Long, short, full and sleek, vintage-inspired wedding dresses have returned to the spotlight. Inspired by some of the most classical brides, vintage wedding dresses call upon traditional lace patterns, flattering silhouettes, and soft necklines to create modern-day style that is both versatile and effortless. Some of the most stylish brides of the past remain fashion forward to this day because their vintage wedding dresses called upon the timeless elements of traditional wedding dress, while still representing the trends of the time.
When Queen Elizabeth II got married in the 1940s, she wore a wedding gown of ivory Duchess Satin with 10,000 imported white pearls, silver thread and tulle embroidery. At the time, it was more modest than most royal weddings because she was married two years after World War II. American royal Jacqueline Kennedy, who wore a bouffant wedding gown of ivory Silk Taffeta and off the shoulder sleeves for her marriage to JFK in the 1950s, something brides today will see back in style. Keeping up with tradition, her veil, made of lace, was a “something borrowed” from her grandmother.
Grace Kelly wore a Silk Taffeta, antique rose-point Lace dress with with pearls that is said to be one of the most elegant bridal gowns of all time. Even Kate Middleton is said to have drawn vintage inspiration for her own wedding from this classic dress. The princess’s mother-in-law, the ever elegant Lady Diana wore an over the top dress of ivory Silk with a full skirt, cathedral train, and puffed sleeves for her 1981 wedding to Prince Charles.
Today’s wedding dresses capture the same vintage essences as the classics, without feeling dated or overdone. By using simple lace patterns, subtle shimmer, and luxurious fabrics, today’s wedding dresses are classic enough for any modern bride who wants to feel timeless and vintage.
This 1920s vintage-inspired wedding dress from designer Martina Liana is pure elegance. With a deep V neckline, the sheer bodice of this vintage gown features soft, French lace detailing and beadwork that layer to create a unique pattern. This same unique, lace pattern continues down the hips, flowing to the back of the gown, leaving the front of the crepe skirt bare, allowing the details to truly pop. The back of the vintage bridal gown features a soft and romantic lace train and a lace and tulle back, giving the illusion that the V straps are floating that is a subtle nod to the 1920s.
This vintage lace wedding dress by designer Stella York was handcrafted with stunning details that are timeless and elegant. This modified fit-and-flare wedding dress with a sweetheart neckline is the best of both worlds – a fashion-forward silhouette with vintage-inspired details. The fitted bodice features hand-sewn vintage Diamante-beaded lace over tulle that carry through to the whimsical tulle skirt and court train. The metallic edged lace adds drama to the vintage-inspired beadwork, which adds a very glamorous and sophisticated element to this design which would be perfect for a Great Gatsby wedding! Imagine twirling around the ballgown, under glamorous chandeliers, sipping French champagne – how romantic!
This vintage A-line wedding dress features a sweetheart neckline from designer Stella York is romantic and unique. Eye-catching lace cap sleeves and kissing scalloped back give this wedding dress a vintage-inspired style. The A-line silhouette feels traditional, classic and very vintage, yet the botanical lace pattern gives this gown a modern update. The full skirt flows into a long, lace and satin cathedral length train. The sweetheart neckline frames the face and features a scalloped lace trim that coordinates with scalloped lace on the hem of the train. This vintage wedding dress would be perfect an English garden inspired wedding. It is sweet and simple and so very vintage.
Essense of Australia Style D1910
This vintage fit-and-flare wedding dress from Essense of Australia features a truly unique illusion neckline is oh-so timeless! Layers of romantic lace creates tiers of cascading motifs on the skirt that are reminiscent of gowns from 1910. Giving this vintage wedding dress a modern update is the illusion sweetheart neckline and an intricate cameo lace back. The splay of floral detailing on the back is brought to life with sparkling beadwork, while a cathedral length lace train shimmers under pearl and crystal beading that feels like a subtle nod to traditional wedding dresses from the 1910s! Elegant pearl buttons finish the back of the fit-and-flare silhouettes, adding just another element of vintage romance to this wedding dress.
Whether you love lace A-line gowns from the 1920s or a wedding dress inspired by the 1950s, there is a look to match your vintage vibe! And with so many ways to pull off vintage style, you can wear anything from a short wedding dress with a flouncy skirt to a wedding dress with a corset back and still look absolutely amazing. You’ll have timeless style when you wear one of these vintage designer wedding dresses.
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