Finding the Perfect Vintage Bridal Dress
I've noticed a trend that I am absolutely in love with! More and more couples are integrating vintage items into their weddings, from the popular heart-shaped cakes we see all over social media to timeless film photography and videography, and even vintage bridal dresses.
Vintage bridal dresses are a great way to pay homage to bygone eras, showcase your personal style, and add a hint of vintage to your wedding day—but in a big way! As a fan of the past, I am here for it!
I’m Ronise, a wedding photographer and a bit of an old soul. I have photographed several couples that incorporated a part of the past into their ceremony. I myself dream of adding some of these vintage touches to my own wedding someday.
If, like me, you imagine yourself walking down the aisle while wearing the echoes of a different era but are not sure how to go about it yet, then keep reading.
Here, we’ll discover:
What qualifies as a vintage bridal dress?
Where to find the perfect vintage dridal dress online.
How to wear a modern wedding dress with a vintage touch.
What to look for in a timeless style if you choose not to go all out vintage.
What qualifies as a Vintage Bridal Dress?
Cambridge dictionary describes vintage as “produced in the past, and typical of the period in which it was made.” This correct yet vague definition does leave some room for interpretation. Various experts define vintage as a minimum of 20 years ago, although opinions differ, with some suggesting a threshold of at least 30 years.
Me, I go by the one cardinal rule: if it looks and feels vintage to me, then it is. It’s all-encompassing—anything from decades past that inspires you, resonates with your style, and makes you feel like you have been transported in time.
Where to Find the Perfect Vintage Bridal Dress Online.
There are several online stores where brides can find the best vintage bridal dresses and accessories. Here are my top 3.
Etsy: A one-stop-shop.
Etsy is a marketplace that connects individuals worldwide who seek to buy and sell distinctive handmade items. Its reputation is built on being a primary hub for handmade crafts, essential supplies for do-it-yourself projects, and vintage treasures, and yes, that includes vintage bridal dresses.
Whether you are searching for a liquid satin dress with a vintage 1930s bias cut or a 1970s white lace wedding gown, Etsy's diverse collection caters to every era.
While searching for the perfect vintage bridal dress, take a moment to explore additional wedding essentials like decor, bridal party gifts, and invitations. You can find almost everything under the sun on Etsy.
June Bridal: Affordability meets quality.
June Bridal is a global online fashion destination with a mission to provide a mix of quality, service, and value. They aim to give people the freedom to choose their own style at any time, revealing their unique beauty and personality through their beautiful dresses. Best of all, their dresses range from under $100 to $250. Talk about jaw-dropping prices.
As I explore the website, I notice beautiful vintage wedding dresses. From a 1950’s short wedding dress to a 1990s vintage puff sleeve lace tool dress.
However, June Bridals offers more than just wedding dresses; you can discover dresses for the entire wedding journey, including the wedding party and the rehearsal dinner.
I found a romantic off-the-shoulder satin dress here last year for a wedding I attended, and it was a show-stopper (not more so than the bride’s dress, of course).
Nearly NewlyWed: Sell or buy vintage bridal dresses.
Nearly Newlywed stands as a specialized online boutique dedicated to brides-to-be and newlyweds, offering an exclusive white-glove concierge service. Sell or buy, new, pre-owned, or sample wedding dresses with a risk-free 5-day return policy.
I recommend using the filtering tool to easily identify “vintage” bridal dresses. Their inventory ranges from vintage Vera Wang to modern dresses inspired by vintage styles. This is all, of course, based on what newlyweds are selling. So, the inventory will change from day to day.
Modern wedding dresses with a touch of vintage.
Going all out vintage may not be 100% your style. Then perhaps adding a hint of vintage or vintage-like style accessories to your wedding attire may be the best way to go. Here are some tips to do that.
Add a vintage veil.
Birdcage Veil
Consider pairing a vintage veil with a modern wedding dress. Achieving a vintage look with a veil should be simple. Veils are inherently traditional, and their style hasn’t changed too drastically over the years.
Whether you prefer classic lace or romantic tulle, there are numerous options available for you to choose from. My favorite vintage-style veils are birdcage veils and mantilla veils. They are truly iconic.
Add detachable sleeves.
Portraits featuring puff sleeves can be traced back as early as the 15th century. During the Renaissance, detachable sleeves were a common feature, and it was customary for young women to receive pin-on puff sleeves as a wedding gift from their betrothed.
When Audrey Hepburn married American actor and director Mel Ferrer in 1954, she wore a sleek and timeless dress by Pierre Balmain. This became one of the most iconic and influential wedding dresses of all time. The dress featured a high-neck collar, elbow-length gloves, and, you guessed it, ball gown sleeves.
Ball gown or puff sleeves is one of history’s biggest trends and a huge favorite of mine! They create a romantic allure and gorgeous movement in photos. Next to the veil, it is one of my favorite accessories.
Go for the Timeless Bridal Dress!
For the bride that does not want to wear a completely vintage dress, add the allure of vintage with a timeless dress. After all, you want to be able to look back 25 years from now and still love it!
When it comes to choosing a timeless wedding dress, just remember, less is more. Avoid excessive accessories such as jewelry and design features like sparkles. To keep it classic and elegant, stay a bit more on the minimalist side.
There are also certain silhouettes that will always remain classic and timeless. Ball gowns, mermaid silhouettes, and sheath silhouettes are always my go-to favorites.
Ready, Set, Glow Girl!
Now that you are armed with everything vintage bridal dress, finding the perfect dress should be a piece of cake. Go and find the dress that makes you feel like a million bucks!