Retro is making a big comeback on the wedding scene for 2024 and 2025 couples looking to incorporate class from the past into their wedding day.
A modern vintage wedding doesn’t need to be all burlap and birdcages, in fact there are lots of ways you can pop an elegant and timeless spin on this trend to ensure a wedding day that never goes out of style.
Deciding to choose a vintage-themed wedding opens doors to an array of captivating styles, from the historic allure of 1920s Hollywood glam to the rustic charm of the countryside and the refined romance of elegant eras. Whether you’re drawn to the playful festivities of a backyard wedding with lawn games and vintage soda bottles or captivated by the simplicity of contemporary weddings, there’s an undeniable enchantment in bringing vintage vibes to life.
Couples who are drawn to the clean lines of modern weddings, often find themselves irresistibly drawn to the timeless allure of vintage. From the plethora of styles and decades available to the unique charm each era brings.
If you are thinking of planning your own vintage wedding, delve on into your favourite time period for inspiration – be it the roaring ’20s, the glamorous Hollywood scene of the ’50s, or the free-spirited boho vibes of the ’60s. The choices are limitless, drawing from the romantic Victorian era, the vibrant hues of the Impressionist periods, or the opulent grandeur of the Renaissance.
Regardless of the historical moment you choose, transforming your wedding into a vintage masterpiece is a seamless process. Start with your venue – opt for one with captivating architecture that serves as a picturesque backdrop for your photography. Elevate the atmosphere and decor with antique and vintage furniture, lending an authentic touch to your reception decor.
Choosing the Perfect Vintage Venue
Selecting a wedding venue stands as the primary and essential decision for any soon-to-be- nearlywed setting the tone for the entire planning process. Once the venue is secured, all of the other decisions can fall into place effortlessly. In the realm of a classic vintage-themed wedding, the choice of venue becomes even more crucial, demanding a transportation to your chosen era.
An ideal venue for a vintage affair could include exposed bricks, high-vaulted ceilings, circular beams, a dramatic entrance, or a grand staircase – and if you’re fortunate enough to find a piano, consider it a stroke of luck! These elements not only enhance the aesthetic appeal of your vintage-themed celebration but also offer boundless opportunities for your wedding photographers to capture timeless moments.
Vintage-Inspired Wedding Attire
Vintage-inspired wedding looks offer a cool mix of old-school charm but bought bang up to date making them a hit with couples wanting to add some retro flair to their big day. We are already seeing lots iconic looks inspired from times gone by on the catwalks at fashion week and the bridal industry is no different.
Whether you channel iconic figures like Audrey Hepburn or Marilyn Monroe whose style still wows us today, or take your inspiration from more recent decades like the 80s or 90s.
There’s also the resurgence of vintage eclectic looks, thanks to shows like Peaky Blinders, inspiring couples to mix old-school with a bit of edgy flair. igniting a resurgence of vintage-inspired glamour and gritty elegance. Drawing from the opulence of the Jazz Age, bridal designers have embraced the era’s iconic elements, such as intricate beading, fringe detailing, and luxurious fabrics, to create stunning wedding gowns that evoke the spirit of the 1920s.
From flapper-style dresses adorned with Art Deco motifs to sleek silhouettes that exude the effortless allure of a bygone era, brides are embracing the drama and sophistication of this timeless period. Furthermore, the gritty aesthetic of Peaky Blinders has influenced groom’s fashion, inspiring tailored suits with bold pinstripes, tweed fabrics, and peaked lapels, perfectly capturing the rugged yet refined style of the show’s characters. Together, the glamour of the 1920s and the raw allure of Peaky Blinders have sparked a bridal fashion revolution, offering couples the chance to celebrate their love in true vintage-inspired style.
The golden age of Hollywood glamour, embodied by iconic figures like Marilyn Monroe and Audrey Hepburn, continues to captivate and inspire modern bridal fashion today. Drawing from the timeless elegance and effortless allure of these legendary stars, contemporary brides are embracing the luxurious fabrics, figure-flattering silhouettes, and intricate detailing reminiscent of this bygone era. From Monroe’s sultry curves to Hepburn’s sophisticated grace, bridal designers continue to channel their iconic styles with dresses featuring plunging necklines, form-fitting bodices, and voluminous skirts, offering brides the chance to embody the essence of old Hollywood romance on their special day.
Accessories play a key role in capturing the glamour of this era, with sparkling jewels, delicate veils, and statement headpieces adding the perfect finishing touches.
The vibrant and eclectic fashion of the 80s and 90s, epitomised by iconic TV characters like Rachel from Friends and other influential figures of the era, continues to influence and invigorate modern bridal fashion.
Brides today who are looking for a more retro look are drawn to the bold silhouettes, vibrant colours, and playful details that defined this period, seeking to infuse their wedding day with a sense of nostalgia and individuality. Rachel’s timeless wedding look from Friends, with its sleek silhouette and minimalist elegance, remains a source of inspiration for modern brides who appreciate understated sophistication.
Meanwhile, the extravagant wedding dresses worn by celebrities like Princess Diana and Sarah Jessica Parker in the 90s have sparked a renewed interest in dramatic ball gowns and ornate detailing. From voluminous sleeves to daring necklines and unexpected pops of colour, brides who wish to embrace the spirit of the 80s and 90s are seeking modern designs that have these unexpected elements.
By incorporating features such as statement sleeves, bold accessories, and unconventional fabrics, modern you can pay homage to the fashion-forward sensibility of this era while creating a wedding look that feels fresh, stylish, and distinctly their own.
Vintage Decor and Floral Designs
When striving for a wedding that stands out and remains eternally stylish, your colour scheme becomes a pivotal factor.
Choose timeless hues that never fade from the spotlight. Common tones for classic vintage-inspired weddings include burgundy, gold, black, peach, ivory, and blush. You could also choose pastels and ethereal tones. Feel free to experiment with multiple main colours. For a contemporary touch, consider incorporating additional colour tones, offering a modern twist to the classic, old-fashioned aesthetic.
It’s your wedding day, your chosen colour palette – make it memorable and uniquely yours!
Selecting the right florals is a pivotal aspect of crafting an authentic vintage-themed wedding. The choice of flowers not only shapes the overall aesthetic but also establishes the ambiance of your special day. While roses are the classic choice for a perfect vintage-themed wedding, don’t shy away from experimenting with other blooms. Consider incorporating peonies or daisies into your bridal bouquet and various wedding decorations to add a unique touch.
For an authentic vintage vibe, steer away from poppy and bright colours, opting instead for dark and nude tones like blush, ivory, and burgundy. These subdued hues bring an undeniable vintage charm to your wedding day. Explore the art of combining different colours for a more diverse and distinctive floral arrangement that complements your chosen historic era.
Embracing the retro theme through vintage wedding flowers offers a huge array of possibilities. From bouquets abundant with roses to subtle aisle decor blooms and even artificial arrangements, this trend caters to laidback couples seeking an effortlessly chic look. The versatility of vintage wedding flowers makes them suitable for all couples, even those not fully committed to a vintage-themed wedding.
The concept of vintage varies among couples, allowing for diverse interpretations. Whether it’s an eclectic mix of beautiful crockery and tableware harmonizing with luxurious flowers or a more simplistic colour palette with elegant undertones, vintage wedding flowers effortlessly adapt to different styles.
Nostalgic Entertainment and Music
Bands and Musicians
Hire musicians that can recreate the sounds of the era. A swing band for a 1920s wedding, a big band for a 1940s theme, or even a quartet playing classical music can set the right tone for your celebration.
Vintage Entertainment
Consider entertainment options that offer a modern twist on past favourites. A silent disco, where guests dance to music through wireless headphones, adds a contemporary spin to the classic dance party.
Alternatively, set up a photo booth with vintage-inspired props and filters, allowing guests to capture fun and memorable moments in a nostalgic style. For a touch of retro charm, hire a live band specializing in covers of hit songs from past decades, creating a lively atmosphere that appeals to guests of all ages.
Another option is to host a themed trivia game or karaoke session featuring songs and pop culture references from different eras, encouraging friendly competition and interactive entertainment. By blending elements of the past with modern innovation, you can offer guests a unique and engaging experience that celebrates both nostalgia and contemporary trends, ensuring a wedding celebration that is truly unforgettable.
A vintage wedding is a beautiful way to celebrate your love story, surrounded by the elegance and charm of a different era. By incorporating these detailed ideas, you can create an enchanting atmosphere that transports you and your guests back in time, making your special day truly unforgettable.
To find out how we can match your wedding film to your wedding theme, contact us using the form below!
