Wedding Wednesday: Dresses of the Decades

Wedding dresses have certainly evolved since the 1950’s. Let’s take a stroll down memory lane and look at the transformation of the wedding gown.

1950’s

Lacy tiers and flouncy frills dominated wedding dresses in the ’50s. Dresses often featured a barely-visible sweetheart neckline beneath the lace, with a luxurious full skirt. Wedding gowns during this decade often enhanced the female figure, cinching in at the waist and creating an hourglass shape. I absolutely love the ultimate femininity of the ’50s and all I can say is…take me back!

1960’s

Gowns in the ’60s featured high-waisted empire lines, with very little form compared to the previous trends of the ’50s. This decade offered a much more conservative look with a whole lot less lace and a much looser fit.

1970’s

Unlike previous decades, the ’70s isn’t defined by one dominating trend. Gowns in the ’70s ranged from hippie frocks to fairytale princess gowns, pantsuits to punk-influenced dresses. The style above is personally my favorite trend of this decade. This soft, whimsical style wedding gown allowed the bride to feel comfortable in a less form-fitting dress, while keeping the feminine style in its accents.

1980’s

The ’80s undeniably had its own style and its own sense of awesomeness. Dresses of this decade were extremely over the top with long trains, poofy sleeves and veils to last a lifetime. This decade was definitely the most unique and, for that reason, we will never forget it!

1990’s

As the ornate wedding gowns of the ’80s faded, a more simple style gained momentum in the ’90s. Dresses often had very little lace, ruffles or beading and offered one fabric throughout the entire dress. As shown in the picture above, many gowns showed off the shoulders and were often paired with gloves to match.

2000’s

Individual personality ruled in the early 2000’s. Along with brides putting their own personal touches in their weddings and receptions, this is the decade when many ceremonies began taking place in hotels or country clubs, rather than a place of worship. Therefore, strapless gowns gained immense popularity.

2010’s

These days, more and more brides favor curve-hugging wedding gowns. Mermaid styled dresses are more popular than ever, as are asymmetrical skirts, textured details and loose pickups. Intricate beading and crystals has also made a comeback.

Times change and styles change – who knows what ladies will be wearing in 10 years – but one thing stays the same: all eyes are on the bride and she always looks beautiful.

–Special Events
–What is your favorite decade for weddings?