Hey there, friends. You're probably familiar with the age-old wedding tradition: "Something old, something new, something borrowed, and something blue." For most royal brides, the "something borrowed" is usually a dazzling tiara passed down through generations. Think Meghan Markle and Kate Middleton, both of whom wore tiaras borrowed from Queen Elizabeth II on their big days. Even Princess Diana wore a stunning tiara, though hers was a cherished Spencer family heirloom. But one royal bride decided to shake things up and skip the traditional crown altogether—kind of.
Fergie’s Floral Crown: A Romantic Gesture to Prince Andrew
Sarah Ferguson, the Duchess of York, walked down the aisle in 1986 wearing a floral crown instead of a diamond-encrusted tiara. Now, this might sound like a rebellious move, but it was actually a heartfelt tribute to her then-husband, Prince Andrew. Gardenias, the Prince’s favorite flowers, adorned her crown, adding a personal touch to her wedding day. And if that wasn’t enough, her bouquet—a smaller-than-usual arrangement—was also filled with gardenias, tying the whole look together perfectly. It was a sweet nod to her beloved Andrew, making her choice even more meaningful.
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The York Diamond Tiara: A Royal Gift
While Fergie didn’t stick with her floral crown for the entire wedding, she did eventually don a stunning tiara. After the ceremony, she swapped out the flowers for the York Diamond Tiara, a piece specifically commissioned by Queen Elizabeth for the occasion. The tiara featured a breathtaking five-carat diamond at its center, flanked by intricate floral scrollwork. According to gemologist Grant Mobley, the tiara is estimated to be worth at least $300,000. This move wasn’t just about switching accessories; it was a powerful statement about Fergie’s commitment to the royal family.
A Symbolic Shift: From Flowers to Diamonds
Entering the church with a floral crown, Fergie symbolized purity and hope, two timeless wedding themes. When she exited, wearing the tiara commissioned by the Queen, she sent a clear message: she was now a full-fledged member of the royal family, both legally and spiritually. It was a clever way to honor tradition while still putting her own spin on things. Always the rule-breaker (much like her sister-in-law Diana), Fergie found a way to make her wedding uniquely hers.
And let’s not forget the rum cake served at the reception—a bold choice compared to the traditional fruit cake. Meghan Markle’s lemon and elderflower cake was considered unconventional, but Fergie’s rum cake? Now that’s a game-changer!
This story originally appeared on our sister site, Woman’s World. For the latest updates on all things royal, including Kate Middleton and Prince William, join our Facebook group!
