Do you adore the idea of hosting a themed wedding evoking all the glitz and glamour of the Roaring Twenties?
It was the first decade following the end of the World War I, the last decade before the Great Depression, and the long goodbye to the silent film. Both tragically beautiful cinema stars like Gloria Swanson and Rudolph Valentino and the lurid enchantment with crime boss Al Capone’s heists and murders, it was a period of extremes. The silent film itself likely informed the fashions, as the stars had only style and pantomime with which to speak to audiences, so signature looks dominated virtually all fashion for ladies who prided themselves on being up to the latest trends.
If this catches your fancy, read on for some ideas to make your vintage-inspired wedding a day to remember!
Of course, before the wedding comes the engagement, and a pre-set engagement ring inspired by the Art Deco aesthetic of this era is the perfect way to begin your unforgettable journey to the altar. Halo rings are most plentiful in the classic round diamond shape, but this style can be and regularly is adapted for any diamond shape. Some of the most fashionable halo engagement rings created for 1920s brides feature center stones in pear shape and cushion bobbed or cropped for an even more striking look.
The distinct style of the wedding dress is one of the key factors in setting the tone for any themed wedding, and of course brides are free to take any creative license they like, but I’ll share a few pointers to keeping your look more or less historically accurate.
The general shape and cropped of the gown are what will make or break the theme. The dresses of the 20s were kept simple and straight, and wedding gowns were hemmed anywhere from above the knee to just grazing the ankle. One of the most recognizable features of a 1920s dress is the dropped waist, accented by a sash around the hips. This bobbed or cropped is not flattering to all bodies, and it’s generally accepted now to modify the style to attractively fit the bride; mostly, we just recommend you leave the ballgown skirts and cathedral trains off the list.
Also, one must not forget that the men of the day were just as elegant and stylish in their tailored tuxedos, spats, and top hats. The unmistakable lines of Zoot suits worn with boldly colorful, wide ties are a good look for the groom and the gentlemen of the wedding goodtime. Polished wingtip shoes, fedoras over slicked-back hair, and pinstriped garments of all sorts were also hallmarks of twenties men’s fashion.
For wedding favors, place cards can be exhibited in silver cigarette cases, and guests can also take home miniature Model Ts and long faux-pearl strings. Ostrich and peacock feathers make beautiful centerpieces, and if you’re artistic, working in beads and chandelier crystals will create breathtaking results. The flowers at weddings of this decade were large and elaborate; bouquets and centerpieces can include calla lilies, gardenias, and magnolias.
The inspiration and excitement of this time have never been forgotten, and the loveliness of the clothing and accessories, architecture, romantic atmospheres will bring a surprising level of enthusiasm to your wedding and reception!
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