After all the fuss surrounding the so-called "Wedding of the Century" of the brand new Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, I wasn't exactly sure what new perspective I could possibly bring to the table. But, after watching the ceremony (like, 8 times) I've decided to keep things simple and just discuss the things I loved best. I had set my alarm for 3am, but slept right through it. Luckily I left the tv on and woke up abruptly to the sound of horns announcing the bride's procession and panicked when I thought I missed the whole thing. However, I was just in time to watch Kate's live decent down the long red aisle in Westminster Abbey and was mesmerized while I groggily watched the elegant, yet surprisingly warm and natural ceremony unfold. There are so many things I loved and here are some of the highlights.
The Dresses
Image via Vogue
Image via People
Image via The British Monarchy's Flickr
Like most of you, I couldn't wait to see what Kate chose to wear on her big day. I spent a lot of time trying to imagine what route she would take. A simple sheath? A Cinderella ball gown? A style that I'd never even heard of before? The first thing I saw in my sleepy, panicked state was her flawlessly fitted lace bodice and breathed a sigh of relief because I knew she'd nailed it. I was even more thrilled when I found out that Sarah Burton, the replacement creative director at the late Alexander McQueen's fashion house, designed Kate's two gowns and her sister, MOH Pippa's, gown as well. Kate's first dress was a perfect combination of classic royal inspiration (Princess Grace, anyone?) and modern details. Burton created the pleated skirt to resemble a blooming flower and added padding (a very McQueen touch) to the hips to create a stronger hourglass silhouette. Her second dress was simple, elegant, and looked comfortable enough to party into the wee hours of the morning. Pippa looked lovely as well and wore her bias cut sheath flawlessly. I'm so glad Kate chose the late McQueen's successor to create her looks and I think Ms. Burton did a great job filling such big shoes.
The Trees
Image via Vogue
It's kind of random, but I absolutely loved the trees inside the Abbey. Even without them, the nearly 1,000 year old church is still incredible, but the trees added an element of warmth to the otherwise cavernous space.
Kate's Makeup
I've read some criticism, saying Kate had a bit of a heavy hand while applying her wedding day makeup, however, it totally disagree! Is she wearing more than she normally wears? Sure, but she's also wearing a couture gown and an antique diamond tiara, things she also doesn't normally wear.
The Hats
All via People
What's an English wedding without fantastic millinary creations? London's mad hatters were hard at work the last few months creating these incredible headpieces and I love each and every one!
The Beckham's
Image via Vogue
I also felt there was some ill-deserved critisism toward Victoria Beckham's ensemble. Some felt the her trapeze dress was dowdy and boring, but I though it was a refreshing departure from the sea of buttoned-up suits and jackets. And Mr. Beckham looked dapper as usual in Ralph Lauren.
The BBC
I don't really have a photo for this one, but I switched back forth between coverage yesterday. My favorite broadcast was on the BBC channel because they showed their enthusiasm without losing their calm. Some of the other programs I tuned in to tending to get a little obnoxious ("There she is! She's wearing a veil!! Her hair is down!!! She's got a train!!!!) Chill!
Kate's Ride to the Ceremony
Image via The British Monarchy's Flickr
I don't know if anyone noticed, but while Kate was travelling with her father from the hotel to the Abbey, she was waving a little bit more frantically than what would be considered "royal". It was obvious she was super excited and a little nervous and that made her even more relateable and likeable.
The Clergy
Image via People
I know there were a few gentlemen involved in the ceremony (the Dean of Westminster, the Archbishop of Canterbury, and the Bishop of London) and they all had amazing speaking voices!! They were like the English versions of Morgan Freeman.
Pippa Middleton
Image via The British Monarchy's Flickr
Between that train and all those tots, she did an outstanding job of keeping everything in the right place.
The Cartwheeling Priest
Priceless.
The Kiss+Frowning Bridesmaid
Image via People
Also priceless.
The Getaway
Image via People
At first I thought Kate was driving and thought that was super awesome but then remembered they drive opposite of us Americans. Still an Aston Marten Volare is such a cool way to make their escape to Clarence House for a bit before the second round of festivities.
The Official Photos
Image via The British Monarchy's Flickr
The official photos were released today and this one was definitely my fave. It keeps with tradition and yet there is a little hint of joyful chaos, which hopefully the couple will continue to share with us for a looooooong time to come.
