Friday 26 January 2018

Royal Wedding: Meghan's Wedding Gown Goals!

It's time for some Friday Fun here on Mad About Meghan! As we continue with our Royal Wedding series, we're going to have several posts focused on the wedding gown. We'll use the term 'several' lightly, a topic of this magnitude may require more content than anticipated. :)


Omid Scobie confirmed Meghan's close friend and stylist Jessica Mulroney flew into London earlier this month and with her help Meghan has chosen a designer. Fittings are already underway at Nottingham Cottage and whoever secured the commission of the year will now be in the early stages of creating the custom made gown which will go down in history. The identity of the designer is unknown and will quite possibly remain that way until the big day. With so much to discuss in the coming weeks, we'll be looking at Royal Brides over the decades, discussing how protocol will play a hand in the choice, possible designer choices and much more! Today, we're focusing on the bride and sharing a little insight into the iconic bridal look she described as "Everything Goals", and we're looking at her favourite bridal designers...


Thanks to Meghan's Suits character Rachel Zane, we have an indication of the style and overall feel of gown Meghan will want created for her. We also have an idea of styles not going to make the cut, including the Ann Barge gown she wore on Suits. The Versailles Plunge Embroidered Tulle Gown is fashioned from Italian fabric and features a beaded back. In many ways it fits the ''fairy tale bill'. Speaking to Glamour she said: "It's not my personal style, because I'm a lot more relaxed than Rachel but I love that I got to play dress up in this gown. For TV we did have to bring the neckline up a touch per the producers request, but the original design has a low ballerina inspired neckline and I happen to love that."


There's a great video of Meghan and Jessica Mulroney looking through potential gowns. One imagines similar discussion at Nottingham Cottage earlier this month whilst evaluating potential designers.


When asked about her ideal wedding dress, Meghan responded "classic and simple are the name of the game":

'I have the luxury of wearing beautiful pieces of clothing every day for work, so my personal style—wedding or not—is very pared down and relaxed. Classic and simple is the name of the game, perhaps with a modern twist. I personally prefer wedding dresses that are whimsical or subtly romantic.'

I was very interested to see Meghan's answer when she was asked to name her favourite celebrity wedding dress. She responded: "Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy. Everything goals."


Carolyn Bessette was born in New York in 1966 and enjoyed a successful career at Calvin Klein. During her time there, she went from being a saleswoman in Boston's Chestnut Hill Mall to becoming the director of publicity for the company's flagship store in Manhattan. While working for Klein in Boston, Bessette was noticed by Susan Sokol, a travelling sales coordinator for the company. Sokol, impressed with Bessette's grace and style, later recommended her for a position dealing with Klein's high-profile clients, such as actress Annette Bening and newscaster Diane Sawyer. In 1992, she met and fell in love with John F. Kennedy Jr. They quickly became one of the most talked about and photographed couples in the world with Carolyn gaining instant recognition for her classic, cool, chic style. In September 1996, the couple married. The ceremony took place by candlelight on the remote Georgia Island, Cumberland, in a tiny wooden chapel, the First African Baptist Church. Carolyn worked with the then little-known designer Narciso Rodriquez to create a pearl white silk crepe gown with white gloves and a veil. Over twenty years later it remains breathtakingly beautiful. It is the definition of 'less is more'. 


Almost three years after their wedding, John F. Kennedy Jr, Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy and Carolyn's sister Lauren tragically lost their lives when the plane Kennedy was piloting crashed into the Atlantic Ocean off of Martha's Vineyard. Carolyn remains a style icon today and is referenced in popular culture. Rosamund Pike was encouraged by Gone Girl director David Fincher to base her character, Amy Dunne, on Bessette-Kennedy. Fincher said of Bessette-Kennedy: "She crafted herself, she re-invented herself, and invented that persona. That's where I began." In 2015, Wes Gordon, known for disliking discussion about the influences of his collections, admitted Bessette-Kennedy's impact on the clothing for women in that year's collection. Gordon was long interested in Bessette-Kennedy's style prior to production.


Media outlets have been reporting for months Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy is a major fashion influence for Meghan. Her choice of black and camel for her first public engagement in Nottingham is straight out of Carolyn's playbook.


During the Glamour interview, Meghan listed her favourite bridal designers:

Delphine Manivet and Christos Costarellos are faves of mine for their uniqueness and beauty. And I will always be a fan of Elie Saab. J. Mendel is spectacular as well, especially for more structural designs.

A very interesting selection of names. Delphine Manivet is a well-known French bridal designer known for her whimsical contemporary designs.


The Knot reports: "If you're style icon is a mix of Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy and Catherine Deneuve, get excited."

'Delphine Manivet trained at the prestigious Institut Supérieur de la Mode in Paris. She joined the design studio at the house of Rochas and also worked as a stylist for several other houses. This all changed the day she designed her own wedding dress—from that moment she received countless requests from her friends to create their dresses as well. Delphine Manivet started her brand 10 years ago and maintains the belief that "the dress should be a girl's only makeup." Mais oui! She's also designed wedding dresses for Riley Keough and Lily Allen, as well as red carpet looks for Kristen Wiig, Lady Gaga and Sarah Jessica Parker. '

The designs are very pared back; not a 'meringue' dress in sight. Absolutely stunning silhouettes but perhaps a tad too simple for a royal wedding?


Manivet also designs for flower girls... Princess Charlotte anyone?


Costarellos Christos was born in Dusseldorf, Germany. He was introduced to the fashion world at an early age, as his parents were both working in this industry.  He studied fashion design at Dimitrelis School of Fashion in Greece and then theatre costume design at London College of Fashion in England. The fashion house of Christos Costarellos was launched in the Greek market in 1998 with his first RTW line which was dedicated to the craftsmanship of moulage and couture techniques.


The Costarellos Bridal Spring 2018 collection is inspired by the magnificence of the Greek spring landscape, the Greek tradition and history are portrayed through intricate lace patterns, floral lace appliques and column silhouettes. The dresses are made with high-end craftsmanship from the finest French materials, like soft Chantilly and cordonnet lace, French broderie, and applique flower lace details.


The Elie Saab Bridal 2018 Collection marries old-school silhouettes with modern touches and twists.


The collection is a sea of organza, tulle, shimmering v-neck columns, metallic threads and feminine touches. The designer can also be replied upon to provide a dress fit for a princess...


Take a look at the details...


Now, we must move on from Elie Saab's divine designs... Okay just one more...


And take a look at the sculptural lines and refined silhouettes from J Mendel.


Based on everything Meghan said, Mendel's structured, sleek, perfectly-tailored gowns designed with a "21st century bride" in mind are the most in keeping with the styles she would choose. Obviously, protocol and the nature and gravity of a royal wedding are going to play their part in the overall finished choice. Could Meghan walk up the aisle in a structured dress and forego the traditional princess bride look?


Whatever Meghan's final choice will be, there's no chance Harry will be getting a peek before the big day. When asked about the groom seeing the dress, she replied: "I'm very superstitious but I wouldn't say that it's bad luck; I would just say I prefer sticking with traditions. ;)"

175 comments:

  1. Could you please discuss the "rules" or protocol for marrying at St. George's Chapel. I know that some churches require sleeves, etc...

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    1. Hello Wendy,

      Yes, in the second post focused on the wedding gown we'll be looking at Royal Brides over the decades and protocol. The third post will solely focus on the British designers who are the most likely contenders for the big day.

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    2. Totally looking forward to your series, Charlotte!

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  2. I’m really hoping for a Ralph & Russo gown after seeing the engagement pictures! But whichever designer she goes with, I can see her wearing a simple gown with little embellishment (I envision beaded lace, or just beading). But it will be made of gorgeous fabric such as silk satin or duchess silk. The gown will have a neckline like the Prince-of-Wales plaid jacket/blouse she recently wore, and 3/4 length sleeves, although I could see her wearing something with a cap sleeve. The skirt will be a-line but not as voluminous as Kate’s or Pippa’s for that matter, however I could also see her with a skirt similar to Princess Charlene of Monaco’s wedding gown. Her earrings will possibly be simple diamond or pearl studs, an antique pair of pearl dangles, or a pair of Diana’s. She might wear a bracelet but something classic pearls/diamonds. The tiara will either be from the Queen (I’m thinking a fringe, a bandeau, or the Strathmore Rose) or a brand new tiara that was purchased at an antique jewelry auction. Attached to the tiara (or romantic hairstyle) will be a very thin, airy veil, similar to the one Princess Charlene of Monaco wore on her wedding day.

    Thank you for your lovely blog! :)

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  3. 🎊 Fun, fun, fun. And thanks for the “just one more”. Cute, Charlotte. :)
    So Becca your CBK guesses were right on. who knew? Sad that Carolyn and her hubbie and sister are gone. Carolyn left a fashion legacy. They say she influenced Calvin Klein and NYC fashion greatly and was even instrumental in launching super stardom for Kate Moss with the Calvin Klein commercial with Mark Warburg and Kate Moss. Very risqué.
    A part of me still hopes that the theory that the Kennedys just staged that whole plane thing to live anonymously somewhere else in the world is true.
    In the first Elie Saab photo. Can anyone really have a waistline that thin? Really??
    Didn’t realize that Jessica Mulroney was the head of Kleinfeld’s in Canada. I thought she was a lady of leisure, albeit with a daughter and twin boys to raise. In watching “Say Yes to the Dress” from Kleinfeld’s in NYC, I haven’t been impressed with their inventory yet. All the gowns look like repeats of about 10 to 12 styles.
    Oh I hope Meghan doesn’t settle for anything other than unique and perfect.
    I look at wedding gowns just for fun whenever I can. I buy Bride’s magazines just to see what’s new in bridal. If I’m out and about and there is a bridal store nearby, I’m there. Making sure the salespersons know I am just looking and not at the mother of the bride gowns either so I can browse in peace, lol. Although I look at those mother of the brides dresses and bridesmaids gowns also, lol. To say I love wedding gowns would be an understatement. So this is making me light up for sure.
    As pretty as they are, none of the gowns seem that out of the ordinary and a couple looked like regular ballgowns. Maybe I have just looked at so many gowns that I’m jaded, lol. I don’t know. None seemed like Meghan. So. Good news. We’ll just have to keep looking. :)

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    1. Oh SG! I've never heard there was such a theory!? I have to share a story with you all... Ok I do not think I have a 6th sense or anything like that, but I have had my share of weird experiences. They have ranged from very deja vu to me either dreaming about something or having something randomly pop into my head & then it happens! Seriously, No Joke! I have experienced having some type of news bit in my head, something news worthy that has evidently happened, like just a basic news story. Then I have gotten the news that the thing has happened & I've been all confused, like "wait, but we found out about that yesterday!?" The person telling me this news then says, " no it just happened!" & I have felt this weird out of body confusion & dizziness like the room is swirling! Odd Huh? So what happened re: JFK Jr. & CBK was, I had a Very Vivid Dream that they had been flying & drowned off of the coast of Nantucket! I remember waking with a shudder & thinking that was odd that I just randomly thought of them & I love Nantucket, so the setting wasn't random, but I thought it was especially weird because The Kennedy Compound is on Cape Cod? (add to that, that I didn't even know he was a pilot!) So I finished getting up still having that lurking in my head (the rest of the house was still sleeping) & I turned on the tv in our bedroom & the news of the crash was Just Breaking! :O It was surreal, but it was off the coast of CapeCod. So there was that difference, but then they announced when they found the plane, that it had gone down in "Nantucket Sound"...... So that's my weird wooo wooo story about The astoundingly sad crash of JFK Jr. & CBK! So that was 20+ yrs ago & I haven't had any wooo wooo experiences since! Weird huh?

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    2. Becca.😊 wow. that is weird. :) now I’m going to be trying to figure out the whys and wherefores of it, lol. :)

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    3. P.S. Becca. I will let you know if I come up with anything, lol.

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    4. Not weird, Becca. I absolutely believe every word you wrote. I could share some stories of my own. Sometimes it's comforting and sometimes I think, OMG! :-)

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    5. Eve from Germany28 January 2018 at 05:56

      Becca, NOT weird at all!!!! "We are all connected" is true, scientists today have not much doubt about that anymore... we usually are just not consciously aware of that (because our mind is busy with other, "more important" things...). Most of us have had the experience of suddenly thinking of someone - and the telephone rings two seconds later and it´s this person on the phone! So don´t think it´s weird, think of it as a "special gift" you have... and you´re not alone...I´ve had experiences like yours, too. I once got off my crosstrainer at home, it was one day before Christmas Eve, humming a tune, and all of a sudden I had this thought: "What if an earthquake happened?" It just came into my mind, totally weird, so I quickly dismissed the thought, only to find out the next day that a (thankfully rather light) earthquake had happened EXACTLY at the time of my thought (I glanced at my watch, because I wanted to open the windows for 5 minutes after my sports session), around 150 miles from where I lived!! It was too far away and too light for anyone to be able to notice it where I lived - still I did! The morning of the Fukushima disaster I woke up and my first thought was: "OMG, something BAD is going to happen today!" I couldn´t get rid of this feeling - and then I heard the news..... So you´re not alone!

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    6. Wow! Eve That's Wild! I love the fact that you just happened to have looked at your watch, so you actually knew the time that you had this experience! I do believe that we don't know what we don't know! So I always listen interestingly to people's experiences or strange spiritual or scientific findings. I mean, how can we truly say something's hogwash, when we don't know all the answers? That's why I believe in gut instinct & Faith! Whatever one's Faith is, because that's all it is...... Faith in something we believe in & that makes sense all the way deep in our Souls! Thanks so much you guys for not laughing & for reminding me about being connected! Imagine if the world could grasp that concept. Ah The Universality of Humanity!.....

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    7. Becca.😊 Somethings did come to mind.❤️
      That info is later on on the page just so you know.

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  4. I saw a photo of Diana wearing a wide diamond necklace that looked very modern (versus traditional or delicate) which looked like one she didn't wear too often, and it made me think that maybe Harry will use one of her necklaces to convert into a tiara for Meghan.

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  5. I suspect Meghan will likely have a structured dress for her wedding reception party--and maybe made by another designer favorite--same with her shoes. =)

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    1. I wonder if she would wear something more slinky like a CBK inspired gown to the evening reception for dancing? I believe under Kate's beautiful white fur bolero jacket, that her eventing reception gown was strapless?

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    2. Yup Becca, but Kate's dress looked structured to me, although it's skirt looked quite twirly. =) You could be right, if Meghan prefers a softer dress.

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    3. Does anyone have a photo of Kate in her evening reception gown? I don't believe I have heard she wore a 2nd gown before, and would very much like to see a photo. Thanks in advance.

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    4. Eve from Germany28 January 2018 at 14:20

      Anonymous USA, here you go:
      https://www.thesun.co.uk/fabulous/4523088/kate-middleton-second-wedding-dress-stunning-first/

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    5. Anonymous USA
      http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-1382015/ROYAL-WEDDING-Kate-William-leave-Clarence-House-wedding-reception.html

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    6. Just google Kate Middleton reception dress.

      There are lots of photos.

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  6. I do like the beading on the back of the dress in the top photo.

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  7. The last Elie Saab dress pictured (with the short sleeves) looks very similar to my daughter Lindsey’s wedding dress. She’s being married in Maryland the same weekend as H&M ❤️

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    1. Oh how Beautiful! My daughter wore a lovely Vera Wang with a Fur Wrap. It was right out of the pages of Vogue that season. Have Such A Wonderful Time! Enjoy Enjoy Enjoy! :) xoxo

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    2. In fact, since my daughter & most of her girls were living & working in DC at that time, we did all the looking out there. DC area all the way to Chevy Chase! :) I love shopping in Chevy Chase! I truly can't remember in which area we found The Vera Wang Shop? I can't remember the neighborhood or if it was even in DC proper? Ah, the things we remember & the things we forget!? :)

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    3. Thanks, Becca ☺️ ❤️
      Lindsey found her dress in NYC, when she was visiting over the Christmas holiday. She and her fiancé Hunter have opted for a small, intimate event with just immediate family present, so it’ll be relaxed and fun. I’ll even have time to follow H&M’s wedding live on Saturday, lol.

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    4. OH USReader, It Sounds Divine!!!! What A Special Day It Will Be All Around! :) xoxo

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    5. USReader.😊 May I add in my Congratulations and best wishes also. :)

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    6. Thanks, surfer girl ☺️

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  8. Wow, Charlotte - irrational exuberance here whenever I see a post about Meghan. This was fabulous...I’m relying on her to pull out something memorable! Looking forward to more of your commentary!

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  9. I like the Costarello Christos aesthetic.

    But a while ago we did a pinterest board for a friend who got engaged, and it was full of Tony Ward designs. Fug Girls this week have a slideshow of gowns in his latest collection. Meghan would not go wrong with Tony Ward.

    But Blind Gossip has a blind up which strongly hints she's chosen Victoria Beckham.

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    1. Victoria Beckham would be an interesting choice as Meghan has said that while she loves her designs they don't work with her short-waisted figure.

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    2. Rug roh, bluhare.😊 Color me sad if Victoria Beckham does her gown. I am not a fan. And, Meghan, being short-waisted, is going to be a big determinant in designing Meghan’s gown successfully. Even though Victoria doing Meghan’s gown might even make Victoria actual finally smile, I so hope she does not choose Victoria Beckham. Christo’s, Elie Saab, Mouret or an “unknown” are on my wish list for Meghan. (no offense Victoria)

      I am excitedly on my way to google Tony Ward. I am not familiar with his designs.

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    3. Eve from Germany27 January 2018 at 18:08

      UhhOhhh... Tony Ward... Must admit I´ve never heard of him before (shame on me!! Lost my interest in Vogue, Elle et al recently, so I guess that´s to blame!)... Can somebody please send ALL the bridal gowns to me, a.s.a.p.? (Ok, minus the one that looks like the model was just trying to get rid of her skirt to show her underwear??? (Bridal 2017)LOL!!) Not that I need a wedding gown, but they are truly beautiful...
      What about Stella McCartney? She´s not a "bridal designer" per se (although she designed the wedding dress for Madonna when she married Guy Ritchie), but Meghan likes her style... Stella´s mum was from the US, so Stella is half US-american, half British... This "designer guessing" is serious fun!! LOL!! :-))))

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    4. Tony Wards gowns are taboo aren't They? I can see several being adapted as a bridal gown. In fact if we are going to do a build a wedding outfit for Meghan post I'm probably going to pick one of his as my starting point.

      I don't really like Stella McCartney that much but she's got a deep background in cutting and tailoring so she could probably come up with an amazing dress.

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    5. You have to love autocorrect sometimes! His gowns aren't taboo but they are faboo!

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    6. Eve from Germany28 January 2018 at 14:22

      LOL!!! Bluhare, I was just thinking: Tony Ward "taboo"?? Did I miss something? LOL!!!!

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  10. These are all beautiful! I suppose she will have a relatively modest neckline. Carolyn Kennedy's dress was special but I eel it is more iconic than something to repeat. (I admit some hostility because John Kennedy should have married Daryl Hannah. :)

    MM likes simple yet whimsical. I didn't like the dresses Kate and Pippa wore at all--they looked so stiff and rigid. I hope MM uses more satin/silk than lace and has some nice movement in the dress. I bet she wears terrific shoes and I hope they have some substance to them rather than just a few thin straps. Look forward to others' comments.

    One nice thing is that all the gossip about whose ring is better, how MM and Harry met, what Elton John thinks has pushed comments from the half-siblings off the Internet!

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    1. Allison.😊 Carolyn’s dress wouldn’t meet the dress requirement of the chapel, so that, I think is a moot point.
      Like you, I am hoping for something very different than the standard gown designs of Kate and Pippa.
      And the choices are many. The sky is the limit for Meghan really. wow. :) Think about that, lol. wow.

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    2. Elton John? What does Elton John think? Now I have to go look that up! Gee Thanks Allison! Ha! Ha! :) lol I've got to keep up with this stuff! :) xoxo

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  11. Of all the gowns featured here, I see another CBK design as the least likely. Goodness knows that I'm a less is more, tailored, and classic gal, but that was a bit too much (or little!) for me in the wedding gown department. More like a honeymoon item. ;-)

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    1. Lol royalfan!!! I'm glad that I'm not the only one who thought CBK's dress looked like a negligee.

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    2. Hahaha same here! CBK was slim and graceful, and that.s why she looked stylish in a potato sack... or in that wedding dress :D

      Camilla

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    3. I thought the Same Thing back then! I was like..... That looks like a negligee! I've never admitted that to anyone! I thought it would make me sound too prudish! Ha! Hey I'm not alone!!!! :) However, It was very beautiful & a striking image, just caught me off guard. Perhaps that's why it caught the fashion world?

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    4. Her gown was slinky and negligee-like. She knew she was marrying the most eligible American prince and wanted to make sure to keep his attention. It worked. 😉
      And it’s whimsy and drama complimented the venue and secret wedding rendezvous atmosphere of that day. I loved the sheer gloves.

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    5. I agree that CBK's dress looks like a nightgown. It's pretty and minimalistic and nice for a beachy wedding, but I don't think Meghan would wear something like that (or that it would be appropriate for the family or venue).

      However, I would think something like this would be appropriate and still give the CBK vibe of minimalist and sleek -- https://i.pinimg.com/originals/61/3b/1c/613b1cad68d86485176248b5b4facce3.jpg
      I also gave the link in my post below. Add in a longer train, maybe remove the tie/bow at the waist, add the tiara and veil and flowers and I could see Meghan wearing something this simple. A veil like this would be lovely with the dress above -- http://images.thelane.com/lane/image/asset/00003705/image_gallery/54c0b62e9312f.jpg?width=510&height=720&quality=75

      (Except, lol, the more I was looking at veil pictures to find a light and airy one, the more all the brides began to look like ghosts!)

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    6. I never cared for CBK’s wedding dress. Minimalist sophistication can be elegant, but hers looked just for symbolic purposes. Sometimes wedding gowns can carry on the moods of the relationship. He seemed to love her, but they probably had a reason to over simplify. Meghan’s first wedding gown was also similar idea. If she chooses similar style again, not only will it be boring, but a reminder of her first wedding.

      The Elly Sabb posted here is beautiful, and in fact almost the best from what is out there ( except may be too much lace). My guess is he will wear uniform, and she will select an exclusive design slightly off white and may be even complement his uniform with some touch of color in some ways. Something different and creative may be on the way.

      So far the only thing I liked Meghan wore is the black pants on the second engagement. The ankle boots she wore in the third engagement were nice. The last engagement in Wales dressed all in black including black scarf was a disappointment. Her PW top at least saved it all once they were inside the castle. Her hair looked its best in the first engagement. I think there is a care free side to her while well aware of styles. Kate used to be criticized for tacking her hair a lot, and Meghan seems to have similar habit. Everybody has some habits, but that is annoying at public engagements.

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    7. Forgot to say,it doesn't mean I hated the rest of her choices. As far as hats, I hope she will not have to wear one like she did on Christmas day. It seemed to have hidden a complementary part of her facial feature, and it wore her than the other way around( may be it was large in proportion to her face or head?) I admit, to have been more drawn and more fascinated with Meghan when she was her independent self. Once the routine of walk about passes and she gets into actual work, speeches and action, her own self will be back.

      Have been away, just catching up with the past and final summery.

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    8. I guess it's my turn to say that I'm glad I'm not alone! :-) Yes, it absolutely looked like a negligee. I've seen simple gowns that are absolutely stunning, but there was zero structure to CBK's gown, IMO.

      I'm thinking that MM will go for a gown that is 75% traditional with a 25% twist.

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  12. Oh Charlotte What Fun! :) I call that she will wear something with a sleek silhouette, with perhaps sheer embellished sleeves or sheer embellished strap cap sleeves. I thought I remembered lots of discussion leading up to Kate's Wedding, about the need for sleeves & no strapless gowns etc. However, I'm remembering that Queen Victoria wore an off the shoulder dress that exposed her decollate! So we'll have to turn to you for the latest in protocol! :) I'm sure Meghan would love to wear & look beautiful in a gown inspired by CBK, but It'd just be too skimpy I think. Although she could incorporate the sleek silk bias cut dynamic. So interested in what everyone else thinks! :) So Exciting! :)

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    1. Excellent point about Queen Victoria Becca in the USA :) you’re so right. I should’ve remembered this, especially because I’m rewatching season 1 of the Victoria series. Then again she was queen so who was gonna tell her she couldn’t wear whatever she wanted?

      I’m really enjoying the dress speculation taking place. So much fun. It will only get worse (or worse depending on your POV). As much as I’m enjoying the articles on it, I'm also kinda dreading the paps & tabloids willingness to do whatever’s necessary to get the name first as it would be the scoop of the year. I really wanna be surprised the day of. Kate’s designer got outed at couple days before the day so that was a bit of bummer personally.

      But anyways, back to the post. Really appreciate the CBK restrospective. She really was an icon style. Her wedding dress was truly under appreciated IMO. Even by me as it took me a long time to really appreciate it. I know many are likening it to negligees and such. The thing is, it’s stood the test of time and I don’t think you can say that about most wedding dresses. That dress is from almost 22 years ago and could be worn today. I suspect the same will be said 20 years from now. I don’t know how I feel about VB. Just have to wait and see the day of and hope she delivers if it’s true. Personally I like Stella McCartney better than VB. One of my fave royal wedding dresses in recent years, if not the, is CP Victoria of Sweden. Classic and simple. And not an inch of lace to be found anywhere. And I don’t mind lace, I love it, but I’m kinda laced out if you will lol.

      I can’t wait for the continuing series Charlotte :-)

      Becca in the USA, I just had a small side note about your woo woo story as it struck a chord in me. My mom would say those dreams/experiences were prophetic dreams and I’d have to agree. The Holy Spirit does things we don’t always understand. :-) my mom has had some doozies. As have I. It’s sad you haven’t had any in a long time but you never know when that can change.

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    2. Roxana, loved your post! You covered a lot of areas & I really like your points about CBK's dress still being iconic & timely 22yrs on. Also, Thx for sharing your Mom's perspective & words! Love it! :) xo

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    3. Becca, Roxana.😊😊 I feel impressed to encourage you Becca. We are to eagerly desire the gifts and not neglect them. (Not that you are be negligent.) But dreams and visions from the right source are valuable tools. As are the gifts of prophecy, words of wisdom and words of knowledge. Maybe that those gifts are wanting your attention. How cool is that? Pray about it, okay? ❤️

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    4. P.S. And you and your mom too, Roxana.❤️
      The world needs those gifts.

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    5. SG & Roxana, Thanks for your Sweetness! :) Big Hugs To You Both! :) xoxo

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  13. Eve from Germany27 January 2018 at 08:24

    WHOAAAA!! THANKS, Charlotte, BIG TIME!! You made my day with this post!!
    If I had to choose (AND had the CHOICE, i.e. the money, LOL!!), I´d go for Elie Saab without ANY hesitation!!! He is EXCEPTIONAL. NOT for the minimalistic type, though, mind you.... ;-)))) Both Stephanie and Claire chose him as designer when they married into the Luxemburg Grand Ducal family. Here´s how they looked on their big day:
    Claire: https://www.gala.de/royals/allgemein/hochzeit-in-luxemburg--oui--sie-wollen_20720212-20720264.html
    Stephanie: http://www.t-online.de/unterhaltung/stars/royals/id_60491890/si_1/luxemburger-traumhochzeit-prinz-guillaume-sagt-ja-.html
    Gorgeous, gorgeous, although I don´t think it´s really Meghan´s style.....
    Although I´m not the minimalistic type when it comes to wedding dresses, I absolutely did ADORE Carolyn Bessette´s wedding dress. IMHO, though, we have to keep in mind the time (the mid 90ies), her personal style (Calvin Klein) AND the wedding venue (A small church on a secluded island, lots of privacy was the most important wish of bride and groom!) while looking at the design she chose. Cumberland Island is not exactly St. George´s Chapel at Windsor Castle!!!
    At the end of the day, I guess, she will choose a British designer, or all hell is going to break loose!! Plus, I think the dress will be rather on the sleek, minimalistic side, not Elie Saab....sigh.... I still hope, though, it will have a decent train and we´ll be able to see a tiara sparkling, right? I mean, a girl is allowed to have dreams.... ;-)))) Can´t wait until the big day!!!

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    1. I'm so glad you enjoyed it Eve!

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    2. This Post Truly is Amazing Charlotte! You Are Our "Crown Jewel"! :) xo I especially loved the coverage & history explained about CBK. With many of us vividly remembering those days, there are many in our group who were quite young at the time, or possibly not yet born? You always bring us all into the fold! Bravo! Bravo!

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  14. Really lovely post! The research on Kennedy’s style is really well written and appreciated! Wow! I loved reading this! I am personally hoping to see an intro ally detailed princessy dress—not simple and ‘plain’.

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  15. I would like Meghan in a classic dress, with a beautiful wide princessy skirt, but chic top, NO LACE, lots of tulle. I can't wait to see what she chooses. I hope she doesn't bow to pressure from the "royal protocol" lot and chooses the designer she likes the most, doesn't have to be British. She will be slaughtered by the awful British media and racists whatever she does, so she may as well choose her own path!!

    I know she will look exquisite whatever she wears!!

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  16. I'm so glade i booked a trip to London in August, so i can windsor castle for myself and she the chapel where there marriage toke place (bye then). Anybody on here got tips for nice teashops and/or bookshops to visit as well?

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    1. Oh Tinneke, Lucky You! Lucky You! :)

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    2. Yes in i'm only about a two hours trainride away on the european contintent :-), so i guess i'm very lucky!

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  17. Thanks for not posting my comment. It was honest and not derogatory but mentioned the racist British media. I think it's sad you want to airbrush this truth from discussing Meghan Markle.

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    1. I just moderated comments from the past couple of hours. Your comment is published.

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    2. Your post is there, Grenada! I don't think Charlotte wants to airbrush racism from the discussion about Meghan. It's real. But I do think she wants to stop those racist people from posting here.

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    3. Okay, thank you. I was quite despondent about it but feel happy about this blog again now. I just think the stuff going on in the media at the moment including comments in the Daily Mail and Sun, cannot be ignored. They are horrendous and pick at every aspect of Meghan in a negative way.

      I know Meghan will look absolutely amazing on the day, the DM will start off by publishing heaps of photos to sate the public, then will go on the attack about every aspect of Meghan's dress, the reception, her parents, her guests, etc etc. It's got to the stage that I won't look at the Daily Mail anymore except to see the first photos of Meghan's outings. It's a disgrace.

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  18. Eve from Germany27 January 2018 at 13:54

    I´m really curious about that "royal protocol" thing...I just went back to my very cherished book "A dress for Diana" by David and Elizabeth Emanuel. There they say: "The extraordinary thing was that we weren´t given any restrictions by the palace. THERE WAS NO PROTOCOL. There wasn´t even anything to say the dress had to be white". So I really do wonder whether there actually is a kind of "royal protocol" when even the "Princess of Wales-to-be" wasn´t given any....
    But maybe St. George´s Chapel has a kind of "dress code"? I remember the wedding of one of my friends, where the vicar told her that he would not allow bare shoulders or anything "revealing" (like low v-neck) in his church! :-)))

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    1. Thanks for that info Eve. THAT would change everything. I think Meghan will totally respect the weight of the moment but I hope she takes full license up to that point to create “the gown that rocks the headlines”. Go Meghan, Go Meghan.....
      lol

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    2. There is no royal protocol. It is a concept invented by the media so they can bash Meghan at every turn.

      I hope she chooses something 100% to her liking with no pressure from anyone re. designer, nationality of designer, or actual design. Her choices of style are second to none, so she would make the perfect choice on her own.

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    3. Grenada, I love that you are so protective of Meghan! :) xoxo Tho don't forget that there were heaps of stinging articles etc written about Kate (The Commoner) & "Royal Protocols" supposedly pertaining to the Wedding Dress! Also, as well as her upcoming Wedding to William & much speculation on what faux pas "This Commoner" would make, as she "reached so far above her station in life"! Much the same as what is going on regarding Meghan, with just a different twist! It will all work out, be beautiful & then settle down. Just as Kate has stayed herself & become part of The Family & Quite Royal, I know Meghan will too! They are both Gifts to The British Royal Family, The UK & The Commonwealth! :) xoxo

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    4. Thanks Becca USA for your sweet post. I can't see it dying down unfortunately in this day and age, although I hope you're right.

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  19. I don't understand why everyone is assuming she's going to be in some variation of white and with a veil. She's a 36 year old divorced woman. I would think she'd go for something elegantly smashing, using color and a non-bridey looking silhouette with her tiara. She could start a whole new wedding trend!

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  20. According to the DM Stewart Pavin, HM's designer, is the bookies favorite choice as Meghan's dress designer. He designed Zara's wedding dress, which I found very lovely except for the extra ruffle around the bottom of the skirt. If true, this would be a very sweet nod to Harry's grandmother.

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    1. Lauri.😊 Do you think that Stewart Pavin has it in him to create a gown “that rocks the headlines” in the best way? No offense but I don’t think the Queen would expect Meghan to choose Stewart or even want that as she realizes Meghan is not 90 but a very young 36. :) Can Stewart transition?

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    2. I agree Lauri. It was a lovely dress but I have no idea what that ruffle thing was supposed to add.

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    3. First of all, where do you get the idea that Meghan wants a dress ''that rocks the headlines''? Everything she’s worn since the engagement has been exactly the opposite. And she says herself she prefers traditional and classic. Her dress is inevitably going to be front page news, whatever she chooses.

      Secondly, making clothes or hats for the Queen does not mean the designer only does that or that they can’t make other styles. Google ‘Stewart Parvin wedding dress’ and you will see a wide array of different designs. And one thing he would guaranty is total and complete discretion.

      As far as I remember Zara's wedding dress wasn’t bespoke, so not really a reflection of what Meghan could ask for or help design.

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    4. Gemma.😊 Oh, maybe from her engagement announcement gown, lol. You can still “rock the headlines” with traditional and classic (with the right designer). But apart from those she can still
      “rock the headlines” with a perfect innovation.
      Not risque’, not grunge, not goth, not artsy artsy, not cosmic, lol, but something different like when Kate wore the unexpected Marchetta gown to the State dinner.
      I am not saying a gown like the Marchetta but just how Kate did wear something different.
      And good for Stewart Parvin if he can transition into Meghan’s aesthetic. I still don’t think he would be Meghan’s first choice. Just my opinion, lol. :)
      From “The Tig” to Meghan’s selfies, I think she has a gift in visual design. THAT is what I hope to see in her creation of her perfect gown. For her to “rock the headlines” with the most beautiful perfect gown to fit her fairy tale story and Windsor Castle and to match the high caliber artistry of “The Tig”, etc.

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    5. I really don't know surfer girl, that was just what I read online. Meghan herself has said that she has a more relaxed style and that she would like her wedding dress to be "whimsical and romantic" so I don't know if she wants to "rock the headlines", although she probably will whether she wants to or not :) I've seen a few of his wedding dress designs online and they're really rather nice, youthful and modern.

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    6. The nod was nice on Zara's part, but I would find it strange if MM didn't come up with her own designer.

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  21. I love all of these dresses! I simply cannot wait to see her on that day, and Harry! This couple is so electric - so positive - I feel strength and energy and creativity and a modern age just bubbling within them. I hope parenthood does not slow them down and they continue to get out there amidst the people, hands on the way Harry has been for so long. What a beautiful pair! Plus we have the Cambridge baby to celebrate just before H & M's wedding - it's going to be a joyful spring!!!! Cheers! ps: Meghan's style is A KNOCKOUT!

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    1. Diane, I think being out there & an avid part of the philanthropic community is woven into their DNA as a couple! Just like having as normal & as quite a homey life as possible was & has been for Will & Kate. No worries. I think your wishes are safe with H&M! :) xo

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  22. Thanks so much for such a delightful post, Charlotte! I discovered the video on YouTube over the summer and was totally tickled by it, especially because I'm planning my own wedding! It's so exciting to be a bride-to-be at the same time as MM.

    I'd also offer that Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy is a major fashion inspiration for many American women our age (on the older cusp of millenials, approx. 30-37 years old). My style has always consisted of simple, clean lines; classic pieces; neutral color blocking; with some sort of experimentation with volume and proportion or an unexpected design detail. CBK's personal style encapsulated all of these components.

    Meghan and I share a similar body type, and I gravitated FAR away from ballgowns and A-line gowns during my wedding dress search. The silhouettes were all wrong on my shape. Ultimately, I chose a streamlined sheath gown with straps and Art Deco-inspired beading from a Jenny Packham capsule collection. It feels AMAZING and is probably the coolest, most sophisticated, and most comfortable garment I've ever worn. I hope MM chooses an easy dress that makes her feel beautiful, glamorous, and authentic to her true self. Forget all the other princess brides, Meghan! You're one in a million.

    Which kinds of gowns/designers did you like for Meghan, Charlotte???

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    1. Lauren, your dress sounds absolutely beautiful! Thanks for sharing all your insights from the perspective of being in the thick of it yourself right now. I too trust that she will choose something that's completely her! I simply can't wait to see it & to see them married! Such a celebration! :)

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    2. Thank you for your sweet comments, Becca!! We're very excited and I can't wait for Harry and Meghan's wedding!

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  23. Costarellos Christos dresses are absolutely beautiful. If this were a low-key wedding and not a royal wedding, I could 100% see Meghan choosing one of his designs.

    The Elie Saab gowns are to die for. Ultimately though, I believe we're going to see a British designer with the end result a combination of Meghan's signature style and consideration for the gravity of the occasion, the venue, etc. Meghan's not only marrying Harry but officially becoming a member of the BRF. I am so excited to see the gown on the day. Less than four months now :)

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    1. I, too, think she will pick a designer as it relates to the status of her new in-laws, so I think you can open it up a bit and include the commonwealth. It would make an interesting series to see what her options are from that perspective. I think we also might see a simpler/sleeker style because she is a more mature, second marriage bride.

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    2. Oh, I agree. I might be getting ahead of myself and encroaching into your planned content ��, but can you predict some design elements for the dress as dictated by protocol?

      By assessing the style of previous royal brides, can we expect straps, sleeves, a low back, or a particular kind of silhouette? I suppose a better way of framing this question is, how much can Meghan get away with? How much freedom will she have within the limitations of protocol to express herself?

      On a broader level, I respect the BRF, but am totally daunted by the prospect of MM relinquishing a lot of freedom by committing herself to a lifetime of duty. I’ve committed to a demanding profession, and OY it can be difficult.

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    3. Less than four months, OMG - so crazy and exciting. Meghan and Harry must be going nuts. So little time and yet must feel like a lifetime away at the same time.

      Can't wait for May!!

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    4. Lauren - I think anything with a plunging neckline, sheer, slit, strapless, etc. wouldn't be considered at all. I'm planning to email a couple of royalty experts next week to find out if there are actual requirements, spoken or unspoken, Meghan will have been made aware of. It's a gown that will go down in the history books; there are going to be so many factors for the designer to consider.

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    5. Lauren, it's interesting but I have the opposite reaction to her entering a life of duty with the BRF. I look to how via her own initiative she got so engrossed in philanthropic work that took her all the way to
      Africa. Many actors talk a good game, but there are only several who actually take their precious time off of work & actually go to other countries to get their hands dirty & make a difference. I see Meghan seeing the duty aspect as a chance of a lifetime & having a bigger stage as a dream come true. Not to mention that she gets to do & share all this with the man she loves. What could be better? Me thinks she'll be ok & does not see herself as giving up, but rather gaining. That's just my take. :)

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    6. Lauren.😊 Meghan said that she did acting to support her availability and desire to do philanthropy and charitable work. So I think a “lifetime duty” within the Royal family is like her dream job. And, she doesn’t have to foot the bill.

      btw. what career did you choose? (If you don’t mind my asking)

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    7. Good points, Becca and surfer girl. I agree with you that Meghan already held a long-standing commitment to the common good and admirably dove in to worthy causes. She was a fabulous ambassador!

      I'm more daunted by the amount of intrusion into her and her family's collective privacy, and limitations that may be put upon her personal agency. I see a lot of myself in her, and I can't imagine the stark differences between her old life and the public role that stretches before her. There are many positives--not footing the bill and finding the love of her life are two of them, and not insubstantial! :) She's very capable, and extremely intelligent. I sincerely wish her the best and hope that remembers to take a breather when the additional pressures of her new role become a bit too restrictive.

      surfer girl, I'm in academia!

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    8. Thank you, Charlotte! I'm curious about the recent history of royal brides commissioning two gowns for their wedding day. Sarah Ferguson also commissioned a second dress, which I viewed at an exhibition a few years ago. This dress was labeled as an emergency spare, just in case there was a disaster with the first dress. I haven't been able to find a popular reference to protocol that suggests the commission of a second dress. Does it exist??

      Of course, Kate had a beautiful second gown for her evening reception as well! I thought it was gorgeous and it looked far more comfortable for dancing the night away.

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    9. Lauren, honestly do not remember the source, but I believe I read that Diana had a second gown on standby just in case... And let's face it, if you have the means, why not?

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  24. Love the Elie Saab gowns , so beautiful !

    Honestly didn’t like Carolyn Kennedy s gown , it’s way too simple ! And certainly not for a royal bride .

    Hoping for Ralph and Russo , their new collection is absolutely divine !

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  25. Charlotte.😊 Do you think Meghan, given their stated purpose to include “everyday” people in their wedding day, might choose a completely unknown designer (guided by Meghan and Jessica)? Wouldn’t that speak volumes and being in keeping with their ultruistic leanings? If not, I think Elie Saab or Roland Mouret are capable of coming up with the “second dress of the century”. :)

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    1. I think it will probably be a well known name, although not necessarily a bridal designer.

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    2. Now that’s interesting!!! Stella McCartney might be in the mix. What about a potential collaboration between an American and British/Commonwealth designer? (Although, that sounds like trouble to me.)

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    3. Charlotte - I'm just curious, why do you think it mightn't be a bridal designer? I feel like - for such a big, visible wedding - you'd want someone who really knows what they're doing? And someone who doesn't specialize in wedding dresses might not know all of the things that need to be taken into account?

      But, I have no idea about fashion or fashion houses or designers...so maybe any designer could design any type of clothing? I don't really know how it works.

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    4. It's interesting because names like Victoria Beckham, Stella McCartney and Erdem are being mentioned as front runners, but they are not bridal designers. McCartney said she designed a handful of wedding dresses for close friends but none of the above have released bridal collections. Equally, all three would be more than capable of designing something spectacular. A good designer can create anything!

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    5. Vivienne Westwood could make a gorgeous gown and I think Eugenie should lock her down she's got the body type to wear the heck out of a Westwood gown.

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    6. bluhare.😊 Is Vivienne Westwood the one who designed Eugenie and Beatrice’s outfits that they wore to William and Kate’s wedding?

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  26. 🥂Congratulations, Lauren.😊 Your gown sounds beautiful. :)

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  27. 🤔Will Meghan wear a different gown to the reception? Will she use the same designer for both her wedding and reception gown?

    (or are we saving those questions for their own posts, Charlotte?)

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    1. where is the reception going to be anyway? Windsor Castle? (Oh my gosh, lol. I got goose bumps just texting that.) Reception at the castle. amazing. :)

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  28. I know what Harry will wear is a bit off topic, but I'm curious now. I had assumed that he would wear a military uniform, but I just read an article that indicated he will probably be in morning dress since he is no longer in the military, and is not likely to ever be king who would also be commander in chief.

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  29. This is obviously Harry’s first wedding. What I remember is how fascinated he was when Kate walked down the bridal aisle in the Abbey. The lip readers translated his remarks to William as, “wait until you see her”. He is not the exception in men’s fascination with the brides’ dresses. It means something for the men too. Some people’s opinion is that it is Meghan’s second wedding, and expectation is not necessarily as a first marriage. She was married for a brief two years. I hope both H&M wedding outfits will not be restricted based on a second wedding for her. The image will be forever, for the memory, venue and magnitude. I vote for them to do it as if it is a first wedding for both of them.

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    1. Hi Anon 15.😊 Good points. I hope she wears the dress of her dreams to knock Harry’s socks off. :)

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    2. Hi SG- You sure got the idea. The list you made for planning the wedding a few months before their engagement had it all. If I remember correctly, music list might have been missing. In this case, if she will knock his socks off, as his Ms. Right- Princess Charming, their song will be like the following.
      “You are the bride I have been waiting for”; “glad you marry me”;“you look beautiful and will be mine forever”, and yes of course, “we are about to be super busy with work”. All titles here just made up to be included in your music list, if you will make one for the wedding as "their song".

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    3. LOL, LOL, Anon 15.😊 I think you got it. I can hear the music now. :)

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    4. LOL now I can hear it too. Have a nice week SG.

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  30. PS. The gown was an absolute steal—under $900!!!

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  31. Yay - wedding post!! I am sticking by my initial guess/hope that she chooses Phillipa Lepley - http://phillipalepley.com/the-dresses/ I love her aesthetic and she's British and a woman, so ticks some important boxes (British, primarily).

    I also love the J Mendel pictures you included, Charlotte, and some other ones I found online. But it seems like it's not a British fashion house or the main designer isn't British and they seem to be based now in NYC? (From what I could tell anyway...) I think that might rule them out?

    Generally speaking, I think/hope she will choose:
    -a British designer
    -a woman designer
    -a lesser known designer
    -a sleek, satiny dress with a full skirt and train - or a sleek bodice but tulle skirt (personally, I want a full tulle skirt...but don't think this is really her style).

    These are all Phillipa Lepley, but I like these dresses or general aesthetic for Meghan (sorry, I don't know how to make live links!):
    --I lurve the top of this dress! -- http://phillipalepley.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/09/Phillipa-Lepley-Off-The-Shoulder-Tulle-Wedding-Dress.png
    --More sleek and satiny -- http://phillipalepley.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/09/Phillipa-Lepley-Satin-Plain-Long-Train-Wedding-Dress-with-Pleats-Pockets-and-Tulle-Fashion-Sleeves.jpg
    --Another sleek one (but, obviously add sleeves for church) -- http://phillipalepley.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/09/Phillipa-Lepley-Couture-Designer-Wedding-Dress-Sweetheart-Neckline.jpg
    --Beaded embellishments -- http://phillipalepley.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/09/Phillipa-Lepley-Pearl-Beaded-1920s-Corseted-Bespoke-Wedding-Dress.jpg

    This one, to me, has a CBK vibe, but made more appropriate for church. Very sleek, satiny, streamlined. Add a long train, ethereal veil, tiara and some flowers and I could definitely see Meghan in something like this -- https://i.pinimg.com/originals/61/3b/1c/613b1cad68d86485176248b5b4facce3.jpg
    Not sure who the designer is?

    I hope she will not choose Victoria Beckham. VB doesn't design wedding dresses, right? I think you should have someone who specializes in wedding dresses. I also think VB is too "celebrity" - Meghan already gets slammed for being hollywood, so I think she should/would want to stay away from going that route, IMO. Also, as mentioned about, I hope she chooses someone less well-known so she can help launch that designer. Maybe VB could do her reception dress, assuming she changes after the ceremony.

    I also hope she won't choose anything that resembles Kate or Pippa's dresses. I'm all for embellishments but no.more.lace.please! I also didn't like the way Kate's veil netting was. It appeared too "heavy" to me and was plastered to her face as she walked into the church. I like a veil to look more light and ethereal, not weighted down.

    I also don't think she will do anything too unique or out of the box for a royal bride. So, for me, this means no colored dress (I disagree with those who think she shouldn't wear white because she's divorced), and I definitely do think she will wear a tiara.

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    1. I’m with you......Phillipa Lepley’s dresses would look lovely on Meghan......the second one is a personal favorite, very elegant 😍

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    2. I've never heard of Phillipa Lepley but her gowns are gorgeous!! Thanks for sharing ITK!

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    3. Just looked up her dresses and my goodness they’re gorgeous! I now campaign for Meghan to have chosen her lol. An established designer but not well known would be my preference now I think. Not a big name necessarily but one that will do her justice :-)

      Here’s a question, could Meghan get away with a mermaid-y silhouette? They’re pretty popular here in the USA at least. Never seen a royal bride wear one but if anyone would go in that direction Meghan would. Would that be a no-no? Possibly I think. I’m just pondering if she’s gonna stick strictly to the ballgown/A line silhouette.

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    4. Lepley’s gowns are gorgeous too. Looking at all these gowns, I feel like a kid in the Dylan Candy Bar, lol.
      And the brooches. Lepley placed them prominently. And the Royal brooches in the vault are singing for joy. :)

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    5. Wow I really like the first and the last options. Can't wait to see what she picks

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    6. Beautiful choices...one of my favourite royal wedding dresses was Princess of Norway (Mette-Marit's). The view from the back was beautiful. If Meghan could incorporate that "fantasy" feel, I think that would be beautiful

      http://orderofsplendor.blogspot.com/2010/06/top-10-best-royal-wedding-dresses-8-hrh.html

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  32. I can see her in a dress similar to Sophie Wessex's bridal look. I think she's the closest to the CBK bridal look the British royals have had. Also possible comparisons would be the Norwegian Princesses.

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    1. Speaking of Norwegian princesses I think Mette Marit wedding dress is absolutely gorveous. Very simple and i love it.

      http://orderofsplendor.blogspot.com/2010/06/top-10-best-royal-wedding-dresses-8-hrh.html?m=1

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    2. Oh gawd Casey, CP Mette-Marit's wedding dress is my all time favorite wedding dress, royal or not!! So sleek, yet ethereal like she was floating on a cloud. And I love how the veil was attached to the back of her hair. I can say though that I didn't much care for her bouquet, but one can't have everything!!

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    3. Eve from Germany28 January 2018 at 14:17

      Oh YES, that was a dream gown!! And a good example for a "modern" royal wedding... "tradition" interpreted in a very "modern" way, I would call it.. and Jan Garbarek with his saxophone was wonderful, especially when Mette-Marit and Haakon left the church. Talk about making a wedding special!

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  33. Charlotte I would LOVE if you could do a post on other royal wedding dresses, or even celebrity wedding dresses!

    This is so much fun. Love seeing what you post and what Meghan might do!

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    1. Katie, that one is actually coming up in the next week or so :)

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  34. Meghan should do it as if it’s her first wedding. Veil, white dress and all let’s not forget it’s Harry first and hopefully only wedding. There aren’t any rules that says she can’t just people putting their own personal beliefs on to her.
    I predict an unknown British designer
    The dress will have short sleeves simple but elegant. I don’t think she will wear a tiara.
    Harry will wear his military uniform, the morning dress those guys wear are bland and don’t fit right to me.

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  35. Camilla Tominey is reporting that Harry and Meghan will take part in the upcoming Commonwealth summit. She writes, "This could see Harry and Meghan attend a glittering state banquet at Buckingham Palace, where the American actress could be asked to don a royal tiara for the very first time - just weeks before her wedding on May 19." I don't tend to trust royal reporting unless I read it on one of Charlotte's blogs, but participation in the summit to some extent seems highly likely to me (a great way for Meghan to be introduced to the Commonwealth), but I thought traditionally only married women (or women on their wedding day) wore tiaras. Fact or fiction that we may see Meghan in a tiara (or some of the Queen's jewels) before her wedding?

    https://www.express.co.uk/news/royal/910842/meghan-markle-news-prince-harry-kate-middleton-queen-royal-family-state-banquet

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    1. Eve from Germany28 January 2018 at 14:31

      Anonymous: Diana went to the Saudi Arabia State banquet in June 1981, while she was still engaged and she wore NO tiara (all other royal women did)!! So unless that has changed over the years, I also suspect she will attend, but NO tiara for her (yet! ;-)) )....

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    2. Is the Commonwealth Summit white tie?
      I personally think that Harry and Meghan will attend as she mentioned being excited about being part of and meeting people of the Commonwealth. Seems like a golden opportunity to further that endeavor. Sadly, I don’t think she will wear a tiara. But, Meghan is full of surprises I think. :)

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    3. I will be greatly surprised if Meghan dons a tiara before her wedding. She’s already “breaking enough protocol” as it is, I don’t think she can break this one lol. The only one I know who wore a tiara before her wedding in recent years is Queen Maxima when she wore a tiara to a pre-wedding event.

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    4. This engagement is different from others in the past so I would not be *totally* surprised to see her with some royal baubles prior to May 19th. If not a tiara (a rather radical step for the Windsor's!) perhaps a diamond brooch or two would work with a neat bun. :-)

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  36. I think that whatever she chooses it should be awe inspiring. A simple gown like Carolyn Bessette Kennedy would be perfect for the wedding reception/party.

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  37. Oh i love all the wedding gown cant wait for meghan wedding gown too

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  38. I think Meghan would look stunning in something like this, but designed by an English bridal house, of course! The silhouette is stunning and dramatic, and beauty of line and fabric would be featured.
    https://www.pronovias.com/ca/wedding-dress-flared-long-raigal-61017

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    1. This is exquisite. I hope too she goes for this understated simplicity. Radiates elegance and class and beauty.

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    2. Oh my. Oh my. THAT gown is amazing. 🥂
      So, so different. So outstanding, yet understated.
      So simply regal. Great find, 2:30. I hope Meghan sees that dress for inspiration. Perfect train on it.
      Perfect fabric. Perfect tailoring. Perfect match for Windsor castle. Sublime. :)
      Where the gather is on the front seems like a perfect place for a small and delicate perfect Royal pearl or pearl and diamond brooch. Or for some little seed pearls and diamonds. Or even ruby and diamond or emerald and diamond.
      I actually even liked their “Windsor Gown” (the basic, done right) but don’t know that it matches the scale and grandeur of it’s namesake, although it is a very beautiful gown.
      The designer seems to be able to cut to the chase and capture the essence. :) I love it. :)

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    3. P.S. love the Pronovia “Randella” gown also.
      Revamped with exquisite lace and silk. Yum. :)

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    4. 02:30. I looked at the “Raigal” gown again (a couple of times, lol) and I think that the embellishment that is already on the dress is perfect. So, I don’t think anything needs to be changed or added to that.
      That dress, to me, is absolutely perfection for Meghan’s day at Windsor Castle. Wow, what a beautiful dress. :)

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  39. I hope Harry does wear a uniform! I would be disappointed if he could not do so. I think Meghan and Jessica have been discussing bridal gowns for a long time and have made all sorts o decisions. I didn't like the gown MM wore in Suits---I didn't think it did her justice. And i hope any lace turns into embroidery, more like the Saab gowns. I have seen enough lace to last years! I would like to see some color, like in the flowers.

    And I hope they have margaritas at the reception!

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    1. Allison.😊 Harry just has to wear a uniform. Has to.

      Think of all the Prince marrying a “commoner” movies, illustrations, etc., that have had the Prince in a uniform, lol. He cannot, will not, fail Prince 101.
      Queen Elizabeth, help. :)
      Plus, his involvement with military games and charities would dictate nothing less, yeh?
      And, didn’t he just take over from Prince Phillip as head of the British marines?
      Oh Prince Harry. You just have to wear a uniform. :)

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    2. P.S. Harry is now the Captain General of the Royal Marines. That is the one he was honored with by Prince Phillip.

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  40. What a great post I love this theme
    I love the dresses of Delphine Manivet and Suzanne Neville
    but I think it will be an English stylist and whatever she wears it will be beautiful

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  41. Intrigued By Royals28 January 2018 at 06:02

    This is so much fun! I hope she goes with Elie Saab!!!!

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  42. Intrigued By Royals28 January 2018 at 06:20

    It will be interesting to see what designer Meghan wears next week.

    I can't help but get distracted by JFK, Jr.'s stunning good looks. I was in the Brown Hotel in Denver, CO having a chocolate tea with my mom to thank her for all her help when my first child was born. Afterwards, a sales lady told me that JFK,Jr. had just walked through the lobby and I missed seeing him in person! Bummers! He died the weekend I brought my second son home from the hospital. So sad!

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    1. JFK Jr. was a handsome combination of his father and mother! I've always wondered what he would be doing today, had he lived. The Kennedy family has endured so much tragedy over the years.

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  43. I wonder if Meghan will go for a two gown day, like Kate did. She might lean towards designers like Bruce Oldfield, Stewart Parvin, or Giles Deacon (all British designers) for the wedding service, and then, wear something a little more playful for the reception.
    I would love to see Meghan in a similar design to Madeline of Sweden, she looked exquisite! Or Amal Clooney. Both dresses had a very romantic look to them, and something that would look perfect on Meghan.

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    1. Annabel.😊 Me too. I excitedly, eagerly hope she wears two gowns on her wedding day and that she wears a more whimsical, yet classic gown to the reception. Two opportunities to wear a beeeautiful gown? Heavenly. 😇

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    2. I am expecting to see two gowns. It is more common these days (at least here in the States) and Kate set the precedent with royal brides (unless I am unaware of another lady...?). Yes, me thinks we will see two!

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  44. Annette New Zealand28 January 2018 at 12:38

    It is always fun to speculate, but of course she should choose according to her taste and what she knows suits her. A big skirt and long train is not always a good idea. Poor Diana 's wedding dress was not flattering and the skirt badly creased because of the huge volume of material having to be squeezed into the vehicle transporting her to St Paul's. I hope we get a change from the usual lace top and fitted sleeves we have seen lately. Personally I think Princess Grace, Princess Anne and Princess Chantel had really beautiful wedding dresses which were quite distinctive and really suited them.

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    1. (Princess Grace had the lace and fitted sleeves and bodice.) :)

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  45. As its a 2nd wedding for Meghan, will she wear white? Is anyone else asking this question? Its interesting that we all automatically assume white even though she is divorced. Camilla wore a soft color with headpiece, but no veil. I personally want to see her in bridal white. I was just wondering though if that tradition is being upheld.

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    1. 14:36. For a royal wedding I don’t know. Good question. Here in the U.S. it doesn’t seem to matter for the most part. (Jennifer Lopez, etc.)

      I would like to see Meghan wear white because it is Harry’s first wedding. :)
      I would like to see her wear some shade of white that perfectly enhances her skin tone. Other brides often wear a white that just doesn’t. There are a whole lot of shades of white.

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    2. P.S. For my wedding gown, I drove the sales ladies crazy (no surprise, huh?) looking for the “right white”. It makes a big difference finding the right shade of white. Even with beiges or off-whites. Those of you who are not yet married, pay attention to the shades of white, lol. :)

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    3. Queen Letizia of Spain wore white on her wedding day. Her marriage to a royal (who became King) was her second. There are no rules that say Meghan can't wear white. Actually brides started wearing white only after Queen Victoria's example.

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  46. Courtney From NC28 January 2018 at 15:54

    I would love to see her in Claire Pettibone, but it isn't a British label so I don't see it happening. I just think they would do justice to Meghan. The other brands I would love to see are Spanish, Rosa Clara, and Italian, Le Sposa Di Gio. They both have the aesthetic Meghan described but not CBK level slip DRESS. It will be interesting to see who she chooses to wear but I think choosing a brand that isn't British, or at the very least commonwealth, would be a huge PR misstep.

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  47. 🌹After all Diana’s angst, weaknesses and strengths, and all the media circus, the best of her life is now being reflected in her children and their families and with the new attitudes of the Institution. In spite of all her faults, what amazing things she has ultimately accomplished. And, there is more to come. ❤️

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  48. MM was married for 2 years and had no children. Camilla had a different history and was unpopular, so a simpler dress made sense.
    I think that MM and Jessica had already determined the dress design and presented it to a designer. We'll never know, but I find it hard to believe she would just be sitting back and having designs sent.
    I wonder what her mom will wear! I'm sure MM will pick it out. :)

    What do we call MM after her marriage?

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  49. On the subject of white wedding gowns, I would say why on earth not!? Don't make me go there. ;-)

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  50. The important thing to me is that it is Harry’s first wedding. I want his bride to wear white. :)

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  51. (First time posting, long time follower) I know that Meghan will (and probably should) wear a British designer but I wanted to share this gown worn by Emmy Rossum in Carolina Herrera. There is something about this dress that is just magical, it is both modern and classic with a bit of romance. I see Meghan in something like this on a royal scale. I also appreciate how the venue of the wedding was brought into the design of the dress. I have no doubt that Meghan will look amazing in whatever she wears!

    Here is a link to the Vogue article. https://www.vogue.com/slideshow/emmy-rossum-sam-esmail-new-york-city-wedding-gallery#2

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  52. Thank you charlotte for this great post. I love Carolyn's dress and meghan could pull it off but I'm hoping for something more extravagant for her

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  53. Thank you for the wonderful post! Can't wait to read the next one.
    My prediction is for a minimalistic gown, no embroderies, no lace, maybe Ralph and Russo. With a big bow or bows. It seems Meghan has a thing for bows. Maybe gloves, because Caroline wore gloves. And white peonies... But after reading this post, I started to wonder is it possible that her gown isn't full-skirted?

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  54. Hey everyone, I found a beautiful commemorative coin for Harry and Meghan. It's on preorder right now and comes with a free gift!
    https://www.vancouvermint.com/

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  55. I love Meghan Markle always, She is very simple yet elegant as well as her fashion style. Big thanks.

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Welcome to Mad About Meghan! We do so look forward to reading your thoughts. Constructive, fair debate is always encouraged. Hateful, derogatory terms and insults are not welcome here. This space focuses on Harry and Meghan, not any other member of the Royal family. It's not the place to discuss politics either. Thank you for reading, we look forward to your comments :)