39 Retro Wedding Moments That Show How the Times Have Changed
Some of these dress choices will raise a few eyebrows, that's for sure.
Wedding trends (think: puffy sleeves, head-to-toe lace, and matchy-matchy bridesmaid dresses) come and go, but true love lasts forever. To better understand some of history's most beautiful love stories, go back to where it all began: their wedding day. Here, take a look at the weddings from years past, ranging from the 1920s to the turn of the century, to get a closer look at the unique ways that couples said "I do." These moments, while full of love and wedded bliss, are truly a reflection of the times — some highlight the fashion trends, a few point out unique hairstyles and makeup looks, and others show the advancements in technology and transportation. Although some of these retro moments focus on the makings for a gorgeous wedding like floral arrangements, tiered cakes, and well-dressed venues, most bring attention to the over-the-top dress styles worn by the bride, groom, and wedding party alike. Sure, some of these retro wedding moments (the scandalous wedding dresses, especially) will make you laugh or worse, cringe, but there's a handful that may just inspire your upcoming nuptials. Maybe, just maybe.
Famous Face
Mary Tyler Moore went for more a subdued version of an on-trend '80s look: gathered sleeves and a high lace neckline.
Married With the Band
Recognize the groom and the groomsmen in this photo? That's because it's Andy Taylor and the rest of Duran Duran. The look is a bit more classic British than their usual rock 'n' roll style.
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Stylish Bride
The always-chic Ines de la Fressange opted for an unconventional mini, accessorized with white gloves and dramatic veil.
'90s Chic
The low scoop-neck of this 1996 bride feels more timeless than other looks of the era. The carriage attendant's ensemble, though, is decidedly '90s.
Statement Bridesmaid Dresses
The '70s were a bold decade, which is why some bridesmaids walked down the aisle in head-to-t0e floral dresses with matching bolero jackets.
A Stunning Suit
The sartorial statements weren't always limited to bridal parties. In this case, the groom wore the of-the-moment suit trend at the time: a velvet suit.
Supersized Celebration
This happy couple made the unique decision to tie the knot at McDonald's, floral arches and all.
Rainy Day Wedding
The weather didn't cramp this couple's style after they said "I do." Luckily, the bride also wore a lace hat as another layer of protection for her curly wedding hair.
Rolling to the Wedding
This very stylish couple chose a festive and fun mode of transport to (or from?) their wedding — a bike! Note the floral decorations woven into the spokes, along with the very-French bridal ensemble.
Stylish Exit
This circa-1955 couple leaves the church to the well wishes of friends and family for a truly timeless send-off. The bride's full-skirted dress still looks adorable to modern eyes.
Unusual Entrance
During World War II, fuel shortages were common in occupied France. As a result, couples got creative with transportation, which is why this bride-and-groom hitched a ride on a pair of donkeys.
Carriage Ride
An elegant carriage carries this wedding party in style in 1926.
A Church Exit
This couple exited the church wearing a dapper ensemble (for the 1930s, at least), including the bride's floral halo and groom's pinstripe tuxedo.
Cheers to the Happy Couple
A just-married couple (circa 1941) raises a glass in celebration. The bride stunned in a very tailored dress, complete with strong shoulders.
Dare to Bare
At this nudist colony wedding, the dress code was rather simple: nothing at all, except for a few well-placed bouquets.
Down-Home Celebration
For another creative take on traditional dress, this bride and groom went with strong Western-inspired outfits. We think John Dutton would approve.
Here Comes the Bride
This circa-1950 bride goes traditional, complete with gloves and floor-length dresses for the bridal party.
Fun Send-Off
An arch fashioned by bicycles is very appropriate for this couple. After all, the groom was a professional cyclist.
Bridesmaids in Satin
This society wedding was decidedly luxurious for its time (1938) with bridesmaids clad in a satin silhouette that was in style at the time.
Ruffled Tux
It wouldn't be a '70s wedding without a guy wearing a ruffled shirt under his tux. The bride's look is more timeless, thanks to a floor-length gown and spray-style bouquet.
Amanda Garrity is a lifestyle writer and editor with over seven years of experience, including five years on staff at Good Housekeeping, where she covered all things home and holiday, including the latest interior design trends, inspiring DIY ideas and gift guides for any (and every) occasion. She also has a soft spot for feel-good TV, so you can catch her writing about popular shows like Virgin River, Sweet Magnolias, Hallmark Channel’s When Calls the Heart and more.
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