Every modern style of wedding gowns, from sleek sheath silhouettes to trendy tulle ballgowns, were all inspired by hundreds of years of wedding dress styles! Have you ever sat down with your mom, grandma or relative and looked back on some of the old wedding trends? You probably laughed or marveled at the high lace necklines and shoulder pads – but you’d be surprised how many of these fashion statements are making a comeback! Take a look at wedding dress styles throughout the years:
1920’s
We can thank the Roaring Twenties for two super popular wedding styles: beaded gowns and cathedral length veils! Flapper style gowns introduced the drop waist silhouettes and some even showed off the calf, which was considered “daring” for that time period.
Today’s Trend: As mentioned, we can thank this era for giving us gorgeous, glam beading and caplet sleeves, as featured on Martina Liana Style 1713. Inspired by the Art Deco movement of the 1920s, this vintage fit-and-flare dress has a striking geometric lace design accented with elaborate beading, pearls, and sequins. Echo the decade’s veil trend with the volume and length of this gown’s detachable overskirt.
1930’s
The 1930’s brought romantic styles, like high necklines and long sleeves, to life! Silk was a sign of wealth, but if brides couldn’t afford the fabric they would opt for Rayon for a similar effect.
Today’s Trend: The thirties featured figure-skimming silhouettes and silk-like fabrics that basked in sophistication. We can find similar trends in Martina Liana 1646. Sleek, chic and completely unique, this silk satin wedding dress has long gathered sleeves and a tied keyhole back for a subtle statement.
1940’s
Trends didn’t change much between the thirties and forties, so those long-sleeved wedding dresses reigned supreme for years to come! V-necks were introduced as a luxurious new style and brides started wearing corsets as shapewear.
Today’s Trend: The V-neckline and long-sleeved style match Stella York Style 7317. The simple silhouette features intricate lace and layers of tulle for an undeniably romantic look. The bodice’s plunging V-neckline creates a sweetly sexy effect. Fabric-covered buttons at the bottom of the deep-V back bring a timeless bridal touch.
Model: Kamryn Law
1950’s
The 1950’s changed wedding fashion drastically! Extravagant, full skirts and sweetheart necklines started to take off. Shorter veils became more popular as brides opted for grand ballgowns.
Today’s Trend: We still see sweetheart necklines and ballgowns as some of the most popular wedding dress styles! For example, Essense of Australia Style D3314. This classic bridal beauty is adorned with nature-inspired lace from the sweetheart V-neckline to the bottom of the full ballgown skirt. Off-the-shoulder straps and a subtle V back add a little drama to the gown.
Photo: The White Files
1960’s
Styles became much more slim and shorter in the sixties! There was a resurgence of high necklines, but those were balanced out with much shorter hemlines as miniskirts took over the fashion industry.
Today’s Trend: While miniskirt wedding dresses have declined in popularity over the years, the slim style has lived on in the sheath silhouette. The sheath dress features a high halter neckline but is elevated with graphic cut laces and a bold center plunge.
1970’s
Despite a lot of change between the 50’s and 60’s, the 70’s were a nod to nostalgia. Older styles came back to the forefront – like full sleeves, lots of layers and more coverage.
Today’s Trend: Long hemlines and sleeves are so popular in today’s collections.
They evoke a romantic sophistication that draws inspiration from older eras. Love the look of a seventies gown? Try Stella York Style 7291. A V-neckline is the focal point of the gown’s lace bodice and is accented on either side with a slightly-wide neckline that extends into long, illusion-lace sleeves.
Model: Olivia Lee
1980’s
Oh, the eighties! An absolutely iconic era in all things, especially fashion! This decade saw a rise of the “poof” – giant, voluminous gowns and yes, shoulder pads.
Today’s Trend: Brides today still love the breathtaking drama of a stunning ballgown! More is more, with every detail from big hair, cascading bouquets and cathedral length veils. Bring the shimmer with Martina Liana Style 1371, a fairytale masterpiece that demands to be worn by glamorous brides.
Model: Barbie Brignoni
1990’s
The nineties brought us back to slimmer styles and the sheath dress silhouette was all the rage!
Today’s Trend: Where are our minimalistic brides at? You can thank this era for bringing bridal fashion back down to earth with casual wedding styles and way less fabric. If you love a classic sheath gown, check out the All Who Wander Miles gown. A square neckline gives this simple gown an ultra-chic look.
2000’s
Simplicity remained in the 2000’s, with strapless dresses and understated styles taking the lead.
Today’s Trend: Mermaid styles, as well as silk fabrics, are still some of the main features modern brides want for their dream dress. If you love an elegant, 2000’s inspired gown, fall in love with Essense of Australia Style D3340; A pointed neckline frames the face beautifully and is complemented with delicate ruching throughout the bodice.
Model: Josie Bullard
2010’s
Just as brides were forgetting about long sleeve wedding gowns Kate Middleton and Meghan Markle’s royal wedding gowns during this decade brought the style into the spotlight again.
Today’s Trend: For brides inspired by royal wedding fashion, look no farther than Martina Liana Style 1441. The sheer lace long sleeves, semi-sheer bodice, and wide keyhole back offer a formal look for the modern age. The train is a beauty to behold with its scalloped edging and organic finishes.
2020’s
Today’s brides are all about finding the perfect dress to reflect their individual personality. They don’t shy away from shine or sexiness when selecting a trendy gown for their big day.
Today’s Trend: Essense of Australia Style D3939 is an absolute showstopper. With head-to-toe glitter, you’re sure to stand out on your wedding day. Plus, this gown features a corset-inspired bodice that is all the rage right now, with expertly-placed boning throughout the bust and waist.
Which era was your favorite style inspiration? Comment below and see the entire collections by Essense of Australia, Stella York, Martina Liana, and All Who Wander.