Rhiannon Hendricks
The 1970s were a decade of freedom, self-expression, and individuality, and wedding dresses reflected this. From hippie to punk, there was no dominant trend. Brides wore everything from maxi dresses to mini dresses, pantsuits to princess gowns, and prairie dresses to peasant dresses. Wedding dresses in the 1970s were often characterised by high, modest Victorian-inspired necklines, flowing sleeves, and full, detailed trains.
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What You'll Learn
Bell sleeves, capelets, and trains
Wedding dresses in the 1970s were characterised by billowing layers and statement sleeves, with bell sleeves being a notable feature. Bell sleeves were popularised by style icons like Stevie Nicks in the 1970s and remain fashionable today. Bell sleeves can be found on wedding dresses ranging from fashion-forward crop tops to bohemian-inspired gowns. For a subtle take on the trend, opt for gently flared sleeves rather than long, dramatic ones.
Bell sleeves were also a feature of Renaissance-inspired vintage wedding dresses, which remained trendy into the 1970s. These dresses featured high collars and big bell sleeves, with silhouettes that became increasingly billowy, bohemian, and organic. The 1970s also saw a resurgence of high necklines, which had been synonymous with the modesty and femininity of vintage brides.
Capelets were another element of 1970s wedding fashion, embodying the decade's style alongside bell sleeves. A capelet can be paired with a high neckline to evoke a vintage feel. For a modern twist on the 1970s trend, consider a plunging neckline with a capelet, as seen in some contemporary designs.
While trains were not a defining feature of 1970s wedding dresses, they were certainly present. The 1970s saw a mix of clean and corporate styles with flowy, bohemian looks. Some dresses featured gentle trains, adding drama to the romantic silhouette.
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High, mock, and square necklines
Wedding dresses in the 1970s were characterised by their embrace of bohemian elegance, with statement sleeves, bold patterns, and billowing bottoms. Fashion in the '70s celebrated individuality, and this was reflected in the unique styles of wedding dresses during this time.
High Necklines
High necklines were a defining feature of wedding dresses in the 1970s. This trend was influenced by the modesty and femininity of vintage dresses from previous decades. The high-collar silhouette was often paired with flowing sleeves that were tightly fitted at the wrist, creating a dramatic and sophisticated look. Princess Anne's wedding dress is a notable example of the high-neck style.
Mock Necklines
Mock necklines were another popular style in the '70s. This style features a high collar with a lace bodice, balanced with a cascading chiffon skirt. The mock neckline adds a touch of drama and vintage charm to the overall look. For a modern twist, some dresses featured a keyhole cutout in the back.
Square Necklines
Square necklines were also a trend in the 1970s, bringing a fresh take on the traditional wedding gown. Square necklines complemented the low square back, creating a figure-hugging silhouette. This style added a hint of vintage flair to the overall look, making it a unique and memorable choice for brides.
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Lace, floral, and crochet detailing
The 1970s were a time of freedom, self-expression, and individuality, and this was reflected in the wedding dresses of the time. There was no dominant trend, with brides embracing a range of styles, from hippie frocks to fairy-tale princess gowns, pantsuits to punk-influenced dresses, and everything in between.
Lace was a popular choice for 1970s brides, with crochet lace overlays adding a vintage touch and a soft, romantic feel to gowns. Delicate lace detailing and long lace sleeves were also common, as were lace veils, which could be paired with a lace-detailed dress for a bohemian feel.
Floral patterns were also a feature of 1970s wedding dresses, with floral lace and floral embroidery both appearing on gowns. Floral beadwork was also seen on shoes, adding a romantic touch to the overall ensemble.
Crochet was another important element of 1970s wedding dresses, with crochet maxi dresses providing a unique, vintage vibe. Crochet lace was also a feature of some gowns, adding to the overall boho charm of the decade.
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Maxi, mini, and pantsuits
The maxi dress was a popular choice for brides in the 1970s, with its long, flowing silhouette. The decade saw a revival of the 1930s and 1940s silhouettes, with elements of Victorian and Edwardian fashion also making a comeback. Maxi dresses in the 1970s often featured crochet lace overlays, long sleeves, and delicate lace detailing. The prairie dress, with its high neck, puff sleeves, and tiered skirt, was another style of maxi dress that was popular in the 1970s.
The mini dress was also a popular choice for brides in the 1970s, especially for those who wanted something more unique and modern. Mini dresses in the 1970s often featured short skirts, ruffled high necklines, and hemlines, embodying the groovy and fun nature of the decade.
Pantsuits were also a bold statement in the 1970s, with Bianca Jagger famously wearing a white pantsuit to her wedding. The decade saw a shift towards more relaxed and individual styles, with brides embracing the freedom of expression and the free-spirited nature of the time.
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Princess and empire silhouettes
The 1970s were a liberating, free-spirited decade, and this was reflected in the wedding dresses of the time, which were often more relaxed designs. The dresses of this era ranged from hippie frocks to fairy-tale princess gowns, and pantsuits to punk-influenced dresses.
Princess Silhouettes
Princess-style wedding dresses are known for their voluminous skirts, which can help to create an hourglass figure. The skirt smoothly expands from the waistline to the hem, and the bodice may or may not include a corset. Princess-style dresses can be adapted to suit any bride, emphasising the waist and hiding the hips, and they remain a popular choice for brides today.
Empire Silhouettes
For a more minimalist look, empire-waist dresses were also popular in the 1970s. These could be made from satin and paired with a long, lace veil for a bohemian feel.
Common Features
Whether princess or empire silhouette, 1970s wedding dresses often featured billowing sleeves, floral patterns, lace, and high necklines.
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Frequently asked questions
Some famous examples of 1970s wedding dresses include Bianca Jagger's Yves Saint Laurent jacket and silk skirt, Princess Anne's Tudor-style gown, and Farrah Fawcett's voluminous-sleeved bridal gown.
1970s wedding dresses came in a variety of silhouettes, from maxi to mini, and from peasant dresses to princess gowns. Empire waist gowns, A-line silhouettes, and dropped-waist styles were also popular.
Bishop, balloon, and billowing sleeves were all popular in the 1970s. Statement sleeves, including puffed and voluminous styles, were also common.
High, modest Victorian-inspired necklines were popular in the 1970s. Square, mock, and ruffled high necklines were also trendy.
1970s wedding dresses often featured floral embroidery, lace, and crochet lace. Bold patterns, floral prints, and sequins were also common.
