Meghan Markle's Wedding Dress: A Commonwealth Celebration
On May 19, 2018, the world watched as Meghan Markle walked down the aisle of St. George's Chapel, Windsor, to marry Prince Harry. The event was more than just a royal wedding; it was a celebration of diversity, culture, and unity, reflected beautifully in Meghan's choice of wedding dress.
Design and Aesthetics
Meghan's wedding dress was designed by the British fashion house Givenchy, with the creative director Clare Waight Keller. The dress was a bespoke design, a timeless and elegant choice that reflected Meghan's personal style. The dress featured a boat neckline, three-quarter length sleeves, and a simple, clean silhouette, made from double bonded silk cady.
Symbolism and Meaning
Beyond its aesthetic appeal, Meghan's wedding dress held significant symbolism. The boat neckline was a nod to the House of Windsor, while the pure white color represented her new chapter as a royal. The dress also held a personal touch - the five-meter veil was embroidered with the flowers of each Commonwealth country, a tribute to her new role as a global figure.
Commonwealth Flowers on the Veil
| Country | Flower |
|---|---|
| Australia | Bottlebrush |
| Jamaica | Lignum Vitae |
| New Zealand | Pohutukawa |
| South Africa | Protea |
| Canada | Maple Leaf |
| Bermuda | Bermuda Cedar |
Each flower was hand-embroidered onto the veil, a process that took hundreds of hours. The veil also featured a winter wheat, a symbol of love and fertility, and the California poppy, a tribute to Meghan's home state.
Accessories and Jewelry
Meghan's accessories complemented her dress perfectly. She wore a tiara lent to her by the Queen, a diamond bandeau made in 1932. Her earrings were a gift from Prince Harry, designed by Cartier, and her wedding ring was made from a piece of Welsh gold.
Impact and Legacy
Meghan's wedding dress choice was more than just a fashion statement. It was a celebration of her heritage, her new role, and the diversity of the Commonwealth. The dress sparked a conversation about representation, inclusion, and the power of fashion to tell a story. It was a fitting choice for a woman who has always used her platform to advocate for change and unity.
Meghan Markle's wedding dress was more than just a beautiful gown. It was a symbol of her personal journey, her new role, and the unity of the Commonwealth. It was a dress that reflected her style, her values, and her vision for the future. And it was a dress that will be remembered as a significant moment in royal history.
