In 2003, a wave of criticism was a constant theme in the fashion and bridal world over the fit and the fabric of Meghan Markle’s silk Givenchy wedding dress. “Too stiff, too thick,” many sartorial reviewers said. Fashion experts expected more trendy clothing for the season. Maybe more flow and perhaps an edgier look.
Our thoughts? We look back over the decades and centuries of royal weddings, primarily marriages of British royalty – we saw the dress as a classic and simple design that would make Meghan appear as royal like the royal brides of previous times walking down the aisle of Windsor Castle.
“I imagine she wants to feel like she belongs in the space,” I recall telling my acquaintances. “And that dress says ‘modern Windsor royal’.”
Fabrics with thinner weaves, such as brocade, taffeta, and jacquard, were not seen on runways for the past few years. As we reported in the last few months, because of the return of love for Diana’s style, taffeta wedding gowns are gaining prominence in many of the hottest wedding collections across the world of bridal. Structure and volume in 2021 do not mean losing shape or fashion. Many of the most fabulous dresses currently available are extravagant ball gowns.
Perhaps, however, Princess Diana shouldn’t be given most of the glory. We think Givenchy & Meghan Markle knew what to do with their wedding dress. With 2022’s wedding dress collections coming out in mid-release, the top designers are making gowns with heavier fabrics and more minor, royal-inspired designs. Dupioni, brocade, jacquard silk, and many taffetas are strutting down the runways of fashion, and we’re feeling vindicated by our love for Mrs. Markle’s very own moment of royalty.
