Kate Middleton apparently included this secret nod to Princess Diana on her wedding day

How sweet

kate middleton wedding dress

How sweet

Words - Olivia Harvey

From the editors of HelloGiggles

While we’re sure Kate Middleton’s 2011 wedding to Prince William was one of the happiest days of the couple’s lives, we’re also sure the absence of William’s mother, Princess Diana, was felt by all. And to pay homage to her late mother-in-law, Kate's wedding perfume was similar to the one Diana wore the day she wed Prince Charles. Both perfumes had notes of lily of the valley.

According to UsMagzine.comLady Diana Spencer wore Quelques Fleurs by Houbigant Paris on her 1981 wedding day. The perfume is made from 15,000 flowers including orange blossom, rose, and lily of the valley.

According to a famous story, Princess Diana was so nervous on her wedding day that she spilled the perfume on her wedding dress before walking down the aisle.

princess diana

Credit: REX

On her own wedding day, Middleton opted to wear Illuminum’s White Gardenia Petals . The scent is supposedly lighter than Quelques Fleurs, but most importantly, it has top notes of lily of the valley.

Middleton also carried a lily of the valley bouquet to subtly honour the beloved Princess Diana.

The Duchess of Cambridge also shows her respect for her mother-in-law in her day-to-day. She often sports a pendant — gifted to her by her sister Pippa — that has her children’s name engraved on it, similar to the 'William' pendant Diana famously wore every day.

Princess Diana holds a spot in our hearts as a role model who forever changed the way the world saw the British monarchy. We love the subtle, yet meaningful ways Kate shows her appreciation for a woman who helped set a new standard for princesses and women everywhere.

The leading destination for fashion, beauty, shopping and finger-on-the-pulse views on the latest issues. Marie Claire's travel content helps you delight in discovering new destinations around the globe, offering a unique – and sometimes unchartered – travel experience. From new hotel openings to the destinations tipped to take over our travel calendars, this iconic name has it covered.