Kate Middleton
The Duchess of Cambridge's gown united centuries of British lace tradition with contemporary couture craftsmanship. Within hours it inspired brides across the world to search for a similar style.
The wedding of Prince William and Kate Middleton on 29 April 2011 became another global media event: more than two billion people watched the broadcast. The identity of the designer was kept in strictest secrecy until the ceremony itself — it was Sarah Burton, creative director of Alexander McQueen.
Lace and a 1950s-Inspired Silhouette
The gown was made from ivory satin, adorned with handmade Honiton and Carrickmacross lace executed by the Royal School of Needlework. A fitted V-neck bodice gave way to a full skirt with a pudded train of approximately 2.7 metres. Sheer lace sleeves lent the look an air of both modesty and refinement.
A New Canon of Romantic Bridal Dressing
After the wedding, online searches for "lace-sleeve wedding dresses" soared. Burton helped restore the McQueen house's standing after the tragedy of Lee Alexander McQueen's death in 2010. The gown is held at Buckingham Palace and has been displayed to the public during special exhibitions.
