By Brooke Foster
Is the Duchess lifting the veil on timeless traditions?
If you went to a wedding in the last decade, chances are the bride wore a strapless gown and her hair pulled back in an updo. But Kate changed all of that when she married Prince William on April 29.
Instead of a strapless style, women are suddenly more drawn to ladylike silhouettes — like the one Sarah Burton designed for Ms. Middleton — according to new research by Brides magazine. Dan Rentillo, fashion director for David’s Bridal, told Brides that similar lacy dresses are flying off the shelves. “Women have really responded to the coverage,” says Rentillo. “They’re asking for ladylike gowns with clean, simple lines.”
American women have also shown an interest in veils, with 52 percent of women saying that they’re more likely to wear the romantic head covering because of Kate. The tiara, what Brides calls “the ultimate princess accessory,” is also back; Lindsie Jones Haute chic line of tiaras are nearly sold out.
As for the royal treatment? There’s been a 200 percent increase in the interest in horse and carriage rentals at Nolan’s Horse-Drawn Carriages in San Luis Obispo in California. Many brides are requesting dainty lily of the valley flowers in their bouquets; Kate’s had lily of the valley, sweet williams, hyacinth and myrtle. Since Middleton’s ring is the sapphire engagement ring worn by Prince William’s late mother Princess Diana, there’s been an uptick in heirloom rings among the newly engaged. Also, JCPenney reports that sales of sapphire jewelry have increased overall since Prince William proposed.
And not surprisingly, there’s been an interest among brides to leave their hair long and loose. Celebrity hairstylist Rodney Cutler told Brides: “Many brides want to wear their hair down but get an updo because they think they have to. Kate has given the women freedom to be themselves.”
[via Fashionista]
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