Hillary Clinton's Oscar de la Renta Gown for Chelsea's Wedding Deemed 'Overworked' by Fashion Expert
A fashion expert weighs in on celebrity mothers-of-the-bride's sartorial choices, including Hillary Clinton's 2010 wedding attire.
Hillary Clinton's choice of a $15,000 Oscar de la Renta gown for her daughter Chelsea's 2010 wedding has been described as "overworked" by fashion expert Caroline Baxter. The former U.S. Secretary of State wore a dual-toned, off-shoulder gown adorned with floral appliqué and beadwork for the New York ceremony.
Baxter commented that the combination of "frills, ruffles and curls" felt excessive, suggesting a sleeker approach would have been more flattering and in keeping with Clinton's personal style. "Hillary has perhaps got a little carried away," Baxter stated.
Clinton's attire for Chelsea's wedding to investment banker Marc Mezvinsky was part of a broader discussion on notable mother-of-the-bride outfits. Baxter analyzed various celebrity choices, contrasting them with more successful ensembles.
Annabel Croft, a former tennis star, was recently praised for her "bohemian" copper Zimmermann gown at her daughter Lily Coleman's wedding. Baxter noted that Croft's dress stayed true to her style without overshadowing the bride, a balance she felt was missed in other instances.
Carole Middleton, mother of Kate and Pippa, was highlighted for her consistently "timeless" and "polished" choices, favoring soft pastels and traditional silhouettes for both her daughters' weddings. Victoria Beckham's metallic silver gown for her son Brooklyn's wedding was critiqued for having "slightly off" proportions, despite its luxurious fabric.
Other mothers whose fashion choices were reviewed included Kate Robbins, whose cape dress was called "spot-on," and Tana Ramsay, whose emerald green strapless gown from Victoria Beckham's label was considered a bit "dull" against her complexion and leaning too much towards eveningwear.
Doria Ragland, mother of Meghan Markle, wore a custom Oscar de la Renta mint-green shift dress with a matching coat and hat for Meghan's wedding to Prince Harry. This choice was praised by Baxter as "effortlessly elegant," fulfilling Meghan Markle's wish to have an American designer represented at the ceremony.
Princess Anne was also mentioned for her savvy approach to re-wearing pieces, including a butter yellow hat worn decades apart for her son Peter Phillips's wedding, demonstrating a long-standing commitment to sustainable fashion choices that suit her personal style.