Compare Meghan Markle’s Wedding Dress to Kate Middleton’s 2011 Gown

Meghan Markle’s stunning wedding dress is doubtlessly already inspiring couture bridal collections and fast-fashion brands alike, but before the “Markle Sparkle” took its effect on the fashion industry, there was another influencer shaping the latest trends: Kate Middleton.

Markle’s new sister-in-law captivated audiences at her 2011 wedding to Prince William in a long-sleeve lace Alexander McQueen design with a nine-foot long train, inspiring countless similar gowns that hit the market in the months (and years) following. Prince Harry’s bride is likely to do the same with her Clare Waight Keller for Givenchy wedding dress, and though it’s certainly unique to her personal style, we can’t help but notice some resemblances between her gown and Kate’s.

Like Middleton, Markle opted for a long-sleeved gown for the church ceremony, as is customary for the bride in a royal wedding. Both Princess Diana and Queen Elizabeth also kept their arms covered on their wedding days.

While Middleton walked down the aisle in an A-line gown, Markle opted for an open-neck design. The Duchess of Cambridge’s dress featured a V-neckline, kept appropriately modest for a wedding in front of the Queen. Similarly, Markle kept things conservative with her mid-sleeve gown and flowing train. 

Like her sister-in-law, Markle opted for a long train, though it looked shorter to the eye than Middleton's 9 foot one.