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The 1950s wedding dress is a vintage style that has stood the test of time, with many brides today still opting for a 50s-inspired look. The era's bridal gowns are known for their delicate silhouettes, sumptuous fabrics, and elaborate embellishments. Brides-to-be in the 50s looked to Hollywood stars for fashion inspiration, with iconic dresses from the likes of Grace Kelly, Audrey Hepburn, and Jacqueline Bouvier. The classic 50s wedding dress features a fitted bodice, a flared skirt, and a high waist, with popular fabrics including satin, taffeta, and lace. Tea-length dresses were also common, offering a more informal look, while shorter veils that hit the shoulder or waist became popular in the late 50s.
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Tea-length dresses
There are many options available for tea-length dresses inspired by the 1950s. For example, ieie Bridal offers a vintage-inspired lace tea-length dress with cap sleeves, boning and bra paddings in the bodice, and a corset lace-up back. The length of the dress is approximately 42 inches, and it takes around 10-12 weeks to make.
Dig for Victory Clothing offers a range of 1950s-inspired tea-length wedding dresses, including one made from sparkling sequin lace over Champagne Silk Dupion, with blue tulle shoulder straps. They also offer a dress with their new "Bettina" neckline, made from Champagne Silk Dupion and tulle.
June Bridals also has a selection of tea-length wedding dresses that fit the 1950s aesthetic. One dress features a V-neck bodice and is made from lace with lilac and coral blooms. Another option is a dress made from lace with blue poppies and white and gold daisies.
Additionally, JJ's House offers tea-length wedding dresses, and they provide a home try-on option for a small fee. Azazie also has tea-length dresses available through their home try-on program.
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Sweetheart necklines
The 1950s saw brides taking inspiration from high fashion and Hollywood stars, with the wedding dress being the most expensive gown a bride could afford. The classic 1950s wedding dress silhouette featured a sweetheart neckline, a small waist, and a full skirt.
A sweetheart neckline is shaped like the top half of a heart, with two curves over the bust that meet at a point in the centre. Sweetheart necklines are often paired with strapless designs but can also be found with straps or sleeves. This style is considered timeless and romantic, with a softer and dreamier appeal than a V-neckline. It is also versatile, flattering, and feminine, accentuating the bust and elongating the neck.
For a 1950s-inspired sweetheart neckline wedding dress, consider the following:
- Style 1679 by True Society is a luxurious silk zibeline dress with beaded floral lace, a figure-flattering boned bodice, and a sweetheart neckline. It also features detachable off-the-shoulder long sleeves adorned with sparkling 3D florals.
- Style D3992 by True Society is a strapless, lace, fit-and-flare wedding dress with a plunging sweetheart neckline and brilliant embellishments.
- Style 7817 by True Society offers a modern twist on the classic ballgown, with beaded spaghetti straps, a figure-hugging corset-inspired bodice, and a refined sweetheart neckline.
- Style LE1312 by True Society is a strapless princess ballgown with a sparkling, pearl-adorned sweetheart neckline and a corset-style bustier bodice.
- Brighton Belle by True Bride offers a tea-length vintage 1950s-style wedding dress with sleeves and a sweetheart neckline.
- Etsy sellers such as Suzanna offer custom 1950s-style wedding dresses with alterations, such as matte cream lace and pale yellow lining.
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Ballgowns
The 1950s ballgown wedding dress is a classic, elegant choice. The full princess-cut ballgown was in vogue during this decade, with voluminous skirts made from luxurious fabrics such as silk, satin, chiffon, or tulle, often layered over large petticoats. This style is reminiscent of ballerina fashion, creating a romantic and ethereal silhouette.
When creating a 1950s-inspired ballgown wedding dress, the choice of fabric is key. Silk, satin, and tulle are all suitable options to capture the essence of the era. The fabric should be high-quality and preferably in a solid colour, with ivory white being a popular choice. However, some brides may prefer pastel shades or bolder colours such as scarlet red or gold.
The neckline of the dress is also an important consideration. A sweetheart neckline or a V-neckline can be flattering and typical of the era. Off-the-shoulder styles were also popular in the 1950s, adding a touch of romance and elegance to the overall look. For a more unique and modern twist, a high neckline or an asymmetrical cut could be explored.
The skirt of the ballgown is the focal point, so it should be designed to be full and voluminous. Multiple layers of fabric or tulle can be used to create this effect, with each layer helping to add structure and movement to the skirt. A petticoat or hoop skirt can also be utilised to enhance the shape and provide the necessary support for the heavy fabric.
To complete the look, the bodice of the dress should be fitted and structured. Boning or corset-style lacing can be incorporated to achieve this, ensuring the dress flatters the wearer's figure. Finally, consider adding some period-appropriate details such as ruffles, bows, or rhinestone embellishments to capture the glamour and charm of the 1950s.
Creating a 1950s-inspired ballgown wedding dress is a timeless choice that combines vintage elegance with modern trends. With careful consideration of fabric, silhouette, and detailing, the final result will be a dream dress that any bride would adore.
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Tulle and lace
For a more unique look, some 1950s brides chose short tea-length dresses. These could feature a high neck mandarin collar, long illusion sleeves, and a keyhole back. The skirt could be made from layers of tulle, with a satin or silk underskirt for added volume.
Lace was often used as an accent fabric, with intricate lace detailing on the bodice, sleeves, and skirt. A lace trim could also be added to the neckline, sleeves, and hem of the dress. For an even more dramatic look, a voluminous train could be created using pickups of tulle fabric accented with lace appliqué.
When creating a 1950s-style wedding dress, it's important to consider the accessories as well. A shoulder-to-waist-length veil made from tulle or lace was popular, especially for brides who wanted to echo the big ballgown skirts of the era. Short, wrist-length gloves in satin, lace, or tulle were also a common accessory, adding an elegant touch to the overall ensemble.
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Floor-length gowns
The 1950s wedding dress is a vision of timeless elegance, sophistication, and glamour. If you're opting for a floor-length gown, here are some key considerations to keep in mind:
Silhouette and Structure
The classic 1950s silhouette is characterised by a focus on the waist, creating a stunning hourglass shape. To achieve this, look for a dress with a structured bodice that nips in at the waist and falls into a full skirt. This style is often referred to as a princess or ballgown silhouette and is perfect for capturing the glamour and elegance of the era.
Necklines and Sleeves
A sweetheart neckline was a popular choice for 1950s wedding dresses, complementing the small waist and full skirt. For a floor-length gown, consider a style with short sleeves or long sleeves. Short sleeves can be paired with elegant gloves, such as over-the-elbow or at-elbow doeskin white gloves, or wrist-length gloves in satin, lace, or tulle.
Fabrics and Embellishments
The fabrics of the era played a significant role in shaping the overall look of the dress. Ribbed silks and Duchesse satins were commonly used, providing a smooth and shiny finish. Lace was also a popular fabric choice, either for the top half of the dress or the full gown. Handmade lace was considered a luxurious option, while machine-made lace offered an affordable alternative. Beadwork and soft laces can add a touch of sophistication and glamour to your floor-length gown.
Accessories
Complete your look with accessories that complement the style of your dress. If you're wearing a floor-length gown, consider a shoulder-to-waist-length tulle veil, which creates a beautiful, elegant silhouette. For shoes, simplicity is key—opt for a pair that complements your dress without detracting from it. Nude stockings with nude seams were also popular for a seamless look.
Customisation
Whether you're opting for a custom-made dress or customising a vintage find, there are endless ways to make your floor-length 1950s wedding dress unique. From choosing the perfect fabric and embellishments to tailoring the silhouette to your personal style, don't be afraid to make your vision a reality.
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Frequently asked questions
Bridal gowns in the 1950s were typically floor-length and made from expensive materials such as satin, taffeta, lace, chiffon, and tulle. They usually featured a tight bodice, a flared skirt, and a high waist. Sweetheart, bateau, and off-the-shoulder necklines were also popular.
You can find inspiration from iconic 1950s Hollywood films and celebrities, such as Grace Kelly in "High Society" (1956), Bridgette Bardot in "And God Created Woman", Audrey Hepburn, Jackie Kennedy, Lucille Ball, and Sophia Lauren in "Black Orchid" (1958). You can also look at Etsy or Chic Vintage Brides for inspiration and places to purchase a 1950s wedding dress.
Queen Elizabeth II's wedding dress from 1947 is one of the most iconic bridal gowns of the era. Jacqueline Bouvier Kennedy's wedding dress from 1953 is another famous example.
To add a modern twist to your 1950s wedding dress, consider incorporating design details from the era, such as sweetheart or bateau necklines, broderie anglaise, bows, and floral prints, but combine them with more modern elements like off-shoulder sleeves, plunging necklines, and floral prints. You can also add your own unique touches by purchasing a custom-made dress from a seller on Etsy.
