Since 2011 we have been enjoying the Kate effect, with the wedding world and brides alike loving all things lace – especially sleeves! But after last weekend’s truly beautiful, and emotional, royal wedding, I think it is safe to say understated elegance is going to have its time in the spotlight. Having already looked at royal wedding worthy crowns and tiaras, today we are turning our attention to the other elements of Meghan’s wedding day look, and how you minimalist loving brides-to-be can recreate it for yourself!

All royal wedding images issued by The Royal Family via Facebook & Instagram

The Wedding Dress

I think its safe to say, the dress lacked the Markle sparkle everyone had speculated it would have. But personally I think that made the choice all the more breathtaking. Because whilst the Givenchy gown, designed by brit Clare Waight Keller, was most certainly understated it was anything but safe. With its bateau neckline, 3/4 length sleeves and tailored silhouette, it made a style statement of its own, that of utterly timeless elegance and understated splendor. Her choice showed restraint, and proved yet again that simplicity really is the ultimate sophistication. And probably most importantly, it was so different to Kate’s that it avoided any kind of true comparison! Personally I think it is impossible to do anything but love both.

Grace – Jesus Peiro

Bacall Gown – BHLDN

Cowl Back Wedding Dress – Noel & Jean by Katie May

Resal – Pronovias

Suki – Rime Adroaky

Blythe – Jenny Yoo

Huarte – Pronovias

The Veil

It has long been said that accessories make an outfit. And this couldn’t have been more true than when Meghan stepped from that beautiful vintage Rolls Royce, and everyone caught their fist glimpse of that magnificent 16.5 ft veil. Made of silk tulle with silk and organza hand-embroidered flowers along the trim, representing all 53 of the Commonwealth countries, it added drama to her look and wowed the crowds and wedding world just as much as her dress.

And you can easily recreate her look, and add some regal style and drama to your wedding day look, with these beautiful cathedral length veils…..

Cathedral Mantilla Veil – Sibo Designs

Cathedral Length Veil – Sheeta Design

French Lace Edged Cathedral Length Veil – One Blushing Bride || Yasmin Roohi Photography

Lace Applique Cathedral Veil – Veiled Beauty

Lace Bridal Veil – Victoria Spirina

Roseline – Girl and a Serious Dream

Mantilla Cathedral Length Veil – Sibo Designs

The Evening Dress

Last but not least, the new Duchess of Sussex wowed us with her reception gown. Designed by Stella McCartney it really showed off her slender frame and beautiful shoulders, with its halter neck and slinky silhouette. Plus it would have been perfect for dancing the night away with her dapper new husband! (oh and if you loved his reception look too, you will find something similar for your groom here!)

And whilst not everyone can afford a Stella McCartney gown, there are more affordable alternatives out there…. that would most definitely be beautiful enough for the ceremony too! Don’t you think?

Pasarela – Rosa Clara

Brody – Amsale

Vivienne – Davie & Chiyo

Gwen – Jenny Yoo

Dreba –  Pronovias

Well, whatever we think of the bride’s look on the day, I think we can all agree they make such a super sweet couple. And whilst having their budget might have been nice, I certainly don’t envy them the scrutiny their wedding day came under. Congratulations to them both for what looked to me like the most perfect day, and long may these smiles!

(don’t even want to think how long we have to wait now for the next royal wedding!!)

Amy

x