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?
-
Here They Are: The 6 Biggest Boot Trends of Fall 2025Exotic finishes! Sock boots! Western motifs!
-
My Mom Only Shops Affordable Fashion—I Sent Her These 27 Chic Rich-Looking Pieces for Fall 2025Everything is under $100.
-
Paris Hilton's World: Her Pink Motorola Razr, Favorite Y2K Looks, and What 11:11 Media Means to HerA glimpse into the life of this savvy entrepreneur.
-
After 2 Weeks in Italy, I'm Convinced I Need the Shoe Trend Every Chic Woman in Milan and Rome Was WearingForget ballet flats.
-
Sorry, White Skirts—Zoë Kravitz Just Wore the 2025 Alt That's About to Be All Over NYC This FallThe perfect choice if ballet flats will be your go-to shoes for the season.
-
This Timeless Shoe Trend Makes Every Black-Dress Outfit Look So '90sIt's an instant elevator, no matter the dress style. Just ask Jennifer Aniston and Rosie Huntington-Whiteley.
-
Not Classic Ballet Flats, Not Loafers—Everyone With Cool Style Will Be Wearing These Shoes With Black Trousers in Fall 2025As seen on Katie Holmes.
-
I Just Started Investing—31 Chic Pieces That Will Have Me Dressing the PartEffortless and elevated is the goal.
