Step Back in Time: Embracing the Charm of Retro Wedding Dresses
In a world constantly chasing the new, it seems like fashion is always evolving, right?
The beautiful thing about bridal style is that as a bride, you get to decide what decade or era of fashion most represents who YOU are as a bride.
For those of us who love the timeless elegance and unique character of retro wedding dresses, keep reading! From the sleek sophistication of the 1930s to the playful charm of the 1950s and the free-spirited vibe of the 1970s, vintage-inspired bridal gowns are a great way to express personal style and create an unforgettable wedding day look.
At Grace + Ivory, we love brides who crave a touch of nostalgia. We do, too! Our all-female design team offers a curated collection of made-to-measure wedding dresses that beautifully blend classic silhouettes with modern sensibilities.
In this blog post, we’ll delve into the world of retro wedding dresses, explore the trends that define each era, and showcase how Grace + Ivory’s made-to-order artisan dresses, paired with handmade accessories, can help you achieve your vintage-inspired bridal aesthetic.
Why Retro? The Enduring Appeal of Vintage Wedding Style
The appeal of retro wedding dresses lies in their ability to evoke a sense of history, romance, and individuality.
Unlike mass-produced contemporary gowns… the beauty of vintage-inspired pieces lies in the legacy. Retro wedding dresses tell a story. They give you a chance to give a nod to your family history (or to past decades that inspire you), while also giving you the opportunity to infuse your own personality into the style.
Choosing a retro wedding dress is a statement! This is a chance for you to repurpose fashion into your own unique legacy.
The Vita Dress: Sleek Sophistication with a 1930s/40s Flair
For the bride who dreams of classic Hollywood glamour, the Vita dress from Grace + Ivory is a perfect embodiment of 1930s and 1940s elegance. This stunning gown features a sleek silk satin fabric and an alluring off-the-shoulder neckline, reminiscent of the bias-cut gowns that were popular during that era. The structured bodice provides support and creates a flattering silhouette, while delicate fabric buttons down the back add a touch of vintage charm. The Vita dress, with its minimalist yet impactful design, channels the sophisticated and understated beauty of a bygone era, making it ideal for a bride seeking a truly timeless look.
Shop “Vita” Wedding Dress
*photos by Nicolette Nunez
The Poppy Dress: 1950s Charm and Playful Peplum
If your retro vision leans towards the playful and romantic aesthetic of the 1950s, the Poppy dress is your perfect match. This structured, ivory white ballgown features a sweet bow and a distinctive peplum ruffle, echoing the iconic silhouettes of the mid-century. The crisp ivory white crepe fabric and button details further enhance its vintage appeal. The Poppy dress captures the essence of 1950s bridal fashion with its full skirt and flattering strapless neckline, offering a delightful blend of classic charm and modern sophistication.
Shop “Poppy” Retro Wedding Dress
*photos by Sandra Armenteros Photography
The Maeve Dress: Romantic Vintage Lace with a Bohemian Touch
For brides drawn to the romantic and free-spirited vibe of the 1970s, the Maeve dress offers a beautiful interpretation of vintage lace. This strapless gown features a romantic vintage corded lace throughout its full A-line skirt, with delicate lace-covered button details adding to its charm. The option of a blush underlay further enhances its bohemian appeal, creating a soft and ethereal look. The Maeve dress is a celebration of intricate lacework and a relaxed, yet elegant, silhouette, perfect for a bride who wants to channel a vintage garden or outdoor wedding aesthetic.
*photos by Labbe Photography
Completing Your Retro Look: Grace + Ivory Accessories
No retro bridal look is complete without the perfect accessories to tie it all together. Grace + Ivory offers exquisite pieces that complement their vintage-inspired gowns beautifully.
The Silk Neck Scarf: A Touch of Old-World Glamour
For a truly unique and sophisticated retro touch, consider the Long Silk Wedding Neck Scarf. Made from 100% mulberry silk, this elegant accessory adds a touch of old-world glamour, reminiscent of classic film stars. It can be styled in various ways, offering versatility and a chic, unexpected element to your bridal ensemble.
Shop the Retro Silk Wedding Neck Scarf
*photos by Sandra Armenteros Photography
The Tessa Floral Lace Blusher Veil: Romantic and Timeless
To complete your vintage-inspired bridal look, the Tessa Floral Lace Blusher Veil is an ideal choice. Featuring beautiful floral and leafy matte lace along its edges, this veil evokes a romantic and timeless feel. The blusher style adds a touch of classic bridal tradition, perfectly framing your face as you walk down the aisle.
Shop the “Tessa” Floral Lace Blusher Wedding Veil
*photos by Sandra Armenteros Photography
Your Retro Wedding Dream Awaits
Embracing a retro wedding dress style is about more than just fashion; it’s about celebrating individuality, timeless beauty, and a connection to the past!
At Grace + Ivory, we work with artisans from around the world to create made-to-measure wedding gowns and thoughtfully curated accessories.
Whether you envision yourself as a sleek 1930s siren, a playful 1950s sweetheart, or a romantic 1970s bohemian bride… we have the pieces to bring your retro wedding vision to life.
Leave a Reply