Friday, April 29, 2011

A Royal Wedding To Remember

Prince William and Princess Catherine Emerge after the ceremony
(Photo: AP)

  After many weeks of speculation, Kate Middleton's dress was finally revealed for the world to see.  It's amazing it was kept a secret for so long during the day of Internet and social media.  Her dress was created by Sarah Burton, the head designer for the House of Alexander McQueen.  The gown was very understated and not typical of a Sarah Burton design.  Her work is usually more dramatic and over the top.  The dress was very elegant, regal and had a very retro feel to it.  With a fitted bodice and lace overlay that was a combination of English and Chantilly lace, many have compared the look to the dress worn by Grace Kelly in 1956 at her wedding to the Prince Ranier III of Monaco. 

  Middleton wore something borrowed from the Queen, a halo tiara from Cartier.  Originally purchased by King George VI, it was given to Queen Elizabeth on her 18th birthday.  Her diamond-drop earrings were a gift from her parents and they were a beautiful complement to what she was wearing.  Although a very modern woman, she was a very traditional looking bride.  Quite simple.

  As for Prince William, he stayed true to tradition wearing a uniform.  It was the uniform of the Colonel of the Irish Guards.  It was red with a gold sash and sword slings; even though he did not wear a sword.  His uniform was created by Kashket and Partners, a London uniform company.



Grace Kelly (left) and Kate Middleton in similarly styled gowns.
Photo: Everett Collection; Chris Jackson/Getty Images


Kate waves to the crowd just before entering Westminster Abbey
while her sister and Maid of Honour, Pippa Middleton, holds her train.
Photo: Alastair Grant/AP

The 'halo' tiara was made by Cartier in 1936 and presented to Princess Elizabeth (now The Queen) by her mother on the occasion of her 18th birthday, according to the official royal wedding website.
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The tiara was purchased by King George VI three weeks before he succeeded his brother as King.
Princess Catherine wearing a 1936 Cartier Tiara loaned to her from the Queen.
Photo: Chris Jackson/Getty Images

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