The Most Memorable Royal Wedding Outfits Worn by Princes

Royal weddings are more than just grand celebrations of love – they are also an opportunity to showcase the very best of fashion, tradition, and style. For centuries, royal weddings have captivated the public’s imagination, with every detail from the ceremony to the wedding outfits drawing immense attention. While the bride’s gown often steals the spotlight, the groom’s attire is just as important, and over the years, princes have worn some truly unforgettable outfits to mark their special days. These royal wedding outfits not only reflect personal taste and cultural heritage but also offer a glimpse into the evolving nature of royal fashion.

From traditional military uniforms to modern bespoke suits, the royal wedding attire of princes is as varied as the royal families themselves. This article will explore some of the most memorable and iconic wedding outfits worn by princes from various royal houses, highlighting their significance, design elements, and the stories behind these extraordinary garments.

1. Prince William’s Military Uniform – 2011

When Prince William, Duke of Cambridge, married Catherine Middleton on April 29, 2011, the world was not only captivated by the stunning wedding gown of the bride but also by the prince’s elegant military uniform. Prince William, a veteran of the British Armed Forces, chose to wear the red tunic of a Colonel in the Irish Guards, a position he had been appointed to in 2011.

Design Details:

• Tunic Style: The red tunic with gold epaulettes and black trousers reflected Prince William’s military rank and was reminiscent of ceremonial uniforms worn by British officers.
• Golden Embellishments: The uniform was adorned with gold detailing, including buttons and braiding, and complemented by the distinctive gold sash.
• Medals and Decorations: Prince William wore several medals and decorations, including the Golden Jubilee Medal and the Queen’s Golden Jubilee Medal.

The choice of this military uniform was not only a nod to his service but also a symbolic gesture of his commitment to duty and country. The ensemble, both regal and personal, demonstrated the balance of tradition and modernity that characterized the entire royal wedding.

2. Prince Harry’s Soldier’s Uniform – 2018

Prince Harry, the Duke of Sussex, had a remarkable military career before his wedding to Meghan Markle on May 19, 2018. Much like his older brother, Prince William, Prince Harry chose to wear a military uniform for his wedding, honoring his service to the British Army.

Design Details:

• Blues and Royals Ceremonial Uniform: Prince Harry wore the ceremonial uniform of the Blues and Royals, the regiment he served with for over a decade. The uniform was a rich navy blue, which was the traditional color of the regiment, and included red and gold accents.
• Gold-Braided Cuffs and Epaulettes: The uniform featured striking gold-braided cuffs and epaulettes, giving it a regal and distinguished appearance.
• Medals and Decorations: Just like his brother, Prince Harry wore numerous military decorations, including medals earned during his time serving in Afghanistan.

The decision to wear this specific uniform paid tribute to Harry’s time in the military and the immense pride he took in his service. The uniform was also a stark contrast to the civilian suits often worn by royal grooms, making it an exceptional and memorable choice that reflected Harry’s personal identity and dedication.

3. Prince Charles’ Morning Coat – 1981

When Prince Charles married Lady Diana Spencer on July 29, 1981, his outfit became one of the most iconic and widely discussed in royal history. While Diana’s wedding gown captivated the world with its voluminous sleeves and intricate lace, Charles’ attire also made a statement. He wore a formal morning coat, which was the traditional choice for grooms in the British royal family during the time.

Design Details:

• Morning Coat: The morning coat featured a black tailcoat with a single-breasted design and gray striped trousers. This type of coat is often worn for formal occasions and weddings and remains a classic option for royal weddings.
• Gray and Black Tones: The monochromatic gray and black colors were understated yet sophisticated, creating a dignified and timeless look.
• Silver Waistcoat: Underneath, Prince Charles wore a silver waistcoat that added a subtle touch of luxury and refinement to the look.
• Tie and Top Hat: The prince completed the look with a white tie and a traditional black top hat, a staple accessory for royal weddings at the time.

Charles’ choice of morning coat represented a traditional yet understated approach to royal wedding fashion. His outfit, while less flashy than Diana’s gown, was a fitting choice that reflected the formality and significance of the occasion.

4. Prince Albert’s Navy Blue Suit – 1840

One of the earliest and most historical royal wedding outfits was worn by Prince Albert of Saxe-Coburg and Gotha when he married Queen Victoria on February 10, 1840. Their wedding is considered one of the first modern royal weddings, and it set many precedents for future ceremonies, including the white wedding dress worn by Queen Victoria.

Design Details:

• Navy Blue Tailcoat: Prince Albert wore a navy blue tailcoat, a striking departure from the black or dark formal attire worn by many royal grooms before him. The navy blue color was elegant yet somewhat unconventional for the time, giving the outfit a contemporary edge.
• Fitted Waistcoat: The waistcoat was tailored closely to Prince Albert’s frame, emphasizing his slim figure and providing a sharp contrast to the fuller, more decorative garments worn by many royal men of the era.
• Black Trousers: The trousers were simple and formal, made of black fabric to complement the navy blue coat.
• Decorative Gold Elements: Prince Albert’s outfit featured subtle gold detailing, including the buttons and embroidery, which added a royal touch to the overall look.

Prince Albert’s decision to wear a navy blue tailcoat was seen as groundbreaking and a sign of his modern sensibilities. It also reflected his desire to wear something that was both royal and personal, allowing him to make a unique statement on his wedding day.

5. Prince Felipe’s Tailored Suit – 2004

When Prince Felipe of Spain married Letizia Ortiz Rocasolano on May 22, 2004, he chose a more modern and understated look for his wedding compared to many of his royal counterparts. Instead of a military uniform or traditional ceremonial attire, Prince Felipe opted for a bespoke suit designed by Spanish designer Manuel Pertegaz.

Design Details:

• Tailored Gray Suit: The tailored gray suit was elegant and contemporary, showcasing a more modern take on royal wedding attire. It featured a slim cut that emphasized Felipe’s stature and a sharp, sophisticated look.
• White Shirt and Tie: A simple white shirt paired with a silver-gray tie completed the outfit, giving it a clean and polished appearance.
• Sash of the Order of Carlos III: As a nod to his royal status, Prince Felipe wore the sash of the Order of Carlos III, which was draped across his chest. This addition added a royal touch while maintaining the modern look of the ensemble.

Felipe’s decision to wear a more contemporary and minimalist outfit reflected Spain’s evolving royal style, aligning with the modernization of the Spanish monarchy. His wedding suit was both elegant and understated, making it one of the more memorable royal wedding looks of the 21st century.

6. Prince Ranier III’s Tuxedo – 1956

One of the most memorable royal wedding outfits worn by a prince comes from the wedding of Prince Ranier III of Monaco and the American actress Grace Kelly. On April 19, 1956, Prince Ranier married Grace Kelly in a wedding that was nothing short of glamorous. While Grace Kelly’s wedding gown is often the focus of attention, Prince Ranier’s classic tuxedo was also a standout.

Design Details:

• Classic Tuxedo: Prince Ranier wore a traditional tuxedo, a classic look that stood in stark contrast to the more formal military uniforms or royal regalia often chosen by grooms.
• Black Bow Tie: His ensemble included a black bow tie and a crisp white shirt, which paired perfectly with the formal black tuxedo jacket.
• Medals: To add a regal touch, Prince Ranier wore several military medals, which highlighted his royal status and military background.

The tuxedo worn by Prince Ranier was stylish and formal without being overly extravagant. This outfit was timeless and chic, perfectly suited for a wedding that was a blend of Hollywood glamour and European royalty.

7. Crown Prince Frederik of Denmark’s Tailored Suit – 2004

When Crown Prince Frederik of Denmark married Mary Donaldson on May 14, 2004, he opted for a sleek and modern look that contrasted with the more traditional royal wedding outfits worn by other grooms. The wedding, which took place in Copenhagen, was one of the most high-profile royal weddings of the 2000s, and Prince Frederik’s outfit was understated yet elegant.

Design Details:

• Light Gray Suit: The Prince wore a light gray tailored suit that was sleek and sophisticated. The color was soft and contemporary, offering a refreshing alternative to the traditional black or navy suits often seen at royal weddings.
• White Shirt and Silver Tie: Under the suit, a crisp white shirt was paired with a silver tie that added an extra element of luxury and refinement.
• Military Sash: Prince Frederik also wore a military sash, an important piece of regalia that reflected his royal status.

Crown Prince Frederik’s wedding outfit reflected Denmark’s modern yet traditional royal image. The light gray suit stood out for its simplicity and elegance, and the sash added a regal touch without overwhelming the ensemble.

Conclusion

The wedding outfits worn by princes reflect not only their personal style and preferences but also the traditions and evolving nature of royal fashion. From military uniforms to tailored suits, each prince has chosen attire that was meaningful to him while representing the grandeur and heritage of their respective monarchies. Whether it’s Prince William’s military uniform, Prince Albert’s modern navy blue tailcoat, or Prince Felipe’s contemporary gray suit, royal wedding outfits will continue to captivate audiences and inspire fashion trends for generations to come. These outfits are more than just garments; they are a reflection of the personalities, traditions, and stories of the men who wear them.