What happened to Grace Kelly's wedding dress?

After marrying Prince Rainier III of Monaco, Grace Kelly donated her wedding dress to the Philadelphia Museum of Art. It's been on display there since the 1950s.

How much did Grace Kelly's wedding dress cost?

Grace Kelly had a history-making royal wedding in 1956. Design by Helen Rose, her famous high-neck, long-sleeve dress featured thousands of hand-sewn pearls and 125-year-old lace from Brussels. It has an estimated price tag of $60,000, though it's unclear how much it cost at the time and what it's worth now.

12 Best Grace Kelly-Inspired Wedding Dresses of 2023

Grace Kelly and Prince Rainier — Bettmann / Getty Images

When Grace Kelly waltzed down the aisle to marry Prince Rainier III of Monaco on April 19, 1956, the actress-turned-royal changed the world of bridal fashion. The 30 million viewers who tuned in to watch the couple trade vows marveled at her gown’s elegant details and timeless silhouette; and today, nearly 70 years later, the ensemble is still one of the most iconic bridal looks of all time. Kelly’s wedding attire has also influenced countless styles, from Kate Middleton’s Alexander McQueen gown to Paris Hilton’s Oscar de la Renta getup.

The silk faille and antique Brussels lace ensemble, that the Princess of Monaco sported on her big day, is best known for its high neckline, long sleeves, fitted lace bodice, bell-shaped skirt, and three-foot-long train. However, what many may not know is that in order to create the piece, the princess tapped Helen Rose, an Academy Award-winning costume designer. Since the designer had previously worked with Kelly on four of her films, the bride knew her dress was in good hands.

Grace Kelly's wedding dress design sketch — Bettmann / Getty Images

MGM Studios gifted the garment to the bride, and the studio’s wardrobe department worked tirelessly on constructing the special outfit, which used 400 yards of fabric. The team hand-sewed thousands of pearls onto the skirt and re-embroidered the Brussels lace bodice, adding seed pearls for the finishing touch. In the end, the dress required 30 seamstresses and took six weeks to make. What's more, according to Insider, the clothing item is estimated to have cost $65,200 back in 1956, which is equivalent to $623,000 today. That makes it one of the most expensive royal wedding dresses in history.

If you’re looking for a similar style to the former actress’s show-stopping gown, like so many other celebrities and brides, look no further. We’ve rounded up a list of the best wedding dresses that most closely resemble Kelly’s 1956 version. Keep scrolling to find a look you can buy right now.

Courtesy of Peter Langner

View On Peterlangner.com

If you’re looking for a dress that almost matches the actual one Kelly rocked down the aisle, add this ball gown from Peter Langner to your cart. With a lace-embroidered bodice, graceful sleeves, and a belted waist, this design is just as elegant and timeless as the royal bride’s historic getup.

Price available upon request

Size: Custom | Materials: Tulle, chantilly lace, sequins | Length: Floor

Lulus

View On Lulus

For brides who don’t want to break the bank, look no further than this “Awaken My Love” dress, courtesy of Lulus. This style has all of the components that embody Kelly’s famous gown, such as the lace fabric and long sleeves, all for under $100.

Price at time of publish: $89

Size: XXS–XL | Materials: Lace, chiffon | Length: Floor

View On Anthropologie

Calling all romantic brides! This polished piece by Watters Designs gives elegance a whole new meaning. It features a high neckline, long sleeves, and pearl appliqués, all of which stay true to Kelly's ceremony look. But, instead of a pronounced A-line silhouette, the fabric in this design drapes gracefully across the body, flattering brides of all silhouettes and sizes.

Price at time of publish: $2,850

Size: 0–15 | Materials: Lace | Length: Floor

Courtesy of Dana Harel

View On Danahareldesign.com

If you’re searching for a modern iteration of Kelly's ball gown, consider this gorgeous ensemble designed by Dana Harel. This piece reimagines the princess's gown for minimalist and contemporary brides, and is a look that will surely stand out at any wedding celebration.

Price available upon request

Size: Custom | Materials: Mikado silk, chantilly lace | Length: Floor

Simkhai

View On Simkhai.com

Mini dresses are a beloved style in the bridal fashion space, and we love this Jonathan Simkhai iteration which modernizes Kelly’s 1956 dress. It includes a mock neck and intricate lace, à la the Princess of Monaco, and also a fitted silhouette for a hint of drama.

Price at time of publish: $895

Size: 00–16 | Materials: Guipure lace | Length: Mini

Courtesy of Anne Barge

View On Annebarge.com

Anne Barge’s “Danbury” dress is a sultry take on Kelly’s modest look. This lace and mikado ensemble checks all of the boxes, yet swaps the princess’s conservative neckline for a plunging V-neck in a tasteful way. Style with statement earrings and an updo to accentuate the deep cut.

Price at time of publish: $5,270

Size: 0–22, 16SP–24SP | Materials: Lace, mikado | Length: Floor

Courtesy of Azazie

View On Azazie.com

Whether you’re on the hunt for a fashion-forward ceremony look or a fun after-party outfit change, this design recreates Kelly’s regal wedding dress in a jumpsuit style. While the high-neck, long-sleeve lace bodice will still be on display, this chic piece features wide-legged pants instead of a full skirt. Not to mention, puff sleeves and sheer detailing upgrade the top.

Price at time of publish: $389

Size: WD0–WD30 | Materials: Lace, crepe | Length: Floor

Davidâs Bridal High-Neck Lace AppliquÃ© Tulle Wedding Dress

Courtesy of David's Bridal

View On David's Bridal

This David’s Bridal piece captures the essence of Kelly’s getup, but the halter neckline is a flattering and versatile addition. What's more, the alternative top makes for a great option whether you’re tying the knot at a black-tie wedding or a more casual affair.

Price at time of publish: $699 (originally $999)

Size: 0–14 | Materials: Lace, tulle | Length: Floor

Courtesy of Alonuko

View On Co.uk

What makes Kelly's dress so beloved is its understated elegance, but if you’re looking to make more of a statement on your big day, this Alonuko number will definitely deliver. The exposed neckline, open back, and larger-than-life silhouette are show-stopping features that will elevate your ensemble in a graceful way.

Price available upon request

Size: Custom | Materials: Organza, lace | Length: Floor

Courtesy of Broke Girl Philanthropy.

View On Brokegirlphilanthropy.com

We also like this short-sleeve option from Broke Girl Philanthropy. This midcentury-inspired wedding dress has a classic A-line silhouette with a tulle skirt, a natural waistline, and a lacy bodice with a stunning V-neckline. A sweep train and button-back detailing are the icing on the cake.

Price at time of publish: $700

Size: 2–24 or custom | Materials: Organza, tulle, lace | Length: Floor

Courtesy of Devotion.

View On Devotionweddingdresses.com

This dress from Angelina & Giovanni Lusso is perfect for an indoor wedding held in the fall or winter. It has a jeweled neckline with illusion mesh, long sleeves that button at the wrists, and a full-length skirt crafted from satin, tule, and lace.

Price at time of publish: $1,090

Size: Custom | Materials: Satin, tulle, lace | Length: Floor

Embellished Flutter Sleeve Lace A-Line Ball Gown

Courtesy of Nordstrom.

View On Nordstrom View On Lordandtaylor.com View On Saks Fifth Avenue

Looking for something with a bit of glitz? This ball gown from Mac Duggal flaunts all-over lace with delicate dots and abstract shapes, shoft fluttery sleeves, and a dusting of crystals from the shoulders down to the hem.

Price at time of publish: $798

Size: 2–18 | Materials: Polyester | Length: Floor

What to Look For When Buying a Grace Kelly-Inspired Wedding Dress

Grace Kelly-inspired wedding dresses nod to midcentury fashion—particularly the 1950s era, which is when the actress-turned-royal got married. The most similar option we found is the Peter Langner Etoile Gown, but many more have one or more details that align with her dress.

When shopping around, look for a fitted lace bodice, a skirt with a train, and a high neckline, like the Watters Frances Gown. You'll also find more modern takes on this dress style, like the Dana Harel Tara Gown.

FAQ

What happened to Grace Kelly's wedding dress?

After marrying Prince Rainier III of Monaco, Grace Kelly donated her wedding dress to the Philadelphia Museum of Art. It's been on display there since the 1950s.
How much did Grace Kelly's wedding dress cost?

Grace Kelly had a history-making royal wedding in 1956. Design by Helen Rose, her famous high-neck, long-sleeve dress featured thousands of hand-sewn pearls and 125-year-old lace from Brussels. It has an estimated price tag of $60,000, though it's unclear how much it cost at the time and what it's worth now.