I have worked in the bridal industry for 15 years, so as you can imagine, I have seen plenty of incredibly beautiful wedding dresses. Before The Duchess of Cambridge got married, the majority of people I worked within the industry used to cite Grace Kelly as the figure whose gown they most admired.
When I saw The Duchess of Cambridge's stunning Alexander McQueen gown, I was not disappointed. It was everything it should have been, and more. I loved the lace, the long sleeves, and the fact that it was just perfect for her. I also liked it that Kate decided to wear her hair long, rather than trying to go for a style that she was not used to.
Since The Duchess of Cambridge got married, bridal designers from across the world have been influenced by her dress and her ladylike style.
When Amal Alamuddin recently got married to George Clooney, resplendent in Oscar de la Renta, I could not help but be reminded of The Duchess of Cambridge's dress. Although they were different in style, they also had many similarities, the lace, and also the classic, ladylike feel of the dresses.
Not only is The Duchess of Cambridge is an influence when it comes to brides-to-be choosing their wedding dress, but also what they opt to wear for their engagement. This is demonstrated in the recently released photograph of the engagement of Sofia Hellqvist to Prince Carl Phillip of Sweden. Not only does the bride bear a striking resemblance to the Duchess of Cambridge, with her long dark hair styled into waves, but her blue dress is very reminiscent of the Issa design that Kate wore for her 2011 engagement portrait.
Whatever The Duchess of Cambridge wears has an influence on young women around the world. So it is no surprise that her wedding dress has had an impact on the bridal industry and brides-to-be. I can assure you that she will be considered a bridal icon for many years to come...