Why is Pippa Middleton’s Bridesmaid Dress so Popular?

Royal weddings are not like the common wedding, where all eyes are on the couple and what they wear. Instead, royal weddings are a representation of global fashion that will turn into trends that are followed for years. You must have heard about Kate Middleton’s marriage to Prince William in April 2011. The world expected the bride to be the showstopper, and she undoubtedly surpassed the expectations. There was a surprise for everyone: her younger sister and maid of honor, Pippa Middleton, became another star of the show. 

We all know that people can’t stop staring and admiring the beauty once a bride walks in, but the same happened when Pippa walked in. The moment she stepped foot on Westminster Abbey holding Kate’s train, people were left astonished, and their eyes were widened. The cameras turned. Twitter exploded within a few hours. Pippa’s graceful ivory gown took over the internet by storm, and it became the most talked-about fashion moment of the decade.

What was special about the dress? Was it Pippa’s beauty? Was it her makeup and hairstyling? What was it about this bridesmaid dress that made it so attention-grabbing? Who designed it, and can bridesmaids get something similar?

Let us share the story behind Pippa Middleton’s incredible bridesmaid dress, and why it is an inspiration for bridal fashion even more than a decade later.

Why Did It Go Viral?

For a moment, the internet forgot Kate’s royal lace gown and turned eyes toward Pippa’s minimalist bridesmaid dress. Headlines the next morning were full of admiration and obsession. People even called her “Her Royal Hotness.” Many people didn't even know who Pippa was before the wedding, yet it changed within the blink of an eye.

Here’s why the dress is remembered to this day:

Perfect Fit 

Pippa’s gown did not have sequins or anything flashy. It was simple, but cut and tailored to perfection. The silhouette embossed her figure. It was a representation of grace rather than sexual attraction. Still, it made a strong impression. It was modern, yet everlasting.

Fashion experts noted that the structured tailoring around the waist and hips was behind its remarkable look without being inappropriate for the occasion.

Surprise Factor

No one indeed expected the maid of honor to be the showstopper. Pippa herself later admitted that the attention caught her off guard. In an interview, she mentioned that the dress was "meant to be insignificant" and followed the bridal train. No one knew that it would end up with headlines across the globe.

Memes and Viral Moments

Social media loved the look and ran with it. Within hours, memes were posted, and fashion forums were flooded with discussions. The back view of her holding Kate’s gown was one of the most shared wedding photos of the decade

Who Designed the Dress?

It's time to praise the maker of the stunning dress. Who was the designer? Kate and Pippa’s were designed by Sarah Burton. She is the director of the British fashion house Alexander McQueen. Pippa’s minimalist bridesmaid look was another remarkable achievement. It shows how versatile her designs could be.

Here is an interesting fact: a red carpet version of the same dress design was witnessed. In 2010, actress Cameron Diaz wore a similar McQueen gown. It was in red color. That red-carpet history makes the event even more fascinating. 

Both sisters were wearing custom McQueen, and their looks were cohesive yet distinct. Kate’s was a representation of Royal Charm, while Pippa’s look was classic. 

The Dress Details: What Style Was It?

Let’s find out the detailed features of the dress that made it so unforgettable:

• Color: Ivory that complemented Kate’s gown without overpowering it

• Material: Satin-backed crepe fabric, which gave it a fluid drape and minimal glow without a shiny appearance.

• Neckline: A graceful cowl neck that framed the collarbone.

• Sleeves: Small cap sleeves that give a softer appearance to the shoulders.

• Silhouette: An incredible fit that followed the body’s natural curves without being too tight.

• Back: A row of 58 delicate buttons that went down the back.

• Train: A Subtle train that flowed elegantly behind her as she walked.

How can we forget the accessories? Her accessories were also kept minimal. She wore Jimmy Choo heels and a flower hairpiece with lily of the valley. It was the same flower Kate used in her bouquet, and this shows their purity.

Soft Satin Bridesmaid Dresses

Can You Still Get a Dress Like It?

Yes - it's definitely possible to get a similar dress. 

 High-End Designer Options

Alexander McQueen released a version of the dress for retail, but it was priced at over $1,500. Take note that it lacked the same cowl neckline and elaborate button detailing. We can consider it a tribute rather than a replica.

Accessible Lookalikes

Soon after the wedding, the demand for “Pippa-style bridesmaid dresses” was immensely high. Several fashion houses tried to give their affordable dupes. One of the most remarkable dupes of this dress is available at Chicsew. Check out their collection!

Custom-Made Dresses

Brides and bridesmaids want to custom-order similar dresses according to their body type. This certifies that the dress fits like a glove, just like Pippa’s dress. At the end of the day, the fit was the primary reason that made the dress popular.  

Where to Find Your Own Chic Bridesmaid Look

Are you planning a royal-style wedding? Do you want your bridesmaids to look their absolute best? At ChicSew, we believe that every bridesmaid deserves to feel confident and beautiful. We have a carefully curated collection of bridesmaid and bridal gowns that represent everlasting designs with modern trends. Get yours today!

Learn more：Why Velvet Bridesmaid Dresses Are So Popular Right Now？