CopyKate #01

Since the Royal Wedding on April 29th, we've heard cries from Brides on Twitter, Facebook and in print on how can they add elements from the wedding, incorporate traditions and styles and sometimes outright copy the new Duke & Duchess of Cambridge.

How can you be a copycat, or as we like to say, a CopyKate? We'll tell ya!

For the next few weeks we will post how you can have your own Royal Wedding inspired day....

CopyKate #01: The Dresses

Kate's ceremony dress by Sarah Burton for Alexander McQueen is rumored that it will be the most sought-after dress for the next decade. You can get this look too by pairing a lace shrug ontop of a strapless sweartheart gown. To save money, look for your gown on sample racks, at clearance sales and on sites like Recycled Bride and Kijiji.

You can order a custom made lace shrug for just $25-35 US online, or you can get the similar look with a short sleeved version. The a perk for this look is that it's not only affordable, but can also be removed should you want to change up your style after the ceremony or your pictures.

Visit local Bridal Boutiques and tell them that you're looking for a dress that is "Kate inspired" - they will be able to help you naviagate through the options and stay within your budget. Simply put, you don't have to buy a courture gown like Kate's to feel and 'look' like a Princess.

Kate's second dress was a Sarah Burton design as well and was worn for the evening Reception hosted by Prince Charles. The second gown is similar to the first due to it's sweetheart neckline and subtle A-line skirt, but it's much more casual. It looks to be satin, and is embellished with silver diamante embroidery at the waist. To complete the look, and dress for the cool spring air, Kate wore a soft white angora bolero cardigan.

Designers like Alfred Angelo and David's Bridal offer dresses that are similar to Kate's and are often very affordable. David's YP322 (shown right) is only $649 US, a price your Prince Charming surely won't turn his nose up at! To add more bling to the gown, incorporate your "Something Old" or "Something Borrowed" by adding a large diamond or gem broach. Afterall, you don't want to copy Kate too much - you've still got to feel and look like yourself, even as a blushing "Princess" Bride.

*Blog post inspired by the Royal Wedding

*Images found on Google Search