Meghan Markle’s engagement to Prince Harry was announced on November 27, 2017. For the official photo call at Kensington Palace to mark the occasion, Meghan wore a gorgeous green dress that immediately caused a frenzy as fans tried to identify it and speculate on the cost. As an American actress set to join the British royal family, Meghan’s fashion choices were under intense scrutiny. So how much did this iconic engagement dress really cost?
The Dress Details
Meghan’s engagement dress was designed by Italian luxury fashion house Prada. It was made from a dark green double crepe fabric with long sleeves and a midi pencil skirt silhouette. The dress featured a slight v-neckline and black velvet trimmings along the neckline and down the front. Meghan accessorized with simple green suede pumps and wore her hair down in soft waves.
The overall style was classic and elegant, perfect for meeting the press for the first time as Prince Harry’s fiancée. Fans immediately took notice of the beautiful emerald shade, which seemed like an apt choice for an engagement dress. The color green is often associated with fresh starts, harmony, and new beginnings — how fitting for this new chapter in Meghan’s life!
The Designer
Prada is one of the most prestigious and recognizable luxury labels in the world. Founded in Milan in 1913 by Mario Prada, the brand is known for producing high-end clothing, handbags, shoes, and other accessories. Prada combines traditional Italian craftsmanship with innovative modern design to create timeless pieces. The label has become a byword for sophisticated Italian style and exquisite quality.
In the world of celebrity fashion, Prada is a popular choice for A-list stars on the red carpet and high-profile occasions when they want to exude elegance. Over the years, famous fans of the brand have included Grace Kelly, Margot Robbie, Katie Holmes, and Michelle Obama. Thanks to Prada’s reputation for refinement, Meghan Markle’s decision to wear the label for her engagement conveyed her new status as a soon-to-be member of the royal family.
The Cost
Considering the prestige of the Prada name, interest was high in how much Meghan’s bespoke engagement dress cost. According to multiple reports, the estimated price was around £46,650 or over $56,000 USD at the time. This hefty sum was mostly due to the couture nature of the piece; as a custom design, the materials and labor involved was extremely expensive. Because it was specially made for Meghan, the dress also included more detailing and embellishment compared to a ready-to-wear Prada frock, hiking up the overall price tag.
To put things in perspective, £46,650 is about the average yearly salary for people living in the UK. For most of us non-royals, splashing out five figures on a dress is completely unfathomable. However, for someone poised to enter the extremely wealthy British monarchy, this cost was merely a drop in the bucket. Meghan could easily afford to wear a bespoke designer dress without thinking twice about the price. And for a historic occasion like her official engagement, the expensive price point was to be expected.
Public Reaction
While the cost of Meghan’s engagement dress was staggering to most people, the public reaction was overwhelmingly positive. Fans loved the elegant stylistic choice and many commentators noted that the green color was both versatile and unique. Meghan looked effortlessly chic and feminine, perfect for her new public role as Prince Harry’s bride-to-be.
Some critics argued that the high price tag was indulgent. But many others felt Meghan deserved to wear whatever she wanted for such a landmark moment in her life. As one of the most talked-about and influential public figures in the world, her fashion choices were bound to come under scrutiny no matter what. Overall most agreed that Meghan looked beautiful, and the cost was unimportant on this joyful day.
Many style watchers drew comparisons between Meghan’s engagement look and outfits worn by the late Princess Diana. Diana also favored clean silhouettes and soft colors for formal occasions. This subtle nod to her beloved late mother-in-law was a touching tribute on Harry and Meghan’s special day.
Significance and Legacy
Meghan Markle’s emerald Prada dress made history as one of the most iconic outfits of her engagement and wedding events. The beautiful look immediately sparked “repli-Meghan” trend as affordable dupes of the dress popped up. For those who couldn’t fathom spending a five-figure sum on a dress, copying Meghan’s style was a way to feel part of the excitement.
The dress also signified Meghan’s status as a modern, independent woman. While she was joining the traditional royal family, she did so on her own terms—even picking out a dress herself for her big public debut. This quietly powerful fashion statement reflected Meghan’s feminist beliefs.
Finally, this dress marked the beginning of Meghan’s influence as a global fashion icon. Her every outfit is still scrutinized and often sells out quickly, an effect now known as the “Meghan Markle Effect.” Designers everywhere would love for the Duchess of Sussex to wear their creations, knowing her sartorial stamp of approval carries immense weight.
While we don’t know where Meghan’s iconic engagement dress is today, it remains one of her most unforgettable looks. This single outfit made history and demonstrated what an impactful public figure she would become.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who designed Meghan Markle’s engagement dress?
Meghan Markle’s emerald green engagement dress was designed by the luxury fashion house Prada.
How much did the dress cost?
Reports estimated the cost at around £46,650 or over $56,000 USD. This high price was due to the couture nature of the made-to-order piece.
Why was the dress so expensive?
As a custom creation, the dress involved expensive materials and labor costs. Unique embellishments and detailing also added to the final five-figure price tag.
What was the public reaction to Meghan’s dress and its cost?
The public response was overwhelmingly positive. Most people felt Meghan looked beautiful and that the price didn’t matter for such a special occasion. Critics argued the cost was indulgent but this was a minority opinion.
How did the engagement dress reflect Meghan Markle’s personal style?
The elegant green dress aligned with Meghan’s feminine, classic aesthetic. The color was also meaningful, signifying fresh starts and new beginnings for her future with Prince Harry.
Conclusion
Meghan Markle’s breathtaking Prada engagement dress made a defiantly bold statement for its eye-watering price tag. Upon close examination, the extraordinary cost reflects the meticulous craftsmanship involved and Meghan’s stratospheric status joining the royal family. This single outfit had an enduring impact as one of Meghan’s most iconic fashion moments. For a historic occasion like her engagement announcement, only the very best would do. So while us commoners could hardly justify the spending, Meghan certainly earned the right to wear whatever dress made her feel like a princess. Her graceful beauty and elegance shone through in this stunning couture piece.
