Fit for a Princess
Actress and Philadelphia native Grace Kelly (1929–1982) wore this gown and accessories for her wedding to Prince Rainier III of Monaco on April 19, 1956. As a major Hollywood star, Kelly was renowned for her beauty and talent, but also for the understated, classic style that inspired the fashion phenomenon known as the Grace Kelly Look.
Grace Kelly’s wedding ensemble was a gift from her studio, Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer, and was designed by Academy Award-winning costume designer Helen Rose, who had created the star’s wardrobe for four films, including High Society and The Swan. Conceived to complement the bride’s fairy-princess image, it is made of silk faille and antique Brussels lace embellished with pearls and was constructed with meticulous care—and under strict security—by MGM’s wardrobe department.
As a royal bride, Grace Kelly’s magnificent yet simple ensemble incited intense interest and admiration. Shortly after the wedding, the princess presented the gown to the museum, where it has become one of the collection’s most popular and beloved objects and continues to serve as the ultimate exemplar of bridal elegance.