The royal wedding of Prince William and Kate Middleton at Westminster Abbey in 2011 was a fairytale event that captivated the nation. While the couple’s exchange of vows was a magical moment in royal history, there was a lesser-known scandal surrounding Kate’s breathtaking wedding dress.
Designed by Sarah Burton of Alexander McQueen, the bridal gown featured an impressive 8.85-foot train, an opulent lace bodice, and hidden family tributes stitched into the seams. The whimsical dress catapulted Kate into the royal spotlight and became an iconic fashion moment.
However, five years after the wedding, bridal designer Christine Kendall filed a lawsuit against the British fashion house, alleging a breach of copyright. Kendall claimed that the Princess of Wales’ wedding dress bore a striking resemblance to her own sketches, and she felt that the royal’s bridal gown would not have been what it was without her influence.
This revelation shed light on a previously unknown controversy surrounding one of the most iconic wedding dresses in recent history, highlighting the complexities and potential legal issues that can arise in the fashion industry.
Princess Kate’s wedding dress, worn during her 2011 nuptials to Prince William, was a custom creation by the renowned fashion house Alexander McQueen. However, this design sparked controversy when Christine Kendall, a British designer, alleged that the palace had sent a letter of appreciation for her dress designs following an open call for ideas from British designers.
The Sunday Times reported that Alexander McQueen was sued by Christine Kendall, though the fashion house expressed bewilderment at these accusations. In a statement, Alexander McQueen clarified that Christine Kendall had approached them nearly four years prior, and they had firmly dismissed any suggestion that Sarah Burton’s design for the royal wedding dress was copied from Kendall’s designs, deeming such claims as “nonsense.”
Princess Kate’s wedding dress, designed by Sarah Burton for Alexander McQueen, was a closely guarded secret until her arrival at Westminster Abbey on April 29, 2011. The stunning bridal gown featured an enchanting train that was carried by her sister, Pippa Middleton.
Amanda Ewing, an embroiderer who worked on the dress, revealed the extraordinary measures taken to maintain confidentiality during its creation. The team worked behind closed doors, with net curtains drawn, restricted access, and frequently changed door codes. Ewing described the experience as a “once in a lifetime opportunity,” highlighting the significance and privilege of contributing to such a historic event.