More Downton Abbey-esque Edwardian Wedding inspiration (after my Deliciously Downton Vera post at the beginning of this month) – I know, I know, I am a girl obsessed but look at these incredible photos and you will see why I couldn’t resist one more……..

I found these gloriously vintage Wedding Photos on Ruffled (if you haven’t paid it a visit yet, do! I discovered it when planning my own vintage inspired wedding, and continue to love it) Captured by Jensey and Nathan from Root Weddings, Nicole and Evan‘s wedding was at Disney Orlando – and what a vintage fairytale!

Its described as an Art Deco wedding – but elements definitely made me think of Downton Abbey! The incredibly talented and beautiful Bride, Nicole (who also, just so happens to be a costume historian!) had the wedding of my dreams, due in large part to her simply gorgeous and amazingly self-made wedding dress!

So unique, elegant and chic – from the parasol, to the ostrich feather head piece, to the cascade cala lillies bouquet, she is a stunning vintage bride! And it got me wondering, how could someone less talented, like myself, achieve an Edwardian/Downton Abbey inspired look/wedding?

Bridal Hat from Topsy Turvey on Etsy, Parasols from Parasoul, Shoes from Irregular Choice, Necklace from ModCloth, Invite fromBella Figura

Think feathers, furs, fans and parasols, with strong silhouettes and structure for bridesmaids dresses, I love rich, dusky pink or mink, with cream accessories. Reception decoration should be elaborate but doesn’t need to be expensive – like the pretty key seating plan. Roses, fashionable in Edwardian English gardens were increasingly taking the place of the Orange Blossom, so frequently seen at Victorian weddings.

For a more dramatic look, think Audrey Hepburn in those beautiful black and white outfits in My Fair Lady – and go monochrome.

Feather Birdcage Veil from Unveiled, Parasol from Lulu Guiness, Necklace from Ladies Emporium,

The most important part of an Edwardian wedding was, and still is, the bride’s gown. Traditionally the gown would have been in a soft, rich cream-white satin, trimmed with lace and a veil of lace or tulle. A wedding dress of the era was sumptuous and of the most costly materials, for the bride would wear it for six months after the wedding, to functions requiring full dress. Unbelievably, some true vintage dresses have survived and can be found in incredible condition, if you look long and hard enough!

I found this charmeuse & pearl beaded lace dress, over 100 years old, on fabulous American website The Frock  (a site selling true Vintage clothing from the Victorian era to the 1980s) It reminds me so much of this beautiful, beautiful photo from the era…….

However if a vintage wedding dress is not for you, there are plenty of Edwardian inspired designs available. I love this very modern take on a Bridal Gown from La Belle Epoque, from the Autumn 2011 Givenchy Couture Collection……

And this Monique Luhillier design, Magical – it is exactly that (although I am not convinced by the head-piece?!) I love the satin skirt with lace bodice.

Brides dresses of the Edwardian era were typically long-sleeved, however for a summer wedding, you could choose a dress like Claire Pettibone‘s Frances

Which I could so see Lady Mary wearing!

Or one of Vera Wang‘s more structured but equally gorgeous designs, featured in Deliciously Downton Vera. My personal favourite is Francesca……

With both Vera Wang and Monique Lhuillier stocked by Helen Rodrigues in Australia.

I adore this era and this look, as you have probably gathered after my third post! My final word, though is one of caution – there is a fine line between theme and fancy dress, so remember Chic is key my Vintage Brides to be!

Amy

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