Each decade has something unique and amazing to offer modern fashionable brides. Read on and I’ll explain what makes vintage wedding dresses so special !

30s vintage wedding dresses

The 30s is very popular for its glamorous fitted full length lace, and slinky satin styles. As a general rule it is bias cut ( cut on the cross where the fabric has most stretch) and has a fairly narrow silhouette. Sleeves can be an amazing features as shown here but I also have more minimal 30s styles, or we can carry out modifications keeping some of the drama.

40s vintage wedding dresses

The 40s is also a very glamorous decade, and still very sought after. The skirts have more volume and are generally A line with flared ‘swishy’ shapes, not as figure hugging as the 30s. There is often lot of shoulder emphasis with little shoulder pads or stands. V necks and pleating, ruching or gathering below the bust were very common features and fitted waist panels subtly emphasise the waist more than in previous decades.

50s vintage wedding dresses

Some decades like the classic 50s dress above are more instantly recognisable to us. Dresses like this had full length or tea length (below the knee), or ‘Ballerina’ length ( just above ankle length). Very full skirts with masses of fabric were popular. High ‘Boat’ necklines were fashionable as were long lace sleeves or 3/4 length ‘bracelet’ sleeves.

60s vintage wedding dresses

the 60s can be very elegant in a complete different way, sometimes with a high waist sitting above the natural waistline and an A line or fitted skirt. High necks were very popular and long slim fitting sleeves. Short dresses were also worn and still had volume but less so than the 50s and often in a tulip or more structured shape.

I have attempted to explain the most common features of each era but fashions didn’t just begin and end neatly as the decade changed. These wonderful details are what make vintage wedding gowns so special and still so wearable today.