In the lead-up to the royal wedding, fashion enthusiasts and royal aficionados speculated fervently about who would have the privilege of designing Meghan's wedding gown. Names like Ralph and Russo (the creators of Meghan's engagement dress), Erdem, Alexander McQueen, and Stella McCartney were among the top contenders.
Meghan, true to her personal style, opted for a wedding dress that stood out for its simplicity and laidback charm, setting a unique tone among royal wedding gowns. Characterized by clean lines and three-quarter length sleeves, her look was accentuated with a breathtaking 16-foot cathedral veil and the Queen Mary Diamond Bandeau tiara.
The Price Tag: A Gown Fit for Royalty
The creation of Meghan Markle's wedding dress spared no expense. While reports vary, Vanity Fair estimated the cost at around $265,000. However, some sources suggest it might have reached as high as $400,000 or even $500,000.
Several factors contributed to the lofty price tag. Firstly, the dress was fashioned from the finest quality fabric, with a triple silk organza underskirt that significantly added to the cost. Furthermore, the dress was meticulously custom-made and featured intricate hand-embroidery, further driving up the expenses.
Who Footed the Bill: Meghan's Personal Investment
Meghan Markle herself covered the cost of her wedding dress. With a successful acting career prior to joining the royal family, she certainly had the financial means to do so.
It's worth noting that in the realm of royal weddings, it's customary for the bride to bear the expense of her dress. Meghan's sister-in-law, Catherine, the Duchess of Cambridge, adhered to this tradition as well. She married Prince William, the Duke of Cambridge, wearing a Sarah Burton for Alexander McQueen dress, which was estimated to cost $434,000, and she personally financed it.
However, the wedding dress was not the sole expenditure incurred by Meghan. The tiara she wore was sourced from Queen Elizabeth II's vault. Additionally, the costs associated with flowers, food, and security were graciously covered by the royal family.
