Wedding Dresses Through The Years
Over the past century or so, the style of wedding dresses has changed a phenomenal amount
. Ranging from the traditional, modest gown laced with elegant classical beading, to the more unconventional dress featuring short skirts and a homemade quality, we've seen them all. Famous nuptials, such as Lady Dianas marriage to Prince Charles, have heavily influenced the popular styles of gowns, with many a London wedding dress designer taking inspiration from these illustrious unions. Here is a summary of styles through the century.
1920s
The flapper girls of the1920s enthused every London wedding dress designer to recreate this trend. Headdresses and elegant jewellery accessorised the lacy and intricately patterned dresses. Bodices were simple and relatively fitted with a straight or slightly floaty skirt attached. The skirts were floor length and usually worn with low heeled, plain court shoes. Most of these dresses were not the traditional shade of white, but more neutral colours such as ivory, cream and beige.
1930s
The 1930s introduced thick straps and sleeves. Fabrics like satin and silk were used, especially on the popular sheath style skirts. V-necks and backless styles were also quite prevalent. The idea of having a small train was also introduced, and the dresses became slightly more "white", with only a small amount of lace or detailing on the bodice.
1940s and 1950s
In the 1940s and 50s, full skirts became more popular. Lace was reintroduced, as was the simple bodice. The idea of having a collared dress with little or no train was also admired inspired by the graceful gown of Grace Kelly. Her dress has become iconic, with many a London wedding dress designer taking inspiration from it. (The dress of Kate Middleton was similar to Grace Kellys, bringing the trend into the modern day.) Sheer sleeves were fashionable, as was a scooped neckline or calf length skirt. Many of the dresses in this age had extremely full skirts, with petticoats being worn to help create this iconic full circle of skirt. Bridal shoes became more of a feature, with higher heels, ankle straps and simple diamantes being some of the trendy elements.
1960s
The idea of having a proper gown was partially rejected in the 1960s. Many women went for simple shift dresses with scooped necklines and mid thigh length skirts. These dresses were usually A-line and patterned with lace or macram; once again off-white colours were used more often than brilliant, diamond whites.
1970s
The 1970s saw long trains coming into fashion. A more romantic look was desired, with sheer, embellished fabrics covering the back and shoulders. Long, puffy sleeves were sought after and dresses featured lace, ruffles, bows and floral appliqu. V-neck or off the shoulder gowns were also popular.
1980s
In 1981, Lady Diana married Prince Charles and her gown inspired brides the world over. The puffed sleeves trend continued into this decade, and the idea of a full skirt was also brought back. Lots of lace was used on sleeves and around necklines, and the meringue wedding dress was born. Embellished with sequins and beads, hems were heavy and extravagant. Ruffles and ribbons sprouted from many places on each dress, engulfing smaller brides in a wave of taffeta.
1990s
The trend of full skirts, sheer sleeves and lace embellishments carried on into the 90s, making these features timeless classics which are often used today. But the 90s also saw veils becoming increasingly popular. Covered with sequins and beads or left plain, veils and headpieces such as tiaras became a necessity. Many dresses featured silk or pearl buttons running all the way down the back of the dress and continuing onto the train.
2000s
The new millennium also brought new ideas to many a London wedding dress designer. Strapless dresses became far more popular and sweetheart necklines were prevalent. The unusual fishtail skirt was also introduced. Another unusual feature of the wedding gowns of this time was the use of colour. Coloured corsets and sashes matched the bride with her bridesmaids, but some designers didnt stop there. Vera Wang is just one example of a designer who made (and still makes) gowns in red, black and grey and pastels as well as the usual whites.
by: Tatiana Porembova
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