Catherine in Alexander McQueen wedding dress with her Maid of Honor and sister, Philippa Middleton. Photo: Getty Images.
Yes indeed, the lovely Catherine Middleton, now a princess and a duchess, donned an elegant and traditional gown designed by Sarah Burton of Alexander McQueen. Here are the details:
- designed by Sarah Burton from the British house of Alexander McQueen
- six-foot train
- made of ivory and white satin gazar
- bodice lace applique handmade by the Royal School of Needlework
- the back is finished with 58 gazar and organza covered buttons fastened by Roulleau loops
- other than the lace, fabrics provided by British companies
- veil is made of ivory silk tulle
- tiara made in 1936 by Cartier – loaned to Catherine by the Queen
- earrings, designed by Robinson Pelham, oak leaf with drop diamond – inspired by the Middleton coat of arms and a gift to the bride from her parents
- shoes were hand-made in satin by House of Alexander McQueen
- the Maid of Honor’s dress was also designed by Sarah Burton (in non-traditional white)
Word is that Catherine worked closely with Sarah Burton in creating a dress that combined modern with traditional. Catherine chose House of Alexander McQueen for its excellent craftmanship and artistic vision.
Check back for Jydonne Bynum-Breiterman’s review.
It was definitely understated, as expected.
The bodice looked exactly like many of the other dresses I’ve seen her wear – V-neck, very modest, does nothing to distract from her quite flat chest (hey, I’m not putting her down – you know I can identify!). Seems to be her style of choice but not always terribly flattering. As a wedding gown, I’d say it was the equivalent of “sensible shoes.”
I liked the fabric to the extent (not too glossy). The veil was very old-fashioned and almost looked like a nun’s, but for some reason it worked on her in a way that it would not have worked for others (probably because of her hair).
Thanks, Paula. I thought the lace bodice was lovely and reminded me of Princess Grace’s wedding dress. I agree it was a safe choice but I don’t know that she had many options to be creative, given royal wedding traditions.