When it comes to choosing a dress for your big day, the options are almost endless. From empire line dresses to ball gowns, finding the dress that suits you isn’t always easy.
If you’re struggling to decide which style is right for you, looking to the past can be a good way to get a little inspiration. Vintage dresses are often unique and stylish, making them perfect for your big day.
Superstar singer Ellie Goulding recently chose a vintage-inspired wedding dress for her nuptials. Created by Chloe, the Victorian-style gown gave her day an elegant feel and helped her wedding to really stand out from the crowd.
If you’ve been inspired by this retro look, take a look at our guide on how to wear a Victorian-style dress well on your big day.
What is a Victorian-style wedding dress?
The Victorian era saw the birth of the modern wedding dress when Queen Victoria herself wore an elegant white gown for her marriage to Prince Albert. Her choice of colour started a trend and women have been walking up the aisle dressed in white ever since.
As @weddingdressss describes, “Victorian era wedding dresses feature tight-fitting bodices, adorned with lace and draperies. Sleeves and high neck are the other key characteristics of this style.”
A lot of Victorian dresses also have puffed sleeves, lace detailing, and ruffles, although these aren’t essential.
Your body shape
As this style of gown generally has full-length sleeves, a full-length skirt and a high neck, it’s not for everyone. However, if you’re looking for an elegant and original design for your wedding dress, this could be the perfect choice.
Before selecting your gown, think about how the cut compliments your figure and hugs your body. If you want to cover your arms, neck, and ankles, this style of dress is ideal. But if you want to show your body off a little, it might not be the best option.
Your décor
If your Victorian wedding dress is going to be in keeping with the rest of your big day, your décor needs to have a vintage aesthetic. Select Victorian-inspired outfits for your bridesmaids and groomsmen and choose decorations that have a distinctly retro feel.
While you don’t need to go overboard with this Victorian theme, having a few vintage touches will help your dress to look the part and ensure your day feels cohesive.
If you wanted to go one step further, you could arrive at your venue in a Victorian carriage complete with white horses. While this touch isn’t for everyone, it can be a great way to get the day started and set the tone for your wedding.
If you’re currently planning a wedding of your own, we can help. Get in touch with a member of our team today to find out more.
