The iconic wedding dresses of royal brides often become subjects of fascination and comparison. Meghan Markle, Kate Middleton, and Princess Eugenie, each with their distinct styles, have captured public attention with their bridal choices. Examining their gowns reveals not only personal preferences but also adherence to or subtle deviations from royal tradition.
Key Takeaways
- Meghan Markle's Givenchy gown featured a bateau neckline and long sleeves, embodying a minimalist aesthetic.
- Kate Middleton's Alexander McQueen dress was a lace-covered ivory gown with a corseted bodice, inspired by Victorian styles.
- Princess Eugenie opted for a Peter Pilotto v-neck dress with an open back, choosing not to wear a veil.
Meghan Markle's Givenchy Gown
Meghan Markle's wedding dress, designed by Clare Waight Keller for Givenchy, was a modern yet classic choice. It featured long sleeves and a bateau neckline, revealing a portion of her shoulders. This design was noted for its clean lines and minimalist aesthetic, with the veil being heavily accessorized with intricate floral embroidery. While praised for its elegance, some viewers found the dress to be too simple or loose-fitting.
Kate Middleton's Alexander McQueen Gown
In contrast, Kate Middleton's wedding gown, created by Sarah Burton for Alexander McQueen, was inspired by classic Victorian styles. The ivory lace-covered dress had a corseted bodice and a dramatic nine-foot-long train. Its V-neck design was considered a trendsetter among brides at the time. The gown was meticulously tailored to her figure, adhering closely to traditional royal wedding attire.
Princess Eugenie's Peter Pilotto Dress
Princess Eugenie's choice, a Peter Pilotto and Christopher De Vos creation, offered a more dramatic and personalized statement. The dress featured a v-neckline with an open back, designed to showcase a scar from scoliosis treatment. Unlike Meghan and Kate, Eugenie chose not to wear a veil, instead accessorizing with the Queen's Greville tiara and emerald earrings. Her gown also included a significant train and incorporated symbolic motifs woven into the fabric.
A Look at Other Royal Bridal Styles
When comparing these modern royal brides, it's interesting to note the enduring popularity of their dresses. Research indicates that Meghan Markle's wedding dress is the most searched for globally among royal brides, with Kate Middleton's dress ranking second. Even older royal wedding dresses, like Queen Elizabeth II's from 1947 and Princess Diana's from 1981, continue to garner significant interest, highlighting the lasting impact of royal bridal fashion.

