Vintage Wedding Dresses: Bringing Old-School Glamour to Your Modern-Day Wedding

Vintage wedding dresses are having a moment – from the empire silhouettes of the Regency era and 70’s inspired boho looks to glam looks of the Jazz Age and celebrity archival looks on the red carpet, nothing says romance and sophistication like a vintage-inspired wedding dress. With their intricate detailing, antique lace, classic elegance, and rich history, vintage wedding gowns are every vintage-loving bride’s dream come true!

If you’re looking for a wedding gown that evokes old-world elegance while still feeling modern and unique, a vintage wedding dress might be the perfect choice for you. From their timeless romance to their nostalgic charm, vintage dresses offer a bridal look that feels both magical and deeply meaningful. 

Peggy AA2314 by Angela and Alison

Vintage vs. Vintage-Inspired Wedding Dresses

Vintage wedding dresses: authentic gowns that were made in a specific historical period, typically 20 years or older. Brides looking for a unique piece of fashion history to wear on their special day may look into buying an original vintage wedding dress. However, finding a true vintage dress might not work for everyone for various reasons (like lack of the sizes or styles). We suggest visiting second-hand shops, vintage stores, or even checking online marketplaces.

Vintage-inspired wedding dresses: these gowns are made today but feature design elements and silhouettes inspired by past decades. Think of them as modern recreations of iconic styles. Many contemporary bridal designers pull inspiration from the 1920s, 1950s, or 1970s to create dresses that capture the essence of vintage without compromising on modern comfort and trends.

Gilly LA23253 from L'Amour by Calla Blanche

Variety of Eras and Styles to Choose From

1920s: The Glamorous Jazz Age

The Roaring Twenties were all about glitz, glamor, and opulence, and this was reflected in the wedding gowns of the time. These vintage wedding dresses often feature shorter hemlines (think tea-length or short vintage wedding dresses), sleek silhouettes, fringe, and sparkling embellishments like pearls, crystals, and sequins. Perfect for brides who love a touch of Gatsby-era glamor, 1920s-inspired wedding gowns offer a unique blend of sophistication and fun. To give you an example, look at our short vintage wedding dress with feathers and sparkly beaded lace, Peggy.

Lucy LA22105 from L'Amour by Calla Blanche

1930s: Sleek and Sensual

The 1930s brought a more refined, sleek, and sultry style to wedding dresses. Luxurious silk and soft satin gowns became popular during this time, hugging the body and creating an effortlessly elegant silhouette. These wedding gowns are all about understated sophistication, with details like cowl necklines, low backs, and delicate buttons.

Brides looking for old Hollywood glamor and a touch of sensuality will love the designs from this era. To give you an example, look at our simple vintage wedding dress, Gilly.

1940s: Graceful and Simple

Because of the influence of World War II, the 1940s saw a shift toward more simple and practical designs. Wedding dresses from this decade often feature minimal embellishments. Despite their simplicity, these dresses still exude grace and elegance, making them ideal for brides who want a vintage look without too much fuss. To give you an example, look at our satin vintage wedding dress, Lucy.

Axel LA23257 from L'Amour by Calla Blanche

1950s: Classic and Romantic

1950s vintage wedding dresses were all about sweetheart necklines, femininity, and full, voluminous skirts that sway with every step. This era saw the rise of ball gowns, creating a princess bride look that brought a sense of whimsy and elegance to wedding ceremonies. If you’re after a look that combines a classic, fairy-tale look with romance, a 1950s vintage wedding dress is a wonderful choice. To give you an example, vintage ball gown wedding dress, Axel.

Trisha AA2414 by Angela and Alison

1960s: Flirty and Playful

The 1960s brought a fun and playful edge to bridal fashion with shorter hemlines, high necklines, and clean, simple silhouettes. This era gave us the iconic tea-length wedding dress, perfect for brides who want a flirty, vintage look. For those who love bold and playful designs, a 1960s-inspired wedding dress is a great option. To give you an example, look at our vintage-style tea-length wedding dress, Trisha.

Burke LP2443 from La Perle by Calla Blanche

1970s: Bohemian Dreams

The 1970s brought the bohemian wedding dress trend into the wedding world, and it’s a style that continues to inspire modern brides today. Flowing, ethereal gowns with lace and bell sleeves are staples of this era.

Brides who love the free-spirited, boho-chic vibe will adore the vintage designs from the 1970s. These dresses are perfect for outdoor, beach, or garden weddings. To give you an example, look at our vintage boho wedding dress with bell sleeves, Burke.

1980s: Bold and Dramatic

Wedding dresses of the 1980s are known for their larger-than-life elements. Think oversized sleeves, layers of tulle, dramatic veils, and full skirts. While some brides might shy away from the boldness of 80s fashion, others embrace the era’s unapologetic glamor and over-the-top designs, modernizing them for today’s trends. To give you an example, look at our vintage princess ball gown wedding dress with puffed sleeves, Rhaenyra.

Rhaenyra 123250 by Calla Blanche

How to Find Your Perfect Vintage Wedding Dress

Finding a vintage wedding dress can be an adventure in itself. From looking through vintage boutiques to browsing online shops, the journey to finding the perfect gown is part of the magic. 

Here are a few tips for finding your dream vintage wedding dress:

• Start Early: Finding the perfect vintage wedding dress can take time, especially if you're looking for an authentic piece from a specific era.
• Consider Alterations: Vintage wedding dresses may need tailoring to fit your body perfectly. Be prepared to work with a seamstress to make adjustments and plan accordingly.
• Look for Inspiration: Research different decades and styles to learn which era resonates with you. Consider how the dress will complement your wedding theme and venue.

 

Vintage-inspired wedding dresses offer a perfect blend of nostalgia, elegance, and romance. Whether you’re drawn to the dazzling designs of the 1920s or the bohemian spirit of the 1970s, a vintage wedding dress can make your day truly magical and unforgettable. So, if you’re a bride who dreams of timeless beauty, romantic details, and a gown that tells a story, a vintage-inspired wedding dress might just be the perfect choice for you.

 

If you want to see any of these gowns in action, be sure to follow our social media!