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Recreate this iconic ensemble on your big day.
Updated on January 14, 2026 12:49PM
Bettmann / Getty Images
Key Takeaways
- Grace Kelly’s wedding dress is iconic for its high neckline, lace bodice, long sleeves, and timeless ball gown silhouette.
- Brides can find budget-friendly options, like Lulus’ “Awaken My Love” dress, or splurge on custom designs like Peter Langner’s ball gown.
- Modern takes on Kelly’s style include jumpsuits, mini dresses, and sleek silhouettes that blend elegance with contemporary flair.
When Grace Kelly waltzed down the aisle to marry Prince Rainier III of Monaco on April 19, 1956, the actress-turned-royal changed the world of bridal fashion. The 30 million viewers who tuned in to watch the couple trade vows marveled at her gown’s elegant details and timeless silhouette; and today, nearly 70 years later, the ensemble is still one of the most iconic bridal looks of all time. Kelly’s wedding attire has also influenced countless styles, from Kate Middleton’s Alexander McQueen gown to Paris Hilton’s Oscar de la Renta getup.
The silk faille and antique Brussels lace ensemble, that the Princess of Monaco sported on her big day, is best known for its high neckline, long sleeves, fitted lace bodice, bell-shaped skirt, and three-foot-long train. However, what many may not know is that in order to create the piece, the princess tapped Helen Rose, an Academy Award-winning costume designer. Since the designer had previously worked with Kelly on four of her films, the bride knew her dress was in good hands.
Bettmann / Getty Images
MGM Studios gifted the garment to the bride, and the studio’s wardrobe department worked tirelessly on constructing the special outfit, which used 400 yards of fabric. The team hand-sewed thousands of pearls onto the skirt and re-embroidered the Brussels lace bodice, adding seed pearls for the finishing touch. In the end, the dress required 30 seamstresses and took six weeks to make. What's more, according to Insider, the clothing item is estimated to have cost $65,200 back in 1956, which is equivalent to $623,000 today. That makes it one of the most expensive royal wedding dresses in history.
If you’re looking for a similar style to the former actress’s show-stopping gown, like so many other celebrities and brides, look no further. We’ve rounded up a list of the best wedding dresses that most closely resemble Kelly’s 1956 version. Keep scrolling to find a look you can buy right now.
Most Similar: Peter Langner Etoile Gown
Courtesy of Peter Langner
If you’re looking for a dress that almost matches the actual one Kelly rocked down the aisle, add this ball gown from Peter Langner to your cart. With a lace-embroidered bodice, graceful sleeves, and a belted waist, this design is just as elegant and timeless as the royal bride’s historic getup.
Size: Custom | Materials: Tulle, chantilly lace, sequins | Length: Floor
Best Budget: Lulus Awaken My Love Long Sleeve Lace Maxi Dress
Lulus
For brides who don’t want to break the bank, look no further than this “Awaken My Love” dress, courtesy of Lulus. This style has all of the components that embody Kelly’s famous gown, such as the lace fabric and long sleeves, all for under $100.
Size: XXS–XL | Materials: Lace, chiffon | Length: Floor
Best All-Over Lace: Watters Frances Gown
Anthropologie
Calling all romantic brides! This polished piece by Watters Designs gives elegance a whole new meaning. It features a high neckline, long sleeves, and pearl appliqués, all of which stay true to Kelly's ceremony look. But, instead of a pronounced A-line silhouette, the fabric in this design drapes gracefully across the body, flattering brides of all silhouettes and sizes.
Size: 0–15 | Materials: Lace | Length: Floor
Most Modern: Dana Harel Tara Gown
Courtesy of Dana Harel
If you’re searching for a modern iteration of Kelly's ball gown, consider this gorgeous ensemble designed by Dana Harel. This piece reimagines the princess's gown for minimalist and contemporary brides, and is a look that will surely stand out at any wedding celebration.
Size: Custom | Materials: Mikado silk, chantilly lace | Length: Floor
Best Mini: Simkhai Signature Joy Mini Dress
Simkhai
Mini dresses are a beloved style in the bridal fashion space, and we love this Jonathan Simkhai iteration which modernizes Kelly’s 1956 dress. It includes a mock neck and intricate lace, à la the Princess of Monaco, and also a fitted silhouette for a hint of drama.
Size: 00–16 | Materials: Guipure lace | Length: Mini
Best Plunging Neckline: Anne Barge Danbury
Courtesy of Anne Barge
Anne Barge’s “Danbury” dress is a sultry take on Kelly’s modest look. This lace and mikado ensemble checks all of the boxes, yet swaps the princess’s conservative neckline for a plunging V-neck in a tasteful way. Style with statement earrings and an updo to accentuate the deep cut.
Size: 0–22, 16SP–24SP | Materials: Lace, mikado | Length: Floor
Best Jumpsuit: Azazie Cici Wedding Dress
Courtesy of Azazie
Whether you’re on the hunt for a fashion-forward ceremony look or a fun after-party outfit change, this design recreates Kelly’s regal wedding dress in a jumpsuit style. While the high-neck, long-sleeve lace bodice will still be on display, this chic piece features wide-legged pants instead of a full skirt. Not to mention, puff sleeves and sheer detailing upgrade the top.
Size: WD0–WD30 | Materials: Lace, crepe | Length: Floor
Best Halter: David’s Bridal High-Neck Lace Appliqué Tulle Wedding Dress
Courtesy of David's Bridal
This David’s Bridal piece captures the essence of Kelly’s getup, but the halter neckline is a flattering and versatile addition. What's more, the alternative top makes for a great option whether you’re tying the knot at a black-tie wedding or a more casual affair.
Size: 0–14 | Materials: Lace, tulle | Length: Floor
Most Glamorous: Alonuko Look 8
Courtesy of Alonuko
What makes Kelly's dress so beloved is its understated elegance, but if you’re looking to make more of a statement on your big day, this Alonuko number will definitely deliver. The exposed neckline, open back, and larger-than-life silhouette are show-stopping features that will elevate your ensemble in a graceful way.
Size: Custom | Materials: Organza, lace | Length: Floor
Best Short-Sleeve: Broke Girl Philanthropy Sexy V Neck Lace Vintage Wedding Dress
We also like this short-sleeve option from Broke Girl Philanthropy. This midcentury-inspired wedding dress has a classic A-line silhouette with a tulle skirt, a natural waistline, and a lacy bodice with a stunning V-neckline. A sweep train and button-back detailing are the icing on the cake.
Size: 2–24 or custom | Materials: Organza, tulle, lace | Length: Floor
Best Long-Sleeve: Angelina & Giovanni Lusso Alsena A-line Jewel Milk Wedding Dress
This dress from Angelina & Giovanni Lusso is perfect for an indoor wedding held in the fall or winter. It has a jeweled neckline with illusion mesh, long sleeves that button at the wrists, and a full-length skirt crafted from satin, tule, and lace.
Size: Custom | Materials: Satin, tulle, lace | Length: Floor
Best Embellished: Mac Duggal Embellished Flutter Sleeve Lace A-Line Ball Gown
Looking for something with a bit of glitz? This ball gown from Mac Duggal flaunts all-over lace with delicate dots and abstract shapes, shoft fluttery sleeves, and a dusting of crystals from the shoulders down to the hem.
Size: 2–18 | Materials: Polyester | Length: Floor
What to Look For When Buying a Grace Kelly-Inspired Wedding Dress
Grace Kelly-inspired wedding dresses nod to midcentury fashion—particularly the 1950s era, which is when the actress-turned-royal got married. The most similar option we found is the Peter Langner Etoile Gown, but many more have one or more details that align with her dress.
When shopping around, look for a fitted lace bodice, a skirt with a train, and a high neckline, like the Watters Frances Gown. You'll also find more modern takes on this dress style, like the Dana Harel Tara Gown.
FAQ
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After marrying Prince Rainier III of Monaco, Grace Kelly donated her wedding dress to the Philadelphia Museum of Art. It's been on display there since the 1950s.
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Grace Kelly had a history-making royal wedding in 1956. Design by Helen Rose, her famous high-neck, long-sleeve dress featured thousands of hand-sewn pearls and 125-year-old lace from Brussels. It has an estimated price tag of $60,000, though it's unclear how much it cost at the time and what it's worth now.
