It was the style moment we had all been (not so) patiently waiting for: The first look at Meghan Markle’s wedding gown! We had all the questions: What will it look like? Will she wear a British designer? What about her hair? And how long will her train be? TheGrio’s got your back: here, the fashion 411 onthe wedding wardrobe of the new Duchess of Sussex.
THE REVEAL
After months of anticipation, the designer of Meghan Markle’s wedding gown has been revealed—a timeless Givenchy couture gown by Clare Waight Keller. While many fashion insiders speculated that the bride would opt for Stella McCartney (the daughter of a British father and American mother) the California native surprised onlookers by selecting the beloved luxe French house. Givenchy has been no stranger to addressing the lack of diversity on the runways so Meghan’s choice may have been a nod to that. Keller is an England native and was named the first female Artistic Director of Givenchy last year. The talented designer has also worked with other celebrated brands, including Chloe, Ralph Lauren and Gucci. Fun Fact: The bride’s second dress—a bespoke silk crepe halter gown—was in fact from Stella McCartney! Stella also dressed Oprah Winfrey for the big day.
THE DETAILS
Meghan’s minimal Givenchy satin gown had a fit and flare silhouette with a bateau neckline and 3/4 length sleeves. The fit was impeccable: Meghan wore the dress, the dress didn’t wear her. In years to come, no one will be able to date this dress. The bride’s jewelry was classic and timeless, too: delicate diamond and platinum Cartier earrings gave understated grace. And her cathedral-length veil represented special connections to Meghan’s new home. The headpiece, created with silk tulle, featured a trim of hand-embroidered flowers from each of the 53 counties in the Commonwealth in threads and organza; Meghan’s 16-foot veil was complemented by a stunning tiara handpicked from the Queen Mary’s jewelry vault, the Queen Mary Diamond Bandeau. According to Kensington Palace, the English tiara, which features diamonds set in platinum, was made in 1932 and features a center detachable brooch made of ten diamonds dating back to 1893.
READ MORE: It was lit: 8 unforgettable moments of the blackest royal wedding ever
BEAUTY BITES
Meghan wore her hair straight in a chic low chignon that was accented by the tiara. Her signature center part was on display. Celebrity hairstylist Serge Normant tended to the bride’s shoulder length tresses. Her makeup stayed in line with her classic bridal look. Meghan reportedly loves her freckles and has been quoted stating that she dislikes when magazines airbrush them out. This might explain why they were on full display—and beautifully so!—along with a nude lip with a hint of gloss and a smoky eye with lush lashes.
Royal Perfection!
Meghan’s wedding dress knock offs will likely be available as early as next week. Would you wear a version of her gown for your wedding or next formal occasion?
Bridgette Bartlett Royall @BlkBridalBliss is the founder of BlackBridalBliss.com.