Junior Rasmussen
There is a growing interest in vintage wedding dresses, with many brides-to-be seeking out unique and special dresses for their big day. Vintage wedding dresses are a great way to guarantee a one-of-a-kind look, with the added benefit of often being more cost-effective than modern designer dresses. With vintage dresses dating from the 1910s to the 1990s, there is a wide variety of styles to choose from, whether you're looking for a traditional white dress or something more colourful. For those interested in buying a vintage wedding dress, there are many options available, both online and in-store.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Vintage wedding dress shopping | Online and in-store |
| Vintage wedding dress styles | Victorian, Edwardian, 1910s, 1920s, 1930s, 1940s, 1950s, 1960s, 1970s, 1980s, 1990s |
| Vintage wedding dress shops | Etsy, eBay, Happy Isles, Loversbridal, Decades, Adored Vintage, Stillwhite, Cha Cha Linda, Vionnette, June's Uniquely Yours, Miranda's Vintage Bridal |
| Tips | Get your measurements taken by a tailor before booking an appointment with a vintage dealer, try a variety of styles from different eras |
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What You'll Learn
Online vintage wedding dress shopping
There are many online platforms where you can buy vintage wedding dresses. Etsy, for example, has an entire section dedicated exclusively to vintage gowns for sale, from bohemian-infused '70s dresses to 1930s gowns reminiscent of the Art Deco era. You can also find vintage wedding dresses on eBay. When buying vintage wedding dresses on Etsy or eBay, some recommend opting for cotton rather than silk, as cotton tends to hold up better over time. It is also important to know your bicep measurement, as vintage dresses often have tight upper arms.
Happy Isles is another online shop that sells vintage wedding dresses, as well as contemporary wedding dresses from brands like Lilly Ashwell and Magnetic Midnight. Adored Vintage is a vintage shopping platform that doesn't cater specifically to brides but has a wide collection of bohemian antique frocks from 1910 to the '90s. Stillwhite is the largest global marketplace for pre-owned, used, and second-hand wedding dresses, with over 95,998 wedding gowns for sale. You can find designer gowns or custom-made dresses at a fraction of the retail cost.
If you are looking for a unique vintage dress, veil, and even shoes, a bridal boutique in Chicago with the tagline "curated vintage for the modern bride" might be worth checking out. Costume designer Kristine Engel handpicks the shop's inventory, guaranteeing a distinctive out-of-this-century look from the ''20s to the '80s. June's Uniquely Yours, a family-owned boutique in Cape May, New Jersey, specializes in romantic styles from the Victorian and Edwardian eras. They offer a wide variety of vintage gowns from the 1800s to the 2000s, as well as vintage accessories.
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Vintage wedding dress styles
Vintage wedding dresses are a popular choice for brides today, with many opting for a timeless, one-of-a-kind style that doesn't break the bank. There are various vintage styles to choose from, and they can be found in bridal shops, online, or even in thrift stores.
Vintage wedding dresses from the 1920s feature dropped waistlines and leg-revealing styles, marking a departure from the tight-fitting girdles of the past. This era also saw the rise of knee-length hemlines, a trend that continued into the 1930s, with some dresses also featuring puffed sleeves and lace collars.
The 1950s saw the popularity of tea-length dresses, and the 1960s bride paid more attention to the trends of the time, with mini skirts and scoop necks. The 1970s saw a return to longer hemlines, with bohemian-infused styles, and the 1980s had a mix of vintage and modern elements, with Victorian-inspired caplets and sleeves.
Today, vintage-inspired wedding dresses blend timeless appeal with contemporary flair. Popular elements include Art Deco beading, 1950s silhouettes, and traditional lace. Tea-length dresses are a popular choice for brides seeking a retro look, and vintage-inspired gowns can be found in various styles, from sleek sheath silhouettes to trendy tulle ball gowns.
When shopping for a vintage wedding dress, it's important to consider the condition of the fabric. Cotton dresses, for example, tend to hold up better over time than silk. Additionally, knowing your measurements, especially your bicep size, is crucial when trying on vintage dresses with tight upper arms.
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Buying vintage wedding dresses on Etsy
Vintage wedding dresses are unique, cost-effective, and a great way to incorporate "something old" into your wedding day. Etsy is a great place to find vintage wedding dresses, with countless shops and a vast selection of gowns from various design eras.
Etsy's vintage wedding dress selection includes unique and custom, handmade pieces from independent designers and small businesses around the world. You can find dresses from the 1920s to the 1980s, with a variety of distinctive styles and materials. For example, a chic vintage boho wedding dress from the 1960s might feature crochet-style lace detailing, while a dress from the 1950s might be made of silk or satin for a subtle sheen.
When shopping for a vintage wedding dress on Etsy, keep in mind the condition of the dress. It is normal for vintage clothing to have minor discolouration or tiny snags. Consider buying a dress one size larger so that you can easily alter it to fit your body. You can also use specific search filters on Etsy to find your dream dress, such as colour, silhouette, and theme.
Some popular vintage wedding dress shops on Etsy include Mirandasbridal, Sweet Caroline Styles, Luna Bride, Wilderness Brides, Cathy Telle, and Love Spell Design. These shops offer a range of styles, from boho to vintage lace, and custom-made gowns, with price ranges to suit different budgets.
With Etsy, you can find a vintage wedding dress that is not only unique and affordable but also environmentally conscious, as you give a pre-loved dress a new lease of life.
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Buying vintage wedding dresses on eBay
Vintage wedding dresses are a great option for brides-to-be who want to expand their search beyond the contemporary bridal market. Whether you're looking for a unique, one-of-a-kind style or a cost-effective option, buying vintage is a great way to find your dream dress without blowing your budget.
EBay is one of the many online platforms where you can purchase vintage wedding dresses. When buying vintage, it's important to consider the fabric and condition of the dress. A Reddit user recommends going for cotton over silk when buying vintage wedding dresses on eBay, as cotton tends to hold up better over time. It's also a good idea to know your measurements, as vintage dresses often have very different sizing compared to modern clothing.
On eBay, you can filter your search for vintage wedding dresses by size, colour, brand, condition, and price. You can also choose between buying a dress through an auction or purchasing it directly from the seller. It's important to carefully read the listing details and inspect the photos to ensure you know exactly what you're getting.
When buying a vintage wedding dress on eBay, or any other online platform, it's crucial to do your research and only purchase from reputable sellers. Read reviews, ask questions, and be cautious of deals that seem too good to be true. It's also a good idea to familiarise yourself with the platform's buyer protection policies, so you know what recourse you have in case something goes wrong.
In addition to eBay, there are several other online and brick-and-mortar stores that specialise in vintage wedding dresses. These include Etsy, Happy Isles, Adored Vintage, Decades, and various boutiques in Chicago, Los Angeles, New York, and New Jersey.
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In-store vintage wedding dress shopping
Before you start shopping, it's important to get your measurements taken by a tailor. Vintage clothing often has unique sizing, and knowing your measurements will help you find a dress that fits well. It's also a good idea to ask the shop if they work with a specific tailor for customizations or dress alterations, as most shop owners have a go-to seamstress who is familiar with vintage garments.
When shopping in-store, take the time to inspect the quality of the fabric and the construction of the dress. Ask the seller about the dress's size, condition, and dating. Don't be afraid to ask questions about fit, condition, and wearability, and be sure to confirm the return policy, as many vintage wedding dress sales are final.
- Happy Isles (L.A.-based)
- Decades (L.A.-based)
- Madly Vintage (Venice, CA-based)
- Vionnette (Atlanta-based)
- June's Uniquely Yours (Cape May, New Jersey-based)
- Cha Cha Linda (Brooklyn-based)
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Frequently asked questions
You can find vintage wedding dresses on Etsy, eBay, Stillwhite, Happy Isles, and Mirandasbridal.
Yes, there are several vintage bridal boutiques in Atlanta, Brooklyn, Chicago, Cleveland, and Los Angeles.
Buying a vintage wedding dress is a great way to find a unique and cost-effective bridal gown. It also ensures that no other bride will be wearing the same dress as you. Additionally, vintage dresses can be your ""something old" on your wedding day.
It is important to get your measurements taken by a tailor before booking an appointment with a vintage dealer. Vintage sizing differs from modern sizing and was not standardized throughout the years. It is also recommended to try on a variety of styles from different eras to find what suits your body type and vision for your wedding day.
Yes, you can sell your vintage wedding dress after your wedding on platforms such as Stillwhite. This allows you to recoup most of your money and provide another bride with a unique and special dress for their wedding.
