The Most Iconic Wedding Dresses of the Last Century
Timeless, glamorous, and classic – these are words often used when describing the bridal looks of eras gone by. Many brides today look to famous celebrities when deciding on their wedding style, and because fashion is cyclical, memorable looks from decades ago can even be recreated. Before any vows can be exchanged by a celebrity power couple, the question on everyone’s lips always concerns what the dress will look like. This is because a wedding dress can set the tone for the entire wedding, as it is such a direct representation of who and what the bride wishes to present to the world. Below we look at some of the most iconic dresses of the last century, and the lasting impact they have had throughout the years.
Jacqueline Kennedy – 1953
Before her marriage to Aristotle Onassis (and subsequently being known as “Jackie O”), Jacqueline married future president John F. Kennedy at the bright, young age of 24. Wearing short white gloves, a billowing, full veil, and beautiful round skirt, this ivory silk taffeta dress featured its well-remembered portrait neckline.
Grace Kelly – 1956
When American actress Grace Kelly married Prince Rainier III of Monaco in 1956, nobody foresaw how lasting this dress’s impression would be. Film studio MGM is to thank for one of the mid-20th century’s most awe-inspiring wedding dresses made of satin, lace, seed pearls, and a beautifully fitted long-sleeve bodice with a high collar. To hold her veil in place, Grace chose a Juliet cap made from lace, beads, and a flower crown. With over 80 metres of tulle used to make the veil, we are sure her 600 guests all saw a sight to behold.
Mia Farrow – 1966
During her wedding to musician Frank Sinatra, Mia Farrow actually wore a two-piece white suit, which was quite representative of the mod look in the 60s. This wedding look was neat, clean, and became a lasting, classic go-to look for brides who didn’t want to wear a full wedding dress.
Lady Diana Spencer – 1981
Princess Diana’s dress has gone down in history as one of the most dramatic royal dresses ever worn. Made from silk taffeta and lace, this ivory bridal gown was detailed with embroidery, sequins, and over 10 000 pearls. Lady Diana’s puffed sleeves instantly became vogue and showcased how bold the brides of the 1980s were in their fashion sense. Despite critique that the dress seemed to drown Lady Di out, many people still argue that it remains one of the most beautiful wedding dresses of all time.
Pippa Middleton – 2017
Even though her sister, Kate, had a gorgeous dress herself, it was Pippa Middleton who made waves with her Giles Deacon wedding dress, complete with cap sleeves, a high collar, and a heart-shaped open back. Hand-appliquéd silk-cotton lace cemented this stunning dress in the fashion hall of fame indefinitely.
At Timeless Bridal Couture, we are home to designer wedding dresses that are ideal for brides who draw inspiration from classic looks that stand the test of time. Contact us for a booking today.
