Journey Back in Time: The Ultimate Guide to Rocking an 80s Wedding Costume

Step into the Limelight: Embrace the Glamour of the 80s

For couples seeking an unforgettable and nostalgic wedding, the 80s wedding costume is a time-traveling treasure. This iconic decade offers a kaleidoscope of vibrant colors, bold patterns, and larger-than-life silhouettes, creating a wedding extravaganza that will transport guests back to the era of big hair and shoulder pads.

The Unforgettable Brides: Iconic 80s Wedding Dresses

• Tiered Ruffles: Lady Di's iconic wedding gown set the stage for 80s bridal fashion. Expect layers of frothy tulle and cascading ruffles that create a princess-like silhouette.

  

• Shoulder Statement: Puffed sleeves, exaggerated shoulders, and off-the-shoulder bodices were all the rage in the 80s. Embrace the drama of these statement-making designs for a truly unforgettable look.

• Lace and Pearls: Intricate lace and gleaming pearls added a touch of elegance to 80s wedding gowns. Look for dresses with intricate lace appliqués or subtle pearl detailing for a timeless and feminine appeal.

  

Dashing Grooms: 80s Wedding Suits for the Modern Prince Charming

• Bold Colors: It wasn't just the brides who got to have fun with color. Grooms in the 80s opted for bold hues like cobalt blue, emerald green, and even burgundy. Don't be afraid to break away from traditional black or navy and make a statement with a vibrant suit.

• Tailored Perfection: Sharply tailored suits were key in the 80s. Look for suits with clean lines, defined shoulders, and a fitted silhouette that will accentuate your groom's physique.

• Accessories with Attitude: Accessories played a major role in 80s fashion. Consider a statement tie or pocket square with geometric patterns or bold colors. Finish off the look with a pair of polished loafers or Oxfords.

  

Accessorizing the 80s Wedding: From Head to Toe

• Veils with Volume: Over-the-top veils were a staple of 80s weddings. Opt for a cathedral-length veil with layers of tulle or delicate lace for a dramatic and unforgettable entrance.

• Statement Jewelry: Bold earrings, chunky necklaces, and oversized bracelets made a comeback in the 80s. Choose pieces with geometric shapes or colorful gemstones to match the vibrant aesthetic of the decade.

• Footwear with Flair: Step into a pair of sky-high heels or embellished flats. Consider shoes with metallic accents, platform soles, or lace detailing to complete the 80s ensemble.

Hair and Makeup: The Art of 80s Glamour

• Big Hair, Don't Care: The 80s were all about voluminous hairstyles. Tease your hair to the heavens or opt for a cascading perm to achieve that iconic 80s hairdo.

• Bold Eyeshadow: Electric blue, neon pink, and shimmering gold eyeshadows were the stars of the show. Don't be afraid to experiment with bright and dramatic colors to create a bold eye look.

• Blush with Attitude: Blush was applied heavily in the 80s, creating a rosy and youthful glow. Apply blush to the apples of your cheeks and blend outward to achieve a natural but vibrant flush.

A Timeline of 80s Wedding Fashion

Case Studies: 80s Wedding Extravaganzas

• The Princess of Wales: Lady Diana's 1981 wedding to Prince Charles set the standard for 80s bridal fashion. Her iconic gown, designed by David and Elizabeth Emanuel, featured 10,000 pearls and a 25-foot train, symbolizing the grandeur and excess of the decade.

• Madonna's Bold Wedding: Madonna's 1985 wedding to Sean Penn was a true reflection of her eccentric style. The Material Girl wore a white lace dress with a black leather jacket and a crucifix necklace, breaking away from traditional bridal norms.

• Brooke Shields' Fairy-Tale Affair: Brooke Shields' 1997 wedding to Andre Agassi was a lavish 80s-inspired extravaganza. The bride wore a ruffled Valentino gown with a cathedral-length veil, while Agassi sported a burgundy velvet tuxedo.

What We Learn from 80s Wedding Style

• Embrace the Power of Color: Don't be afraid to experiment with bold colors and vibrant patterns. The 80s were a time of celebration and self-expression, and your wedding should reflect that.

• Make a Statement with Accessories: Accessories can elevate any outfit and make a lasting impression. Choose pieces that reflect your personality and add a touch of drama to your wedding ensemble.

• Have Fun with Hair and Makeup: The 80s were known for exaggerated styles and bold beauty looks. Don't hold back when it comes to your hair and makeup. Embrace the decade's iconic trends and create a look that will turn heads.

Effective Strategies for Planning an 80s Wedding

• Set the Scene: Create an 80s atmosphere at your wedding venue with neon lights, geometric patterns, and a soundtrack filled with classic hits from the decade.

• Involve Your Guests: Encourage your guests to dress in 80s attire and provide props like Rubik's Cubes and fanny packs to enhance the experience.

• Hire a Photographer with an Eye for the 80s: Find a photographer who is familiar with the era and can capture the unique aesthetic of your 80s wedding.

Tips and Tricks for Rocking an 80s Wedding Costume

• Go Over-the-Top: The 80s were all about excess, so don't be afraid to go all out with your costume. Think big hair, flashy accessories, and vibrant colors.

• Accessorize with Purpose: Accessories play a crucial role in completing an 80s look. Choose pieces that are both fashionable and functional, such as a statement belt or a pair of oversized sunglasses.

• Don't Be Afraid to Mix and Match: The 80s were a time of experimentation and eclecticism. Mix and match different styles and patterns to create a unique and unforgettable costume.

Step-by-Step Approach to Planning an 80s Wedding

1. Choose Your Theme: Decide on a specific 80s theme for your wedding, such as "Neon Nightclub" or "Rockstar Romance." This will help you narrow down your costume choices and décor.

2. Send Out Save-the-Dates: Include a dress code on your save-the-dates to inform guests that you'll be celebrating the 80s. Ask guests to RSVP with their costume ideas.

3. Gather Your Costume: Start collecting your costume pieces several months in advance to ensure you have everything you need. Shop thrift stores, online marketplaces, and costume rental shops for vintage 80s clothing and accessories.

4. Plan Your Hair and Makeup: Schedule a hair and makeup trial to experiment with different 80s looks. Consider hiring a professional makeup artist to create a flawless and memorable style.

5. Create Your Playlist: Compile a playlist of iconic 80s hits to set the mood for your wedding ceremony and reception. Include songs from artists like Madonna, Prince, and Bon Jovi.

Conclusion

Stepping into an 80s wedding costume is not just about dressing up. It's about embracing the era's spirit of celebration, excess, and self-expression. By following these tips and tricks, you can create an unforgettable wedding experience that will have your guests dancing and singing all night long. So, gather your leg warmers, put on your acid wash jeans, and get ready to rock the 80s wedding of your dreams.