270 Metres of Lace in Grace Kelly’s wedding gown

Meghan Markle and Prince Harry’s wedding captivated the world.  I was thinking of other famous weddings that have sparked the world’s imagination.  One cannot venture much further than the wedding of Grace Kelly and Prince Rainer III of Monaco.   The formal wedding gown was made of 278 metres of the finest materials. It was described as the most lavish ever worn by a bride at the time.

Thirty-five persons, including milliners, beaders, sewists, hand embroiders, dyers and sketch artists, spent six weeks creating the formal wedding gown. The cost would have been prohibitive if made by a private couturier.

The wedding dress was “simple and elegant”, long and white with a high neckline.  The gown combined the ivory peau de soie and rose point lace.  The long-sleeved bodice was reembroidered so there were no seams.  It was closed down the front with tiny lace buttons and fitted over a foundation of silk souffle of pale flesh tone.

The peau de soie overskirt was bell-shaped.  It has no folds in the front, and the fullness in the back is laid in pleats at the waist. The fullness flares out the bottom in a fan shape.  The underskirt is described as a masterpiece of engineering.

Fashion and Style

Grace Kelly’s impeccable style has left an indelible mark on fashion history. Her wardrobe featured designs from renowned couturiers like Dior, Balenciaga, Givenchy, and Yves Saint Laurent. This exemplifies the principles of balance, proportion, and unity. Her wedding dress was designed by Helen Rose. It is often cited as one of the most elegant bridal gowns of all time. (en.wikipedia.org)

Her association with the Hermès “Kelly” bag further cements her status in design history. Originally named the Sac à dépêches, the handbag was popularized by Kelly and subsequently renamed in her honour. (en.wikipedia.org)

Influence on Decorative Arts

Kelly’s aesthetic preferences influenced interior design and decorative arts. Her patronage of designers and artists contributed to the evolution of mid-20th-century design, emphasizing elegance and simplicity.

Exhibitions like “Grace Kelly: Style Icon” have showcased her impact on fashion and design, highlighting her enduring appeal. (fashionexhibitionmaking.arts.ac.uk)

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