Royal enthusiasts and fashion aficionados alike were captivated by the recent sale of a historic bridesmaid dress worn at Queen Elizabeth’s wedding. This exquisite gown, designed by Norman Hartnell and once donned by supermodel Kate Moss, fetched an impressive $48,420 at a Christie’s auction, solidifying its place in royal and fashion history.

The Dress That Captivated Generations
When then-Princess Elizabeth married Prince Philip on November 20, 1947, the world watched as she walked down the aisle of Westminster Abbey. Alongside her were eight bridesmaids, including her sister Princess Margaret and Lady Elizabeth Lambart, each wearing identical bespoke ivory gowns. These dresses, designed by the renowned couturier Norman Hartnell, were emblematic of post-war elegance and hope.

The gown worn by Lady Elizabeth Lambart was a masterpiece of design, featuring a scoop neckline, ruched bodice, and voluminous tulle skirt adorned with satin floral headpieces. The delicate applique flowers, crafted under the supervision of head embroideress Flora Ballard and woven by Warner & Sons, echoed the intricate details of Queen Elizabeth’s own wedding dress.

From Royal Wedding to Fashion Museum
Lady Elizabeth Lambart, the daughter of the Earl and Countess of Cavan and a childhood friend of Queen Elizabeth, cherished her role in the royal wedding. She later loaned her bridesmaid dress to the Fashion Museum Bath, where it remained on display from the 1980s to the early 2000s. The gown’s journey didn’t end there; it was also featured in a 2012 photo shoot with British supermodel Kate Moss for Love magazine.

Moss, now 50, recalled the magical experience of wearing the dress, saying, “Meeting Lady Elizabeth and wearing her dress, which had such a wonderful heritage, was a magical moment for me. I felt like I was wearing a piece of history.”

A Piece of Royal Fashion History
Christie’s auction house, known for its sales of rare and historic items, announced the sale of the bridesmaid dress on July 2. The gown, expected to fetch between $38,000 and $63,000, ultimately sold for $48,420. Benedict Winter, a specialist at Christie’s, highlighted the gown’s significance, stating, “It’s a wonderful opportunity to acquire an evocative and rare example of royal fashion history. With its delicate design, beautiful embroidery, and exquisite sense of movement, this elegant dress epitomizes the glamour of Sir Norman’s commissions and the hope that the wedding of the late Queen and the Duke of Edinburgh gave to post-war Britain.”

The dress’s provenance, described by Christie’s, adds to its allure: “Commissioned directly from Norman Hartnell by H.M. Queen Elizabeth (later Queen Elizabeth, The Queen Mother) for the wedding of H.R.H. The Princess Elizabeth (later H.M. Queen Elizabeth II) to be worn by Lady Elizabeth Lambart (later Longman) (1924-2016) and by descent.” The gown remained in Lady Elizabeth’s family until her death in 2016, after which it was passed down and eventually purchased by a private buyer.

The Legacy of Norman Hartnell
Norman Hartnell, the creative genius behind the bridesmaid gowns, played a pivotal role in the royal family’s fashion history. In addition to designing the bridesmaid dresses and Queen Elizabeth’s wedding gown, he later created her coronation gown in 1953. Hartnell’s work is celebrated for its intricate detailing and timeless elegance, qualities that were on full display in the bridesmaid dresses worn at the royal wedding.

The sale of Lady Elizabeth Lambart’s dress not only highlights the enduring appeal of royal fashion but also underscores the craftsmanship and artistry of Norman Hartnell. As fashion historian Benedict Winter noted, the dress embodies the glamour and hope that defined the era, making it a treasured piece of both royal and fashion history.

The Impact of Royal Fashion on Popular Culture
The fascination with royal fashion continues to influence contemporary trends and inspire designers around the world. The sale of the bridesmaid dress is a testament to the lasting impact of royal events on popular culture. From the meticulously designed gowns to the personal stories of those who wore them, these garments offer a glimpse into the lives of the royals and the history they helped shape.

The auction at Christie’s attracted collectors of royal history and vintage couture, emphasizing the broad appeal of such iconic pieces. The dress’s connection to significant moments in history, such as Queen Elizabeth’s wedding and Kate Moss’s photo shoot, adds layers of meaning and value, making it a sought-after item for collectors and enthusiasts.

The Ongoing Allure of Royal Weddings
Royal weddings have long been a source of fascination and inspiration, with each event capturing the public’s imagination and setting trends in fashion and culture. The wedding of Queen Elizabeth and Prince Philip was a particularly significant moment, symbolizing a new era of hope and rebuilding in post-war Britain. The bridesmaid dresses, with their intricate designs and elegant silhouettes, reflected the optimism and elegance of the time.

As royal weddings continue to captivate audiences worldwide, the sale of historic items like Lady Elizabeth Lambart’s bridesmaid dress serves as a reminder of the enduring appeal and significance of these events. The gown’s journey from a royal wedding to a fashion museum and finally to an auction house illustrates the timeless nature of royal fashion and its impact on popular culture.

Conclusion: A Timeless Treasure
The sale of the bridesmaid dress worn at Queen Elizabeth’s wedding for nearly $50,000 is a testament to the enduring allure of royal fashion. This exquisite gown, designed by Norman Hartnell and once worn by supermodel Kate Moss, continues to captivate and inspire. As a piece of royal history, it offers a glimpse into the elegance and tradition that define the British royal family. The dress’s journey through time, from a royal wedding to a modern auction, underscores the timeless appeal of royal fashion and its lasting impact on popular culture.

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Source: https://people.com/queen-elizabeth-wedding-bridesmaid-dress-sold-auction-50k-8673325