Do you fancy the idea of presenting a theme wedding evoking the glitz and glamour of the 20s?
It was the first decade following the World War I, the last decade before the Great Depression, and the long kiss goodbye to the age of silent films. Both tragically beautiful movie stars like Gloria Swanson and Rudolph Valentino and the prurient enthrallment with crime boss Al Capone’s thieving and murders, it was a time of the extreme. Silent film itself likely shaped the fashions, as the stars had only style and pantomime with which to engage audiences, so signature looks dominated virtually all fashion for ladies who prided themselves on being up to the latest trends.
The bridesmaids could wear flapper dresses with feathers and fringe, seamed (remember, nylon came later) stockings, and low strap Mary Jane shoes. Although the style was risqué for the time, it was also very glamorous.
Of course, before the wedding comes the engagement, and a paladium engagement rings inspired by the Art Deco aesthetic of this era is the perfect way to begin your unforgettable journey to the altar. Halo rings are most plentiful in the classic round diamond shape, but this style can be and regularly is adapted for any diamond shape. Some of the most fashionable halo ring created for 1920s brides feature center stones in pear shape and cushion bobbed for an even more striking look.
The bride’s apparel should be elegant. Knee length, dropped waist, chiffon and/or silk dresses, long beaded necklaces, and red lipstick. Cloches were popular, bands of silk flowers worn low on the head, and Juliet style caps.
Another fun, theme idea for your Art Deco wedding is hosting the reception as if it were held in a dark, jazzy nightclub and hire a Jazz band. Serve authentic 20s cocktails, elaborate, flavorful drinks created to mask the unpleasant flavor of illegally made liquor.
Accessories that help bring your look into the right era include saddle heels or black pumps with low ankle straps, stocking with seams, lavaliere necklaces, and cloche or chaplet headbands with beading and birdcage veils. Your bridesmaids can be decked out in simple fringed or beaded dresses with boas and matching chaplet bands, and the gentlemen of the wedding goodtime can put on the Ritz with cuffed trousers, suspenders, and fedoras.
For wedding favors, place cards can be displayed in silver cigarette cases, and guests can also take home miniature Model Ts and long faux-pearl strings. Ostrich and peacock feathers make beautiful centerpieces, and if you’re artistic, working in beads and chandelier crystals will create breathtaking results. The flowers at weddings of this decade were large and elaborate; bouquets and centerpieces can include calla lilies, gardenias, and magnolias.
The inspiration and excitement of this time have never been forgotten, and the beauty of the clothing and accessories, architecture, romantic atmospheres will bring a surprising level of fire to your wedding and reception!
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