Wearing a stunning and timeless Audrey Hepburn-esque Givenchy gown, American Meghan Markle sparkled with the style of a newly appointed Duchess for her wedding at Windsor Castle in England today. Some Americans who worried that our country might appear a bit gauche within the confines of a formal Royal affair can rest easy knowing the young Californian comported herself with dignity and elegance.
Markle set aside West Coast bling in favor of the subtle look of class and distinction with a bateau neckline double-bonded silk gown topped with a Royal Tiara that dates to 1932. This minimalist look coupled with Ms. Markle’s relaxed demeanor made for a stunning debut into the world of Royals.
Beneath the flawless beauty, there was much in the way of history and meaning. Her white silk veil, for instance, included floral detail that represented the 53 countries of the British Commonwealth. Her simple bouquet was hand-picked by her Prince on the morning of the wedding. And her bandeau tiara, which was lent to her for the occasion by the Queen, glistened in the rare British sunlight – captivating millions who watched the Royal nuptials worldwide.
Even the most cynical had to admit it was an affair to remember.
The Bellowing Bishop
With all this grace and elegance as a backdrop, one wonders how a bellowing Bishop from America managed to enter stage left. Royals and commoners alike struck an uncomfortable pose during the Bishops lengthy – and loud – homily. It was an odd juxtaposition that will likely be lauded by the leftwing media elite from coast to coast. But for those in attendance as well as those watching it was a cringe-worthy, time to crawl-under-the-pew performance.
And one wonders – was that really necessary? Indeed, Bishop Michael Curry somehow felt the compunction to remind us all of slavery and the antebellum south with the rhetorical devices of an African-American revivalist. To say it painted an eccentric and incongruous tableau in St. George’s Chapel is an understatement. “I’ll never forget what my daddy told me when I was fairly new as a priest,” Bishop Curry said, “He said just always be who you really are. Don’t pretend to be someone else.”
Perhaps the good Bishops father could have reminded him that everything isn’t always about you and that sometimes rising to the occasion means shedding old manners and methods. That might have been a better message for this time and circumstance.
And Yet…
Still, there was a sense that when the Bishop finally -- and thankfully -- took his seat, nothing could ruin this glorious day for the young couple as they strode joyfully down the aisle. Next, they stepped out of the historic Chapel into the glistening sunlight headed for a romantic carriage ride through the town of Windsor replete with throngs of well-wishers.
For those of us who remember the wedding of the Prince’s mother and father, there were mixed emotions. For it was that Cinderella-style event that reminds us that fairy tales so often and so easily can and do turn into nightmares.
But for this one brief shining moment, there is a sincere desire for the Duke and Duchess of Sussex to turn their storybook wedding into reality – that all their wishes and hopes and dreams will come true --because as every little girl knows, fairy tales are supposed to have happy endings.
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