Wedding Style - 30's Glamor

I recently watched the remake of "Grey Gardens" starring Drew Barrymore and Jessica Lang. I couldn't help but be blown away by the feminine style of the 1930's and 1940's and how the classic lines of the clothes made every woman look amazing. It has inspired me to advocate for this era in wedding attire. Personally, I feel that we are not going far enough back into the fashion archives for inspiration.

I see that the 1980's have obviously come back into style for today's teens, but I keep hoping that women will see that the feminine beauty of the 1930's and 1940's is the most flattering. After all, skinny jeans and striped shirts with legwarmers only look good through the lens of youth. I can't help but cringe when I see photos of brides from the 1980's with the huge puffy sleeves, lace bodices and full tulle skirts fit for a Disney princess. So here is my suggestion for brides at the turn of the 21st Century... be inspired by the classic, feminine lines of the past but add a new twist. Where will this new twist come from? Hopefully Vera Wang!

It's no wonder that the 1930's and 1940's wedding dresses really never went out of style. Whether you fancy a dress with soft ivory color and cowl neckline or something dove white with tea length skirting and a fitted bodice, each dress highlights the fabulous feminine figure. If you are looking for a dress that will look classic and beautiful 100 years from now, go with a vintage style 30's or 40's dress that plays up your femininity. This doesn't mean you have to actually buy a vintage dress, but look for something with dress lines similar to what women were wearing in those eras. Show off your curves and celebrate the female form!

For instance, a tea length white dress with a pop of pink would be perfect for an afternoon garden wedding with brunch and champagne reception. The fitted waist and full skirt would look fantastic on a petite frame. Very Audrey Hepburn!

For the sophisticated evening wedding, with a cocktails and hors d'eourves reception, something a little slinky would be perfect! Ivory and satin, with a deep v-neckline...this dress is dripping with sensuality. Of course, having a full (yet fit) figure helps to make this type of dress look amazing! Va va va vooooooom!

The classic afternoon church wedding with a formal dinner reception deserves a dress like that worn by none other than Miss Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis. This divine creation has a fitted bodice, ornate detailing and a full skirt. It isn't quite a ballgown because of the capped sleeve, but it has the feel of royalty. Of course, Jackie O was married in 1953, but her dress is a classic and similar to those worn by the debutante's of the 40's.


Sweet Vintage! This sweetheart neckline in a crisp white with floral detailing at the waist-line is absolutely fantastic and reminiscent of the 1930's. This would look great on the petite bride or someone tall and slender.


Hollywood Glamor

A capped sleeve with beading embellishing the bust is classic 40's. This dress pulls in at the waist and flairs at the hip creating the stunning hour-glass figure so many of us cherish. A pill box hat or period veil would look absolutely fantastic.


40's War brides were feminine, youthful and sexy. This dress reminds me of a pin-up. The satin material, cowled shoulders and sweetheart neckline and tight bodice inspires the feel of a princess without the puffy skirting. The skirt is mostly A-line, which gives this vintage dress a timeless feel.