Meghan Markle’s wedding dress was undoubtedly one of the most anticipated fashion moments of 201As soon as the engagement was announced, speculation began about what kind of dress she would wear and how much it would cost. Now, with the wedding behind us, the world finally knows the answer to the question on everyone’s mind: what was the cost of Meghan Markle’s wedding dress?
The dress was designed by Clare Waight Keller, the artistic director of Givenchy, and was a stunning blend of traditional and modern elements. The simple lines of the dress, made from pure white silk, were offset by a dramatic train that stretched several feet behind her. The veil was equally impressive, measuring over 16 feet long and featuring intricate embroidery representing the 53 countries of the Commonwealth. It was a true masterpiece, but how much did it cost?
In this article, we will take a deep dive into the cost, design, controversy, and legacy of Meghan Markle’s wedding dress. We will also compare her dress to other famous royal wedding dresses and explore the reasons behind the mixed reactions to her gown. So if you’re curious about this iconic dress and the story behind it, keep reading!
The Story Behind Meghan Markle’s Wedding Dress
When Meghan Markle walked down the aisle on May 19, 2018, all eyes were on her stunning royal wedding dress. Designed by Clare Waight Keller for Givenchy, the dress was a timeless and elegant choice. But what inspired the creation of this iconic gown?
The answer lies in Meghan’s personal style. From the beginning, she knew she wanted something simple, yet refined. She worked closely with Waight Keller to create a dress that was both modern and classic, with a focus on clean lines and minimal embellishments.
The result was a stunning silk gown with a bateau neckline, three-quarter length sleeves, and a dramatic train. The dress was accessorized with a 5-meter long veil made of silk tulle, featuring intricate floral embroidery representing all 53 countries of the Commonwealth, a tribute to Meghan’s new role as a member of the royal family.
The dress was a closely guarded secret until the moment Meghan arrived at St. George’s Chapel. The reveal was met with gasps of awe from the crowds gathered outside, and the dress quickly became one of the most talked-about elements of the royal wedding.
But the story behind the dress did not end there. In the months following the wedding, the dress went on display as part of a special exhibit at Windsor Castle, giving fans a chance to see it up close and appreciate its beauty.
Overall, Meghan’s wedding dress was a stunning tribute to her personal style and a perfect fit for the grandeur of a royal wedding. Its timeless elegance and classic lines ensured that it would go down in history as one of the most iconic wedding dresses of all time.
The Inspiration for Meghan Markle’s Wedding Dress
Classic Elegance: Meghan Markle’s wedding dress was inspired by timeless elegance. Clare Waight Keller, the artistic director of Givenchy, was tasked with creating a dress that combined both traditional and modern elements, and that would stand the test of time.
Royal Traditions: The dress was designed to pay homage to the traditions of the British Royal Family, while also reflecting the personality and style of Meghan Markle. The result was a dress that was both classic and modern, regal and approachable.
Symbolic Details: The dress was also filled with symbolic details. The veil, which was made of silk tulle and featured a trim of hand-embroidered flowers, represented the unique flora of each of the 53 Commonwealth countries. The dress also had a bateau neckline, which has become a signature style of Meghan Markle’s.
Overall, Meghan Markle’s wedding dress was a stunning representation of her personality, the traditions of the British Royal Family, and the spirit of the Commonwealth. It will undoubtedly continue to inspire brides for generations to come.
The Design Process of Meghan Markle’s Wedding Dress
The process of designing Meghan Markle’s wedding dress started months before the wedding day. Designer Clare Waight Keller, who became the artistic director at Givenchy in 2017, was given the honor of designing the dress. The designer and Meghan Markle met discreetly several times before the wedding to discuss the design of the dress.
- The fabric: The dress was made of double-bonded silk cady fabric, which was chosen for its soft matte finish and fluidity.
- The shape: The dress featured a boat neckline, three-quarter-length sleeves, and an open bateau back, which was a specific request from Meghan.
- The veil: The veil was made of silk tulle and was hand-embroidered with flowers from each of the 53 Commonwealth countries, a tribute to Meghan’s new role as a Commonwealth ambassador.
The designer had to keep the dress a closely guarded secret and even told her own husband only a few hours before the wedding ceremony. The end result was a stunningly elegant and understated gown that perfectly reflected Meghan Markle’s personal style.
The Symbolism of Meghan Markle’s Wedding Dress
While the design of Meghan Markle’s wedding dress was timeless and classic, it also had significant symbolic elements. The dress was made of pure white silk, which is a traditional color for royal weddings, but it was also chosen to represent purity, clarity, and honesty. The long sleeves of the dress were embroidered with delicate floral patterns, representing the 53 countries of the Commonwealth. The five-meter-long veil featured embroidery of flora and fauna native to each Commonwealth country, symbolizing Meghan’s respect for the diverse cultures of the Commonwealth.
Additionally, the boat neckline of the dress was a nod to the iconic wedding dress worn by Hubert de Givenchy for Audrey Hepburn in the film “Funny Face,” representing timeless elegance and sophistication. The sleek, minimalist design of the dress also reflected Meghan’s personal style and her desire for simplicity.
The symbolic elements of Meghan Markle’s wedding dress demonstrated her commitment to inclusivity, diversity, and tradition. The dress was not only a stunning work of art but also a powerful statement about the values and beliefs of the royal family and the modern era.
How Much Did Meghan Markle’s Wedding Dress Cost?
When it comes to royal weddings, the cost of the bride’s wedding dress is always a hot topic, and Meghan Markle’s was no exception. The stunning dress was designed by Clare Waight Keller for Givenchy and featured a simple yet elegant design. However, the cost of the dress was not publicly disclosed until months after the wedding.
Speculation on the cost of the dress ranged from a few thousand to hundreds of thousands of dollars. However, when the final cost was revealed, it was surprisingly modest in comparison to other royal wedding dresses. The dress reportedly cost £110,000, or roughly $135,000 USD.
While this may seem like a large sum, it is relatively small compared to the cost of other royal wedding dresses. For example, Kate Middleton’s wedding dress reportedly cost around £250,000, or roughly $320,000 USD.
The cost of Meghan Markle’s dress was primarily attributed to the exquisite materials used and the amount of hand-sewn details that went into the design. It was reported that the dress took over 3,900 hours to complete.
The Initial Budget for Meghan Markle’s Wedding Dress
When it comes to royal wedding dresses, the price tag is typically hefty, and Meghan Markle’s was no exception. The initial budget for Meghan’s dress was reported to be around £250,000, according to sources close to the royal family.
However, designer Clare Waight Keller had other ideas. She wanted to create a dress that was both elegant and understated, without breaking the bank. After several discussions with Meghan, they settled on a more modest price tag for the gown.
Despite this, the final cost of the dress has never been officially confirmed. Some sources speculate that it could have been as much as £400,000, while others believe it was significantly less than that.
The Final Cost of Meghan Markle’s Wedding Dress
| Cost Category | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Fabric and Production | $157,000 | The custom silk fabric was provided by Givenchy’s mills, and the dress was hand-stitched by a team of skilled embroiderers. |
| Fittings and Alterations | $4,750 | Markle reportedly had multiple fittings to ensure the perfect fit of the dress, including adjustments to the waistline and neckline. |
| Accessories and Veil | $580,000 | The 16-foot long silk tulle veil was embroidered with the flora of each Commonwealth country, and she also wore a diamond tiara lent by Queen Elizabeth II. |
The total cost of Meghan Markle’s wedding dress was estimated to be around $740,750. The dress was designed by Clare Waight Keller, the first female Artistic Director of Givenchy, and was praised for its elegant simplicity and timeless style.
Despite the high cost of the dress, many fashion experts believed that it was a worthwhile investment for the royal family as it helped to boost the profile of British fashion and generate global interest in the wedding.
Markle’s choice of a simple and elegant dress also reflected her personal style and commitment to sustainable and ethical fashion, as it was made using eco-friendly fabrics and traditional techniques.
In conclusion, Meghan Markle’s wedding dress was a stunning and memorable creation that captured the attention of the world. While the final cost may seem extravagant, it was a small price to pay for a moment of history and a lasting legacy in the world of fashion.Comparing the Cost of Meghan Markle’s Wedding Dress to Previous Royal Weddings
When Meghan Markle married Prince Harry in 2018, her elegant wedding dress made headlines around the world. The Givenchy gown was a simple and classic design, but its cost was anything but simple. According to reports, the dress cost a staggering $265,000.
But how does this compare to the cost of previous royal wedding dresses? Well, it turns out that Meghan’s dress was not the most expensive in recent history. That honor goes to the dress worn by Kate Middleton when she married Prince William in 201The lace Alexander McQueen dress reportedly cost $434,000.
Princess Diana’s wedding dress is still one of the most iconic in history, and it cost a pretty penny too. The dress, which was designed by David and Elizabeth Emanuel, reportedly cost $115,000 in 1981, which would be over $350,000 in today’s dollars when adjusted for inflation.
- Kate Middleton’s dress: $434,000
- Meghan Markle’s dress: $265,000
- Princess Diana’s dress: $115,000
Despite not being the most expensive royal wedding dress in recent history, Meghan Markle’s Givenchy gown still cost a significant amount. However, it’s important to note that the dress was paid for by the bride herself, whereas the cost of Kate Middleton’s and Princess Diana’s dresses was covered by the royal family.
Who Designed Meghan Markle’s Wedding Dress?
Meghan Markle’s stunning wedding dress was designed by Clare Waight Keller, the first female Artistic Director at the historic French fashion house Givency. The dress was made of pure white silk and featured a boat neckline, long sleeves, and an elegant train.
Clare Waight Keller worked closely with Meghan Markle to create a dress that was both timeless and contemporary, and that reflected the bride’s personal style. The dress was praised for its simple, understated elegance, and has since become an iconic piece of wedding fashion.
The dress was complemented by a 5-meter long veil that was made of silk tulle and featured intricate embroidery that represented the 53 countries of the Commonwealth. The veil was held in place by a stunning diamond tiara that belonged to Queen Mary, the wife of King George V.
The design of Meghan Markle’s wedding dress has since inspired many brides around the world. Its elegant simplicity and timeless style have cemented its place in the history of wedding fashion, and its influence is likely to be felt for many years to come.
The Famous Designer behind Meghan Markle’s Wedding Dress
It was the talk of the town: the highly anticipated reveal of Meghan Markle’s wedding dress, designed by none other than Clare Waight Keller, the artistic director of Givenchy. Waight Keller was the first female artistic director at the iconic French fashion house, and she created the stunning custom gown that the world fell in love with.
Waight Keller’s design was a perfect representation of Markle’s classic style, featuring a simple silhouette with clean lines and a bateau neckline. The dress was made from a double-bonded silk cady, which gave it a structured look and feel, and it was completed with a dramatic train that flowed behind the bride as she made her way down the aisle.
Waight Keller’s expertise in tailoring and understanding of how fabric falls and moves were key in the design of the dress. The veil was also a masterpiece in itself, featuring delicate hand-embroidered flowers representing each of the 53 countries of the Commonwealth, along with Markle’s home state of California.
Waight Keller’s unique vision and attention to detail made Meghan Markle’s wedding dress one of the most iconic designs of the 21st century, cementing her place as a legendary designer.
The Background of the Designer of Meghan Markle’s Wedding Dress
Clare Waight Keller, the designer of Meghan Markle’s stunning wedding dress, was born in Birmingham, England in 1970. She graduated from the Royal College of Art in London in 1993, and started her career as an intern at Calvin Klein.
She went on to work for prestigious fashion houses such as Ralph Lauren, Gucci, and Pringle of Scotland, before becoming the creative director at Chloe in 201During her tenure at Chloe, she received critical acclaim for her designs and was awarded the British Fashion Council’s Designer of the Year award in 2017.
In 2017, Waight Keller joined Givenchy as the first female artistic director in the company’s history. She made headlines when she was revealed as the designer of Meghan Markle’s wedding dress, which was widely praised for its simplicity and elegance.
Comparing the Cost of Royal Wedding Dresses
Royal weddings are always a lavish affair, and one of the most significant expenses is undoubtedly the bride’s dress. Over the years, we have seen some iconic wedding dresses worn by royal brides that have left us in awe. However, these dresses came with a hefty price tag.
One of the most famous royal wedding dresses is undoubtedly Princess Diana’s. Her dress was designed by David and Elizabeth Emanuel and had a price tag of $115,000 in 1981, which is equivalent to over $350,000 today.
Another royal bride who wore an expensive dress is Kate Middleton. Her Alexander McQueen wedding dress was estimated to cost $434,000, making it one of the most expensive royal wedding dresses ever made.
When it comes to Meghan Markle’s wedding dress, it was undoubtedly beautiful but not as expensive as some of the other royal brides. The dress was estimated to cost around $265,000 and was designed by Clare Waight Keller.
Princess Beatrice’s wedding dress, designed by Norman Hartnell, was made from vintage fabric and was on loan from the Queen. Therefore, it did not come with a price tag, making it one of the most cost-effective royal wedding dresses in recent times.
However, the most expensive royal wedding dress ever made was worn by Grace Kelly, who became Princess of Monaco after her wedding to Prince Rainier III. Her dress, designed by Helen Rose, reportedly cost $67,000 in 1956, which is equivalent to over $600,000 today.
How Meghan Markle’s Wedding Dress Compares to Kate Middleton’s
One of the most talked-about aspects of Meghan Markle’s wedding dress is how it compares to Kate Middleton’s. While Kate’s dress was a long-sleeved, laced creation by Sarah Burton for Alexander McQueen, Meghan’s was a sleek, minimalistic design by Clare Waight Keller for Givenchy.
Another key difference between the two dresses is the cost. Kate’s dress reportedly cost around £250,000, while Meghan’s was estimated to be around £110,000.
Despite these differences, both dresses were stunning and reflected the individual styles and personalities of their wearers. Kate’s dress was a nod to tradition and classic elegance, while Meghan’s was a modern, understated statement.
Why Did Meghan Markle’s Wedding Dress Spark Controversy?
Unusual Design: One of the reasons why Meghan Markle’s wedding dress sparked controversy was its unusual design. The dress was minimalistic with no lace or embroidery, which many people found underwhelming for a royal wedding.
Designer Selection: Another reason for the controversy was the designer’s selection. Some people believed that a British designer should have been chosen instead of a foreign designer.
Cost: The cost of the dress also raised some eyebrows, as it was significantly higher than previous royal wedding dresses. Many people thought it was excessive, especially considering that the wedding was paid for by taxpayers.
Veil Embroidery: The embroidery on Meghan Markle’s veil, which included the flowers of all 53 countries in the Commonwealth, also caused controversy. Some people saw it as a political statement, while others thought it was a nice touch.
Overall, Meghan Markle’s wedding dress caused controversy due to its unusual design, the selection of a foreign designer, its high cost, and the embroidery on the veil. Despite the criticism, many people still praised the dress for its elegance and simplicity.The Political Significance of Meghan Markle’s Wedding Dress
The wedding dress worn by Meghan Markle at her marriage to Prince Harry on May 19, 2018, was not just a fashion statement, but also had political significance. The dress was designed by British designer Clare Waight Keller for the French fashion house Givenchy, and was praised for its minimalist elegance.
However, some people saw political symbolism in the dress. The fact that Meghan Markle, an American and a woman of mixed race, chose a British designer for her wedding dress was seen by some as a symbol of the special relationship between the UK and the US.
Others saw the dress as a symbol of feminism, as it was designed by a woman and featured no embroidery, lace, or other decorative elements that are traditionally associated with wedding dresses. Instead, the dress emphasized clean lines and simple elegance, reflecting Meghan Markle’s modern, independent personality.
The Reaction to Meghan Markle’s Choice of Designer
Meghan Markle’s decision to have Givenchy’s Clare Waight Keller design her wedding dress was met with both praise and criticism. Some applauded Markle for choosing a female British designer known for her modern, minimalistic designs. Others felt that the choice was too safe and lacked the creativity and boldness expected for a royal wedding dress.
Many fashion experts also expressed surprise at the selection of Waight Keller, as she is not known for creating wedding dresses and has a relatively low profile in the fashion industry. However, Waight Keller’s previous work at Chloé and her successful tenure at Givenchy likely influenced Markle’s decision.
Despite some mixed reactions, the dress was generally well-received by the public, with many praising its elegant simplicity and timeless style. Some also noted the dress’s potential influence on wedding fashion, with a renewed focus on clean lines and understated elegance.
The Impact of Meghan Markle’s Wedding Dress on the Fashion Industry
The moment Meghan Markle stepped out of the car in her wedding dress, the fashion world took notice. The dress immediately set new trends for wedding dresses, such as the boat neckline and minimalistic style, that many brides began emulating.
Moreover, the designer of the dress, Clare Waight Keller, received an enormous amount of attention and accolades, propelling her to even greater fame and success.
The “Meghan Markle effect” on fashion was undeniable. In the months following the wedding, sales of boat-necked wedding dresses increased by 269 percent, and searches for “minimalistic wedding dresses” on Pinterest rose by 44 percent.
The Legacy of Meghan Markle’s Wedding Dress
Inspiring Future Brides: Meghan Markle’s wedding dress is expected to inspire future brides with its timeless design, simplicity, and elegance. The dress will undoubtedly become a classic and inspire fashion designers for years to come.
A New Era for Royal Wedding Dresses: Meghan Markle’s wedding dress broke away from the traditional royal wedding dress style, marking a new era for royal fashion. Her dress showcased a modern, minimalist design that was a departure from the elaborate and ornate styles of the past.
Increased Focus on Sustainable Fashion: Meghan Markle’s choice of a sustainable and eco-friendly designer for her wedding dress has brought increased attention to the issue of sustainable fashion. The dress has sparked conversations about the importance of environmentally-friendly and ethical fashion.
Boost to British Fashion Industry: Meghan Markle’s wedding dress has also provided a significant boost to the British fashion industry. Her choice of British designer Clare Waight Keller has helped to raise the profile of British fashion on the global stage.
A Symbol of Change: Finally, Meghan Markle’s wedding dress will be remembered as a symbol of change and progress in the royal family. As a biracial woman and a feminist, Meghan Markle’s choice of a simple, elegant dress from a sustainable designer sent a powerful message about inclusivity, diversity, and modernity.
The Continued Influence of Meghan Markle’s Wedding Dress on Fashion Trends
It has been several years since the royal wedding, but the impact of Meghan Markle’s wedding dress can still be felt in the fashion industry today.
Sustainable fashion: Markle’s decision to work with a sustainable fashion designer, and the use of eco-friendly materials in her dress, has influenced many fashion houses to prioritize sustainability.
Minimalism: The simple yet elegant design of Markle’s dress has made minimalism a major trend in bridal fashion.
Boatneck neckline: Markle’s boatneck neckline has become one of the most sought-after bridal necklines in recent years, and has influenced the design of many other wedding dresses.
Designers and brides alike continue to draw inspiration from Markle’s wedding dress, and it is clear that its influence will continue to be felt in the fashion industry for years to come.
The Display of Meghan Markle’s Wedding Dress in Royal Exhibitions
The iconic Givenchy wedding dress worn by Meghan Markle has become a highly sought-after piece of royal memorabilia. Since her wedding in May 2018, the dress has been on display at various royal exhibitions around the world, including the Palace of Holyroodhouse in Edinburgh and the Queen’s residence in Sandringham.
The dress, designed by Clare Waight Keller, has attracted large crowds of visitors eager to catch a glimpse of the famous gown. In addition to the dress, other pieces of Markle’s wedding day attire, such as her veil and tiara, have also been included in the exhibitions.
The display of the dress has not only provided a unique opportunity for royal enthusiasts to see the famous gown up close, but it has also helped to raise funds for various charities. For example, the exhibition at Windsor Castle, which included the dress and a replica of the bouquet, raised over £300,000 for the Royal Collection Trust.
The Historical Significance of Meghan Markle’s Wedding Dress
Royal tradition: Meghan Markle’s wedding dress reflects a long-standing tradition in the British royal family of elegant and modest wedding attire. However, Markle’s dress also carries a modern twist with its minimalist design and use of sustainable materials.
Diversity and inclusion: Markle’s decision to choose a designer with a mixed-race background, Clare Waight Keller, sent a powerful message about diversity and inclusion. The dress has become a symbol of hope for women of color and mixed-race individuals around the world.
Female empowerment: Markle’s wedding dress was created by a female designer, and the dress’s simple lines and elegant silhouette are an embodiment of the empowerment of women. The dress is a testament to the progress that has been made in promoting gender equality in the fashion industry.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much did Meghan Markle’s wedding dress cost?
Meghan Markle’s wedding dress reportedly cost $265,000, according to various sources. The dress was made by the British designer Clare Waight Keller, who is the artistic director of Givenchy.
Who paid for Meghan Markle’s wedding dress?
The cost of Meghan Markle’s wedding dress was reportedly paid for by the royal family. The exact details of the payment and who covered what expenses are not known, as the royal family has not disclosed this information.
Why did Meghan Markle’s wedding dress cost so much?
Meghan Markle’s wedding dress is reported to have cost a lot due to the intricate design and high-quality materials used. The dress reportedly featured hand-stitched floral embroidery and a 16-foot-long veil, which would have required a lot of work and attention to detail.
How does the cost of Meghan Markle’s wedding dress compare to other royal wedding dresses?
Meghan Markle’s wedding dress is estimated to have cost more than Kate Middleton’s wedding dress, which was reported to have cost around $434,000. However, it is less expensive than Princess Diana’s wedding dress, which reportedly cost around $150,000 at the time, which adjusted for inflation is around $450,000 today.
What impact has the cost of Meghan Markle’s wedding dress had?
The cost of Meghan Markle’s wedding dress has generated some controversy and criticism, with some questioning whether the cost was justified. However, others argue that the dress was a worthwhile investment, as it has helped to raise the profile of British fashion and showcased the skills of a British designer.