Bridal trends 2012 - Vintage inspired wedding dresses

This year we've seen vintage bridal wear come through strong with designers. 1920s and 30's inspired gowns are characterized by luxurious fabrics such as silks and chiffon. During this era women wore full length evening gowns often with trains and open back detail. It was a time of big bands and dancing and that fluidity is still visible in todays versions. To embrace this style look for figure hugging gowns in liquid fabrics that move with the body. Crystal detailing, beading and lace were also common in this era.

This Marchesa Fall 2012 design is heavily inspired by the eras art deco style. This dress has an illusion neckline, geometric patterned bodice and soft tulle net draping.

Enzoanis Fall 2012 collection brought together the eras slinky, liquid silk form that hugs the body. It features an art deco inspired waist detail  with a lace cape style over lay and lace detailing at the hem.

Pronovias Fall 2012 gave us their take on the era with a luxurious long sleeve silk wrap gown. This dress is both modest and sexy at the same time.

This Marchesa Fall 2012  gown creates sleek silhouette. The rosette sleeve detail creates a strong shoulder remininscent of 1940's designs mixing two glamourous eras for a simple yet dramatic gown.

The 1950's and 60's saw a big shift in silhouettes. It was the time of poodle skirts and petticoats. We went from sleek figure hugging looks to big, bold ball gowns that are characterized by a fitted bodice with full skirt. Look for full skirts with layers of tulle creating a distinct waist and volume from the waist down. Halternecks, v-necks and boat necks are true to the eras designs.

Jim Hjelm Fall 2012 gave us this beautiful gown with deep v neck and jewel encrusted bodice falling away at the waist into a full skirt.

Amsale Fall 2012 gave us this simply beautiful boat neck ball gown with contrasting, layered tulle full skirt.

A full skirted ballgown can be overwhelming on a small frame. However it does not mean you can't embrace this flattering style if you are petite. Tea length full skirt dresses are a perfect option. The tea length skirt generally sits above the ankle and below the knee.

Matthew Christoper gave us a very modern take on the tea length wedding dress in his 2012 collection with this sweetheart neckline gown that sits a few inches above the ankle.

Jenny Packham Fall 2012 gave us a very youthful take on the tea length dress. Sitting just below the knee the skirt is full without being overwhelming and incorporates the boat neck that was so popular in that era.

Enjoy!
R&M @ GoS
xox