10 Things You Didn’t Know About Kate Middleton’s Wedding Dress

The hips were subtly padded. Victorian-inspired corsetry is a signature of Alexander McQueen, and Kate Middleton’s dress featured this detail. To accentuate the narrow waist of the bodice, the designer added slight padding below the midsection.

The underskirt was meticulously detailed. Burton designed the bottom of the dress to resemble an opening flower. When Pippa Middleton, the bridesmaid, lifted Kate’s train, the lace-trimmed layers of silk tulle underneath, which gave the gown its shape, were revealed.

The lace featured symbolic flowers, incorporating intricate applique work on the bodice. The Royal School of Needlework meticulously cut out floral patterns from long lengths of lace and stitched them onto silk tulle. The design incorporated roses, thistles, and shamrocks, which traditionally represent England, Scotland, and Ireland, respectively. To maintain the pristine condition of the lace and threads, dressmakers took the precaution of washing their hands every thirty minutes and renewing their needles every three hours.

The sleeves paid homage to other royals, showcasing a thoughtful design element.

The dress featured a unique combination of both white and ivory fabric, a departure from the traditional choice of one or the other. The Duchess’s dress incorporated satin gazar, a smooth yet stiff fabric that holds its shape, in both shades. Additionally, Burton sewed a blue ribbon on the inside of the dress, a traditional good luck charm.

The Queen graciously provided the Cartier halo tiara, a stunning piece featuring nearly 1,000 diamonds and a large central gemstone. Originally purchased by King George VI for his wife, the tiara holds a special significance as a “something borrowed” for the occasion. To ensure a secure fit, hairdresser Richard Ward employed a meticulous technique, backcombing the top to create a foundation and even sewing a tiny braid to anchor the tiara in place.

Complementing the tiara were the earrings, a thoughtful gift from Kate Middleton’s parents. While the floor-length hem concealed her footwear for most of the event, custom ivory satin heels by Alexander McQueen, adorned with hand-embroidered lace by the Royal School of Needlework, completed the elegant ensemble.

This informative account highlights the intricate details and personal touches that contributed to the bride’s radiant appearance on her special day.

At the wedding reception, the bride unveiled a second dress, a stunning McQueen creation featuring a circle skirt with diamante detailing at the waist and a complementary shrug. This ensemble allowed her to transition from the grand cathedral-length gown worn during the ceremony to a more comfortable yet equally elegant look for the celebratory festivities.

The article provides background information about the writer, Caroline, who has nearly a decade of experience in the field. From 2015 to 2019, she held various editorial positions at Good Housekeeping, including serving as the health editor, where she covered topics related to nutrition, fitness, wellness, and other lifestyle news. Caroline is a graduate of the prestigious Medill School of Journalism and harbors a dream of witnessing her alma mater, Northwestern University, return to the Rose Bowl.