The bride’s choice of dress was decidedly 1960s in style. Designed by John Cavanagh, on the recommendation of her future mother-in-law, Princess Marina, it featured a round neck with fitted sleeves, as well as a full skirt with a 15-foot train. There were some concerns that the dress was too awkward and heavy to maneuver, with the bride reportedly practicing her curtsy multiple times. She borrowed a diamond and pearl tiara from her mother-in-law’s collection, one that had belonged to her husband’s grandmother, Queen Mary. The same tiara was later loaned to Katharine’s daughter, Lady Helen Taylor, on her wedding day in 1992.
Guests at the wedding included the late Queen, as well as the Queen Mother, the Duke of Edinburgh, King Charles III (then Prince Charles), and Princess Anne, who served as a flower girl. There were also royals from Denmark, Greece, the Netherlands, and Norway in attendance. It was at this wedding that the future King Juan Carlos of Spain would meet his royal bride, Princess Sophia of Greece and Denmark, too.
The Duchess of Kent’s train is adjusted on arrival at Hovingham Hall, after her wedding ceremony at York Minster.PA Images/Getty Images
The wedding reception was held back at the bride’s family seat, another touching nod to where the couple first met.
The Duke and Duchess of Kent shared three children, Lord Nicholas Windsor, Lady Helen Taylor, and George, Earl of St Andrews, as well as 10 grandchildren, including Lady Amelia Windsor, Lady Marina Windsor, and Cassius Taylor.
Originally published in Tatler.
