to this day in 1930, 89 years ago, and the marriage of what would be the last king and queen of Italy. The wedding of Princess Marie-José of Belgium (daughter of King Albert 1) and Crown Prince Umberto of Italy, from the House of Savoy, was by all accounts, a spectacular affair with diamond-bedecked royal guests, large crowds, a memorably large bridal tiara, a separate papal blessing in the Vatican, and a gown reportedly designed the groom.
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The many events (and outfits!) of that great day included occasion for several hats that reflect the cloche and turban shaped flapper styles of the day.
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Photos from Getty as indicated
I had not previously been aware that Italy had a monarchy. Umberto and Marie-Jose were on the throne for only 34 days, and were the last monarchs of Italy, though descendants of the royal line still live and apparently still dispute who has the right to various titles. The Wikipedia article is very interesting: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Umberto_II_of_Italy.
It is absolutely fascinating story. Yet another reminder of the seismic changes WW2 wrought on the old world order.
Maria-Jose could have been a very capable Queen. It’s a pity for her she wasn’t married into another monarchy as it was a very unhappy marriage anyway. Apparently she was Albert I of Belgium’s favourite child and he lamented that she wasn’t born a boy and the heir as she was much more intelligent and capable than either of her brothers.
That veil style was so rarely flattering to anyone. She looks darling in the cloche hat though.
I’m bummed there are no photos of the clergy in their solemn mass regalia, because you know they turned it out for that wedding! Miters that would reach the heavens!
I searched but alas, came up empty handed. 89 years ago, there weren’t thousands of photos released for a royal wedding!
I did, however, find two silent news reels, which I added to the bottom of the post.
VERY BEAUTIFUL COUPLE AND MEMORABLE WEDDING. IT IS A PITY ITALY IS NO LONGER A MONARCHY. ANNA GERAKIS.ATHENS