We all know that the Royal Wedding will influence fashion and set trends for the masses and that princess-to-be Meghan Markle likes to take risks (Pants! Bare legs! A messy bun inside the Cardiff Castle! Oh my!). What can we expect to see on the big day according to Royal and Celebrity stylist Engie Hassan?
Engie Hassan
Style Predictions for Daring Media Darling Meghan Markle
The pressure will be on from the Royal family to separate her from her previous role as Hollywood starlet. I foresee that Markle, who has spoken as a UN Ambassador for women, will be diplomatic in her approach - balancing a respectful church look that transforms into a slightly more daring look for her balcony debut to the public and into a fun sleeveless and backless silhouette at the after party.
I predict Meghan will go for a more modern, youthful look than Kate’s conservative long sleeves (which harkened back to Queen Elizabeth and Grace Kelly’s silhouettes). My bets are on a mermaid silhouette with subtle detailing of diamonds, pearls or exquisite lace up top, more likely matte and nothing that detracts from her beautiful figure.
I would anticipate that we see echoes and tributes to Princess Diana’s looks in the flair of her skirt and in her train. If she goes with a more daring back, expect to see it cleverly covered with a cape or removable jacket for the church portion of her wedding day.
If I were styling Meghan I would choose a gown that isn’t over the top, but true to the American style philosophy of simple and classic silhouettes (think Carolyn Bessette Kennedy), with a memorable train, colour or fabric to honour Princess Diana’s legacy. I’d collaborate with Ralph Lauren or Tom Ford to design her dress. Both iconic designers have the perfect mix of the iconic American style and understanding of the Royal standards of England.
Kate Middleton's Wedding Dress
What will International Royalty Wear?
When styling Princess Ameerah for Prince William and Kate’s Royal Wedding my team chose classic femininity: a long sleeve fitted silhouette in lace and blush silk layers with a perfectly matched fascinator that accentuated her long, beautiful hair. HRH Ameerah’s custom Zuhair Murad gown and hat is still used as an archive image for many Middle Eastern consumers as a hallmark of how they want to look on special occasion days.