vintage wedding dress

Brides that want to have a classic wedding should look into vintage wedding dresses. A lot of vintage dresses are timeless, but still have something a little extra that makes it special. Sure the hottest dresses of the season that grace the covers of bridal magazines look great, but if you are looking for something a little more out of the ordinary, you might get it with a vintage gown.



There is such a broad spectrum of vintage wedding dresses, because each decade dating back to the early 20th century has a style that can still be current if worn correctly. In the early 1900's the style was Edwardian, with long trains and veils to match. The silhouette is usually ball gown or A-line, the perfect dress for a bride who wants to look like a princess. By 1910 the empire waist dress became a big hit, everyone wanted to wear the dress with the higher waistline. Flapper style wedding dresses were iconic in the 1920's. they were shorter and looser than dresses prior. Hats were the big accessory in the 30's, worn with a slender collar dress.


Due to the war, wedding dresses in the 1940's was nothing to write home about. The 1950's gave rise to gowns with long sleeves and high necklines. Then came the 60's, a decade that completely changed the way brides walked down the aisle. Cute above the knee length dresses were all the rage. That's when these dresses became more fun and flirty.

Vintage wedding dresses of the 70's and 80's might be a little harder to accept in this decade. The reason is they were completely outrageous and will make you look outdated. Unless you are having a wedding theme related to those decades, you should find a vintage dress that is a little more classic. In the 1970's brides were really into ruffled Victorian necklines and either balloon or bat-wing sleeves. The 1980's were known for big hair that went with big dresses. Some of that carried into the 90's, but for the rest of the 90's until now, wedding dresses have remained pretty classic with a few modern touches such as one shoulder or halter.


There are a number of places you can go to look for vintage wedding dresses. Go to a couple of second hand stores around you to start with. Always ask the clerk if they carry any wedding dresses, because sometimes the dress it too big to be hung outside. Never assume the store does not have it if it is not out on display. Sometimes a family member will have a vintage dress that they'd like to pass down to you. Take a look to see if it has potential, these things can be modified if you can find a seamstress who knows how to work on wedding dresses. You can also try auction websites online, keep your eyes open for good deals.