The Victorian Bride
Brides who loved to play dress-up as children will appreciate a Victorian era theme wedding. This time period spans from the latter part of the 19th century until slightly before the First World War. Choose a fancy, upswept hairdo (such as a Gibson Girl-style poof), some sparkling hair gems, a long, sweeping skirt and a high neckline for your gown. Try short white gloves and a delicate fan for added detail. Have your groom dress in tails. For the reception, think lace, tall top hats and delicate roses.
The Roaring Twenties
The 1920s were a time of transition and offer a veritable treasure chest of fashion options for today's bride. Try highlighting just one part of a "naughty flapper" outfit by, for example, adding glittering fringe to short sleeves or your gown's hem. As the 20s progressed to the 30s, high glamour was another fashion that became popular, with long, slim skirts in sumptuous fabrics, and spaghetti-strap, slim fitting bodices. At the reception, try lots of glitter and glitz, and be sure to make use of the time period's wonderful art deco style.
The Post-War Era
In the late 1940s, sophisticated upswept hairdos were all the rage. As families settled down in the early 1950s, short white gloves came back into vogue. Shoes were less serviceable and more appropriate for evening wear. Try a sweetheart neckline on a close fitting bodice, a pillbox or other cap and a small, exquisite white purse for your walk down the aisle. Pink and black were popular colors during this time and work well to create an eye-catching reception.
Incense and Peppermints
For a 1960s style wedding, look for a somewhat looser and more flowing skirt, small floral accents and longer, looser hair. Like the 1920s, the 1960s were a time of extremes in both social attitudes and fashion. Check out anything from "hippie" to beatnik to neat-suited young adult for this fun and fascinating era. For the reception, pull out all the stops with "modern art" style geometric shapes and patterns and bright colors.
The 1980s and Beyond
Some brides look to their childhoods or teen years as the most nostalgic time of all. A 1980s or 1990s wedding will be enjoyed by your guests, many of whom remember the era. Choose songs (alert your band or DJ) that match the time period and will get your guests rocking.
Whatever theme you choose, invite your guests to "dress the part" as well. Be sure it's clear on the wedding invitation that guests are welcome to dress in the wedding theme, or send out a separate notice so that nobody is left out of the fun.