The allure of vintage bridal dresses lies in their timeless elegance, making them an attractive option for any bride-to-be. The term ‘vintage’ encompasses a broad spectrum of styles, from the sleek, streamlined silhouettes of the 1990s to the classic Hollywood glamour and traditional wedding gowns that have stood the test of time. With such a diverse range of designs to choose from, there’s bound to be a vintage-inspired gown that suits your unique style.
Beyond their undeniable aesthetic appeal, vintage wedding dresses evoke feelings of romance, nostalgia, and one-of-a-kind elegance. Delicate lacework, intricate needlepoint, and sparkling pearls are just a few of the luxurious details that make vintage wedding gowns truly special. We’ve curated a selection of our favorite antique wedding gowns from around the world, each one a testament to the enduring beauty of traditional wedding fashion.
Take a look at these stunning examples and let us know which one is your heart’s desire.
How To Wear With A Vintage Bridal Dress
For those seeking to infuse their wedding day with a touch of nostalgia, choosing a vintage bridal dress is an excellent starting point. Not only does a vintage gown offer a piece of fashion history, but it also typically boasts more refined designs compared to modern, machine-made creations. When sourced from a reputable dealer or vendor, a vintage gown has the added benefit of being well-preserved and ready for its next big moment.
To ensure success in finding your ideal antique gown, it’s essential to define your desired style and create a visual inspiration board featuring the decades that speak to you.
Styling Tips
When crafting a bridal look that pays homage to yesteryear, it’s crucial to prioritize the gown and then let accessories follow suit. This approach is particularly vital when embracing vintage styles, which can exhibit significant variations depending on the era. To achieve a truly defined vintage aesthetic, focus on a singular design period. Avoid blending eras, as pairing 1950s retro hairstyles with a 1970s hippy dress would undoubtedly result in an incongruous look.
Ultimately, it’s essential to remain mindful of your personal style and comfort level when selecting accessories for your special day. Remember, this is not the time to opt for pieces that leave you feeling uncertain or out of sorts. Alternatively, if you’re not specifically seeking a vintage-inspired look, introducing subtle touches of old-fashioned charm to your wedding attire can be an effective way to add visual interest and make your overall style truly unforgettable.
1950’s
The nostalgia-inducing charm of the 1950s is often associated with tea-length gowns, yet iconic brides like Jacqueline Bouvier, Grace Kelly, and Elizabeth Taylor all opted for full-length gowns during their nuptials. For those seeking a vintage-inspired wedding, consider alternative styles such as evening gowns, cocktail dresses, or prom gowns. By expanding your search parameters, you’ll significantly boost the chances of finding the perfect style that embodies the era’s timeless elegance.
Moreover, this stunning vintage color is undeniably captivating, with its classic dress design reminiscent of 1950s fashion. Wearing this dress will not only capture hearts but also draw attention, making you the center of attention. For those looking to emulate this look, it can be found here.
Accessories
The vintage-inspired bouquets of the 1950s and 1960s era boast a distinct charm, characterized by cascading arrangements that showcase lush greenery. Each handcrafted bouquet is a one-of-a-kind masterpiece, combining dried flowers in unique ways. The bouquet’s eclectic mix includes white, purple, pink, and freeze-dried roses, alongside dried mixed blooms. Its versatility makes it suitable for both bridal bouquets and home decor, where it will add a touch of rustic elegance to any table or shelf.
As a thoughtful gift, it’s sure to bring joy to the recipient. When displayed away from direct sunlight, this bouquet will maintain its beauty for an extended period, requiring no additional maintenance.
Retro Vintage
Lace wedding gowns effortlessly blend vintage charm with modern elegance. The iconic headdress from Juliet’s 1920s collection adds a touch of sophistication, while rolling up the lace creates a retro-style hair comb that seamlessly integrates past and present. When it comes to florals, classic roses and peonies are timeless choices that complement the retro ambiance perfectly. The cascading greenery adds a whimsical touch, making the overall look undeniably vintage-inspired.
To complete the look, incorporate pearls and antique brooches to highlight fabric flower bouquets. What’s more, these lovely net gowns offer a budget-friendly alternative to traditional wedding dresses, allowing you to stay within your means without sacrificing style. The conventional design of this gown also allows for a flawless makeup application, further emphasizing its vintage allure.
Hollywood Inspired
The allure of Old Hollywood glamour is palpable in this exquisite gown. The flowing fabric and stunning open back create a sense of elegance, while the flattering fit ensures it looks amazing on any woman. To complete the look, pair it with pearl drop earrings for a polished finish. This collection has many stunning options, including this showstopper that’s sure to capture your attention.
For those looking for a unique find, consider the Women’s Cute Tie Back Ruffle Strap A Line Fit gown, available for an affordable $31.99.
Best For Dancing
When it comes to finding the perfect reception dress, the key is striking a balance between comfort and style. Whether you’re looking for a dress that allows you to dance the night away or make a stunning impression, a great reception dress should be both beautiful and comfortable. For those who want to keep things light and playful, mini dresses are an excellent option. These shorter gowns may lack in length, but they more than make up for it with their glamour and flair.
Perfect for spring and summer weddings when the weather is warm and sunny, mini dresses are a great choice for any season.
Simple
The classic vintage gown exudes understated elegance due to its uncomplicated design. The stark white color and flowing fabric create a stunning visual effect, particularly with the short train that adds a touch of drama. Characterized by a simple neckline, minimal embellishments, and a modest fit, this iconic wedding dress lacks frills, such as interesting waistlines, ruffled collars, and sleeves.
Moreover, it doesn’t incorporate elaborate materials like tulle or other decorative elements into its structure. This timeless design was particularly popular for 1950s weddings, where tradition dictated that brides wear classic white gowns. The result is a dress that is both lovely and practical, allowing the wearer to make a statement about their elegance without drawing attention away from themselves.
Lace
The Essense of Australia wedding gown boasts a layered lace design that exudes romance and sophistication. The plunging V-neckline is perfectly balanced by the high neckline with an organic-lace finish, creating a harmonious visual balance. The combination of cotton-style and French lace layers from the bodice to the skirt produces a unique and delicate look that is truly unforgettable.
As a timeless and classic choice, lace wedding gowns are always a stunning option for brides of any shape or size, adding an air of elegance to any occasion. With its one-of-a-kind design, this gown is sure to make a memorable impression on your big day.
Victorian Inspired
When it comes to Victorian wedding dresses, the classic hourglass silhouette is often associated with a tight waist. While corsets were indeed a staple for achieving this look during the Victorian era, modern brides shouldn’t worry about compromising their health or comfort in the name of authenticity. Instead, focus on finding a dress that flatters your figure and makes you feel confident.
A high collar with delicate lace details and fitted sleeves can evoke a charming Victorian-inspired vintage vibe. Opt for a ruffled neckline that matches the ruffles on your sleeves for an added touch of elegance. For a modern twist, look for fitted lace sleeves rather than loose bell shapes to create a stylish contrast.
Vintage Bridal Jewelry
As the bride selects vintage wedding jewellery, she should draw inspiration from eras that align with her personal style. Each period – Victorian, Edwardian, Art Nouveau, and Art Deco – offers a unique aesthetic and artistic influence. For instance, Victorian-era jewellery exudes romance and subtle innocence through its floral motifs, ivy leaves, and delicate curls. These elements harmonize beautifully with crystal earrings, creating a breathtaking look.
The 19th-century era’s whimsical charm makes it an ideal choice for the modern bride seeking to incorporate vintage flair into her wedding day attire.
Intricate Back
When it comes to embellishing a wedding gown, buttons, beads, sequins, ribbon, and lace are all excellent choices. One of the most effective ways to incorporate these components is by adding them to an intricate design on the back of the dress. The result is a truly show-stopping look that elevates the overall aesthetic of the garment. Whether it’s a delicate trim or a more elaborate pattern, the right embellishments can completely transform a wedding gown into something truly breathtaking.
Gowns
This stunning wedding gown boasts a flowing A-line shape, adorned with pouffe sleeves reminiscent of the Regency era’s opulence. The fitted waist creates a flattering silhouette, while the overall design exudes timeless elegance. To complete the look, style hair with soft, loose tendrils framing the face and opt for understated makeup that lets the dress take center stage. A wardrobe staple for any bride-to-be, this gown is sure to make her feel like royalty.
Vintage Spell Lace Gown
For the Stevie Nicks fan, this 1970s-inspired wedding gown is a must-have. Pair it with understated makeup and finish the look with a fresh or imitation floral crown for a romantic touch. The lace sleeves add a stunning, elegant, and slender silhouette that’s both edgy and classic. This design makes it perfect for winter weddings, modest brides, or those seeking a light layer for their arms.
The combination of thick, corded lace and high necklines creates a timeless look that never goes out of style.
Embroided
The fusion of classic shapes and contemporary flair in embroidered wedding gowns creates a stunning visual effect, making it an ideal choice for the modern bride seeking a unique look. This breathtaking off-shoulder gown, adorned with delicate wildflowers, would be perfect for a sun-kissed day bridal shoot. For those looking to recreate this elegant style, consider the SUNSENT Womens Sheer Embroidered Floral Cocktail Dress, available for $27.49.
Indian
The pièce de résistance is a stunning 1960s Indian wedding gown, or lehenga, that exudes elegance and sophistication. Although it may not be as ostentatious as modern attire, the hand-adorned gold braid work on the skirt and dupatta creates a beautiful chequered pattern, while the Gota Patti used to fill the center parts adds an extra layer of intricacy.
What’s truly remarkable is that this exquisite ensemble is entirely handmade, withstanding the test of time remarkably well despite being nearly six decades old.
Modern
As a fashion-conscious bride-to-be with a passion for retro styles, you’re likely envisioning a vintage-inspired wedding gown that exudes the glamour of Old Hollywood with a touch of modern flair. This stunning body-hugging gown boasts an open neckline and a sensual low scoop back, perfect for making a statement on your special day.
For Older Brides
These classic A-line wedding gowns offer a timeless blend of simplicity, flirtatiousness, and elegance, making them a versatile choice for any bride. The design allows for endless customization options, from emphasizing the waist with a strapless corset to adding a modern touch with long sleeves and a high collar. With this gown, the possibilities are limitless – it’s all about how you style it!
For those looking for a more affordable option, consider the YIANNA Breathable Thin Type Lace Corset Strapless Wedding Dress Corset Bustiers at just $24.99. Alternatively, opt for the OBBUE Women’s A Line Tulle Party Evening Tutu Skirts Tea Length for a more dramatic look.
For Plus Size
Transform your wedding day look with a gown that exudes elegance and romance. The subtle nuances of this ballgown, including its soft tulle details and flutter sleeves, evoke a fairytale sense of enchantment. To complete the ethereal look, sweep your hair into a loose updo and adorn yourself with a floral crown or tiara. Whether you’re seeking understated sophistication or whimsical charm, this wedding dress is sure to make you feel like a princess. And at $82.
99, it’s an affordable way to add some magic to your special day.
Budget Friendly
You don’t have to break the bank on a special-occasion outfit just because it’s your big day. The pressure to look perfect can be overwhelming, which is why this airy reformation dress is such a breath of fresh air. With its minimalist design and romantic flair, it’s the perfect choice for a casual garden wedding or beachside nuptials. And the best part? It’s versatile enough to pair with wedges that can handle both sandy and grassy terrain.
With Cap Sleeve
This stunning gown boasts a slimming silhouette, which is amplified by its dramatic bell sleeves that make a lasting impression. The versatility of the design allows it to be effortlessly styled for both formal and casual occasions. Add some dainty jewelry and sleek sandals to complete the look.
1 – Tea Length
For those who adore the playful charm of polka dots, this exquisite long sleeve tea-length design is sure to delight. What’s more, it offers a timeless elegance that will make any bride over 50 feel confident and radiant without appearing overly youthful or made-up. The overall effect is one of effortless chic, perfectly captured in the joyful smile that brightens her face.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. What are the best sites to buy vintage wedding dresses from?
When faced with the overwhelming array of wedding gowns available, it’s natural to feel overwhelmed when trying to find one that perfectly captures your unique style. However, considering a vintage option can be an excellent way to stand out from the crowd without breaking the bank. Not only will you avoid the risk of multiple brides donning similar attire, but you’ll also gain access to one-of-a-kind pieces that exude timeless charm.
Online marketplaces like Etsy and Decades offer a treasure trove of vintage wedding dresses, allowing you to discover a truly bespoke look that’s all your own.
Q. Are vintage dresses trending?
With unprecedented growth over the past year, our vintage gowns have become increasingly sought after. What sets them apart is their authenticity – every gown we offer is at least 25 years old, giving each piece a unique and storied history that resonates with fashion enthusiasts.
