markle are not on social media

The 40-year-old royal dazzled in a show-stopping fire-engine red gown by Carolina Herrera and slingback heels by Giuseppe Zanotti.

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The Duchess of Sussex stole the show

The mother-of-two – who welcomed daughter Lilibet Diana in June – joined her husband Prince Harry at the event, where he presented the inaugural Intrepid Valor Awards to five service members, veterans and military families.

The Duchess of Sussex stole the show as she arrived on board the historic aircraft carrier Intrepid in her gorgeous gown which featured a deep neckline, with a pleated skirt and thigh-high split that ran up the middle of the gown.

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She accesorised with a diamond tennis bracelet once owned by Princess Diana, Maison Birks' earrings, as well as a poppy to honor Veteran's Day in the US and Rememberance Day in the UK.

harry and meghan gala© Photo: Rex

Harry gave a speech and spoke about living "the American dream"

She wore her hair in a chic updo that showed off her natural makeup.

The dress may have been custom-made for Meghan, but we found several options for those that may be looking for something just as dramatic this holiday season.

coast red dress

GET THE LOOK: Cross back jacquard dress, £47, Coast

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coast dress

GET THE LOOK: Bardot Scuba Midi Dress, £53.40, Coast

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karen millen red dress

GET THE LOOK: Curve Compact Stretch Viscose Waterfall Dress, £157.50, Karen Millen

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lulu dress

GET THE LOOK: Lulus Tempting Fate Cutout Dress, £45.56 ($58), Nordstrom

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The Cross back jacquard dress and Bardot Scuba Midi Dress by Coast are more budget-friendly options - and both are currently in the sale - while the Curve Compact Stretch Viscose Waterfall Dress by Karen Millen offers a maxi style with a flowing skirt to mimic the train on Meghan's.

harry and meghan smiling© Photo: Rex

The couple shared a sweet moment together

The event comes the day before Armistice Day in the UK, known as Veterans Day in the US. The gala recognises extraordinary leadership and honuors the brave men and women who have served in defence of the United States of America.

Harry served in the Army for ten years, during which time he carried out two frontline tours of Afghanistan.

Earlier this week, Meghan took part in an online conference hosted by the New York Times.

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The former Suits star was one of the key speakers at the forum, wearing a simple black cashmere jumper with three-quarter length sleeves, and wide-legged black trousers paired with a Gancini Twisted Buckle Leather Belt by Ferragamo that retails for $595.

meghan markle back dress© Photo: Rex

A look at Meghan's stunning red gown

During the event, Meghan was joined by American businesswoman, Mellody Hobson, who is President and co-CEO of Ariel Investments, and chairwoman of Starbucks Corporation.

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