| Expert: | Ellie Sanderson |
| Category: | Bridal Wear and Accessories Advice |
Vintage Wedding Dresses - Not Just Short Frocks or Slinky Numbers!
Vintage is not just short frocks or slinky numbers. Vintage is an era that encompasses many styles, a style that should be available to everyone looking for the ultimate in romance on their wedding day.
Catherine Middleton’s gown seemed to be based on a mix of Grace Kelly and Princess Margaret’s wedding gowns; full length, elegant and timeless.
Any bride who is looking for vintage style, yet yearns for the full length fairytale wedding gown should look towards vintage icons such as the Hollywood starlets and Christian Dior. These pieces ooze class and elegance, and when you look back at your photographs this is exactly what you want to feel years on from your wedding.
Tulle seems to be making a comeback along with organza. This year’s spring 2011 collection from Christos, Magnolia especially, showcased some spectacular pieces very much lending themselves well to the vintage look. Along with satin brocade, both tulle and organza were common in the 1950s, being worn in films by some of the most glamorous and best-known Hollywood actresses.
At the 1953 Cannes Film festival, actress Sophia Loren wore the most fabulous full length gown. It isn’t dissimilar to ‘Tresor’ from the Christos 2011 collection. This designer could be a great place to start sourcing a full length vintage inspired wedding dress.
Hollywood actress Diana Dors really knew how to put on the glitz and show her womanly curves when she wore various figure hugging fishtails in the 1950s. She was the epitome of glamour.
Edith Head, one of my most favourite and inspirational designers is also a fantastic place to look for inspiration. Edith designed some of her pieces with the womanly form in mind. She won many Oscars for costume design for the Hollywood film industry.
So, with an increasing audience looking for vintage, what or where do you start looking for your classic gown?
Romance and femininity should remain in the forefront when looking for The One. Look for full, plain skirts of taffeta, silk or tulle. Strapless gowns are on offer in abundance, but make sure the fabric works the detail rather than the sparkly embellishments.
Christian Dior evening gowns are a fantastic starting point when looking for vintage inspiration. One of my favourite photographers, Cat Hepple, captured the full essence of Dior when she recreated the fabulous set of images included in this article; Vintage inspiration at its paramount.
Article by Wedding Dress Designer Linda Davey
Images Courtesy of Cat Hepple Photography - Photo shoot by The Wedding Affair at Goldsborough Hall
Read more Bridal Wear and Accessories Advice articles
Read other Wedding Advice articles
