The Royal Wedding of the Century
On April 29, 2011, the world watched as Prince William and Kate Middleton tied the knot in a grand ceremony at Westminster Abbey. The whole event was a fairytale come to life, with millions of people tuning in to watch the nuptials of the future king and queen. The bride, now known as Duchess Kate, stunned in her Alexander McQueen wedding gown, but it was her reception dress that really stole the show.
The Dress that Dazzled
After the ceremony, the newlyweds made their way to Buckingham Palace for their reception. When Kate stepped out of the car, the world gasped as they caught their first glimpse of her second dress. The stunning gown was designed by Sarah Burton for Alexander McQueen, the same designer who created her wedding dress. The dress was made of ivory satin and featured a sweetheart neckline, long sleeves, and a figure-hugging silhouette. The skirt of the dress was a flowing, pleated chiffon that billowed out as Kate moved. The dress was finished with a simple, thin belt and a delicate diamond bracelet.
The Inspiration Behind the Dress
The reception dress was inspired by the iconic wedding gown worn by Grace Kelly when she married Prince Rainier of Monaco in 1956. The classic, elegant style of the dress was a nod to the timeless glamour of Hollywood’s Golden Age. Kate’s dress was also a tribute to the late Princess Diana, who wore a similar dress to a state banquet in 1982. The dress was one of Diana’s favorites, and she wore it on several occasions.
The Impact of the Dress
Kate’s reception dress quickly became as iconic as her wedding gown. It was praised for its simple yet elegant design, and it sparked a trend for long-sleeved wedding dresses. The dress was also credited with bringing the Alexander McQueen fashion house back into the spotlight. The dress was so popular that a replica was created and sold in stores across the world. It was also featured in several exhibitions, including the “Royal Style in the Making” exhibit at Kensington Palace in 2021.
The Legacy of the Dress
Ten years later, Kate’s reception dress remains a beloved piece of royal fashion history. It has inspired countless wedding dresses and continues to be a source of inspiration for designers and brides alike. The dress is a testament to Kate’s timeless style and her ability to blend tradition with modernity. It is a reminder of the magic and romance of the royal wedding and a symbol of the enduring love between Prince William and Duchess Kate.
FAQs About Kate Middleton’s Wedding Reception Dress
What was Kate Middleton’s reception dress made of?
Kate’s reception dress was made of ivory satin and chiffon.
Who designed Kate Middleton’s reception dress?
The dress was designed by Sarah Burton for Alexander McQueen.
What was the inspiration behind Kate Middleton’s reception dress?
The dress was inspired by the iconic wedding gown worn by Grace Kelly and a dress worn by Princess Diana.
Where can I see Kate Middleton’s reception dress?
The dress has been featured in several exhibitions, including the “Royal Style in the Making” exhibit at Kensington Palace in 2021.
