Kate Middleton seems to be just as iconic as the late Princess Diana and why wouldn’t she be? She is beautiful and marrying a PRINCE. It is every little girl’s fantasy to marry her “knight in shining armor” or better yet, a dashing 28-year-old young man. Although the dress has been touted “understated” by many news outlets, it seemed appropriate that the focus of such an announcement stay on the love they have for one another and the respect that they attributed to the late Princess of Wales.–Cecilia Paz
Well, on November 16, 2010 it happened and the British prince who has his mother’s striking smile gave his girlfriend his mother’s dazzling oval, 18-carat blue sapphire and white diamond ring. Diana, who died in 1997, chose the elegant cluster ring after becoming engaged to Charles in 1981. (CBS News)
 ”This was my way of making sure that my mother didn’t miss out on today,” William said as the couple posed for photographers in the state apartments at St. James’ Palace. (CBS News)
The bride-to-be wore an Issa London dress which sold out from the department store Harvey Nichols. The $600+ dress, which featured a gathered waist and a pleated front skirt, was “sold out almost immediately,”  buying director Averyl Oates told British Vogue.(Wikipedia)
 This isn’t the first time the bride-to-be has set off a fashion stir. At her 25th birthday in 2007, Middleton was photographed wearing an affordable dress from Topshop that was also sold out within 24 hours (Wikipedia) where fashion stirrer, Kate Moss has had her own line of clothing flying off of the racks.
The following is from Issa London’s Website:
The designer of the now famous blue engagement dress, Daniella Issa Helayel is originally from Brazil.
From her biography the designer emphasizes the secret is in making dresses that both flatter and feel good.
When Daniella Helayel couldn’t find the dress she really wanted to wear, she decided to design her own. It was such a success that she made some more. Now, just a few years later, Issa is a hit around the world, worn by women who want style and glamour without sacrificing comfort.
 “I wanted a dress that made me feel comfortable and glamorous at the same time – something that could take me anywhere, from work to play, bedroom to boardroom,†says Daniella.
 The name conveys the passion of the Brazilian beaches where Daniella grew up: “‘Issa’ is a surfer’s cry of joy when riding the perfect wave,†she says. That emotion continues to drive Daniella’s design. She wants women to feel a holiday sense of happiness in her clothes – even when they are wearing them in more formal situations.
These clothes are comfortable and exciting: “Most of my team are women and we all try on each and every design. We all have different tastes, body shapes and styles. If a dress doesn’t please all of us, I tear up the pattern.â€
She says her career highlights: “Dressing Madonna and Scarlett Johansson. And I’m looking forward to anything that comes up in the future.†(www.issalondon.com)
What is inspiring you for spring/summer 2011: “Colonial India. The SS10 collection’s draping is inspired by beautiful Indian women wearing saris; they are so graceful and the colour palettes are incredible. My Indian themed birthday party was also an inspiration – everyone looked so amazing and made such an effort.†(www.issalondon.com)
What’s new for you this season? “Denim dresses – very feminine with a twist. We have also designed beautiful corseted jersey dresses, very simple, elegant and chic. I’m so excited about this collection, it’s my absolute favourite!†(www.issalondon.com)
www.issalondon.com
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