The Robert Pattinson movie is out now. Based on the bestselling novel by Katie Price, this cinematic version of Princess Margaret’s infamous “Fish Dinner” wedding provides an insight into the famous socialite’s scandalous wedding that rocked the UK in 1969. From fake tan to paisley prints, it’s fair to say that the movie doesn’t mess about when reimagining this momentous event. With stunning performances from Robert Pattinson and Olivia Colman, coupled with some breathtaking aerial shots, it’s a must-see for any true fan of Princess Margaret.
To celebrate the film’s release, let’s take a look back at some of the most scandalous moments from the former queen’s wedding…
The Wedding Dress Revealed
While it might not seem like it given the cinematic format, the real beauty of Princess Margaret’s wedding day is its stunning black dress. Designed by John Patrick Lloyd and made from a stiff satin, the dress is a replica of the original garment worn by the queen for the ceremony.
The designer has previously worked with the royal family, having created outfits for future king Georgie, as well as Princess Margaret’s children. The quality of the satin and the fit are exemplary, making it one of the most attractive dresses worn during the ’60s.
Fashion Flats Considered Dangerous
One of the most talked-about aspects of the princess’s big day is her bold choice of footwear. Wearing white stilettos by Christian Dior, the designer hailed as one of the most successful female entrepreneurs of all time, caused a sensation. Fashion historian Lucy Worsley notes that while the shoes have largely remained in fashion over the decades since, the fashion flats of the time were effectively considered dangerous. White was the symbolic color of the White Ribbon campaign, which aimed to end the suffocating effect that World War II had on daily life. This was a sentiment that clearly extended to the royals, as well as the public in general, with the fear of flying also being prevalent at the time.
The Ceremony Is Rocked By A Fart
Although Princess Margaret’s wedding day was officially non-religious, the presence of clergymen nonetheless felt somewhat forced. While the bridegroom didn’t give a speech at the ceremony, it was clear from his lack of excitement that he wasn’t exactly convinced by this arrangement. In fact, it was the bride’s 18-year-old brother Robert that delivered the eulogy, as Lord Kilvert was recovering from a broken leg, having accidentally sat on a tennis ball.
As well as being a wedding speech expert, Winston also happens to be a comedy scriptwriter, with multiple TV series and a movie to his name. In light of this, it wouldn’t be a stretch to say that he rocked the ceremony with a hilarious rant. “I looked down at the ring and I knew even at that moment that I was making a huge mistake… I felt a strong sense of déjà vu because it was the same ring my mother wore when she married my dad. My heart was suddenly racing and I realized with a jolt that this was not going to work out for me. I had a vision of myself in a miserable marriage, struggling with empty nest syndrome, going through the motions of being a housewife, unable to give myself completely to the man I loved. My heart was still saying to me ‘don’t do this’ and so I did what it said and I walked down the aisle and I tried to ignore the panic attack that raged through my body. I was so scared. I wanted to run away, but this was my wedding day and I had promised myself to love and honor this man until death do us part.”
With a career spanning over 60 years and a net worth of around £120 million, Christian Dior has undoubtedly had a colossal impact on the fashion industry. The designer’s unique take on style, coupled with her business acumen and incredible eye for design, made her a fashion legend. In light of this, it’s only right that we celebrate this extraordinary woman on what would have been her 98th birthday this September.