Vintage fashions have never been hotter, with many stylish starlets stepping out on the red carpet in gorgeous gowns from previous decades. Indeed, if you’re looking for a one-of-a-kind dress for the big day, why not consider something old? If your mother or grandmother’s dress is still in good condition, you could have it altered to suit your style. And, of course, you can always hit the vintage boutiques and flea markets in your area in search of your perfect gown. Keep reading to find out more about our favourite fashion decades, and discover which era is best suited to your personality and body type.
Decade: 1920s
Signature Look: The roaring ’20s marked the dawn of flapper fashions, which are still chic today, including dresses with shorter hemlines and drop-waists.
Body Type: If you’re a petite woman, a tea-length gown is a great way to show off your legs, and ensures that you won’t disappear under layers of excess fabric!
Style Icon: Louise Brooks. Known for her striking makeup and signature bob, Brooks is a true fashion star, who epitomizes the effortless, feminine style of this decade.
Must-Have Accessory: A bejewelled headband (or even a simple length of ribbon or lace worn in your hair) is the perfect complement to a sassy little party dress—especially if you’re sporting bangs à la Miss Brooks!
Decade: 1930s/1940s
Signature Look: Women’s fashions in the 1930s and ’40s were all about big-time glamour in the form of sleek, silky bias-cut gowns.
Body Type: If you’re a tall girl, you’ll definitely be able to carry off a clingy little number with just a hint of a fishtail.
Style Icon: Wallis Simpson. A true trendsetter, Simpson wore pale blue for her 1937 nuptials to the Duke of Windsor.
Must-Have Accessory: Every lady about town needs her bling, so don’t be afraid to pile on the sparkle! For those of you with one eye on the bottom line, look for budget-friendly crystal pieces such as dramatic chandelier earrings, or a bold bracelet.
Decade: 1950s
Signature Look: Most dresses from the 1950s took their cue from Christian Dior’s New Look: fitted on top with a full skirt.
Body Type: If you’re a curvy girl, you’re bound to love this figure-flattering silhouette, which hugs you in all the right places.
Style Icon: Marilyn Monroe. The ultimate blonde bombshell definitely represents the curve-friendly, flirty fashions of the 1950s.
Must-Have Accessory: Belts were all over the New York runways when bridal designers showed their Spring 2009 collections recently. They serve a dual purpose of defining your waist while adding a unique touch to your gown.
Decade: 1960s
Signature Look: The swinging ’60s is best defined by the mod look: straight-cut shift dresses being a perfect example of period clothing.
Body Type: If you’re a slim girl, you’ll fit right into a simple yet elegant gown with a long and lean silhouette.
Style Icon: Jacqueline Onassis. Revered for her fashion sense, Jackie O. could always be found in tailored pieces with clean lines, such as her iconic pink skirt suit.
Must-Have Accessory: A pair of adorable ballet flats (in lace or patent leather) is the perfect complement to a demure, mod gown.
