Vintage Inspiration for a Civil Partnership

The term vintage has been with us now for quite some time. To some it conjures up images of birdcages and bunting, tea cups, pearls and afternoon tea on the lawn. To others it’s an all encompassing term covering all things hand crafted. Covering the decades from the 20s to 60s, vintage is constantly moving and evolving but doesn’t mean that everything has to be pastel and homemade.

My vintage inspiration for a civil partnership pays homage to serious art deco glamour and would be perfect for any couple who has a love of 1920's style. Few designers epitomise the sheer unadulterated glamour of the art deco period more than Erté. Born Romain de Tirtoff, this Russian aristocrat was a major force in fashion, theatre design and illustration, and his arrival in Paris in 1912 was to see the start of a career that lasted nearly 80 years.

I love this fabulous illustration by Erté, entitled “Queen of the Night”. To me it would set the style and tone for a seriously glamorous event. Your guests would be left in no doubt that this was going to be an affair to remember!

To start with you need a venue, and where else screams art deco more than the ballroom and foyer of Claridge's hotel? For 80 years these stunning rooms have been welcoming guests in high style.

Next you need an invitation. I love this art deco inspired design from Emily and Jo which would be perfect for a winter celebration.

If you’re going to play the part, then you have to dress the part! Take some serious style inspiration from the times and choose fabulous evening wear to fit the occasion. Think Fred Astaire or Clarke Gable and take to the floor in full evening dress. Find genuine vintage if you can at Savvy Row (a personal favourite of mine) or, try the modern equivalent at Moss Bros.

Article by London Based Wedding Planner Lester Gethings

Images Courtesy of:

Queen of the Night Illustration: Erte

Claridge's: From Flickr by Josh Friedman Luxury Travel

Invitation: Emily and Jo

Evening Wear Illustration: Art Deco Society of California

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