Carole Middleton’s style staple for royal weddings paid sweet tribute to an absent family member that was likely deeply missed. 

• The Princess of Wales’ mother Carole Middleton seemed to have a preference for one designer and color palette for two iconic royal weddings. 
• For both the Wales’ wedding and the Duke and Duchess of Sussex’s nuptials, Carole wore very similar pastel outfits with a special link to a much-missed royal.
• This royal news comes as we can’t get over the Queen Mother’s bizarre but genius wardrobe hack and you have to see it to believe it! 

Kate Middleton’s dresses regularly wow the crowd though if there’s one that stands out the most for it’s iconic magnificence it surely has to be her Sarah Burton for Alexander McQueen wedding dress! Few could forget the first sighting of this exquisite gown on Prince William and Kate Middleton’s wedding day back in 2011. There were also plenty of other beautiful outfits glimpsed that day, including the one worn by the Mother of the Bride. This outfit could be seen to have paid a special tribute to an absent family member on their big day and this seems to have become Carole Middleton’s style staple of sorts for royal weddings.  

Stepping out with the eyes of the world upon her, Carole’s outfit was the pastel coat dress of dreams. Featuring a powder-blue tone, long lapels and brocade-style detailing around the fastening and cuffs, Carole paired it with a pale blue dress underneath and a hat in a similar shade designed by milliner Jane Corbett. 

The coat dress itself was designed by Catherine Walker - a firm favorite of the late Princess Diana. She was regularly pictured wearing Catherine Walker designs, including a blue-green fully sequined dress she wore on a visit to Austria in 1986 and her “Elvis” dress which she wore to present an award at the British Fashion Awards. 

Carole’s choice to wear a Catherine Walker design could be seen to be a sweet nod to the late Mother of the Groom on this significant day, where her absence was likely deeply felt by Prince William. 

Since the 2011 wedding it seems to have become Carole Middleton’s style staple for royal weddings as she wore another Catherine Walker design to Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s wedding in 2018. The coat dress and hat were even in a similar pastel shade, this time a fresh minty-green. 

Once again Carole wore a matching-colored dress underneath and it could be seen as another sweet tribute to Princess Diana on her youngest son’s wedding day. And though Carole wearing beautiful Catherine Walker designs - and very similar Catherine Walker ones at that - to Princess Diana’s sons’ weddings is perhaps the most meaningful, she’s also worn the designer to another royal wedding. 

In 2019, the Queen’s first cousin, once removed Lady Gabriella Windsor married Thomas Kingston at Windsor Castle and Carole was invited.  

Her outfit was in a soft beige shade this time but Carol Middleton’s style staple of was upheld. The coat dress is understood to be another Catherine Walker creation and featured similar brocade detailing on the lapels. 

It seems Carole Middleton has found her perfect designer for royal weddings and it’s heart-warming to think that the Mother of the Bride helped give a nod to the late Mother of the Groom at Prince William and Prince Harry’s weddings in particular. 

Kate Middleton, the Princess of Wales, and Prince William landed in Boston on November 30, as the couple arrived in the United States for the Earthshot Prize ceremony.

• Kate Middleton and Prince William arrived in Boston on November 30, 2022.
• The royal couple landed in Boston Logan International Airport and were immediately greeted by Massachusetts Governor, Charlie Baker.
• In other royal news, Queen ‘kept her spirits up’ as she grieved Prince Philip with this hit TV show - though she had a few critiques

The Princess of Wales stunned as she arrived in Boston in a sleek navy Alexander McQueen pantsuit. The Princess and her husband looked every inch the power couple as they matched in navy suits.

While the Prince of Wales wore a navy suit with a crisp white shirt and a smart royal blue and white patterned tie, the Princess paired her navy suit with a chic roll-neck jumper and court shoe heels from Gianvito Rossi. The turtleneck sweater was the perfect look to modernize and feminine this suit look while keeping warm in the cool Boston weather.

The Princess accessorised this navy look with a pair of stunning saphire and diamond cluster drop earrings. These earrings were an iconic piece of Princess Diana's jewelry and have been worn by Catherine to a number of iconic events, including the Queen's Platinum Jubilee earlier this year.

The Prince and Princess are currently touring Boston ahead of the Earthshot Annual awards ceremony in Boston on Friday, December 2, 2022. The award ceremony is in partnership with the John F. Kennedy Foundation and will celebrate the 2022 winners and finalists of the prize.

The royal couple arrived a few days ahead of this awards ceremony so they can learn a bit more about how Boston is working towards sustainability while building a relationship with the US.

After landing in Boston a few days ahead of the award ceremony, the couple had an action-packed day. This meant a few different outfit changes for the Princess of Wales as she kept to a strict schedule.

The royal couple watched the Boston Celtics vs Miami Heat basketball game later that day and Kate Middleton rewore a bold blazer as they watched the Boston team win the game.

The Princess then had yet another outfit change as she and William joined Governor-Elect Maura Healy and the Mayor of Boston, Michelle Wu to kick off the Earthshot celebrations by lighting up Boston at Speaker’s Corner by City Hall. Kate wore a stunning tartan dress green and navy dress which she paired with a long navy overcoat for a more sophisticated look.

Kate Middleton’s bold blazer in Boston has channelled the spirit of the Earthshot Prize ahead of the 2022 awards ceremony in the US city. 

• The Princess of Wales has recycled one of her most memorable outerwear pieces during her first visit to the US since 2014. 
• Kate Middleton’s blue blazer has been seen just a few weeks ago as she took a more sustainable approach to style.  
• This royal news comes as it was revealed the Queen “kept her spirits up” as she grieved Prince Philip with a hit TV show - though she had a few critiques.  

From the simple elegance of Kate Middleton’s dresses to her increasingly-seen preference for striking suits and jackets, the future Queen Consort consistently wows with her outfits for every occasion. But whilst she often debuts brand new pieces fans haven’t seen before, the Princess of Wales is also no stranger to re-wearing her favorite looks even for huge events. Earlier this year Kate Middleton recycled an Alexander McQueen coat dress for the Jubilee celebrations and now she’s brought back a regal blue blazer in Boston. 

Kate Middleton’s bold blazer is none other than a vintage Chanel number and she wore it during her and Prince William’s first visit to the US since 2014. The Prince and Princess of Wales are in Boston to attend the Earthshot Prize Awards on December 2, but they’ve also been enjoying what Boston has to offer ahead of this. 

The royals watched the Boston Celtics vs Miami Heat basketball game on November 30 and looked delighted as the home team went on to win. For this outing Prince William wore a navy suit and blue shirt and given the Royal Family wears blue a lot it’s perhaps no surprise that Kate Middleton’s bold blazer was in this tone. 

The boucle-material gives a wintery edge to this classic style and the royal blue shade and black trimmings on the blazer make this an eye-catching outerwear piece. For this basketball game the Princess of Wales opted to let the vintage Chanel blazer do all the talking and paired it with fitted black trousers and classic black heels. She added an extra touch of detail with a gold linked chain necklace which complimented the rich warm tones of the outfit perfectly. 

But this wasn’t the first time fans have been left in awe of this blazer this year as Kate Middleton stunned in the blue vintage design just last month for a special visit to the Copper Box Arena at the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park. She and the Prince of Wales attended a Coach Core event to mark this vital charity’s 10 year anniversary. 

Her recent decision to re-wear her bold blue blazer in the US could perhaps be seen as channelling the spirit of sustainability of the Earthshot Prize. This environmental award was set up by Prince William and Sir David Attenborough and last year’s awards were held in London.

Prince William’s velvet look for the event was compared by fans to James Bond and Kate Middleton re-wore a lilac gown that she’d worn in California in 2014. The dress code was reportedly to be considerate of the environment with your outfit and the Princess’ recycled dress perfectly fitted this. Her recycled blue blazer which is already vintage mirrors this and it’s possible that Kate Middleton’s Earthshot Prize 2022 dress could be a previously-seen gown too in a nod to being more sustainable.

Either way, Kate Middleton’s bold blazer was a fabulous choice to re-wear for her first day in Boston!

Always one to turn heads with her outfits, Kate Middleton's most influential looks have been revealed thanks to new research. Honoring her country and one of its most iconic fashion houses, Kate is known to favor many different Alexander McQueen pieces, and her black Alexander McQueen coat dress worn to the funeral of Queen Elizabeth II has been crowned her most influential dress.

• Kate Middleton’s black Alexander McQueen coat dress has been revealed as her most influential look of 2022, with searches soaring 233% above average.
• Research has found the top 10 dresses Kate has worn this year, with other notable standouts including the floral blue Tory Burch worn on hers and William’s Caribbean tour.
• In other royal news, Prince Edward and Sophie Wessex revealed as guests of honour for iconic TV event in place of the late Queen.

Catherine, Princess of Wales is renowned for her style, but which of her many showstopping looks are we most obsessed with?

Fashion experts at Karen Millen analyzed Google Trends data from the last year to discover which of Kate Middleton’s dresses have generated the most buzz online.

Soaring 233% above the average for the search term “Kate Middleton dress,” Kate’s black Alexander McQueen coat dress is far and away the most influential of her looks this year. Worn with a veiled hat, stilettos, and pearl jewelry from the Queen’s collection, Catherine wore this sombre but stylish ensemble to the funeral of Queen Elizabeth II.

Kate is known to love Alexander McQueen, brightening up a rainy day at the rugby recently in a vivacious red coat from the fashion house.

To celebrate turning 40, three portraits were released with the Princess wearing three different Alexander McQueen gowns also.

Kate’s second most popular dress of 2022 was worn on the Belize visit of her and Prince William’s Caribbean tour in March.

The tour was taken in honor of the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee. The summer dress, officially called Painted Roses from American designer Tory Burch, features a floral pattern, with blue, red, and white detailing that reflects the Belize flag.

Kate’s third most influential dress of the year is her black Jenny Packham, which caused searches to spike 173% above average. The Princess of Wales wore this simple black dress on a walkaround tribute to the Queen around Windsor Castle back in September.

Kate paired the dress with pearl earrings, black heels, and black tights – sticking to her trademark understated but elegant style. 

Coming in fourth was the stunning off-the-shoulder gown that took people’s breath away at the Top Gun: Maverick premiere in London this summer.

Designed by Roland Mouret, Kate styled the flattering black and white evening gown with black pumps, diamond-encrusted earrings, and an Alexander McQueen black box clutch.

Following closely behind, Kate’s fifth most popular dress is her Fuchsia pink Stella McCartney worn to the Platinum Jubilee Pageant (and which she was wearing during Prince Louis' spotlight-stealing moments of naughtiness). 

For the joyous occasion, Kate’s custom dress featured a mid-length skirt, padded shoulders, and long puffy/bishop sleeves, which she paired with statement earrings.

A spokesperson for Karen Millen commented, “Ever since her introduction into the Royal family, Kate Middleton has made a vast impression on the fashion industry, well known for her timeless style and sophisticated outfits. These findings demonstrate Kate’s ability to inspire fashion choices up and down the country, with the British public rushing to take inspiration from her tasteful wardrobe." 

“This research also highlights Kate’s enduring and admirable ability to discreetly use her elegant style to compliment the events she attends, yet not divert too much attention away from the main focus of the occasion.”

The top 10 looks in full:

• Black Alexander McQueen coat dress worn to Queen Elizabeth’s funeral
• Blue Tory Burch dress worn on the Belize visit of the Caribbean tour
• Black Jenny Packham dress worn on Windsor Castle walkaround tribute to the Queen
• Black with white detail Roland Mouret dress worn to the Top Gun film premiere in London
• Fuchsia pink Stella McCartney worn to the Platinum Jubilee Pageant
• Pink RIXO dress worn on the last day of the Caribbean tour
• Yellow Roksanda dress worn to the Wimbledon ladies final
• Blue Alexander McQueen dress worn to the Order of the Garter ceremony
• Emerald green The Vampire’s Wife ‘Falconetti’ dress, worn in the first official portrait of the former Duke and Duchess of Cambridge
• Kate’s 40th birthday official portraits; 3 different Alexander McQueen dresses

British designer brands have always been at the forefront of fashion. One of the major fashion cities, the London Fashion Week bi-annual showcase is one of the most important dates in the fashion calendars of style editors and celebrities. 

When it comes to iconic design houses, British designer brands are responsible for some of the most sought-after fashion pieces in the world. From the iconic Burberry trench coat to Mulberry handbags, British designers are thought to be some of the most creative and innovative in the style industry. Leading the style elite, when it comes to the fashion trends 2022, you can expect plenty of British talent to showcase high-end pieces that will keep your look both up to date and timeless. 

While famous Italian designer brands include the likes of Gucci and Fendi and French designer brands include Chanel and Dior, Britain's history of craftsmanship, seals its place as one of the top fashion destinations in the world. With iconic names such as Alexander McQueen, Stella McCartney, and Vivienne Westwood, and a new crop of British clothing brands such as Molly Goddard and The Vampire's Wife gaining global recognition, British fashion talent is a fusion of new and old. Mastering everything from show-stopping red carpet dresses to everyday tailoring, the best British designer brands offer great investment pieces and style inspiration. 

10 British designer brands fashion editor's think you should know about

1. Alexander McQueen

Founded in 1992 by Alexander McQueen, this luxury fashion house was known for staging some of the most lavish runway performances fashion week had ever seen. Renowned for pushing boundaries, the self-proclaimed ‘bad boy’ designer created collections that were rebellious, gothic and theatrical. After his death in 2010, Sarah Burton stepped up to become creative director adding a new-gen femininity to the collections. She went on to design one of the most famous dresses in the world - the Duchess of Cambridge’s wedding gown.

2. Burberry

Burberry is a long-established British designer brand founded by Thomas Burberry back in 1856 and is best known for its coveted trench coat and iconic check print. Designed in the early 20th century, the Burberry trench coat was (and is still) made from a waterproof fabric called gaberdine and was originally created as part of Britain’s official military uniform but has since evolved to play a key part in both everyday menswear and womenswear. It’s not just about the trench coat, of course, Burberry has expanded substantially, covering every category, with stylish staples to evening dresses and some of the best designer bags.

3. House of Sunny

With dopamine dressing being a huge trend, we all want our clothes to make us look and feel good and that’s where House of Sunny comes in. Based in East London, the brand’s designs are full of vibrant colors and fun retro prints that are guaranteed to inject some joy to your wardrobe. A brand for the Insta-generation, House of Sunny designs have been filling up our feeds and honestly even looking at its stuff brings a smile to our faces. Big on sustainability, they're one of the best sustainable clothing brands, creating only two collections a year so you’ve got to be quick as its popular pieces sell like hot cakes.

4. Molly Goddard

Unapologetically frivolous and fun, Molly Goddard’s creations are defined by frothy tulle skirts, bold hues and voluminous silhouettes, all with a rebellious punk-prom edge. Launched in 2014, her distinctive style has caught everyone’s attention with one very recognizable pink tulle dress being worn by Villanelle in Killing Eve. Whether it’s answering what to wear at a wedding, or you just want to embrace your inner ballerina, Molly Goddard is the one to turn to if you want to make an entrance. 

5. Mulberry

If you’re looking for exquisitely crafted handbags, look no further than Mulberry. The British designer brand shot up the fashion ranks thanks to its sought-after leather handbags and notable collaboration with model and presenter Alexa Chung. With both the Mulberry Alexa and coveted Bayswater both reaching cult 'it' bag status after their respective launches. The latest creation show’s the brand’s willingness to move with the times, designing the Lily Zero - Mulberry’s first carbon-neutral range as part of its goal of achieving net zero carbon emissions by 2035.

While the label is most famed for its handbags, don't forget its beautiful silk scarves and clothing line too. With a super feminine feel, the collections often have a nostalgic, heritage feel to them, tapping into the brand's British roots. 

6. Self-Portrait

Launched in 2013, Self-Portrait is a relative newcomer to the fashion world, but has quickly gained some serious momentum thanks to its slightly more affordable price point and dreamy dresses, worthy of any special occasion. One particular dress - the Azaelea - a strappy lace design was an instant hit that has spawned heaps of copies and still sells out today. The designs are feminine and romantic with lace and broderie fabrics and flattering ladylike silhouettes, perfect if you’re stuck on what to wear to a christening or need some inspiration for the best wedding guest dresses.

7. Stella McCartney

A committed vegetarian, Stella McCartney is a trailblazer when it comes to cruelty-free fashion. The brand avoids using leather or fur in any of its products and has inspired many other designers to follow suit. Sustainability is also key in the creations, using recycled materials, organic cotton and responsible viscose. From vegan-friendly bags to stylish sportswear, Stella McCartney has got everything your wardrobe needs. 

8. The Vampire's Wife

This contemporary label has already got the royal stamp of approval with several of Kate Middleton's dresses being from this brand. Created by Susie Cave, former model and wife of Nick Cave, the brand is known for its standout dresses. Expect loud prints, bold colors, and unique lamé fabrications in an array of feminine silhouettes from cute minis to floor-sweeping gowns. Don’t just save these for best though, they deserve to be worn to brunch, cocktail parties and everything in between.

9. Victoria Beckham

Has there ever been a more impressive rebrand than Posh Spice? The Spice-girl-turned-designer has taken the fashion world by storm since launching in 2008. Mastering the art of a minimalist wardrobe, the collections are brimming full of form-fitting dresses, feminine tailoring and well-fitting denim for a fuss-free aesthetic that still packs a punch. It has a huge celeb following too with the designs being worn by the likes of Jennifer Lopez and the Duchess of Sussex so you’ll be in pretty good company. 

10. Vivienne Westwood

Possibly the most influential of them all, Vivienne Westwood’s career spans over five impressive decades. One of the best-known British designer brands, Westwood was central to creating clothes for the punk movement back in the 1970s and although the collections have evolved over the years you can still see elements of Westwood's early punk influence from the tartan prints to the metal hardware. Also known for its activism, Westwood often uses the runway as a political platform, particularly for climate change and environmental issues.

Meghan Markle’s wedding dress might have been unveiled to the world four years ago but it remains one of the most iconic royal gowns of all time and features some exquisite subtle details.

Meghan Markle tied the knot with the Queen's grandson at St George’s Chapel near Windsor Castle in a ceremony that was watched across the world. In the lead-up there was huge speculation over who would create her dress. And whilst some predicted that Ralph & Russo and Carolina Herrera could be chosen, others wondered whether Sarah Burton who designed Kate Middleton’s wedding dress could receive a second royal wedding dress commission. 

Ultimately, Meghan chose a very different designer for the meaningful gown and embroidered veil topped by the perfect finishing touch. Nothing screams royal wedding like Queen Elizabeth’s tiaras and Meghan’s borrowed crown was stunning. 

And just like Meghan Markle's engagement ring, there is a huge amount of meaning behind every detail of her wedding look. Here we reveal the significance behind Meghan Markle’s wedding dress, her veil and her equally beautiful evening dress…

Who designed Meghan Markle’s wedding dress? 

Meghan Markle's wedding dress was designed by acclaimed British designer Clare Waight Keller. Clare became the first female artistic director at historic French fashion house, Givenchy, in 2017 after previously working as creative head of Pringle of Scotland and Chloe. She was a particularly perfect choice of designer for Meghan, who has regularly championed fellow women and female causes over the years and who is viewed by so many as a deeply inspirational woman herself.

Just a few months ago, Meghan Markle lent her voice to CARE's #HerVoice campaign by appearing in their video as they aimed to “celebrate the generations of women who have inspired us, taught us, and moved us to change the world”.

Meghan's passion for championing and supporting other women was also showcased in her choice of wedding dress. At the time, Kensington Palace declared in a statement, "After meeting her earlier this year, Markle chose to work with [Waight-Keller] for her timeless and elegant aesthetic, impeccable tailoring and relaxed demeanour".

The former actor and designer were also said to have "worked closely together" on the final design of Meghan Markle's wedding dress. 

The statement went on to reveal, "The dress epitomises a timeless minimal elegance referencing the codes of the iconic House of Givenchy and showcasing the expert craftsmanship of its world-renowned Parisian couture atelier founded in 1952."

The Duchess of Sussex's choice of wedding dress designer is something she herself has touched on in the 2018 ITV documentary, Queen of the World. Having been reunited with her breath-taking gown, Meghan revealed she especially wanted a "delicate" look with her dress but trusted Clare completely to bring her vision to life.

"We had two or three meetings talking about sketches and different ideas of how this could really come to life,” Meghan explained. “We knew we wanted it to be very delicate, but then after that point, I just said I trust her implicitly with what she did."

Not only did Clare’s design wow fans around the world, Meghan Markle's wedding dress was made all the more meaningful given that Clare also sewed an extra special hidden detail into it. 

Sharing this intriguing secret with the documentary viewers, Meghan disclosed that some of the fabric from the dress she wore for her first date with Prince Harry was sewn into the final wedding gown as her “something blue”.

Although very subtle and something only the Sussexes themselves likely would've known for some time, this shows just how much involvement Meghan had in her dress and the emotion and painstaking detail in the final design.

What was the meaning behind Meghan Markle’s veil? 

Whilst Meghan Markle's wedding dress was a beautiful gown that epitomized the flair for elegance seen in many of Meghan Markle's stylish moments, it wasn't the only meaningful part of the overall look. After all, it's hard not to have noticed the five-metre long veil that fanned out behind her like a cloud as she walked up and down the chapel steps. 

And Meghan's impressive veil contained hidden significance just like her dress. Made of silk tulle, it was carefully embroidered with 53 individual flowers which represented each of the countries of the Commonwealth of Nations. 

Designer Clare reportedly spent a lot of time researching the flora specific to each country and ensured that every bloom was unique. The Duchess of Sussex reflected on how determined she was to have her veil include such a wonderful tribute to the Commonwealth as she became a new member of the extended Royal Family. 

Opening up during the Queen of the World documentary, she declared, "It was important for me, especially now being part of the royal family, to have all 53 of the commonwealth countries incorporated." 

Whilst Meghan shared that even Prince Harry didn't know about this poignant touch as she explained, "I knew it would be a fun surprise for my now husband - he didn't know! He was really over the moon to find that I would make this choice for our day together, and I think the other members of the family had a similar reaction."

And that's not all! Apart from each of the commonwealth flowers included on her statement veil, Meghan also chose two more very close to her heart to be embroidered on to her veil.

These were reportedly wintersweet which can be found growing in Kensington Palace grounds and the California poppy, representing where she was born.

The final effect of dress and veil together clearly impressed Meghan's new husband.  with Prince Harry said to have whispered to her as she approached, "You look amazing, absolutely gorgeous."

How many wedding dresses did Meghan Markle have?

Meghan Markle’s wedding dress was magnificent enough to capture the hearts of the nation, but it wasn't the only dress she wore on her and Prince Harry's big day. The Duchess of Sussex also had a second wedding dress, designed by British designer Stella McCartney. 

The stunning bespoke lily white crepe dress carried through a sense of elegance that was seen in her first dress, but with a fun twist. Meghan Markle's second wedding dress had a high, halter neck style and was completely sleeveless. 

In recent years we've seen Meghan Markle's hair often worn up and her wedding day was no exception as she wore hers secured at the back of her head, allowing first her wedding dress and then the halter neck design of her evening dress to shine. For this occasion she wore satin Aquazzura shoes with nude mesh and baby blue soles. 

Meghan also accessorized the evening dress with a beautiful aquamarine ring that was part of Princess Diana's jewelry collection and which brought another blue element to her overall look. 

Meghan wore this chic outfit to her and Prince Harry’s wedding reception which was held at Frogmore House, which, like the Sussexes' UK home, Frogmore Cottage, is close to Windsor Castle. The choice to wear Stella McCartney could also perhaps be seen as another nod to her and Prince Harry’s union. 

In another layer of potential meaning, Stella’s father, musician Sir Paul McCartney, is British like Prince Harry, whilst Stella's mother Linda was American, like Meghan. Although this particular connection has not been confirmed by the Duchess, it's got a lovely significance to it.

What did Meghan Markle’s wedding dress cost?  

Meghan Markle's wedding dress is estimated by some to have cost around $265,000 (£192,700), but it's not surprising it could have cost so much - the veil alone is said to have taken 3,900 hours to hand-embroider! Whilst the magnificent gown was made from very costly materials, including double-bonded silk cady, cushioned by an underskirt in triple silk organza. 

Meanwhile, her Stella McCartney second wedding dress worn by Meghan to her and Prince Harry’s evening reception was estimated to have cost around $157,000 (£114,000). However, a few months after the Sussexes’ wedding in November 2018, replicas of the gown formed part of an exclusive Stella McCartney collection and came in at the more reasonable price of $4,813 (£3,500).

What was Meghan Markle’s wedding tiara?

Whilst Meghan Markle's wedding dress worn was breath-taking n its own right, her wedding tiara really added the final touch to the outfit. And, just like all the other aspects of Meghan's wedding outfits, there was once again great meaning behind her choice. Many people had speculated that the bride would opt for a tiara from the Spencer family collection in a sweet nod to her late mother-in-law Princess Diana.

Prince Charles and Diana's relationship began in 1980 and blossomed into 15 years of marriage, with Princess Diana choosing to walk down the aisle wearing a Spencer tiara and not one of the royal ones for her own ceremony.

Several eye-catching jewelry pieces that once belonged to Princess of Wales' have been worn by her daughters-in-law over the years, including the aquamarine ring Meghan wore with her evening wedding dress. However, Meghan's wedding tiara belongs to the Queen and the decision to offer her precious items for Meghan to choose showcases their warm relationship.

The Queen reportedly presented Meghan with a selection of her favorite tiaras and asked her to choose one to wear on the big day. The dazzling piece Meghan chose was originally owned by Prince Harry’s great-great grandmother, Queen Mary.

The Queen Mary Diamond Bandeau Tiara is a delicate diamond head piece, passed onto Queen Elizabeth II by Queen Mary. Queen Mary is understood to have had the piece constructed out of a brooch she had received as a gift from the County of Lincoln back in 1893 when she married King George V. 

The Bandeau Tiara has often been worn with a sapphire as the central stone, though Meghan was reportedly lent a diamond by the Queen for her wedding day and this beautiful option really highlighted the delicacy of Meghan Markle's wedding dress. 

As reported by Tatler, Meghan previously revealed why she chose this particular tiara in the audio recording for the royal wedding outfits exhibition at Windsor castle back in 2019.

"When it came to the tiara on the day I was very fortunate to be able to choose this very gorgeous Art Deco-style bandeau tiara," the Duchess of Sussex shared, before going on to explain that she knew it was the one for her thanks to its simplicity. 

"That was the one that I think as we tried them on stood out; I think it was just perfect because it was so clean and simple, and I think also at that point an extension to what Clare and I had been trying to do with the dress, which was have something that could be so incredibly timeless but still feel modern," she added.

Where did Meghan Markle get ready for her wedding?

The night before Meghan Markle's wedding dress stunned the world and the ceremony delighted fans, she spent her last night as a single woman at Cliveden House in Berkshire. It’s understood that she and her mother Doria Ragland were the only ones to stay the night at the historic hotel. 

The best-selling Sussex biography by Omid Scobie and Carolyn Durand, Finding Freedom, has since claimed that Meghan rose at 6am on the day of her wedding. 

The biography, which explores Prince Harry and Meghan's "heartbreak" at Prince Philip's death in a new epilogue, reportedly goes on to explain how Daniel Martin did the Meghan and Doria’s makeup for the big day. This is something Daniel has reflected upon following the major event, revealing Prince Harry’s sweet words about his wife at their fairytale wedding.

Now, almost exactly four years later, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex have welcomed two children, Archie and Lilibet and will celebrate their wedding anniversary on May 19th. And whilst Prince Harry and Meghan "stepped back" as senior royals in 2020, they are set to return to the UK as a family to attend the Queen's Platinum Jubilee 2022 celebrations in June. 

Though Meghan Markle's wedding dress will forever be one of her best-known dresses, many will be eagerly waiting to see what she will wear during this momentous royal occasion. 

Kate Middleton's huge wedding secret was leaked to the press just two months before her wedding day with a royal expert claiming this slip-up left the Duchess in tears.

• Prince William and Kate Middleton were married at Westminster Abbey on 29 April 2011.
• Reportedly, some tears were shed before the event by a forlorn Kate Middleton who was devastated that a big secret had been leaked to the press.
• In other royal news, Duchess Camilla's four-letter nickname for Meghan Markle revealed as Sussexes remain silent on Queen's Platinum Jubilee.

Ahead of her wedding day with Prince William, fans across the world wondered who would design Kate Middleton's wedding dress.

And like many brides, Kate wanted to keep the designer and style of her dress a secret so it would be a surprise for the big day. Unfortunately for Kate, The Sunday Times revealed two months before the big day, that Sarah Burton at Alexander McQueen, would be designing the wedding gown.

According to the Channel 5 documentary, Secrets of the Royal Dressmakers, the leak was devastating for the Duchess of Cambridge. 

Royal expert, Katie Nicholl, revealed, "Behind the scenes, I think that caused tears at the Palace because Kate had done everything she could to keep the wedding dress a secret."

The Sunday Times reported at the time, "The fashion secret of the year is out. When Catherine Middleton marries Prince William in Westminster Abbey she will be wearing a dress designed by Sarah Burton, creative director of Alexander McQueen, one of Britain's edgiest labels."

The article continued, "she was selected by Middleton, who is making increasing efforts to develop her own style, on grounds of her quirky elegance, discretion, and low profile."

"A fashion source said that the dress will be a combination of Middleton's own design ideas and Burton's deep knowledge and understanding of high fashion."

Although the style of the iconic wedding dress was not revealed, the leaked designer allowed some fashion experts to imagine what this design might look like, and for Kate, the surprise about choosing an 'edgy' label was lost.

Kate Middleton's dresses have always been a hot topic of conversation so of course, it is unsurprising that her wedding dress would be of interest to the press. 

The wedding in 2011 was one of the biggest events of the year and reportedly,Kate Middleton ignored tradition and broke five royal protocols during the royal ceremony

Prince William was given a sharp reality check after trying—and failing—to negotiate with the Queen before his wedding day. 

• Prince William's wedding attire caused conflict with the Queen, who disagreed with his initial wardrobe choice. 
• The Duke of Cambridge was forced to wear a red military uniform as Colonel of the Irish Guards, after being appointed the honorable role two months before the big day. 
• In other royal news, Kate Middleton's sweet gesture to the Queen as pair become closer following health scare.
  

Prince William may be second in line to the British throne, but that doesn't mean he always gets his own way.  

The Duke of Cambridge was reminded of the Queen's overarching authority in the run-up to his nuptials to Kate Middleton, after a failed attempt to choose his own wardrobe for the big day. The optics of the wedding, which took place at Westminster Abbey on 29 April 2011, was of high importance to the powers that be at Buckingham Palace—with everything from music to food planned carefully in advance. 

It shouldn't come as a surprise then that the couple's fashion on the day was heavily influenced by exterior forces. The Duchess of Cambridge enjoyed relative freedom when it came to her wedding ensemble, working closely with designer Sarah Burton to create a dress that emanated both "tradition and modernity." (Fast forward ten years, and the iconic Alexander McQueen bridal gown continues to reign as the most famous of Kate Middleton's dresses.) 

William, on the other hand, had far less control over his clothing for the big day. As Colonel of the Irish Guards, he was required to ditch the traditional wedding suit and wear a red military uniform instead. He later admitted he had hoped to tie the knot in a different outfit, even suggesting the idea to his grandmother. 

"What I really wanted to wear was the Irish Guards frock coat," he told ABC in a 2012 interview. "We had a couple of discussions on this matter but, as I learned growing up, you don’t mess with your grandmother. What she says goes." 

The Queen's denial of this request is a testament to just how rigid the Royal Family can be when it comes to rules. William's preferred outfit of the darker Irish Guards frock coat, which he had worn already in the past, was quite similar to the scarlet tunic he donned on the day. However, Her Majesty was insistent he went with the red version, having appointed him Colonel of the Irish Guards two months before the wedding.