Vogue Editor Reveals Royal Wedding Dress Secret

Alexandra Shulman, former editor-in-chief of British Vogue, shared insights into selecting the Princess of Wales's wedding dress for the 2011 royal wedding.

Shulman recalled being approached by the Princess's office for advice on potential designers. She compiled a selection of Vogue photo shoots, considering figures like Vivienne Westwood and established names such as Bruce Oldfield and Catherine Walker. However, Westwood's personality was deemed potentially difficult for royal dealings, and Oldfield and Walker might have carried associations with Diana, Princess of Wales.

Younger designers like Erdem and Christopher Kane were also considered, but Shulman had concerns about their capacity to handle the security required for such a high-profile, confidential commission. Ultimately, she proposed Sarah Burton, then creative director at Alexander McQueen, citing her strong yet gentle personality. The Princess reportedly agreed with a simple nod.

Shulman only saw the wedding dress when the Princess of Wales arrived at Westminster Abbey, learning the designer choice alongside the public. She continues to admire the Princess's confident and assured style. Shulman's new book, "Black Coffee and Red Lipstick: Notes on Living," also includes anecdotes about other fashion figures and personal reflections following her cancer diagnoses.