Princess Eugenie's wedding dress had a hidden feature that sent a powerful message to all those who saw it - and was bound to inspire those who have faced similar health concerns. That's because the glorious gown had a v-shaped back that allowed the Princess of York to show off the scars from the life-changing spinal surgery she underwent as a child, and she proudly flaunted them.
The princess married her long-term boyfriend Jack Brooksbank at St George's Chapel, Windsor on October 12, 2018 in front of approximately 800 guests. The Peter Pilotto gown she wore, which had a neckline that folded around the shoulders to a low back that draped into a flowing full-length train, was specifically requested so Eugenie could show the scar.
Eugenie was diagnosed with scoliosis, a condition in which a person's spine is curved, when she was just 12 years old. She underwent surgery at the Royal National Orthopedic Hospital (RNOH) in 2002, and had two 12 inch titanium rods placed in her back.
Eugenie has previously spoken of the importance of showing "people your scars" as she paid tribute to the hospital which performed surgery on her back as a child - Eugenie is not expected to need any more surgery for the condition.
Eugenie also refused to wear a veil which would've ultimately covered up her scar - she was lent The Greville Emerald Kokoshnik tiara by The late Queen, but refused a veil.
The princess has spoken out about her journey and gave details in an article for the Royal National Orthopaedic Hospital.
She said: "Without the care I received at the RNOH I wouldn't look the way I do now; my back would be hunched over. And I wouldn't be able to talk about scoliosis the way I now do, and help other children who come to me with the same problem.
"My back problems were a huge part of my life, as they would be for any 12-year-old. Children can look at me now and know that the operation works. I’m living proof of the ways in which the hospital can change people’s lives."
Eugenie's dress also included a number of symbols that are meaningful to Princess Eugenie as motifs, including a thistle for Scotland acknowledging the couple's fondness for Balmoral, a Shamrock for Ireland as a nod to the bride's Ferguson family, and the York Rose and ivy representing the couple's home.
She also accessorised with diamond and emerald drop earrings, a wedding gift from the groom, and satin peep-toe heels by Charlotte Olympia.
