Almost immediately after photos of the wedding were shared, a lively debate ignited online. Many observers couldn’t help but notice the striking resemblance between Lauren’s gown and the one worn by Catherine, the Princess of Wales (then Kate Middleton), for her royal wedding in 2011. Kate’s iconic Alexander McQueen gown, with its signature lace sleeves and graceful design, has influenced bridal fashion for more than a decade, and the similarities were quick to be pointed out.
Reactions were passionate and varied. Some fans and fashion commentators praised Lauren’s choice, saying the dress gave her a beautiful, princess-like quality. The classic style was seen as a perfect match for the romantic Venetian setting. However, others were more critical, feeling that the design was too reminiscent of Kate’s legendary look and lacked originality. The conversation was intense, with some social media users even joking, “Kate Would Never,” implying that the Princess of Wales’s dress held a unique, one-of-a-kind status. Adding to the playful discussion, a few people noted how the overall look seemed to blend Kate’s regal lace with the more modern, form-fitting style of her sister, Pippa Middleton, who served as her maid of honor.
