Vintage Bridal Beauty: European Elegance

Published Apr 29, 2011

Beauties, we're taking you back in time for a little bridal history—royal style. We reminisce on both Queen Elizabeth and Princess Diana's bridal legacy and beauty looks. Be sure to view the vintage royal bridal gallery from 18th-20th century Europe!

Royal beauty Queen Elizabeth

The future Queen of England married Prince Philip of Greece and Denmark on November 20, 1947 at Westminster Abbey. Wearing a Norman Hartnell gown, Elizabeth was the epitome of understated '40s glamour. Her fresh, contoured face and creamy, defined lips let her eyes steal the spotlight. She focused on a clean lashline and brows, and kept a flawless face with minimal color. She styled her shoulder length hair in soft ringlets, perfect for her triangular tiara.

ROYAL BEAUTY Princess Diana

Diana, Princess of Wales, is the personification of modern-day royalty. At just 20 years old, the world watched as the future Queen of Hearts married Prince Charles on July 29, 1981 in a fairy tale wedding. Estimated at £9000, her iconic 25-foot David Emanuel gown was made of luxurious taffeta, tulle, netting, and pearls. To complement her youthful, peaches and cream complexion, Diana used shades of peach and brown for a warm and timeless effect. She softly defined the eyes with a glistening coral peach shadow and charcoal liner, and coordinated the lips and cheeks suitably. How can you get her angelic glow? She highlighted her forehead, apples of the cheeks, brow bone, and bridge of the nose.

We're wishing Kate all the best on this historical occasion from the Beautylish Team—she's a stunner no matter what! Be sure to browse the European Bridal Gallery to see how past royal brides have styled themselves for their wedding day.