There has been months of speculation, but today, Kate Middleton arrived at Westminster Abbey in a stunning wedding dress and the designer was finally revealed.
The princess-to-be clutched a bouquet of cream flowers as she made the short drive with her father, Michael.
With a long train running behind her, Kate looked elegant in the intricate design which boasts delicate lace, as she made the three-minute walk inside Westminster Abbey to her groom, Prince William.
The ivory gown, with lace applique floral detail, is designed by Sarah Burton at Alexander McQueen.
Made with a white satin gazar, it boasts white satin gazar arches and pleats and a skirt which resembles “an opening flower”.
Thousands of people turned the route of the royal wedding procession into a sea of red, white and blue to celebrate Prince William and Kate Middleton say, “I do”.
Prince William was dressed in the famous red tunic of the Irish Guards as he made the journey to Westminster Abbey with his brother, Harry, also in military uniform.
Waving flags, the crowds waited with mounting excitement for the first glimpse of the couple – and in particular the bride’s dress, the designer for which has been kept secret as Kate wanted to surprise William on the big day.
Insiders revealled that Kate was nervous but calm as she made her final preparations for a ceremony that will be watched on television by two billion people worldwide.
The Dean of Westminster, the Very Rev Dr John Hall, who is conducting the service, told Sky News: “I think she will be quite calm, as a matter of fact.
“She seems to be very much in control of herself and looking forward very much to the day.
“After the final rehearsal when William and Catherine came on Wednesday evening, they both seemed to be very happy. I’m sure they will be a little bit nervous but I’m sure they can cope with that.”
Among the 1,900 guests invited to the Westminster Abbey service are a number of celebrities, including David and Victoria Beckham.
Victoria spoke of her delight at the occasion, writing on Twitter: “London looks beautiful!!! We are so proud to be British!”
There were cheers from the crowd when the Beckhams arrived at the abbey.
David wore a bespoke Ralph Lauren morning suit with the OBE he received in 2003 pinned to the right lapel, and had his hair slicked back with a parting on the left side.
His wife, who is pregnant with their fourth child – a girl – wore a dark blue dress from her own creations, accessorised with a hat by celebrated milliner Philip Treacy.
Victoria’s arrival got an immediate response from celebrity royal watchers on Twitter, with X Factor judge Dannii Minogue tweeting: “Loving @victoriabeckam in elegant navy with pillbox hat.”
Like other guests the Beckhams will be contributing to the couple’s wedding charity rather than offering a gift.
Another of those attending the ceremony, TV presenter Ben Fogle, also expressed his excitement before the ceremony. He wrote on Twitter: “Quick walk in Hyde Park with the dogs while the girls have their hair done. Very excited. London feels electric.”
Ellie Goulding is also attending the special occasion and will be playing for Prince William and Kate Middleton and their guests at the royal wedding reception.
The singer-songwriter, who had her biggest hit last year with a cover of Sir Elton John’s Your Song, will perform at the after dinner party at Buckingham Palace.
