Anyone planning a vintage-style wedding will find Etsy a valuable resource for both original vintage and reproduction handmade pieces, from invitations to accessories to, of course, wedding gowns! Here are some of my picks for a ’50s style wedding.
I am a sucker for an original vintage dress. If you’re lucky enough to be very slim, it’s definitely worth taking a look at the vintage section during your dress search. However, if (like me) you haven’t a hope of fitting into an original vintage gown, there are tons of reproduction alternatives and bespoke options.
Don’t be afraid to try styles that you think may not suit you — a beautifully cut gown will flatter you in ways that high street clothing cannot, so the usual “rules” don’t necessarily apply when shopping for a bridal gown.
For bridesmaids and wedding guests, there are some fabulous original vintage print dresses available. as well as some fantastic reproduction options. One of my favorite sellers is Flossy & Dossy, who makes reproduction dresses in cotton prints and colored lace.
Pearls are so elegant for a wedding, and an investment for everyday — is there anything that doesn’t look better accessorized with a string of pearls? I really love this multi-strand pearl necklace with vintage jewel detail — perfect for a wedding, but equally wearable with a shift dress for work. The pearl studs are a pretty addition, and the drop earrings would look great with swept-up hair and a floor length gown.
It’s so hard to find genuine vintage shoes. Etsy has the best range I’ve found, including “something blue” for your wedding. I’m a bit of a magpie and can’t resist something sparkly.
Original vintage beaded bags are beautiful for a wedding day. Because this type of formal accessory has often only been lightly used, there is a real treasure trove of vintage beaded bags in amazing condition.
My most common inquiry from brides is where to find an affordable bird cage veil. The answer is always, “Etsy, of course!” I can’t resist the statement headpieces from Pearls & Swine, and their bridal options are really wearable. Little pillbox hats look fabulous with a tea length dress or a little suit.
I love the ’50s feel of these invitation designs, with their fun retro cartoon images and speech bubbles. They really set the scene for a wedding day and give guests a hint of the feel of the celebrations to come.
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Sign in to add your ownMimi from aTreasureInStore says:
I love this. Too bad I was married in the 80s...and it was soooo 80s! But my grandma did make my wedding gown, so hopefully it will be a nice vintage gown for my daughter...in a few years yet!
12 years ago
Kimberlee from GracefullyGirly says:
What great vintage 50's style! I am also a bit of a magpie, loving all the sparkly bits and things I can gather.
12 years ago
Dorottya from SenoritaJoya says:
I love vintage style, mainly on field of jewelry & accessories. I just had the opportunity to design a bridal set for a friend of mine. I can say it is a great adventure on both sides: bride & designer as well. :)
12 years ago
Lindsay from SweetThreesBoutique says:
I love this style, and love your blog! I went for a similar style for my wedding - you cant go wrong with class, elegance, and simplicity!
12 years ago
dtb Bernal from dtttb2 says:
I love those invites! So classic!
12 years ago
bazketmakr from bazketmakr says:
yes, i love the vintage stuff, but it doesn't fit me, either. you're right, though, you can find almost everything here on etsy! Classy!
12 years ago
SplyPixie from SplyPixie says:
Were there photos attached to this blog entry?? ohhhhhhh... I feel like I've missed out dang it :o( Lovely text though, the 50s do indeed rule!
12 years ago
Holly and John from ZCreateDesign says:
Look at those sparkling shoes!! So pretty!
12 years ago
HandiworkinGirls from HandiworkinGirls says:
It's all so pretty...the '50s have the best of the dresses, hats, shoes, AND jewelry. How did one decade get to be so lucky? My favorite item here has to be the drop earrings - they are so feminine and elegant.
12 years ago
Rachel White from PennyBrownBridal says:
So adorable! love the vintage dior 50's dresses. Anyone who can take inspiration and make something original has a thumbs up from me!
11 years ago
J.K. Ramirez from HudsonBlueArtisans says:
Great Era, Good Ideas
11 years ago
Kat Wright says:
Amazing ideas!
11 years ago
sweetvintagegal from SweetVintageGal says:
I do love this post! :)
11 years ago
Helen Dixon from EuphorbiaFloral says:
Lovely
11 years ago
Kathleen Jamieson from NDetailDesign says:
Love the 50's!!
11 years ago