By Joey Cahue
The wedding bells are ringing with Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s wedding just around the corner on May 19th. From the vows, to the guests, to the scenery, everything about the wedding is grabbing headlines. But, royal fashion is arguably the most speculated piece of information people are trying to figure out, specifically who will design Meghan’s dress.
Royal weddings aren’t your average weddings, and if you think you’ve seen outrageously priced, yet beautiful dresses on hit shows like Say Yes to the Dress, then think again. The royals go all out for their weddings and dominate their walk down the aisle in style.
Months of planning for the big day and reveal of the gown come with a laundry list of priorities. With choosing a dress for the monarchy, sophistication and class are two major key factors. Sleeves are a favorite, ivory is adored, but a bride still has her personal preferences in what she feels most beautiful in for her big day. Does she lean towards mermaid or A-line? Is she seeking a traditional or modern look? A princess-to-be must represent the royals well, which is why choosing a dress for them is a tedious process.
There are copious amounts of hype from every guest (or TV viewer pretending to be there) as we impatiently wait for the big gown reveal. All eyes are on them when they grace us with their beauty, so making the dress memorable yet appropriate is the real goal here. Let’s look at what some of the monarchial goddesses wore over history.
Kate Middleton’s Alexander McQueen gown:
The Duchess of Cambridge’s gown was a show stopper at her wedding back in 2011. She left everyone speechless while stepping out in this modern-yet-traditional piece. Sleeves, A-line, lace, and a classy V-neck. This dress was worth the anticipation considering it’s worth $434,000. Unfortunately, McQueen’s creation (which was designed by Sarah Burton) is not up for grabs and even if it were, I don’t think my wallet could afford a thread from this work of art.
Princess Diana’s David Emanuel gown:
This gown needs its own zip code because wow, what a statement! The silky David Emanuel gown was worn by Princess Diana in 1981, which could explain the puffy sleeves. Everything about the gown is traditional and old-fashioned. Although it wasn’t as pricey as Kate’s, the gown is reported to cost $115,000.
I take it that Kate and sister Pippa could’ve shared clothes back then because Pippa’s wedding dress is somewhat like Kate’s. The A-line gown isn’t too big and has a form-fitting top with lace. The neckline isn’t plunging like Kate’s, but the mock turtle neck is elegant and fits the occasion. The price doesn’t throw us into an absolute frenzy like Kate’s did, but still comes out to be $48,828. Is it worth it to start saving now?
Sarah Ferguson’s Lindka Cierach gown:
Photos won’t do this dress justice. The beautiful gown had a 17-foot-long train and scoop neckline. The waistline is a bit higher than most, but it works for Sarah and compliments her figure well. The famously puffy sleeves are on this dress too. The price wasn’t listed, but we could assume that it was an investment.
Related Reading: More Royal Fashion Coverage:
Kate Middleton’s Red Dress Sells Out
Meghan Markle Loves Canadian Brand Aritiza
Kate Middleton’s $70 Gap Pants