History’s Most Iconic Celebrity Wedding Dresses

History’s Most Iconic Celebrity Wedding Dresses

By: Addie Flasck

Now that newlywed model and fashion designer Sofia Richie has sent shockwaves through social media with her Chanel lace halter gown and custom dew drop veil, there is no better time to reminisce on more of the most iconic wedding dresses in celebrity history. From a first lady’s gown created in just five days to a 75-foot veil, there is no such thing as too much when it comes to a celebrity saying “I do.”

Audrey Hepburn

It comes as no surprise that the star who made the little black dress a staple would wear one of Hollywood’s most beloved wedding dresses. Unfortunately, the silk, boat neck dress paired with pearls and elbow-length gloves never actually made it down the aisle. Designed by the Fontana Sisters of Rome, the dress was instead donated to a “worthy young bride” per Hepburn’s request after the wedding was called off only two weeks before the ceremony.

Jackie Kennedy

Another gown that did not make it down the aisle belonged to First Lady Jacqueline Kennedy Onasiss. The dress was created by Ann Lowe, a black couturier whose work was left uncredited despite designing one of the most well-known wedding dresses in American history. After the original gown was destroyed by a burst pipe, Lowe recreated the full silk taffeta dress with a portrait neckline in just five days. This feat should have been the defining moment of her career, yet it went unrecognized.

Princess Diana

The list of iconic wedding dresses would not be complete without royal gowns, of which Princess Diana’s is perhaps the most remembered. It featured a 25-foot train as well as a 153-foot veil which was attached to the Spencer tiara. With hand-embroidered sequins and roughly 10,000 pearls, the silk taffeta dress was designed by David and Elizabeth Emanuel to be ivory instead of pure white to compliment the princess’s natural complexion.

Priyanka Chopra 

Indian actress Priyanka Chopra is another bride known for her tulle veil. The breathtaking veil measured in at 75 feet while the dress was adorned with over two million mother-of-pearl sequins. The look was made custom by Ralph Lauren.

Priscilla Presley

Believe it or not, Priscilla Presley’s simple gown was purchased at a department store and only tried on once before the wedding. The dress was simple save for its classic lace embroidery and beaded sleeves. The finishing touch was a short, poofy veil that mimicked her iconic bee-hive hair. If there was ever a 1960s bride, it was Priscilla Presley.

Hailey Bieber

Hailey Bieber’s famous wedding dress was designed by the late Virgil Abloh, featuring off-the-shoulder sleeves, embroidered lace, pearls, and a veil stitched with the words “Till death do us part.”

Kate Middleton

Sarah Burton, the creative director of Alexander McQueen, was the designer behind Kate Middleton’s royal wedding dress. With handmade lace, a Victorian bodice, and ivory silk tulle, the gown is certainly fit for a princess. 

Nicky Hilton

Nicky Hilton’s custom Valentino gown used three shades of ivory and loads of lace that was hand embellished with crystals. The high neck, long-sleeve dress was complete with a matching cathedral-length veil.

Angelina Jolie

Angelina Jolie’s unique wedding dress was designed by Donatella Versace with a little help from her six children. Their drawings were sewn into the back of her dress and veil, making for a less-than-traditional bridal look with lots of sentimental value.

Grace Kelly

Last but not least comes what is considered the most iconic wedding dress of all time. Grace Kelly’s fairytale dress, crafted by designer Helen Rose, featured long sleeves, a fitted bodice, and a billowing silk taffeta skirt. The Philadelphia native’s look is so memorable, in fact, that it now belongs to the Philadelphia Museum of Art and is still used as a reference for bridal designs to this day. 

Even as fashion evolves, there are some bridal looks so unforgettable that they will continue to serve as inspiration for brides for decades to come. Many gowns encapsulate the essence of their eras, while others offer a timeless elegance that perfectly reflect the beauty and sanctity of a marriage. After all, a wedding gown is more than just a dress; it is an emblem for love and unwavering devotion.

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