Step into the grandeur of the Victorian era, where fashion reigned supreme and wedding attire held a place of utmost elegance. The year 1900 marked a significant turning point in bridal fashion, as the silhouette shifted from the voluminous skirts and corsets of the past to a more graceful and form-fitting style.
Gone were the days of elaborate bustles and heavily adorned fabrics. The Edwardian era, which began in 1901, brought with it a newfound simplicity and sophistication in all aspects of life, and bridal fashion was no exception. Brides embraced flowing fabrics, soft colors, and intricate details that exuded both romance and a touch of modernity.
Wedding Dresses in 1900
The year 1900 marked a significant turning point in bridal fashion, as the silhouette shifted from the voluminous skirts and corsets of the past to a more graceful and form-fitting style. Brides embraced flowing fabrics, soft colors, and intricate details that exuded both romance and a touch of modernity.
- High necklines
- Long sleeves
- Fitted bodices
- Flowing skirts
- Soft colors
- Intricate lacework
- Floral motifs
- Veils and headpieces
These elements combined to create wedding gowns that were both elegant and timeless, and many of these features continue to inspire bridal fashion today.
High necklines
High necklines were a defining feature of wedding dresses in 1900. This style choice reflected the prevailing values of modesty and propriety during the Edwardian era. High necklines also served to accentuate the bride's décolletage and create a more formal and elegant look.
- Jewel neckline: This neckline sits high on the neck and closely follows the shape of the collarbone. It is a classic and timeless choice that creates a flattering and elegant silhouette.
- Queen Anne neckline: This neckline is similar to the jewel neckline, but it is slightly lower and has a slight dip in the center. It is a more modest option than the jewel neckline, but it still provides a sophisticated and polished look.
- Peter Pan collar: This neckline features a rounded collar that extends slightly above the shoulders. It is a playful and youthful option that is perfect for a bride who wants a more whimsical and romantic look.
- Lace overlay: A lace overlay can be added to any neckline to create a more intricate and feminine look. Lace overlays can be sheer or opaque, and they can be used to add a touch of elegance or a hint of modesty to the neckline.
High necklines were often paired with long sleeves, which further emphasized the bride's modesty and femininity. However, brides who wanted a more modern and daring look could opt for a sleeveless dress with a high neckline.
Long sleeves
Long sleeves were another defining feature of wedding dresses in 1900. This style choice was influenced by the prevailing values of modesty and propriety during the Edwardian era. Long sleeves also served to create a more formal and elegant look, and they were perfect for keeping the bride warm on her wedding day.
There were a variety of different long sleeve styles to choose from, including:
- Bishop sleeves: These sleeves are full and gathered at the top, creating a bouffant effect. They are a dramatic and romantic choice that is perfect for a bride who wants to make a statement.
- Leg-of-mutton sleeves: These sleeves are full and fitted at the top, and they gradually flare out towards the bottom. They are a more tailored and sophisticated option than bishop sleeves, and they are perfect for a bride who wants a more classic and elegant look.
- Fitted sleeves: These sleeves are fitted closely to the arm, from the shoulder to the wrist. They are a more modern and understated option that is perfect for a bride who wants a sleek and sophisticated look.
- Lace sleeves: Lace sleeves can be added to any of the above sleeve styles to create a more intricate and feminine look. Lace sleeves can be sheer or opaque, and they can be used to add a touch of elegance or a hint of modesty to the dress.
Long sleeves were often paired with high necklines, which further emphasized the bride's modesty and femininity. However, brides who wanted a more modern and daring look could opt for a sleeveless dress with long sleeves.
Regardless of the style of long sleeves she chose, the bride in 1900 was sure to look elegant and sophisticated on her wedding day.
Fitted bodices
Fitted bodices were a defining feature of wedding dresses in 1900. This style choice was influenced by the prevailing fashion trend of the Edwardian era, which emphasized a more natural and feminine silhouette. Fitted bodices helped to accentuate the bride's figure and create a more flattering and sophisticated look.
There were a variety of different fitted bodice styles to choose from, including:
- Straight bodice: This bodice is fitted closely to the body from the shoulders to the waist. It is a classic and timeless choice that is perfect for a bride who wants a simple and elegant look.
- Basque bodice: This bodice is fitted closely to the body from the shoulders to the waist, and then it flares out slightly at the bottom. It is a more dramatic and romantic choice that is perfect for a bride who wants to make a statement.
- Princess bodice: This bodice is fitted closely to the body from the shoulders to the waist, and then it gradually widens out towards the bottom. It is a more modern and sophisticated choice that is perfect for a bride who wants a sleek and stylish look.
- Lace bodice: A lace bodice can be added to any of the above bodice styles to create a more intricate and feminine look. Lace bodices can be sheer or opaque, and they can be used to add a touch of elegance or a hint of modesty to the dress.
Fitted bodices were often paired with long sleeves and high necklines, which further emphasized the bride's modesty and femininity. However, brides who wanted a more modern and daring look could opt for a sleeveless dress with a fitted bodice.
No matter what style of fitted bodice she chose, the bride in 1900 was sure to look elegant and sophisticated on her wedding day.
Flowing skirts
Flowing skirts were a defining feature of wedding dresses in 1900. This style choice was influenced by the prevailing fashion trend of the Edwardian era, which emphasized a more natural and feminine silhouette. Flowing skirts helped to create a more graceful and romantic look, and they were perfect for dancing the night away at a wedding reception.
There were a variety of different flowing skirt styles to choose from, including:
- A-line skirt: This skirt is fitted at the waist and gradually widens out towards the bottom. It is a classic and timeless choice that is perfect for a bride who wants a simple and elegant look.
- Empire waist skirt: This skirt is fitted at the bust and then flows loosely from below the bust to the floor. It is a more romantic and ethereal choice that is perfect for a bride who wants to feel like a princess on her wedding day.
- Tiered skirt: This skirt is made up of several layers of fabric that are gathered together at the waist. It is a more dramatic and voluminous choice that is perfect for a bride who wants to make a statement.
- Lace skirt: A lace skirt can be added to any of the above skirt styles to create a more intricate and feminine look. Lace skirts can be sheer or opaque, and they can be used to add a touch of elegance or a hint of modesty to the dress.
Flowing skirts were often paired with fitted bodices and long sleeves, which further emphasized the bride's modesty and femininity. However, brides who wanted a more modern and daring look could opt for a sleeveless dress with a flowing skirt.
No matter what style of flowing skirt she chose, the bride in 1900 was sure to look elegant and sophisticated on her wedding day.
Soft colors
Soft colors were a defining feature of wedding dresses in 1900. This style choice reflected the prevailing fashion trend of the Edwardian era, which emphasized a more natural and feminine look. Soft colors also helped to create a more romantic and ethereal look, which was perfect for a bride on her wedding day.
- White: White was the most popular color for wedding dresses in 1900. It is a classic and timeless choice that symbolizes purity and innocence.
- Ivory: Ivory is a slightly warmer shade of white that is also a popular choice for wedding dresses. It is a more flattering color than pure white, and it can help to create a more natural and radiant look.
- Blush: Blush is a soft pink color that is perfect for a bride who wants a more romantic and feminine look. It is a very flattering color that can help to create a warm and inviting atmosphere.
- Lavender: Lavender is a soft purple color that is perfect for a bride who wants a more unique and sophisticated look. It is a very elegant color that can help to create a sense of mystery and allure.
Soft colors were often paired with flowing skirts and intricate lacework, which further emphasized the bride's femininity and modesty. However, brides who wanted a more modern and daring look could opt for a dress in a bolder color, such as red or blue.
Intricate lacework
Intricate lacework was a defining feature of wedding dresses in 1900. This style choice reflected the prevailing fashion trend of the Edwardian era, which emphasized a more feminine and romantic look. Lacework also helped to create a more elegant and sophisticated look, which was perfect for a bride on her wedding day.
There were a variety of different lacework styles to choose from, including:
- Venetian lace: Venetian lace is a type of needle lace that is characterized by its intricate patterns and openwork. It is a very delicate and feminine lace that is perfect for creating a romantic and ethereal look.
- Chantilly lace: Chantilly lace is a type of bobbin lace that is characterized by its fine texture and delicate patterns. It is a very elegant and sophisticated lace that is perfect for creating a more formal and traditional look.
- Brussels lace: Brussels lace is a type of needle lace that is characterized by its intricate patterns and raised motifs. It is a very rich and luxurious lace that is perfect for creating a dramatic and statement-making look.
- Alençon lace: Alençon lace is a type of needle lace that is characterized by its fine texture and intricate patterns. It is a very delicate and feminine lace that is perfect for creating a more modern and understated look.
Intricate lacework was often used to create elaborate details on wedding dresses, such as sleeves, bodices, and skirts. It was also used to create veils and headpieces. Brides could choose from a variety of lacework patterns and styles to create a unique and personalized look for their wedding day.
Intricate lacework is a timeless and elegant choice for wedding dresses. It is a versatile fabric that can be used to create a variety of looks, from romantic and ethereal to formal and traditional.
Floral motifs
Floral motifs were a popular design element on wedding dresses in 1900. This style choice reflected the prevailing fashion trend of the Edwardian era, which emphasized a more natural and feminine look. Floral motifs also helped to create a more romantic and ethereal look, which was perfect for a bride on her wedding day.
There were a variety of different floral motifs to choose from, including:
- Roses: Roses are a classic and timeless floral motif that is perfect for a wedding dress. They symbolize love, beauty, and happiness.
- Lilies: Lilies are another popular floral motif for wedding dresses. They symbolize purity, innocence, and majesty.
- Oranges blossoms: Orange blossoms are a traditional floral motif for wedding dresses. They symbolize fertility, chastity, and new beginnings.
- Ivy: Ivy is a delicate and graceful floral motif that is perfect for a more modern and understated look. It symbolizes fidelity, friendship, and eternal love.
Floral motifs were often used to create elaborate details on wedding dresses, such as embroidery, beading, and lacework. They were also used to create bouquets, headpieces, and other accessories. Brides could choose from a variety of floral motifs and styles to create a unique and personalized look for their wedding day.
Floral motifs are a timeless and elegant choice for wedding dresses. They are a versatile design element that can be used to create a variety of looks, from romantic and ethereal to formal and traditional.
Veils and headpieces
Veils and headpieces were an essential part of a bride's ensemble in 1900. They helped to complete the bride's look and create a more formal and traditional appearance. Veils also served a practical purpose, as they helped to protect the bride's face from the sun and wind.
- Veils: Veils were typically made of tulle or lace, and they came in a variety of lengths and styles. Short veils were popular for more modern and understated looks, while long veils were more traditional and formal. Some brides even chose to wear two veils, a shorter one for the ceremony and a longer one for the reception.
- Tiaras: Tiaras were a popular headpiece choice for brides in 1900. They were typically made of silver or gold, and they were often adorned with pearls, diamonds, or other gemstones. Tiaras helped to create a more regal and glamorous look.
- Wreaths: Wreaths were another popular headpiece choice for brides in 1900. They were typically made of flowers, leaves, or other natural materials. Wreaths helped to create a more romantic and ethereal look.
- Hats: Hats were also a popular headpiece choice for brides in 1900. They were typically made of straw, silk, or velvet, and they were often adorned with feathers, flowers, or other embellishments. Hats helped to create a more sophisticated and stylish look.
Veils and headpieces were an important part of a bride's ensemble in 1900. They helped to complete the bride's look and create a more formal and traditional appearance. Brides could choose from a variety of veils and headpieces to create a unique and personalized look for their wedding day.
FAQ
Here are some frequently asked questions about wedding dresses in 1900:
Question 1: What were the most popular fabrics used for wedding dresses in 1900?
Answer 1: The most popular fabrics used for wedding dresses in 1900 were silk, satin, and lace.
Question 2: What were the most popular colors for wedding dresses in 1900?
Answer 2: The most popular colors for wedding dresses in 1900 were white, ivory, and blush.
Question 3: What were the most popular sleeve styles for wedding dresses in 1900?
Answer 3: The most popular sleeve styles for wedding dresses in 1900 were long sleeves, three-quarter sleeves, and cap sleeves.
Question 4: What were the most popular skirt styles for wedding dresses in 1900?
Answer 4: The most popular skirt styles for wedding dresses in 1900 were A-line skirts, empire waist skirts, and tiered skirts.
Question 5: What were the most popular accessories for wedding dresses in 1900?
Answer 5: The most popular accessories for wedding dresses in 1900 were veils, tiaras, wreaths, and hats.
Question 6: How much did a typical wedding dress cost in 1900?
Answer 6: The cost of a wedding dress in 1900 varied depending on the fabric, style, and embellishments. However, a typical wedding dress cost between $50 and $200.
Question 7: What are some tips for finding the perfect wedding dress in 1900 style?
Answer 7: Here are some tips for finding the perfect wedding dress in 1900 style:
With a little planning, you can find the perfect wedding dress in 1900 style that will make you look and feel beautiful on your wedding day.
Tips
Here are four practical tips for planning a wedding in 1900 style:
Tip 1: Choose the right venue. The ideal venue for a wedding in 1900 style is a historic building, such as a church, a mansion, or a museum. These venues will provide the perfect setting for your ceremony and reception.
Tip 2: Send out invitations early. In 1900, it was customary to send out wedding invitations six to eight weeks in advance. Be sure to include all of the important details, such as the date, time, and location of the ceremony and reception.
Tip 3: Choose a classic menu. The menu for your wedding reception should include classic dishes that were popular in 1900. Some good choices include roast beef, chicken fricassee, and wedding cake.
Tip 4: Decorate with elegance. The decorations for your wedding should be elegant and timeless. Use a color scheme that is inspired by the Edwardian era, such as white, ivory, and gold. And don't forget to add some fresh flowers to create a romantic atmosphere.
By following these tips, you can plan a wedding in 1900 style that will be both beautiful and memorable.
We hope these tips have been helpful. With a little planning, you can create a wedding day that is truly unique and special.
Conclusion
Wedding dresses in 1900 were a reflection of the Edwardian era, a time of great elegance and sophistication. These dresses were characterized by their high necklines, long sleeves, fitted bodices, flowing skirts, soft colors, intricate lacework, floral motifs, and veils and headpieces. Brides who wore these dresses exuded a sense of romance, femininity, and timeless beauty.
Today, wedding dresses in 1900 style continue to be popular among brides who want a classic and elegant look on their wedding day. These dresses can be found in a variety of styles and fabrics, so brides can find the perfect dress to match their personal taste and style. Whether you choose a dress that is a faithful reproduction of a 1900s original or a more modern interpretation, you are sure to look and feel beautiful on your wedding day.