It's rare that we see Meghan Markle at all these days, so when she arrived in Nigeria to celebrate the anniversary of the Invictus Games over the weekend, I'm sure you can imagine our shared excitement over the prospect of getting multiple days (and, therefore, multiple outfits) with the famously well-dressed Duchess of Sussex. Now that photos from her trip have arrived, I can say with absolute certainty that she didn't disappoint.
To view a volleyball match at Nigeria Unconquered—a charitable organization in collaboration with the Invictus Games Foundation that helps wounded, injured, and ill service members—Markle, who attended alongside Prince Harry, wore an especially noteworthy look that included an already-viral striped, cutout sundress by Johanna Ortiz, oversize sunglasses by Heidi Merrick, and a bevy of Cartier jewelry. Those weren't even the pieces in the ensemble that stood out to me most. Rather, it was the actress, entrepreneur, and philanthropist's choice of footwear that caught my eye.
For the occasion, Markle ditched her usual Aquazzura and Manolo Blahnik footwear for a controversial pair of thong sandals courtesy of Emme Parsons. Recently, flip-flops and other elevated takes on thong sandals have begun creeping back into fashion's eyeline, with pairs by The Row being especially popular. Proenza Schouler featured pairs in its S/S 24 collection, and Bally followed suit for fall/winter 2024. Now that Markle's given the regularly debated shoe style her stamp of approval, I can only assume that worldwide fame is on the horizon for the split-toe trend. Scroll down to see her look in Nigeria and shop the growing thong-sandal trend.
On Meghan Markle: Johanna Ortiz Tropicana Nights Wool-Silk Midi Dress ($2850); Emme Parsons Cecilia Leather Thong Sandals ($450); Heidi Merrick Ex-Pat Frames ($225); Cartier Love Bracelet, Small Model ($4750) and Tank Française Watch ($22300)
Shop thong sandals:
I can't stop sending people these. They're just too good to gatekeep.
A timeless choice.
These new Reformation T-strap sandals come in so many chic colors.
The other color options of these Madewell thong sandals have already pretty much sold out. Don't let this pair be next without snagging one for yourself.
Staud always wins in the shoe department, but these red flip-flops are especially worthy of a gold medal.
Yes, you read that price right.
I started packing my lunch for the office so that I can save up for these burgundy flip-flops.
Just easy.
Okay, Zara—go off.
Simply perfect sandals if you ask me.
The square-toe detail on these Tkees flip-flops makes them look so much pricier.
For your next seaside vacation.
I really do think I need these.
I love how sleek and luxe these look for just $60.
Gimme, gimme, gimme.
Tory Burch has never once failed me in the shoe department (or any department for that matter).
You can just tell that these are comfy.
I'm loving the croc detailing here.
The real question is, Do I want these in brown or black or both?
-
Olivia Rodrigo's Outfit at Wimbledon Is Giving Uniform of the SummerA preppy spin on one of the biggest emerging trends of the season.
-
Black Heels Are Fine, But in France, Everyone Knows This Shoe Color Looks Better With White DressesSpotted at Versailles.
-
I'm Basically My Sister's Personal Stylist—36 Chic, Summer-Ready Zara Pieces I'm Sending Her WayPlus, some hot new arrivals.
-
The Expensive-Looking Sandal Trend Fashion Girls Are Wearing With Baggy Jeans and White T-ShirtsA highly chic outfit lies ahead.
-
Hailey Bieber Says Butter Yellow Is "Played Out"—Meet the Color Trend She's Backing InsteadIt's citrusy.
-
Put the Flip-Flops Down—These Classic Flat Sandals Make White Skirts Look Much PrettierThe simplest swap.
-
The $140 Boots London Fashion Girls Take Out of Storage Every Summer to Wear With Shorts and DressesFrom Kate Moss to Daisy Edgar-Jones.
-
A Black Amex, Flip-Flops, and This "Dated" Pant Trend—Meet Mary-Kate Olsen's Hamptons-Summer UniformYou'll never guess the pant trend.
