When it comes to iconic wedding dresses, few are more revered than the gown worn by Grace Kelly when she married Prince Rainier III of Monaco in 1956. The dress, which was designed by MGM Studios costume designer Helen Rose, has been the inspiration for countless bridal gowns ever since. Decades later, Kate Middleton‘s wedding dress would also draw comparisons to Grace Kelly’s, particularly the bodice. Let’s take a closer look at the timeless elegance of Grace Kelly’s wedding dress and its influence on bridal fashion.
The gown worn by Grace Kelly on her wedding day was made of antique Valenciennes rose point lace, silk taffeta, and silk net. It featured a high neckline, long sleeves, and a fitted bodice that cinched at the waist. The full skirt was made up of three layers of petticoats and a layer of ivory peau de soie. To complete the look, Kelly wore a lace veil that was secured to a Juliet cap adorned with orange blossoms.
The dress was created by Helen Rose, who was known for her work as a costume designer for MGM Studios. The gown was made in six weeks by a team of 35 seamstresses. The design was kept a secret until the day of the wedding, and the dress was only revealed to the public after Kelly arrived at the cathedral.
The dress was an instant sensation and helped solidify Kelly’s status as a fashion icon. It has since been referenced in countless bridal collections and is still considered one of the most beautiful and elegant wedding dresses of all time.
Decades later, when Kate Middleton married Prince William in 2011, her dress would draw comparisons to Kelly’s. Middleton’s dress, which was designed by Sarah Burton for Alexander McQueen, also featured a fitted bodice, long sleeves, and a full skirt. The delicate lace applique on the bodice and sleeves was reminiscent of Kelly’s dress, as was the sheer veil that Middleton wore.
Today, the influence of Grace Kelly’s wedding dress can still be seen in bridal fashion. Many designers continue to draw inspiration from the timeless elegance of her gown, and brides around the world continue to look to her as a style icon.
Grace Kelly’s wedding dress is a testament to the enduring power of timeless elegance. Decades after she wore it down the aisle, the dress continues to inspire brides and designers alike. From the antique lace to the fitted bodice to the full skirt, every aspect of the gown exudes sophistication and grace. It’s no wonder that the dress has become a beloved icon of bridal fashion, and it’s sure to continue inspiring brides for generations to come.