HOLLYWOOD GLAM:
Defining Trends - During economic strife, Hollywood kicked into high gear with streamline fashion and musical extravaganza.
Attire – Dresses accented the feminine body, clinging and sensual. Fabrics are lush (heavy satin) to accent a simple design. Double breasted suit and bow tie for the gentlemen. “The Aviator” will provide plenty of inspiration for the apparel.
Decor – Give your guests the red carpet treatment, with screaming autograph seekers and paparazzi vying for their attention.
Music – The Golden Age of Hollywood Musicals lends a library of classic tunes. First dance in Fred & Ginger style to “Cheek to Cheek.”
Menu – The Cosmo came into vogue during the ’30s.
Magic Moment – Place a Polaroid from the paparazzi into a mini film tin as the party favor.
SWING ERA:
Defining Trends – Simplicity was key, but certainly not boring.
Attire – Even with wartime rations, 1940s gowns were distinct. Sophisticated hair styles accented with a flower help define the era. Military dress uniform or double-breasted business suit with fedora for the gentlemen. For inspiration, rent “The Palm Beach Story.”
Decor – After a trip to the courthouse, treat your guests to a swing dance lesson before the dinner reception at a supper club.
Music – Only the Big Band tunes will do—Goodman, Miller, Dorsey. Let Ella serenade your first dance “For Sentimental Reasons.”
Menu – Straight from mom’s kitchen: home cooked comfort foods. Send guests home with a slice of groom’s cake (a traditional wedding favor).
Magic Moment – Making your get away in a 1940 Packard Limousine.
ATOMIC AGE:
Defining Trends – The return to innocent, a boom in invention.
Attire – Gowns were fitted and bell shaped with lots of tulle and decorative accent. Veils were fingertip length. Gentlemen are styling in a midnight blue tuxedo jacket. The original “Father of the Bride” is a definitive example of 1950s wedding glamour.
Decor – Think sock hop, book a bowling alley or transform a high school gym into a “prom night.” Color palette of cotton candy pink, mint green and lemon yellow.
Music – A DJ can spin early rock & roll standards. Elvis’ “Can’t Help Falling In Love” is a dream of a first dance selection.
Menu – What would June Cleaver serve? Gourmet-up the menu of Tuna casserole, macaroni & cheese, meatloaf with mashed potatoes—milk shakes for dessert!
Magic Moment – Guests are treated to a special appearance by Sandy & Danny look-a-likes.
By: Melissa Allen – BrideWorld
Melissa Allen owns Deco Events, wedding coordinators specializing in Vintage & Motif Wedding Designs and coordination.
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