A Dress for the Ages

CROWNING MOMENT

Sarah Burton and her team at Alexander McQueen worked with the meticulous craftspeople at the Royal School of Needlework (they wash their hands every 30 minutes while hand-stitching lace!) to create Kate’s timeless gown. The bride got involved too: From selecting rose and shamrock appliques to deciding on a fitted ivory satin bodice, Kate “worked closely” with Burton, says the Palace.

THE BOUQUET

The bride carried lily of the valley (for return of happiness), sweet william (for gallantry), hyacinth (for constancy of love) and a sprig of myrtle, a royal tradition.

The Details

The sculptural bustle flowed into a 6½-ft. train. Kate’s wedding band-worn with her engagement ring-was made from Welsh gold given to William by his “Gran,” the Queen.

The Jewels

Kate’s ivory silk tulle veil was held in place by the Cartier “halo” tiara, which Queen Elizabeth inherited on her 18th birthday. The bride also sparkled wearing custom-designed Robinson Pelham earrings with diamond pave acorns-a nod to the Middleton family’s new coat of arms.

The Inspiration: Princess Grace

The bridal look “was definitely Grace Kelly inspired,” says royal couturier Stewart Parvin. Kate was heard discussing the late princess with her future stepmother-in-law in February.

Pippa the Knockout

The stunning maid of honor wows the world with her sexy silhouette

KATE’S FAIR LADY

“Everyone is talking about Pippa,” says London wedding planner Mark Niemierko. No wonder: Wearing a sleek Alexander McQueen by Sarah Burton gown as she escorted the littlest bridesmaids into the Abbey, Pippa, 27, showed off what one royal watcher calls “the body of a Bond girl.” Says Niemierko: “We’ve got a star.”

That’s So Royal

The regal edict for all ages: matchy-matchy ensembles in springtime hues

Yellow is her favorite color!

Queen Elizabeth II, 85

Queen Sonja of Norway, 73

Queen Sofia of Spain, 72

Queen Margrethe II of Denmark, 71

The Duchess of Kent, 78

Princess Marie-Chantal of Greece, 42

Princess Letizia of Spain, 38

Princess Mathilde of Belgium, 38

Crown Princess Victoria of Sweden, 33

Princess Beatrice of York, 22