Franklin Dean
Many brides-to-be dream of wearing their mother's or grandmother's wedding dress on their big day. However, dresses from the 1980s often feature puffy sleeves, shiny fabric, and other dated features. Luckily, there are many ways to update a vintage wedding dress. Whether it's removing the sleeves, converting it to a strapless style, or adding a corset, a skilled seamstress or dress restoration service can help bring your vision to life.
Explore related products
$82.99
What You'll Learn
Remove puffed sleeves
Removing puffed sleeves from a 1980s wedding dress is a great way to modernise it and make it more comfortable, especially for an outdoor summer wedding.
Firstly, it is important to consider the structure of the dress. If there isn't a lot of structure to the dress, removing the sleeves may be more complicated. A good bridal seamstress will be able to advise on this and guide you through the process.
If the dress has a lot of structure, for example, boning in the bodice, then removing the sleeves is more straightforward. The first step is to turn the dress inside out and carefully remove the sleeves. The next step is to mark the excess fabric to be removed, using the armhole as a guide. Stitch along the marked line and trim off the excess fabric. Then, place the new sleeve into the armhole, with the right sides facing, and stitch it in place. Repeat this process for the other sleeve.
It is worth noting that removing the sleeves will change the overall look and feel of the dress. The seam on the shoulder may need to be straightened, and any scalloping or other details may be lost. However, this can be a positive change, creating a more modern and customised look.
Additionally, there are other alterations that can be made to the dress to update it further. This could include changing the neckline, adding beading, or adjusting the size of the dress to ensure a perfect fit.
Short Dresses at Turkish Weddings: What's the Verdict?
You may want to see also
Explore related products
Add a corset back
Adding a corset back to a wedding dress is a great way to update a 1980s gown, especially if it no longer zips up or needs to accommodate a baby bump. This alteration can add some inches to make the dress fit perfectly, giving flexibility to the sizing of the waist and bust.
Firstly, put on the dress and mark the highest point where it can be comfortably zipped up. Ensure that you can still sit down in it. Then, using a seam ripper, carefully remove the zipper from the top down to the marked spot. Cut the zipper about half an inch above this point, fold over, and sew. You may find it easier to hand sew this part.
Next, determine the number of loops you will need for the corset. Typically, they are spaced about 1 to 1.5 inches apart, depending on the length of the dress opening. You can create the loops with ribbon or use extra fabric from the dress if you plan to hem it. Fold the ribbon in half and pin or clip it in place on the back of the dress. Sew the loops and create the tie.
Finally, add a modesty panel to the left edge of the dress opening, overlapping by about half an inch. Stitch along the corset loops to secure the modesty panel in place. The panel will lay across and stay in place once the corset is laced and tied. Now, your updated wedding dress is ready to be worn and enjoyed!
For further customisation, you can add "lining" to the areas where the corset will go, especially if the dress has delicate fabric on the back. Choose a fabric that matches the dress, and don't forget to iron it out before tracing and cutting the pattern. Sew the lining around the armholes, down the sides, at the waist, and at the neck, ensuring you only sew through the back layer.
The Perfect Can-Can Wedding Dress for Your Special Day
You may want to see also
Explore related products
Make it strapless
If you're looking to modernise an 80s wedding dress and make it strapless, there are a few things to consider. First, you'll need to think about the current structure of the dress and what alterations are needed to achieve the strapless look. This may include removing the sleeves and adding support to the bodice, such as boning or a corset.
One idea is to cut the sleeves completely and create a modified sweetheart neckline that's strapless. You can then use the fabric from the sleeves to create an off-the-shoulder cap sleeve that's "layered" rather than draped. This will give you a modern look while still incorporating the original fabric of the dress.
Another option is to keep the lace overlay of the 80s dress and alter it to create a strapless look with a sweetheart neckline. This will require adding support to the bodice, such as boning, to ensure the dress stays up.
It's important to note that making a dress strapless can be a challenging and costly process, as it requires a lot of "infrastructure" to be built into the bodice. You may want to research well-reviewed professionals who can provide a consultation and give you an idea of the cost and work involved.
Once you've achieved the strapless look, there are many ways to accessorise. You can add layers and dimension with an illusion jacket, tulle bolero jacket, or off-the-shoulder cap sleeves. Statement jewellery, bridal veils, and lace capes can also complement a strapless neckline. To keep a strapless dress in place on your wedding day, consider using double-sided fashion tape along the neckline and where the dress meets your skin.
Enhancing Your Wedding Dress with Beading
You may want to see also
Explore related products
$107.99
Shorten the length
Shortening the length of a wedding dress is a great way to modernise it and make it more wearable for future occasions. This can be done by removing the train or shortening the dress to ankle, midi, or mini length.
If you are considering shortening the length of an 80s wedding dress, it is important to find a skilled seamstress who can advise on what can be done with the dress. Depending on the structure and style of the dress, it may be possible to cut the dress above the knees or shorten it to tea length, which is perfect for a summer or garden wedding.
Before making any alterations, it is recommended to have at least two to three fittings to ensure the dress fits your body perfectly and meets your specifications. The cost of shortening a wedding dress can vary depending on the salon and the complexity of the alterations, ranging from $50 to $225 or more.
Keep in mind that shortening the length of a wedding dress can transform its overall look and feel, making it more suitable for various events. You can style a shortened dress in multiple ways, such as layering it with a roll-neck, jumper, jacket, or blazer. Additionally, consider accessorising with jewellery, scarves, or belts to create different looks and make the dress more versatile.
By shortening the length of an 80s wedding dress, you can not only update its style but also extend its wearability, allowing you to create new memories with it for years to come.
Off-the-Shoulder Princess: A Wedding Dress Dream
You may want to see also
Explore related products
$129.99
$46.99 $49.99
Change the skirt shape
Changing the skirt shape is a great way to modernise an 1980s wedding dress. Here are some ideas to achieve this:
Length
Consider altering the length of the skirt. Shortening the skirt can give it a more modern look and make it more versatile for future wear. You can style a shorter skirt with a silk colourful cami, blouse, or oversized knit for a casual look. However, if you prefer a more formal look, you can keep the skirt floor-length.
Style
You can also change the style of the skirt. For example, you can transform a puffy organza skirt into a sleek crepe skirt, as seen in one modern adaptation of a 1980s gown. Alternatively, you can add a petticoat to emphasise the volume of the skirt, or go for a fit-and-flare/mermaid style. If you want to accentuate your waist, a basque waistline is a great option.
Fabric
Using different fabric for the skirt can also update the look of the dress. For instance, you can use soft Italian crepe fabric or add tulle to the bottom of the skirt to soften the satin.
Shape
If you want to change the silhouette of the dress, consider adjusting the skirt. For example, you can transform a fit-and-flare dress into an A-line shape, although this may be a complex alteration. On the other hand, you can add extra fabric to the skirt to increase the volume and create a dramatic effect.
Detachable Skirt
To make your wedding outfit more versatile, you can separate the skirt and top of the dress. This way, you can mix and match the skirt with other pieces, such as a silk cami or a light knit.
There are many ways to update the skirt of a 1980s wedding dress. These suggestions can help you create a modern and personalised look for your special day.
Mira Zwillinger Wedding Dresses: How Much Do They Cost?
You may want to see also
Frequently asked questions
There are many ways to update a 1980s wedding dress. You could make it strapless, remove the puff sleeves, or use the lace for detached sleeves. You could also reshape or remove any appliqués, or add a plunge neckline.
There are many sources of inspiration for updating a wedding dress. You could look at Instagram reels, Pinterest boards, or blogs for ideas. You could also search for before-and-after pictures of 80s dresses that have been redesigned.
Yes, it is possible to update a 1980s wedding dress to fit your body type. You can work with a seamstress or a company that specialises in updating vintage wedding dresses to create a dress that flatters your body type while preserving the integrity of the original dress.
The cost of updating a vintage wedding dress can vary depending on the amount of work required. On average, vintage wedding dress alterations can range from $495 to $1500 or more.
There are a few options for finding help to update your wedding dress. You can find a local seamstress or tailor who has experience with bridal gowns and can offer suggestions for updating your dress. Alternatively, you can reach out to companies that specialise in updating vintage wedding dresses, such as Ette, The Wedding Dresser, or Unbox the Dress. These companies have experienced teams that can guide you through the process and help bring your vision to life.
