BRIDE'S HEAD REVISITED
For the past week or so I've been uploading the best of Bride Chic editorials into The Chic Report--the place brides go from here for inspiration. This jewel of a bridal session happened a few years back with some totally talented pros. I've never run this on BC as a full editorial though certainly the images were used in many posts. The head pieces here are still in the collection in my Etsy store, still selling which is proof the classics never go out of style. Kudos to Shelah and Robin the hubby and wife duo of Sweet Light studios who organized and shot this masterpiece. And thanks to Natalie, one of our models here for bringing this team together . . . .
Topping it all off on your wedding day with a reinvention of past chic is what this collection of head wear is all about. Whether your're sporting 1940s elan or going for a flower child look from the 1960s you'll find a ton of inspiration here for creating the look you want.
Above: Head creations reminiscent of The Great War. Designers of this decade like Poiret and Paquin were inspired by things eastern that showed up in everything from tunic dressing and kimonos to elaborate jeweled head wear of the near and far east. The beige and amber head band redolent of ancient Egypt and white plume directly above are magnificent redesigns echoing this fascinating look into history.
Capturing 1930s Looks
A little history about 1930s chic: While a French designer named Madeline Vionet pioneered the bias cut gown in the twenties, the thirties was when it took form in the long, lean silhouette we most remember on stars like Garbo and Harlow. .It wasn't until this 'nightgown or slip ' look made it's way into evening fashion that the waist was visible once more. By the end of the era, waistline still defined, we were seeing wider shoulders and big hair evolve into what would be the look of the 1940s.
Hair was either bobbed or worn slicked back and in a low chignon. Marcelling (deep waving process) was still being used. Head accents were often florals, Floral cage veils or jewels worn in the hair. Cocktail hats, picture hats and turbans were also popular.
BOHO
When Mary Quant's mini skirt took off and ushered in a revolutionary fashion explosion, it continued through the 1960s. The waif-flower child look we know now as Boho was just one look following that explosion and totally right on for bridal. So how do you know if you're Boho? Ask yourself this: Are you earthy and ethereal all at once (think earth angel)? Consider yourself Boho if your eye is drawn to gowns sporting diaphanous fabrics topped off with head wreaths made out of fresh florals and greenery like ivy or even dried flowers.
VINTAGE MASH UP
Love two or three bygone eras all at once? Got a bouffant taffeta from the 1960s but love that 20s head band with all the feathers? Mixing up accessories from different decades into an overall bridal look is totally on trend and surprisingly chic. It's called vintage mash-up and can produce some really stunning results. Yes, it helps to know one decade from the other but you don't need a degree in costume or fashion to get how this style savvy actually works. What you will need is either an ongoing passion for fashion and/or the drive and interest you probably had the moment you got engaged on how to develop a bridal look that really works for you. As I always say, Be brave and don't be afraid to experiment.
Below: Blend a classic and traditional dress with the craziness of the jazz age. This headband says 1920s allover.
All head wear by Amy Jo Tatum. If you are interested in any head piece please email the image to bridechic@rocketmail.com with your contact info
