Talk will provide insight into changing wedding fashions

But while many leading observers attempt to predict the wedding dress which Kate Middleton will opt to wear for her marriage to Prince William on April 29, an event in Harrogate next month will provide an insight into the changing fashions through the ages.

The Story of the White Wedding talk will be staged on March 17 and will showcase original dresses dating back to the early 20th century – as well as replicas from the Regency period.

The event has been organised by The History Wardrobe, which highlights social history through the outfits worn during specific eras.

Social historian Lucy Adlington will be joined by her colleague, Merry Towne, for the event when they will be displaying – and wearing – wedding dresses through the ages. Ms Adlington said: “The Royal wedding has brought people’s attention on what Kate will be wearing and I would love to see her in a dress inspired by the 1930s, something sleek and quite slinky to show off her figure.”

The talk will be held at St Wilfrid’s Church Hall in Duchy Road in Harrogate on March 17 from 2pm. Tickets, priced at £12, need to be booked in advance by calling 01423 556188.