On Friday, October 12, 2018, the world watched as Princess Eugenie of York walked down the aisle to marry Jack Brooksbank. But this wasn’t just any royal wedding. Eugenie, who was 28 at the time, made a bold and beautiful statement with her wedding dress. Designed by Peter Pilotto and Christopher De Vos, her gown featured a stunning deep-V neckline that unveiled her scar from a childhood scoliosis surgery. It wasn’t just about fashion—it was about embracing her past and showing the world her strength.

Why Princess Eugenie Chose to Show Her Scar

For many, wedding day photos are all about perfection, but Eugenie wasn’t interested in hiding her story. Alongside iconic royal dresses like those worn by Kate Middleton and Meghan Markle, Eugenie’s gown is now showcased at Windsor Castle. In the exhibition’s audio guide, Eugenie opens up about her decision to reveal her scar. “I had always wanted a low back—it was part of showing my scar,” she explained. “Scars tell a story about your past and your future, and it’s a way of getting rid of a taboo. For me, it’s about communicating with people who are going through similar situations, whether it’s scoliosis or dealing with their own scars.”

A Journey of Bravery: Eugenie’s Scoliosis Surgery

Eugenie underwent scoliosis surgery at the age of 12. This wasn’t just a routine procedure—it was a major operation that involved breaking her spine to realign it properly. Afterward, she faced a long and challenging recovery process. Yet, on her wedding day, she chose to showcase her scar, proving that she’s not just a princess but a true warrior. Her decision wasn’t just about aesthetics; it was about inspiring others to embrace their own journeys and scars.

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“We started receiving a lot of letters from people who were inspired by me showing my scar,” Eugenie shared. “People with scoliosis, girls going through the same thing—it was incredibly touching to see how my choice resonated with so many people. It was a way of saying, ‘You’re not alone, and your story matters.’”

Princess Eugenie Of York and Jack Brooksbank — Getty Images

The Designers Behind the Dress

Eugenie’s wedding gown was crafted by the talented duo of Peter Pilotto and Christopher De Vos. Interestingly, this marked the first wedding dress they had ever designed. In the audio guide, Peter expressed how forward-thinking Eugenie was to trust them with such an important task. “It showed her confidence in us, and we were thrilled to rise to the occasion,” he said. Their work on the gown was nothing short of spectacular, proving that even first-timers can deliver something truly unforgettable.