Giorgio Armani Tells The Story Behind Princess Charlene's Dress

The standout of Princess Charlene's extensive wedding wardrobe was her white, off-the-shoulder gown worn at Saturday's religious ceremony in Monaco, designed by friend Giorgio Armani.

The Italian designer let it be known weeks ago that he would design the dress for Charlene, whom he has clothed since she first wore wore an Armani creation at the 2008 Beijing Olympics.

Armani spoke to Vogue UK on Monday about designing for the Princess of Monaco:

"Charlene is without a shadow of a doubt very beautiful. Tall and slim, she is sporty and at the same time has a natural elegance about her. Dressing her is such a pleasure -- she knows how to wear my creations with the nonchalance and confidence of youth. I believe Charlene has the ideal figure to show off great dresses, because they highlight the fine curves and beautiful structure of her back and shoulders."

Armani may love it, but that figure has previously been a source of sartorial anxiety for the former-Charlene Wittstock. The former Olympic swimmer told Vogue last month :

"Finding my fashion feet has certainly been the biggest challenge... I was literally a fish out of water. I was insecure. I felt pressure to err on the side of caution -- I was terrified of meeting a head of state in an over-the-top outfit....I've reached the point where I know what I like and what works. I'm starting to play with fresher, bolder, and more daring looks."

With her wedding day confection, Princess Charlene certainly found her fashion feet. Armani designed a thoroughly-modern look, which he described to Vogue UK :

"I felt this was appropriate given that there would inevitably be comparisons with Princess Grace, and though such comparisons are of course a sign of admiration, each person has their own individual and unique style, and style is an expression of the times."

Read more about the dress (it took 2,500 hours to make!) at Vogue.co.uk .