While her highly anticipated wedding dress has been described by fashion commentators as "elegant" and "timeless", it's the five-metre veil that has a special tribute to Kiwis.

British designer, Clare Waight Keller of Givenchy, created an intricate design on Markle's veil as a tribute to the 53 commonwealth nations. And the acknowledgement of New Zealand is a kowhai flower stitched into the gorgeous silk tulle that trailed behind the new bride.

Ms Waight Keller last year became the first female artistic director at the historic French fashion house Givenchy and met Meghan in early 2018.

Kensington Palace said Meghan chose the designer for her "timeless and elegant aesthetic, impeccable tailoring, and relaxed demeanour."

"Ms. Markle also wanted to highlight the success of a leading British talent who has now served as the creative head of three globally influential fashion houses — Pringle of Scotland, Chloé, and now Givenchy," the palace said.

The clean lines include an open neckline to frame the shoulders, made in a double silk fabric in white to bring a sense of "fresh modernity".

The Commonwealth is expected to be a significant part of the work Prince Harry and Meghan do as a couple and the palace said Meghan wanted to reflect this.

In addition to the Commonwealth flowers it includes Meghan's favourites, wintersweet, which grows in front of Nottingham Cottage where the couple live, and the California poppy, representing her home state.

Meghan's hair was done by Serge Normant, with make-up by her long-time friend Daniel Martin.

The flowers she carried include several hand-picked by Prince Harry from their cottage garden, as well as spring forget-me-nots that were a favourite of Princess Diana to honour her memory. It also contained myrtle, a tradition for royal brides.

To hold her veil in place, Meghan wore Queen Mary's diamond bandeau tiara, lent to her by the Queen. It was made from diamonds and platinum, and was designed for Queen Mary in 1893.

Her earrings and bracelet were from Cartier, with shoes by Givenchy.