Back in Time Today
Wedding gowns come and go with the trends—but a few have transcended fashion to become unforgettable cultural moments. Whether it was the royal flair, couture innovation, or sheer media frenzy, these 10 bridal gowns redefined what it means to walk down the aisle in style.
1. Princess Diana – David and Elizabeth Emanuel (1981)
Princess Diana’s wedding gown was nothing short of a fairy tale. The ivory silk taffeta dress was designed by David and Elizabeth Emanuel and featured puffed sleeves and a 25-foot train, capturing the imagination of millions. Over 10,000 pearls adorned the gown, adding to its majestic allure.
As the young bride stepped out of the glass coach, the world was entranced. The grandeur of the design epitomized ’80s bridal opulence, making history at St. Paul’s Cathedral. This gown wasn’t just a dress; it became a global sensation and remains a symbol of royal elegance.
Did you know? The train was so long it barely fit inside the carriage!
2. Grace Kelly – Helen Rose (1956)
Grace Kelly’s wedding gown, designed by Helen Rose, embodied timeless elegance. The high-necked, lace-sleeved dress was a testament to her Hollywood grace, as she transformed into Monaco’s real-life princess.
Walking down the aisle, she was the epitome of sophistication, her gown setting a benchmark for bridal fashion. The design inspired generations, including Kate Middleton’s wedding dress decades later. It was a confluence of style and tradition, capturing hearts worldwide.
Fun fact: The gown took six weeks to create, with three dozen seamstresses working tirelessly. This iconic piece remains an enduring symbol of regal beauty.
3. Meghan Markle – Clare Waight Keller for Givenchy (2018)
Meghan Markle’s wedding gown was the epitome of modern elegance. Created by Clare Waight Keller for Givenchy, the minimalist boat-neck design ushered in an era of understated sophistication.
The simplicity of the silk gown contrasted beautifully with the 16-foot veil, embroidered with flora from all 53 Commonwealth countries. It was a perfect fusion of tradition and modernity, showcasing Markle’s unique style.
As she entered St George’s Chapel, her look was pure modern royalty. Her choice set new bridal trends, influencing countless brides worldwide. The elegance of the design continues to inspire.
4. Kate Middleton – Sarah Burton for Alexander McQueen (2011)
Kate Middleton’s wedding dress was a masterpiece of elegance and tradition. Designed by Sarah Burton for Alexander McQueen, the gown featured a lace bodice, long sleeves, and a full skirt, reminiscent of Grace Kelly’s iconic style.
This regal design became one of the most influential bridal gowns of the 21st century. As she walked down the aisle at Westminster Abbey, the world watched in admiration. The gown’s exquisite tailoring and sophisticated charm left an indelible mark on bridal fashion.
Interesting tidbit: The lace incorporated motifs of roses, daffodils, thistles, and shamrocks, symbolizing the United Kingdom’s national emblems.
5. Jacqueline Bouvier – Ann Lowe (1953)
Jacqueline Bouvier’s wedding gown was the epitome of classic elegance. Designed by Ann Lowe, the ivory silk dress featured a portrait neckline and full bouffant skirt, reflecting the sophistication of the future first lady.
The gown became iconic, though the designer remained uncredited for many years. As she wed John F. Kennedy in Newport, Rhode Island, her look captivated the nation.
This piece of bridal fashion history endures as a symbol of grace and poise. Did you know? Ann Lowe was one of the first African-American designers to gain prominence in the fashion world, though often unacknowledged.
6. Audrey Hepburn – Pierre Balmain (1954)
Audrey Hepburn’s wedding dress by Pierre Balmain was a reflection of her unique style. The tea-length dress with puffed sleeves and a sash waist was unconventional, perfectly aligning with her gamine allure.
This choice set a precedent for non-traditional bridal fashion, offering brides an alternative to the traditional long gown. Her look was charming and playful, capturing the essence of the 1950s.
A fun tidbit: Audrey’s tea-length design continues to inspire brides seeking individuality. The gown’s unconventional appeal remains a favorite among those looking for something different in bridal attire.
7. Elizabeth Taylor – Helen Rose (1950)
Elizabeth Taylor’s wedding dress, crafted by Helen Rose, was a vision of classic Hollywood glamour. The satin gown featured a sweetheart neckline, fitted bodice, and voluminous skirt, capturing the starlet’s dazzling beauty.
For her first of eight weddings, Taylor’s choice resonated with elegance and sophistication. The gown’s intricate design and luxurious fabric made it an enduring symbol of 1950s style.
Did you know? Helen Rose was also the designer behind Grace Kelly’s iconic wedding gown. Taylor’s dress remains a testament to the golden age of Hollywood fashion.
8. Yoko Ono – Mini Dress and Sun Hat (1969)
Yoko Ono’s wedding attire defied all conventions. Her choice of a white mini dress, knee socks, and a sun hat was a bold statement during her wedding to John Lennon.
This ensemble reflected the spirit of 1960s counterculture, embracing artistic nonconformity and freedom. It broke away from traditional bridal norms, offering a refreshing departure.
Ono’s look continues to inspire those who seek to challenge the status quo. Fun fact: Her unconventional attire remains a symbol of artistic expression and individuality, resonating with free spirits worldwide.
9. Bianca Jagger – Yves Saint Laurent Le Smoking Jacket (1971)
Bianca Jagger’s wedding attire was a daring departure from tradition. Opting for a white Yves Saint Laurent tuxedo jacket worn braless with a long skirt, she made a bold fashion statement at her St-Tropez wedding to Mick Jagger.
Her choice remains one of the boldest bridal looks, embodying a rebellious, chic aesthetic. The outfit’s sleek design challenged conventional norms and continues to inspire those seeking individuality.
Quirky fact: Bianca’s choice of attire paved the way for bridal fashion that embraces uniqueness, becoming a timeless symbol of confidence and style.
10. Kim Kardashian – Riccardo Tisci for Givenchy (2014)
Kim Kardashian’s wedding dress was a testament to high fashion and media spectacle. Designed by Riccardo Tisci for Givenchy, the lace illusion-back gown with a dramatic train was both lavish and captivating.
Her Italian wedding to Kanye West was a major event, and the dress played a central role in the visual storytelling. The gown’s intricate details and sumptuous fabric showcased Kardashian’s curvaceous style.
Did you know? This gown helped usher in the age of the social media wedding spectacle, making headlines worldwide. It remains an iconic example of modern bridal fashion.