CREATING A 50s LOOK ON YOUR WEDDING DAY

 
When Christian Dior revolutionized fashion in 1947 with his “New Look” it was with cinched waists atop skirts flowing in yards of fabric over layers of crinoline. It marked a turning point in Twentieth-Century fashion—the hourglass, the most defined female silhouette, was back.It wasn't until around 1950 that this look we associate with the Mid-Century really took form (strapless bodice with sweetheart neckline and yards of tulle skirt).

There was in the 50s an unwritten code for dressing as a bride: Arms were preferably covered, backs and decolletage could be seen only through sheer laces, nets, and organzas. The length of your gown dictated the formality of the wedding or lack thereof. To the floor meant you went formal; above the ankles was considered cocktail length or semi-formal.

Today we see reproductions of 1950’s bridal chic everywhere but updated. Gone are the restrictions! Those repros by designers are created mostly off evening gowns, prom and cocktail dresses in white, ivory, blush or pastel. Chances are an evening gown of the era has most of the elements you're really looking for in your 2016 wedding dress, as opposed to the actual wedding gowns of the day.

TIPS FOR CREATING A REAL 1950's LOOK

 *Whether you're going with authentic vintage or reproducing a look, the hourglass silhouette works beautifully (See photos directly above).  The Aline and sheath style pictured below also reflect the era.  

*Try to keep your hair as classic as possible via chignons, buns, etc. Hairstyling in the 1950s was the dark ages of coiffure as far as I'm concerned and you don't see too many folks trying to bring these hairdos back  Grace Kelly and Audrey Hepburn sported classic tresses as opposed to the hair chic of the day and look where it got them!.

*Cage veils have gone fashion viral the past couple years. Did you know these wisps of nose veil or netting covering the eyes weren't called cages back then, simply net? Topped off with some sort of hair ornament or floral, they were mostly worn for city hall weddings or elopements. Today you can marry in a cage anywhere.

*The pillbox hat on the bride below  is classic late 50's and would be perfect.

 *Adding gloves really makes for a great fifties look. Long opera length says formal--short ones proffer a more dainty and ladylike daytime look.

Headwear and Dresses by Amy-Jo Tatum

Photo 1: Jim Vetter Photography//The TATYANA Dress 

Photo 2: Ryan Chua Photography//The AURORA Dress 

Photo 3: The COLEEN Dress 

Photo 4:  Strotz Photography///The ANDROMEDA Dress 

Photo 5:  Strotz Photography/The Pillbox Hat by Amy-Jo Tatum

Photo 6: The Tulle Picture Hat by Amy-Jo Tatum//Stephanie Williams Photography

Photo 7: Fascinator by Batcakes Couture//Stephanie Williams Photography
Photo 8: The GEORGETTE Dress by Amy-Jo Tatum