Meghan Markle Shines With Purpose at Fifteen Percent Pledge Gala

Published 02/08/2026, 2:22 PM EST

Meghan Markle always knows how to make an entrance and stop the show. Whether it is on screen in a lifestyle show or a charity event, the Duchess of Sussex beams with an aura of refreshing poise that dispenses a transformative royalty. Recently, in an event honoring an equally important personality, Markle dropped by, displaying her sheer elegance at the Annual Fifteen Percent Pledge Fundraising Gala. 

Take a closer read into her fabric of excellence that screams purpose with a tasteful presence. 

Meghan Markle's jaw-dropping old Hollywood glam at 15 Percent Gala

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Founded by Aurora James, the Annual Fifteen Percent Pledge Fundraising Gala took place at Paramount Studios in Los Angeles. It brought together glamor and strong beliefs, as the attendees showed their commitment to making a better world via community empowerment and economic equity building. Meghan Markle stole the show with her striking entrance at the event, dressed in a Harbison Studio white strapless structured column skirt with a sweetheart neckline, flaunting black piping.

Markle made a fashion statement with her designer gown designed by Charles Harbison for the Black-owned studio. Her appearance combined both old Hollywood charm and modern elegance through her fierce black velvet and silk cape, her polished chignon hairstyle, and her simple jewelry. 

The event, which took place at Paramount Studios, combined celebrity power with a charitable mission. The attendees of the event followed a Black Tie, Black Designer dress code, which helped Black fashion designers gain recognition while promoting the event's goal to enhance visibility of Black-owned businesses. The gala proceeds provide financial support for the Pledge, which works to help Black entrepreneurs through its advocacy programs. 

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Markle's gown was, however, not the only highlight of the event, as she came in sweeping with her fluttery black eyelashes and a smooth, smoky eye, to serve a greater purpose.

Everything to know about the 15 Percent Gala

Born as a nonprofit viral 2020 Instagram post by Brother Vellies' creative director, Aurora James,  the gala this year honored Ms. Tina Knowles. It brought together influencers and creators with changemakers who worked to support Black-owned businesses. 

"She’s done a fantastic job of centering black women for the entirety of her career. She has consistently believed in that representation from day one and has been a strong advocate for Black-owned businesses for years," James told Forbes, praising honoree Knowles. 

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The Fifteen Percent Pledge requires major retailers to dedicate 15 percent of their shelf space and purchasing power to Black-owned brands, which serves as a powerful movement to achieve economic justice within the retail industry. While Prince Harry did not accompany Meghan Markle, other attendees of the event included Keke Palmer, Law Roach, Winnie Harlow, and Tina Knowles.

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What are your thoughts on Meghan Markle's outfit? Let us know in the comments.

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Ipshita Chakraborty

606 articles

Ipshita Chakraborty is an entertainment writer at Netflix Junkie. Offering thoughtful and compelling storytelling, they cover everything Hollywood and trending, from the latest streaming sensations to behind-the-scenes buzz. With about 7 years of writing experience for online media, Ipshita brings their voice to the coverage through industry analysis and cultural critique, a strength evident in prior work, such as their views on why the Michaela gender swap was needed in Bridgerton.

Edited By: Hriddhi Maitra

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