Dreaming of a Wedding Straight Out of Old Hollywood? A 1950s Wedding Dress Might Be Perfect for You!
The 1950s are synonymous with feminine silhouettes, pure elegance, and romantic details. No wonder vintage-inspired wedding dresses from this era continue to captivate us! Whether you’re a nostalgia lover or a vintage fashion enthusiast, a 1950s-style wedding dress is a stunning choice for your special day. I can say that with confidence—I wore one myself for my wedding! 😉
Key Features of a 1950s Wedding Dress
Bridal fashion in the 50s was characterized by its emphatically feminine silhouette. Typical features are:
- Fitted bodice & flared skirt: The iconic tea-length dress (a mid-calf-length gown with a voluminous skirt) was hugely popular. This silhouette flatters most body types and guarantees a show-stopping entrance.
- Sweetheart or bateau neckline: These necklines elegantly highlight the décolletage while remaining modest—perfect for church weddings.
- Luxurious fabrics: Tulle, lace, and satin were the materials of choice, creating a dreamy, romantic look.
- Veil or fascinator: Brides in the 50s often wore elegant fascinators or delicate birdcage veils—a short, netted veil that covers the eyes. Longer veils were also a favorite choice for grand weddings.
Iconic 1950s Wedding Dresses
Some of the most unforgettable wedding dresses of the 1950s were worn by fashion icons whose styles continue to inspire brides today:
- Grace Kelly (1956): Her lace and silk gown with a long train, designed by Helen Rose, remains one of the most admired wedding dresses of all time.
- Audrey Hepburn (1954): For her wedding to Mel Ferrer, Audrey wore a simple yet elegant tea-length dress with puffed sleeves by Pierre Balmain. Later, in 1969, she opted for a short pink Givenchy dress. Her famous Funny Face (1957) wedding dress, designed by Givenchy, was even the inspiration for my own gown!
- Jackie Kennedy (1953): Designed by Ann Lowe, her voluminous gown with a long lace veil is a true vintage dream and still serves as inspiration for many modern wedding dresses.
- Elizabeth Taylor (1950): Her satin wedding gown, featuring a cinched bodice and full skirt, set a trend for brides of the era.
Which Dress Suits Which Wedding?
50s wedding dresses come in a wide variety of styles.
Perfect for a Civil Ceremony: 1950s-Style Pencil Dresses
A white pencil dress in a 1950s cut is an excellent choice for small civil weddings and budget-conscious brides. Bonus: a sleek, white pencil dress can be restyled for other occasions after the wedding!
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Elegant Tea-Length Dresses for Church & Outdoor Weddings
A tea-length dress is a versatile option that suits both grand and intimate ceremonies. It’s also great for outdoor weddings—since it doesn’t drag on the ground, it stays cleaner throughout the day.
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Hollywood Glamour: Long, Voluminous Gowns for Grand Celebrations
Channel Grace Kelly, Jackie Kennedy, or Elizabeth Taylor with a long, voluminous 1950s wedding gown featuring lace or tulle. Paired with a cathedral-length veil, this look is perfect for an extravagant celebration.
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Who Should Wear a 1950s Wedding Dress?
1950s-style wedding dresses are ideal for vintage fashion lovers, but they can also appeal to modern brides who want a unique and more practical gown:
- Tea-length gowns are a great choice for civil weddings if you plan to have a larger religious or symbolic ceremony later.
- Some of the most beautiful wedding dresses in history come from the 1950s, making them perfect for brides looking for a distinctive, elegant style.
- Mid-length dresses are practical! If you’re worried about a floor-length gown dragging or making stairs difficult, a shorter 50s-style dress is a great solution.
Where to Buy a 1950s-Style Wedding Dress
Whether you want a genuine vintage piece or a modern interpretation, there are plenty of options to find your dream dress:
- Vintage Boutiques & Second-Hand Shops: Find authentic 1950s dresses on platforms like Etsy* and Ebay*, though availability can be limited.
- Retro Labels & Designers: Brands like TopVintage*, Frozen Hibiscus (e.g. via Etsy*), Vivien of Holloway, Dolly Couture, and Lindy Bop offer affordable 50s-inspired wedding dresses. At Son de Flor* you will find lovely linen wedding dresses with a vintage flair.
- Custom-Made Dresses: Some tailors specialize in made-to-measure retro wedding gowns. My dress was a custom design by Ginger Jackie (now called Alizarine), and I highly recommend them!
- Luxury Online Stores: If you’re looking for high-end Hollywood glamour, luxury retailers like Mytheresa* offer elegant, vintage-inspired wedding dresses with a modern twist.
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Styling Tips for the Perfect 1950s Bridal Look
A dress alone doesn’t complete a vintage look—accessories are just as important:
- Hair & Makeup: Classic curls, a chic chignon, or an elegant bun paired with a birdcage veil or fascinator complete the 50s aesthetic. Red lips and a cat-eye eyeliner add the finishing touch.
- Seamed Stockings: These add a beautifully authentic touch, especially with a tea-length dress. Find out where to shop fully fashioned nylons here.
- Bouquet of flowers: Soft-colored flowers like roses, peonies, or lilies complement the nostalgic vibe.
- Gloves & Kitten Heels: Elegant gloves and kitten heels (pumps with a max 5 cm heel) are perfect for achieving the ultimate vintage bridal look. Tip: you will also find some lovely and affordable bridal accessories at TopVintage*.
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Final Thoughts: Timeless Elegance with a Touch of Old Hollywood Glamour
1950s wedding dresses combine timeless elegance with playful vintage charm and Old Hollywood glamour. Whether you go for an authentic vintage piece or a modern adaptation, this look guarantees a stylish and unforgettable wedding day!
FAQs About 1950s Wedding Dresses
1. Can I Style a 1950s Wedding Dress in a Modern Way?
Absolutely! If a full retro look feels too “costume-like,” here are some ways to modernize it:
- Opt for a minimalist tea-length dress with minimal lace or tulle.
- Pair it with contemporary accessories, like a sleek hair clip instead of a fascinator.
- Choose modern shoes like pumps or even stylish sandals instead of retro kitten heels.
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2. What’s the Best Lingerie for a 1950s Wedding Dress?
Many 50s dresses have a tight waist – the right underwear creates a beautiful silhouette:
- Longline bras & high-waist shapewear enhance the classic hourglass shape.
- Balconette bras suit the signature necklines perfectly. If you like it very authentic, choose a vintage-inspired bra, e.g. from What Katie Did*.
- Seamless nude-toned underwear is ideal under white fabrics.
3. What Jacket or Cover-Up Matches a 1950s Wedding Dress?
If you need a stylish cover-up for cooler weather or a more modest look, consider these options:
- Bolero, cape, or stole: Perfect for an authentic vintage touch.
- Short cardigan: Works well for a civil wedding, especially with a simple retro dress.
- Elegant blazer: A fitted blazer gives the look a modern twist.
- White faux fur jacket: A glamorous winter option for a vintage bridal look.
- Chic coat: A white, tailored coat complements a mid-length wedding dress beautifully—elegant, warm, and timeless.
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4. How Do I Prevent My Petticoat from Being Too Bulky or Scratchy?
A petticoat adds volume but can sometimes feel too puffy. Here’s how to avoid that:
- Choose the right length: It should be about 5 cm shorter than your dress.
- Opt for single-layer petticoats if you want less volume.
- Invest in quality: High-quality, soft tulle prevents discomfort and excessive bulk.
5. Can I Alter a Genuine Vintage Wedding Dress?
Yes, but be cautious—many original 1950s dresses are made from delicate fabrics. Consider:
- Finding an experienced tailor who specializes in vintage clothing.
- Checking seam allowances before purchasing to ensure alterations are possible.
- Professional cleaning for stains or discoloration, though some fabrics may not fully brighten.
6. How Can I Ensure an Online Wedding Dress Matches My Expectations?
When shopping online, keep these tips in mind:
- Look for customer photos, not just product images.
- Compare your measurements carefully with the size chart.
- Check return policies in case the fit isn’t right.
- Order fabric samples if available to assess quality.
7. Can I Wear My 1950s Wedding Dress After the Wedding?
Of course that depends somewhat on your dress, but basically yes! Especially if you choose a simple pencil dress with a 50s look, you can also style it for other occasions. Particularly harsh contrasts such as a dark waist belt take away the “wedding look” from a white dress. Please see this blog post on the subject.
