Like everything in the world of fashion, bridal outfits have also changed drastically with each passing decade. Over the century, bridal dresses have changed in length, silhouette, neckline patterns, sleeves, colors, fabric and styles.
Here we bring you the typical bridal fashion choices associated with each era. So, find all the wedding dress inspiration that you need to carve your unique wedding look around it.
1920’s and 30’s Gatsby Style
The Great Gatsby wedding inspired long flowing lace dresses, embellished with beading. Although the style later changed from dropped waist wedding dresses to those that once again featured the waistline, the overall effect was one of women embracing their sensuality and letting it shine through. The 30’s and 40’s were years marked by war, and the Great Depression had brides turning to practical and sensible options for wedding dresses. Many brides even chose to just wear their Sunday best for their big celebration.
Featured here is a magnificent gown from the Jasmine Couture ’14 collection. The beautiful play of lace on a simple fit and flare silhouette works perfectly for a 1920’s inspired wedding theme.
Stylish 1950’s and 60’s
This era introduced us to the sweetheart neckline and shorter hemlines. Tiered wedding dresses were a huge hit, with elaborate lace details being the trend. The illusion neckline made its debut, although in a very modest form, with the sweetheart neckline being barely visible under high collared lace necklines. The 60’s popularized empire waistlines and metallic embellishments.
This Mori Lee wedding dress 6749 from the 2014 Voyage Collection is just perfect for a 1950’s or 60’s theme wedding, with its lace illusion neckline and short hemline.
1980’s fairytale princess gowns
Princess Diana set the trend for princess style fairy tale gowns in the 1980’s. Wedding dresses featuring elaborate trains, flowing skirts, full sleeves and gathered or basque waists were the new trend in wedding fashion.
Featured here is a princess-style gown from the Mori Lee Spring 2015 collection. It is missing the statement enormous puff sleeves, or it would look the exact part of a 1980’s wedding gown.
Contemporary 1990’s style
As women of the 1990’s explored fashion, the wedding dress too took many shapes and forms. Lace was still popular, and elaborate ball gowns were still the rage. Illusion necklines and off-the-shoulder necklines were also growing in popularity, as women dared to bare more skin. Most women preferred puffed sleeves or shorter sleeves, in place of the full-sleeve gowns of the previous decade. The famous wedding movies like Father of the Bride and Four Weddings and a Funeral portrayed the common fashion styles of the time.
Our pick is this pretty ball gown with lace on the bodice from the Mori Lee 2015 collection.
The dynamic 2000’s and 2010’s
As we step into the 21st century, the strapless style makes its appearance. Simpler silhouettes such as the sheath and minimalist wedding dresses were growing in importance. In the 2010’s, a new wedding dress style was the mermaid-inspired or fit and flare gown. This continues to be a favorite with the slim modern woman.
This strapless mermaid gown belongs to the Mori Lee 2014 wedding collection. It is a common pattern we see brides of our generation sporting.
That wraps it up. To take a closer look at any of these gowns, and to find more choices, visit our bridal collection at Best for Bride today.
Wedding dress descriptions often mention a type of wedding dress lace used to make the gown. One dress may have chantilly lace while another has guipure lace. Without being able to inspect the gowns up close in person, you might not know the difference between these different wedding dress lace types.
However, it is a fact that there are several different types of wedding dress lace. Also, the effect of one type of lace is entirely different from that of another. The difference is in the fabric, the details in the threadwork done on it and in the embellishments that adorn each of these types of lace. So, have you ever wondered how the types of lace are different? Here are descriptions and some photographs of the different types of lace used in wedding dresses.
Alençon Lace
One of the most common types of lace fabric used in bridal dresses is Alençon lace. This wedding dress lace variety is sometimes referred to as the “Queen of Lace.” Alencon lace is named after the city where it originated and Alençon lace has a long history of adorning women’s dresses. This type of lace was first produced in the 16th century in Alencon, a city in France. It is a needle lace. The designs on Alençon lace are outlined with a fine cording. This lace type is often embellished with small crystals, seed pearls, or sequins.
The Alencon lace has survived the competition from machine-made lace, due to its finesse and unique qualities. When cheaper machine-made lace started growing in popularity, production of alencon lace went into a steady decline. Nevertheless, the technique was preserved and it continues to be a bridal favorite to this day.
Brussels Lace
Of the different types of lace for wedding dresses, Brussels lace is very old-fashioned. This wedding dress lace type was first produced in the fifteenth century in the city of Brussels. This city in Belgium is very famous for its laces. Originally, the term Brussels lace was employed for any type of lace that originated in Brussels. However, this has changed over time. It now refers specifically to a type of bobbin lace.
Brussels lace is extremely delicate. Tradition has it that this type of wedding dress lace was woven in dark rooms for fear that the light would cause the threads to become brittle. Brussels lace is occasionally used for wedding dress details. However, this delicate lace is not as common as other lace varieties.
What sets Brussels lace apart from other types of wedding dress laces is its unique design. Here, the entire unit is made of parts and assembled together. So, the floral details are created separately and woven together to form a single unit. The design is also rather unusual and attractive. In the background, there is no defining cordonnet as is seen in other types of lace. Instead, there are open stitches that border the pattern.
Chantilly Lace
Chantilly lace is one of the most common laces used on wedding dresses. The lace has a fine, plain netting background. Chantilly lace often is used for wedding dress sleeves and overlays. It is a type of handmade lace and includes delicate details that make it unusually charming.
Chantilly lace has a well-defined and obvious outlined pattern. Originally, this lace was made of silk. The modern versions are also done in linen. One of the most striking features of Chantilly lace is the light and shadow effect that is unique to this lace. There are usually abundant floral details and motifs that adorn the lace. Chantilly lace was the choice of royalty in ancient days when it was made in Chantilly. The practice continues to this day and is a staple in the bridal scene.
Duchesse Lace
Duchesse lace is a variety of Brussels lace. This lace has more open space than many other types of bridal lace. This lace acquires its name from its patronage by Marie Henriette, the Duchess of Brabant. Like Brussels lace, Duchesse lace also has large and exquisite floral motiffs. However, there is a marked difference between the two. In Duchesse lace, the floral motiffs are joined to each other by bars instead of mesh patterns. The lace motiffs are raised from the base layer, and it mainly features large sprays of floral designs.
Guipure Lace
The characteristic difference between guipure lace and other types of wedding dress lace is the lack of netting. Most types of wedding dress lace are formed on a netting, the guipure has an open design. This type of lace also is called Venise lace, not to be confused with the spelling of the city of Venice. Guipure lace is heavier than most types of lace. It is a favorite fabric for winter wedding gowns. This lace has a raised texture. It can create a very bold look if used over the majority of the dress.
Guipure lace is similar to Duchesse lace in that it has its different motifs connected to each other by bars or plaits instead of mesh-type details. In the original style of this wedding dress lace, the motifs would contain thicker borders that outlined each element of the pattern. However, this edging of the motifs has been eliminated in modern versions. The lace is very common in wedding gowns.
Schiffli Lace
A lightweight, machine-made lace used as an overlay or edging. Sometimes, this term is used to describe chemical lace. The chemical lace has no netting background because the netting is dissolved with a chemical treatment after the lace design has been embroidered.
There are certain features of Schiffli lace that make it easily recognizable. It is created on a machine or loom with an overlapping embroidery field. The details are created by the interlocking of fabric threads. As a result, it yields units that can stand alone without the aid of meshing or connections. Schiffli lace is used as overlays in bridal gowns. It can also be used to trim sleeves and hemlines, or in the bodice of the dress to create a textural difference.
Many people include eyelet as a type of wedding dress lace. Eyelet is a cotton fabric with embroidered cutouts. It’s not a traditional lace since it’s made on the cotton fabric rather than a netting. Despite not being a true lace, the eyelet is a popular trim with scalloped edging for vintage appeal. The eyelet lace, unlike traditional forms of lace, is sturdy with its definite fabric stretch. The defining of details along the holes adds a quality to the delicate fiber beneath it. It also acquires a boho look, which appeals to chic modern brides who prefer an unconventional bridal look.
Choosing the right wedding dress lace
Where wedding dress lace selection is concerned, there is no right or wrong choice. If you look at the different type of lace wedding dresses, you will find that they all have a characteristic charm that is classic, elegant and definitely bridal.
However, the right choice of wedding dress lace can make your wedding shopping easier if you prefer a certain look. This is because certain laces are better suited for an antique vintage feel, while others are more edgy and modern.
The type of wedding dress lace you wear also affects the overall effect of a dress, and how easy it is to maintain. Soft, flexible and lightweight laces require better care. They are more prone to stretching and tears, and you should be extra careful if this type of lace appears in the hemline of your dress. On the other hand, sturdier forms of lace like the eyelet are less prone to accidents and tearing.
Another factor to consider is the color and the embellishments on the wedding dress lace that influence its look. Off-white lace colors with more texture tend to create an antique or vintage look. Meanwhile, crisp white lace with clear-cut details and fine edging are better suited for modern looks.
Factors to remember when choosing a lace wedding gown
I cannot think of any bridal boutique that will have wedding dresses without lace. Lace is indeed an integral part of the wedding scenery. Although it may not suit everyone’s taste, there are still brides who wouldn’t consider anything but a lace wedding dress for their special day.
If you decide to make your selection from lace wedding dresses, you will have to lavish extra care on the dress. Since wedding dress lace is delicate, it requires special care. Lace is also susceptible to fraying and tearing. Avoid such risks by ensuring the following:
Go for quality over quantity
Handmade wedding dress lace has an exotic quality that cannot be compared to the machine-made version. So, a dress that has just a small quantity of handmade lace will definitely be better than one that is entirely made from the cheap machine-made stuff. Always go with the classics in excellent quality fabric to look elegant and stylish.
Always get the dress altered by an expert
A lace dress should be handled with care at all times. If your dress calls for any alterations, trust only the experts for the job. Repairs on a lace gown have to be done carefully. It is easy to damage the look of the wedding dress lace if it is done improperly. So, ensure you trust a talented seamstress to the job. Also, ensure you pick the dress in the right size, so there will be excess lace to work with when it has to be taken in.
Be prepared to pay more
Every wedding dress, even after alterations should look flawless. And it isn’t easy to get that effect when you have a lace dress. If the areas that are covered in wedding dress lace require alterations, your seamstress will have to put in more effort. This can mean that the alterations may cost extra. So, be prepared for this when you purchase a dress. Altering a lace dress is often a time-consuming task. Keep this mind and set aside enough time when doing your shopping, so this doesn’t turn out to be an issue later.
Place it safely in a secluded space
Wedding dress lace is very delicate and easily prone to tears. It can quickly tear and be damaged if it catches on to anything. So, it is absolutely essential to store it in a safe spot that is away from the traffic zones in your home.
Lay it out flat
A lace wedding dress is always best stored flat. This allows the lace to hold its shape and not result in accidental tears or fraying. Place your wedding dress flat on a shelf in your closet. Else, store it inside a box that you specially buy for the purpose and place it in a safe place.
Consider your veil and jewelry when choosing the lace for your dress
The other part of your bridal outfit that will contain lace is your veil. It is important to match your veil to the lace in your dress for a cohesive effect. So, choose your veil by wearing it with your dress to confirm they go together well.
Irrespective of whether it is guipure, chantilly, alencon or schiffi, lace is a bridal staple that stands out as one of the unique embellishments for wedding dresses. Hence, it is no wonder that lace wedding gowns have stood the test of time. While it continues to evolve to suit the taste of the modern bride, one thing is sure. Lace is here to stay.
We have a stunning variety of lace wedding dresses in our dress collections at Best for Bride. Check out our bridal dress gallery to shortlist your favourites, or for inspiration on planning your wedding day look. For more information about wedding dresses and embellishments, please browse the Best for Bride blog. There you will find detailed descriptions of wedding dress elements including the bustle, veils, and different lengths of trains.
The minimalist wedding dress is one of the most happening trends on the bridal catwalks this year. Although many women still choose the traditional ball gown will plenty of bling, others prefer simplicity to be their trademark on their wedding day.
The most common embellishments that come to mind when we think of wedding dresses are beads, frills and lace. While they are lovely on a wedding dress, they are not necessary to look or feel bridal.
Our search through the various collections at Best for Bride revealed the following masterpieces. All these dresses have the following things in common; few beads, no frills and no lace, and yet are stunning in their own rights. Let us take a look at them here.
Floral bouquets have a refreshing beauty. You can never go wrong with adding more excitement to your wedding bouquet with a few well-chosen accessories. These accessories can easily tie your bouquet to the theme of your wedding. While we have seen bouquets that are entirely made from non-floral elements in another post, we will now look at some accessories that can be used with your floral bouquet in this article. This will not only allow you to have a unique design, but also give you the option to save something special from the bouquet as a keepsake to remember your great day by.
Silk ribbon tie
A bunch of flowers with long stems look naturally charming, but may seem a little incomplete. To add more finesse to the arrangement, all you have to do is trim off the excess length of the stems, and secure it with the most luxurious silk ribbon that matches your color palette. This is a very basic floral bouquet design, but one that is just right if your bouquet contains vibrant and lovely, large flowers which are attractive on their own, and do not require too many additional details. While securing the ends of the ribbon, it would be a good idea to use decorative pins in a row, to give it an attractive finishing.
Satin ribbon bow
For a compact round bouquet of flowers like roses, consider wrapping the stems with a double sided satin ribbon bow with a luxurious silky finish. You can tie the two ends into an elaborate bow, and add small details like button roses or little crystal brooches on the streamer.
Wedding brooch bouquets
Brooches are very dainty, feminine accessories, that add an instant charm wherever they are used. Dress up your wedding bouquet with these fantastic accessories, and it will be a wonderful addition to your overall look. You can choose brooches that match your wedding jewelry, or colorful brooches that match the wedding palette, and they won’t go unnoticed.
Flowers and lace are always a perfect match. A floral bouquet with a small lace trim in the perfect bridal accessory for a vintage style wedding. You can choose the trim to match your wedding dress, if it is in lace. It can also be your something old, where you can pick your lace from your mother’s or even grandmother’s wedding dress. Not only will this have sentimental value, it will also be a choice that renders a unique touch to your bouquet.
Patterned cloth trim
If your wedding theme incorporates patterns like chevron, geometrical prints, polka dots or stripes, add the same details as the trim for your wedding bouquet. It will be a perfect addition to the décor, and the brighter the color, the more attractive it will be against your white wedding dress.
Which of these ideas do you like? Come visit us at Best for Bride, and we can help you realize your ideas for the best wedding bouquet you can possibly think of
Recent Posts: The Best Bridal Store - Your source for everything you want to know about weddings
![Crafting The Picture-Perfect Table: Coordinating Serveware With Wedding Décor [2025]](https://i0.wp.com/www.bestforbride.com/bridal-shop/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Crafting-The-Picture-Perfect-Table-Coordinating-Serveware-With-Wedding-De%CC%81cor.jpg?ssl=1)
