In advance of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s first wedding anniversary, we’re taking a look back at their royal wedding, and how it compared to when Prince William wed Kate Middleton back in 2011. Here’s how the two celebrations were alike, and how they differed.
Kate’s Wedding Dress
Kate Middleton wore a bespoke wedding gown designed by Sarah Burton for Alexander McQueen that cost an estimated $434,000 to make. It featured a nine-foot-long train and handmade lace made by the Royal School of Needlework.
Meghan’s Wedding Dress
Much to the surprise of everyone, Meghan chose British designer Clare Waight Keller of Givenchy to design her sleek and modern wedding gown. While both dresses featured long sleeves, Meghan’s gown was unadorned by beading or lace and had a boat neckline instead of Kate’s now-iconic v-neck dress.
Kate’s Veil
Kate’s veil was embroidered by the Royal School of Needlework with flowers at the edges.
Meghan’s Veil
While Kate opted for a long train and shorter veil, Meghan did the opposite and wore a 16.5-foot-long veil designed by Clare Waight Keller for Givenchy. On the border of the veil, Waight Keller embroidered the flora of all 53 countries of the Commonwealth.
Kate’s Rings
Prince William proposed to Kate Middleton with his mother’s sapphire engagement ring. On their wedding day, Kate received a Welsh gold wedding band.
Meghan’s Rings
Prince Harry proposed to Meghan Markle with a custom ring featuring a gold band, two diamonds from Princess Diana’s personal collection and a center stone from Botswana, where the newlywed couple reportedly fell in love. Her gold wedding band is also made out of Welsh gold. Unlike Prince William, Prince Harry has chosen to wear a wedding ring.
