For those of you who know me, you know I am the friend who gets up to watch a Royal wedding live, even if it falls at five o’clock in the morning. There is something magical about having a glimpse into a fairy tale made real. It is fascinating to see the pageantry unfold for each unique couple while honoring tradition and individual taste with each bespoke detail.
Most recently, I woke up early to watch the broadcast of Princess Eugenie marry Jack Brookbank at St George’s Chapel. Equally as wonderful as the pageantry of these events are the dresses and Princess Eugenie’s choice was no exception. For the ceremony she wore a British designed gown by Peter Pilotto and Christopher De Vos. The silhouette was modern and feminine with neckline that folded around the shoulders and a low back that draped into a full-length train. Princess Eugenie chose a dress with a low back and no veil, so as not to hide the scars from the surgery she had at age 12 for scoliosis. Her choice was refined and elegant and really showcases the evolution of her personal style.
Like Meghan Markle and Kate Middleton, Princess Eugenie chose to change into an evening gown for her reception. The blush gown by American fashion designer Zac Posen was striking and unexpected. The construction of the garment was impeccable between the pleating and the subtle embroidery on the shoulders. Princess Eugenie’s gown was alluring and another reflection of how she has really come into her own style.
Back in May, at the same venue, St George’s Chapel, Prince Harry married Meghan Markle. Megan Markle’s minimal and streamlined Givenchy wedding gown by Clare Waight Keller was a refined and tasteful choice. Her dress was made of silk with three-quarter-length sleeves, and boat neckline. She had a large budget to work with and chose not to use it all, which is reflective of her and Prince Harry’s values. The sleek lines of Meghan’s dress photographed beautifully, and it is a perfect example of timeless elegance. Unlike Eugenie, Meghan did choose to wear a veil with her dress and it had all of the intricate details that her dress did not. Her veil was hand embroidered on its hem with the 53 flowers representing the Countries in the Commonwealth, as well as, the California Poppy and Wintersweet.
For an evening look, Meghan wore a bespoke white silk Stella McCartney evening dress featuring a high halter neck and sexy open back. This dress has a high fashion, celebrity star quality to it, and while sexy it remains very tasteful.
When it comes to tasteful, Kate Middleton’s wedding dress was simple, elegant, and inspired by tradition. Kate chose a gown by Sarah Burton at Alexander McQueen featuring long lace sleeves, a v-neckline and an epic train that ran just under 9 feet. The lace for Kate’s dress was crafted at the Royal School of Needlework, along with her long veil. Her veil was made from ivory silk tulle with hand-embroidered flowers along its trim. The length of Kate’s veil was a sweet tribute to Princess Diana. Like Queen Elizabeth and Princess Diana, Kate Middleton’s wedding dress will be the inspiration of brides for many years to come.
Sarah Burton for Alexander McQueen also designed Kate’s evening look. A bespoke ivory satin dress featuring a sweetheart neckline and a diamante belt, paired with a cream angora bolero cardigan. The luster of the satin was regal; the cut of the dress was refined; the bolero was purposeful yet playful.
