The Royal Wedding Attire of Diana and Charles
The wedding of Lady Diana Spencer and Prince Charles on July 29, 1981, was one of the most celebrated royal events of the 20th century. Their wedding attire became iconic symbols of their union and the era's fashion.
Diana's Wedding Dress
Lady Diana Spencer's wedding dress was designed by David and Elizabeth Emanuel, a British design duo. The choice of the designers was a collaborative decision, but Diana had significant input in the final design of her gown. She wanted a dress that would be remembered and reflected her personal style while fitting the grandeur of a royal wedding.
Key Features of Diana's Dress:
Fabric and Design: The dress was made of ivory silk taffeta and antique lace, adorned with over 10,000 pearls and sequins.
Train and Veil: The gown featured a dramatic 25-foot train and a 153-yard tulle veil, setting a precedent for royal wedding dresses.
Symbolism: The dress incorporated a square of Carrickmacross lace, an heirloom once belonging to Queen Mary, adding a touch of royal history.
Charles's Wedding Attire
Prince Charles wore his full dress naval commander uniform, which was a traditional and expected choice for a royal wedding. Unlike Diana's dress, his attire was primarily dictated by royal protocol and military tradition.
Details of Charles's Uniform:
Military Regalia: As a naval officer, Charles's uniform included his medals and other military insignia.
Tailoring: The uniform was tailored to perfection, reflecting both his royal status and his role as a military officer.
In summary, Diana had significant influence over the design of her wedding dress, working closely with the designers to create a garment that would capture the public's imagination. In contrast, Prince Charles's attire was determined more by royal custom and his military position. Their choices in attire reflected both personal preferences and adherence to tradition, contributing to the lasting legacy of their wedding day.
