Not sure I have anything novel to add, but yes the color is striking- Meghan is meant to wear jewel tones. I think I've even said that before on this thread. I liked the burgundy shoes with the red dress as well.
I dislike the top part of the dress, because of the obvious fit and tailoring issues. I know that particular material can wrinkle easily, but it's clear from the back that a good tailor should have been involved. If it was made for Meghan personally, then the design house should be embarressed. This wasn't up to what I expected from Carolina Herrera.
I'm personally not a fan of center slits, because they can cause havoc when you sit down, but to each their own. However, I do like the skirt otherwise- it walked really well at an event where Meghan would be photographed walking.
I think the poppy would have looked a little smarter with a different placement, but ultimately, the design of the top didn't lend itself well to a poppy/broach, and it would look "off" wherever it was pinned. It looked like a last-minute thought, though I seriously doubt it was.
Her makeup is lovely, but I would have gone with a stronger lip color and a slightly less dramatic wing. The ballerina bun was the perfect hair for the dress.