If you picture a wedding full of glitz, glam, and lots of Champagne, there’s a good chance visions of The Great Gatsby are dancing in your wedding planning head. “1920’s fashion was known for its sparkle and decadence,” says Jaynee Berkman, president and CCO of Adrianna Papell. “Women were excited to dazzle and dress up!” And since the Roaring 20s was all liberation and celebration, it’s the perfect era to channel for your once-in-a-lifetime event. How? Lean into this big party energy with a 1920s-inspired wedding dress.
Meet the Expert
- Jaynee Berkman, president and chief creative officer of Adrianna Papell.
- Tina Wong, CEO and founder of Grace + Ivory.
What exactly is a 1920s style wedding dress? Think “Great Gatsby, Art Deco vibes,” Tina Wong, founder of Grace + Ivory tells Brides. “The fabrics are typically silk or satins (or a mix of both) with lace accents and golden or silver embellishments.” While flapper fringe accents were big at the time, we must note that the decade also transcended fringe and tassels. Geometrically-inspired patterns, gold/silver beading in zig-zag and/or sunburst motif-type patterns, clean lines, sweeping curves, and non-floral laces were all the rage, to boot.
So, while you might think a style that’s over 100 years old wouldn’t still be in style, the era was so revolutionary in fashion, designers continue to pull inspiration from the ‘20s. In fact, the style is so iconic, you can be sure it will look elegant and timeless in your photos for years to come.
Whether you’re looking to lean entirely into the Jazz Era’s fashion or just want some Deco nods for a vintage-meets-modern look, here are some of the best Roaring '20s wedding dresses that’ll put Daisy Buchanan to shame.
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For the Elegant Bride: Grace + Ivory Elise Dress
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Sleek, hand-sewn details and Art Deco inspiration seamlessly blend together in Grace + Ivory’s Elise gown. Even better, you can try the Japanese crepe dress on at home to ensure it’s the perfect fit.
SHOP NOW: Grace + Ivory
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Best Budget: Lulus Endless Devotion White Sequin Embroidered Mermaid Maxi Dress
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Figure-flattering and budget-friendly, Lulu’s Endless Devotion gown is a ‘20s-inspired steal. Sequins, silver beads, and intricate embroidery adorn this stretch, mermaid hem dress.
SHOP NOW: Lulus
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For the Simple Bride: Valentine Avoh Grace Gown
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The rich, luxurious georgette fabric of Valentine Avoh’s Grace gown is the definition of simplistic elegance. With a drop waist and pleated skirt, you’ll give off sophisticated ‘20s vibes.
SHOP NOW: Valentine Avoh
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For the Reception: Naeem Khan Amadora Dress
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Looking to change things up for your reception? This Naeem Khan feathered cocktail dress will really get you in the mood to party.
SHOP NOW: Naeem Khan
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Art Deco Steal: Lulus This I Promise You White And Nude Beaded Sequin Maxi Dress
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This sequin maxi from Lulu’s is a bridal favorite, and for good reason. The intricately beaded pattern creates an elegant design while the plunging neckline elongates the torso and the skirt flows out from the hips for extra volume.
SHOP NOW: Lulus
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Best Embellishments: Alyne by Rita Vinieris Emmeline Gown
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Ethereal beauty meets the 1920s in the Emmeline gown. This short-sleeve sheath wedding dress features head-to-toe beading, and a deep V-neckline for added sex appeal.
SHOP NOW: Wedding Dress House
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For the Minimalist Bride: Talbot Runhof Ruched Lurex Gown
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Hello, old Hollywood glamour! Cut from shimmering ivory Lurex, this Talbot Runhof’s stunner has a plunging neckline, a figure-flattering ruched waist, and a floor-sweeping train. Add your favorite accessories to make the look your own.
SHOP NOW: Net-a-Porter
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For the Feminine Bride: Sachin & Babi Inez Gown
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The delicate ruffles of this Sachin & Babi gown are a nod to the tiered ‘20s style. The all-over lace, V-neckline, and open back create a look that’s both feminine and flirty.
SHOP NOW: BHLDN
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For the Princess Bride: Maggie Sottero Gideon Gown
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This glitter tulle Maggie Sottero bridal gown combines a Gatsby-inspired fitted bodice with a fluffy tulle skirt, and spectacular lace motifs, for a 1920s meets 2020s look. Whether you get it in Champagne or silver, it’s sure to “wow.”
SHOP NOW: Maggie Sottero
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Favorite Arm Detail: DB Studio Low Back Lace Wedding Dress with Fringe Swags
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Boho meets ‘20s in this ethereal gown from David’s Bridal. The lace-trimmed drop waist creates a curve-hugging silhouette, and the detachable shoulder swags give you the option to mix up your spaghetti strap look.
SHOP NOW: David's Bridal
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Best Back Detail: Azazie Cersei BG Gown
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Coming in sizes 0-30, Azazie’s Cersei gown is a vintage vision in the softest of chiffon. The V-neck bodice and chapel train skirt add some whimsy, while the hand-beaded button back and scalloped raglan sleeves showcase those famous ‘20s pearls.
SHOP NOW: Azazie
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For the Ethereal Bride: Grace + Ivory Kali Gown
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“[1920s inspired] silhouettes are typically more relaxed and not as cutting as some corseted dresses,” explains Wong. “A V-neck paired with geometrically-inspired lace patterns and beading” are big Gatsby nods and found together in this dreamy Grace + Ivory gown.
SHOP NOW: Grace + Ivory
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Favorite Train: ASOS EDITION Lucy Placement Beaded Wedding Dress
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We love the modern addition of a train seen in ASOS’s ‘20s-inspired Lucy wedding dress. The puddle train boasts the same intricate Art Deco details seen throughout the embellished gown—and combined with the open back, it was made for grand exits.
SHOP NOW: ASOS
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Favorite Party Dress: Naeem Khan Gatsby
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Want a frock you can really shake your tail feather in? It doesn’t get much more ‘20s than Naeem Khan’s Gatsby dress. Layers upon layers of beaded and sequined fringing will catch all the compliments on the dance floor.
SHOP NOW: Net-a-Porter
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For the Gold Obsessed Bride: Revelry Gwen Sequin Dress
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The 1920s was known for utilizing metallic fabric and sequins, so why limit yourself to white on your wedding day? Revelry’s Gwen gown looks straight from the era with delicate flutter sleeves and a V-neckline.
SHOP NOW: Revelry
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Best Tiers: Andrea & Leo Ivory Eva Gown
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Modern on the top and ‘20s on the bottom! Andrea & Leo’s Eva gown gives you the best of both worlds with a fitted corset that sweeps into elegant tiers of ruffled tulle and gracefully falls into a sweep train.
SHOP NOW: Lady Black Tie
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Favorite Feathers: Valentine Avoh Ginger Gown
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Oftentimes, 1920s-style wedding dresses would be tea-length, Wong explains, so this Valentine Avoh midi bustier gown hits just right. Embroidered tulle, sequins, beads, and hand-sewn feathers make it as decadent as the decade.
SHOP NOW: Valentine Avoh
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Favorite Flapper Fringe: Scorcesa Tina Dress
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Enjoy vintage elegance in this modern design that will capture all the movement of your first dance.
SHOP NOW: Scorcesa
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For the Modest Bride: BHLDN Bonheur Dress
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“Flutter sleeves with embellishments and shorter trains are reminiscent of this time,” says Wong, and BHLDN’s Bonheur dress practically takes us back to the ‘20s. With a crew neckline and arm coverage, this gown will keep you feeling secure.
SHOP NOW: Anthropologie
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Favorite Cowl Neck: JJ’s House Trumpet/Mermaid Cowl Neck Sweep Train Satin Wedding Dress
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This simple satin gown comes in white, ivory, and Champagne, and every hue boasts a ‘20s inspired cowl neckline and trumpet silhouette. Pair it with some gloves and a birdcage veil to complete the Gatsby look.
SHOP NOW: JJ's House
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Elopement Favorite: ASOS Edition Curve Embellished Bodice Wedding Dress
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The embellished mesh top of this ASOS wedding dress gives a subtle nod to the ‘20s. The soft chiffon arm coverage and crew neck also make it feel comfortable and secure, whether you’re saying “I do” on top of a mountain or at the courthouse.
SHOP NOW: ASOS
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For Pearl Lovers: Jovani 3363 High Neck Beaded Dress
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“Art Deco beading, pearl touches, and mermaid shapes all reference the roaring twenties,” explains Berkman, which is why we can’t get over this Jovani gown. Pearl strands adorn the high neckline and drape over the arms to create a truly opulent illusion.
SHOP NOW: Madame Bridal
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For Vintage Lovers: Bohemian Bride Serayha Dress
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Modern-yet-timeless, Bohemian Bride’s Serayha Dress is covered with neck-to-toe embellishments including stone clasps, teardrop crystals, and mother-of-pearl beads. The slim-fitting shape and beaded back seamlessly blend old and new fashion together.
SHOP NOW: Bohemian Bride
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Classic Flapper Favorite: Halston Heritage Fringed Crepe Dress
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The ‘70s meet the ‘20s in Halston Heritage’s crepe dress. With a high neckline and playful tiers of swishy fringe, you’ll be in the mood to celebrate from the moment you slip it on.
SHOP NOW: Net-a-Porter
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For the Sexy Bride: Adrianna Papell Platinum Nicole Lace & Hand-beaded Wedding Gown In Ivory
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Geometric lace was customary in the ‘20s, and this beaded wedding gown from Adrianna Papell shows just how sultry non-floral lace can be. The illusion neckline, back, and sheer waistband showcases the perfect amount of skin to feel flirty but not overexposed.
SHOP NOW: Adrianna Papell
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Bridal Fan Favorite: Bariano Olivia White Sequin Strapless Maxi Dress
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There’s a reason Bariano’s Olivia dress consistently gets such rave reviews: It looks much more expensive than it actually is. With sparkling white sequins, a sweetheart bodice, and a mermaid skirt, you’ll be turning heads all night long for under $300.
SHOP NOW: Lulus
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Best Subtle Sparkle: BHLDN Fidelia Beaded Maxi Dress
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Blouson silhouettes have been adored since the ‘20s, and we love how BHLDN’s Fidelia maxi combines the classic cut with Art Deco beading. It also comes in “fog,” so the perfect hue is up to you.
SHOP NOW: Anthropologie
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Favorite Cape: Azazie Vanya BG
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“Soft dolman sleeves were popular,” notes Berkman, which is why we’re obsessing over Azazie’s Vanya crepe gown. The mermaid silhouette, scalloped lace cape, and hand-beaded waist make for one truly remarkable dress.
SHOP NOW: Azazie
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Most Dramatic Drop Waist: Jacquemus Amour Tie-Detailed Linen-Jacquard Gown
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It wouldn’t be a ‘20s roundup without a dramatic drop waist, which is why we adore thelinen-jacquard gown from Jacquemus. Modern brides love the subtle nod to the Jazz Era’s fashion.
SHOP NOW: Net-a-Porter
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For the Glamorous Bride: Essence of Australia Martine Harris Martina Liana Luxe
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Fully beaded with textured glitter tulle and Swarovski crystal buttons, this opulent Essence of Australia gown is as Gatsby as they come. Whether you order your dress with or without sleeves, this vintage-inspired dress was made to be admired.
SHOP NOW: Essense Desgins
Shopping FAQs
Searching for a 1920s-inspired gown? We've answered three common questions brides have when shopping for this style of dress.
- Are 1920s-inspired dresses modern? Yes! “This style of wedding dress is popular today as Art Deco vibes are back in full force,” explains Wong. “We’ve been seeing clean, geometric patterns for invites and ceremony pieces, combined with gorgeous, sweet floral accents that are making weddings really pop. With a 1920s-style wedding dress, you can tie all the inspiration together with subtle Art Deco-inspired lines in your dress, and/or beautiful gold or silver beaded accents.”
- How do I style a Roaring '20s wedding dress? If you’re opting for something chic and classic, feel free to glam it up with jewels, headpieces, and over-the-top accessories. When it comes to veils, Wong suggests something dramatic. “Cathedral veils became popular during the 1920s!" she explains. Extra bonus: “You don’t have to worry about bustling a long train/dragging it around for the rest of the night!”
- What should I keep in mind when shopping for a 1920s-inspired wedding dress? Wong suggests focusing on different aspects you love about 1920s style dresses to find your dream gown. “Do you like a specific detail (i.e. clean lines and silver beading) that you have to have for your dress? Or maybe it’s an Art Deco-inspired lace and a specific neckline. I think it’s key to focus on the details that really catch your eye,” Wong says. Pick a few must-have elements and don’t be afraid to try on the unexpected!
20 Bridgerton Inspired Wedding Dresses
FAQs
What did brides wear in the 1920s? ›
Brides that purchased or hand-made a wedding dress were still wearing medieval style gowns in the early 1920s. The gowns were tubular shapes with a silk slip dress topped with a beaded tunic. Silhouettes followed the same designs as party dresses and semi-formal afternoon dresses.
What is the most popular wedding dress of all time? ›Grace Kelly. Grace Kelly's satin and lace gown made by the wardrobe department at MGM is considered one of the most beautiful wedding dresses of all time—and rightfully so.
Who designed Audrey Hepburn's wedding dress in Funny Face? ›This wedding dress worn by Audrey Hepburn in 1957 film "Funny Face" is so iconic and classic. Designed by Givenchy, this dress features a short kimono style sleeves, boat neck and a full tulle skirt. The gown is so reminiscent of a ballerina, so graceful and beautiful.
What did brides wear in the Renaissance? ›During the Middle Ages and Renaissance, colors had symbolic meanings and wedding dresses were made in a range of colors. Blue was a popular choice as it represented chastity but brides could also choose green, red, yellow or any other color.
What color did brides wear before Queen Victoria? ›Before her, royal brides wore wedding dresses in a variety of hues, with red being one of the most popular, while white dresses were reserved for women who were being presented at court. A portrait of Queen Victoria on her wedding day in 1840.
What color was the original wedding dress? ›The earliest recorded instance of a white wedding dress in Western culture is that of the English Princess Philippa at her wedding to the Scandinavian King Eric in 1406. She was dressed in a white tunic lined with ermine and squirrel fur.
What celebrity wore the most expensive wedding dress? ›Serena Williams - $3.5 million
The tennis pro takes the cake with her wedding ball gown! Her Alexander McQueen dress designed by Sarah Burton, complete with a cascading cape and sweetheart neckline, makes history as the most expensive wedding dress of all time at a whopping $3.5 million price tag.
Simplicity & Silhouette
There is beauty in simplicity. Bridal fabrics such as lace, chiffon, satin, and silk in ballgown and A-line silhouettes evoke luxury and timelessness. The combination of these fabrics and silhouettes enable a wedding gown to look regal and stand out.
At the fairytale-themed wedding, Williams delighted her guests with not one but three gowns, including the most expensive wedding dress of all time. Williams emerged in a dramatic strapless, belted princess gown with a cape, designed by Sarah Burton for Alexander McQueen.
Where are Audrey Hepburn's dresses? ›The original hand-stitched dress is currently in Givenchy's private archive, whilst one copy Hepburn took back to Paramount is on display at the Museo del Traje in Madrid and another was auctioned at Christie's in December 2006.
Who designed the costumes for Funny Face? ›
Funny Face
What did brides wear in the 16th century? ›Nuptials Attire of the 1500s to 1600s
During the Elizabethan era, the middle-class bride would wear her best gown and kirtle, and if she could afford it, she may sew a new dress. Wedding gown styles were full-length and would cover most of the body except where it had a plunging neckline.
The bride would typically wear her finest dress to the ceremony, even if it was a dark color. In fact, many brides wore black during this time. Only a few colors were avoided, such as green, which was then considered unlucky.
What color were medieval wedding dresses? ›Medieval Bridal Attire
In terms of color, most brides chose dark blue, the color of purity. These wealthier Medieval brides often chose shades of red or gold. Royals and nobles chose materials such as velvet, satin, or silk. Of course, a woman hoped for a silk dress above all others.
Black can also be a color of elegance or class (such as a black-tie only event, and black evening gowns). Black also represents power, sexuality, sophistication, formality, wealth, mystery, depth, and best of all, sheer style.
What does a purple wedding dress mean? ›Traditionally the colour of good luck, blue signifies peace and purity. The bride who wears blue is just like calm water, life giving, and stable and endlessly loyal. Purple. An air of mystery and magic surrounds deeper tones signifying strength and power, whilst paler shades suggest romance and nostalgia.
What's the most expensive wedding dress in the world? ›The world's most expensive dress is 'Nightingale of Kuala Lumpur,' by a Malaysian designer Abdul Faisaly, The red-chiffon dress is worth $30 million. The gown is covered with 751 diamonds and Swarovski crystals weighing over 1,100 carats and includes a 70-carat teardrop diamond.
How much was Meghan Markle's wedding dress? ›In 2018, Markle's wedding dress cost around $265,000. Today, that would be $276,000. Markle's simple boat-neck ceremony dress was designed by Clare Waight Keller for Givenchy.
Which country has the most beautiful wedding dress? ›Iceland Bride
Traditional Icelandic wedding dresses comprise of a sweater, a head gear and some gorgeous embroidery on bride's dress.
Kourtney Kardashian, 43, got the world talking about her $1.9k wedding dress she wore to marry husband Travis Barker, 46, at their legal nuptials in Santa Barbara earlier this month.
How much did Princess Diana's wedding dress cost? ›
How much did Princess Diana's wedding dress cost? Princess Diana's ivory wedding gown cost approximately £9,000 ($12,000) in 1981 which is equivalent to about £36,800 ($50,000) today.
How much did Kate Middleton's dress cost? ›Kate Middleton's wedding dress cost an estimated $332,000.
Created by Sarah Burton at Alexander McQueen, the dress is estimated to have cost $331,721 (£250,000).
On May 19, 1962, Marilyn Monroe made history when she famously sang “Happy Birthday” to President John F. Kennedy for his 45th birthday at Madison Square Garden in a stunning, provocative flesh-colored gown. On November 17, 2016, Ripley's Believe It or Not!