Style Icon Inspiration: Grace Kelly

I've decided to start a series of inspiration boards based on various style icons.  To kick off the series, I've chosen Grace Kelly, an Oscar winning actress who then became Her Serene Highness Grace, Princess of Monaco when she married Rainier III, Prince of Monaco in April 1956.  She was born in Philadelphia to self-made millionaire parents and starred in some of the 1950's biggest movies including Hitchcock's Rear Window, The Country Girl (for which she won her Oscar), and High Society, a musical remake of The Philadelphia Story.  Some of her most memorable fashion moments were created by the remarkable Edith Head, including her black top and full tulle skirt from Rear Window and the aquamarine silk satin confection worn on the night of her Oscar win.  Her style was so influential that Hermès re-named a bag after her (the Kelly bag) because she was photographed with it.  Her wedding gown, designed by Helen Rose of MGM, included a rounded collar, a full skirt made of ivory peau de soie, and a fitted bodice made from Brussels lace embroidered with seed pearls. The lace was over a century old and had flower designs in it. Twenty five yards of silk taffeta and 100 yards of silk net were used in the construction of the dress.  Her patrician looks and timeless style are still relevant inspiration for brides and fashionistas today. 

Grace Kelly, in a publicity from Rear Window, wearing a quintessential 1950's look; designed by Edith Head

 Grace wearing her aquamarine silk satin Oscar gown.  The fabric alone cost over $4000! 

;also designed by Edith Head

Princess Grace on her wedding day.

click to enlarge

Channel classic Grace Kelly elegance on your wedding day by using a clean color palette of pale blue and white, with a splash of champagne.  Incorporate rich fabrics like silk satin, taffeta, or shantung and old-fashioned lace and bead-work with traditional 1950's silhouettes.  Pearl jewelry and simple makeup complete the look.

 {images of Grace Kelly via Grace Kelly Online}

Inspiration Board Photo Credits

Top left wedding gown: Platinum for Priscilla of Boston; style # PL300

Bottom row, middle wedding gown: Stephanie James Couture; style "Josephine"

Bottom row, far right wedding gown: Enzoani style "Emily"

Bottom right bridesmaid dress: After Six by Dessy; style # 6553

Top row, middle bridesmaid dress: Wtoo; style # 759

Flower girl dress: US Angels; style # 130
Earrings:  Ti Adoro

 All other images via The Knot

-Alessandra

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