Something Old… How to Buy a Vintage Wedding Dress
Fashion / 5 months ago

Opt for a totally unique look for your big day by buying vintage

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There are many great reasons to choose a vintage wedding dress over a more modern number: its story, utter uniqueness, irreplaceable look and feel, or its sustainable credentials. But whatever your reasons, a vintage wedding dress can be the perfect option for your big day – just ask Princess Beatrice, who borrowed her Norman Hartnell dress from her grandmother, Her Majesty the Queen, for her wedding to Edoardo Mapelli Mozzi in July 2020.

So, here’s what to think about when shopping for a vintage wedding dress – and where to get it, whether online or in-store.

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Research your era

It’s an understatement to say fashion has changed quite a lot since the beginning of the 20th century, with long Edwardian skirts and corsets exchanged for miniskirts and camouflage jackets by the Nineties. So if you’re shopping for a vintage wedding dress, be aware of the multitude of choice laid out for you: do you want a full-skirted New Look dress from the 1950s? A flirty flapper dress from the 1920s? A louche, long-sleeved Seventies number? Narrow down what you’re looking for, and alter your online search terms accordingly – it’ll make your final choice that much easier.

Put time in

Some brides want to walk into a boutique and come out a couple of hours later with The Dress. But if you want a vintage wedding dress, be aware that the search might take that bit longer – especially if you have something definite in mind.

Check the sizing

Anyone who has shopped for vintage clothes before will know that sizing has changed a lot in the last fifty years or so, meaning a size 12 from the 1960s is more like a size 8 now, and so on. In this case, it’s always best to try any vintage wedding dresses on before you buy them – or if that’s not possible from an online retailer, to send your measurements in so you can get as accurate a picture as possible.

Find a good tailor

Furthermore, be prepared to have to alter your dress to fit or change elements that you might not like. Even Princess Beatrice had The Queen’s gown altered for her wedding day, adding puffed sleeves and a satin trim on the hem.

Prepare to be surprised

When you’re shopping for any type of vintage clothing, it’s best to go in with an open mind. You might not be able to source exactly what you have in your imagination (and there are modern dressmakers and bridal boutiques for that), but you could be in for a wonderful surprise, coming away with a vintage wedding dress you had never dreamed of.

Where to Buy a Vintage Wedding Dress Online

Cambridge Vintage Bridal

Offering a great range of vintage wedding dresses for ‘eco-minded brides’, this is an online shop, inspiration hub and supplier portal all in one.

Etsy

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The home of small brands, Etsy is a great place to hunt for vintage wedding dresses. Sellers like Harriet’s Frocks and Green Glamour Gowns offer a brilliant selection.

ReSee

A chic online vintage hub, Paris-based ReSee stocks wedding-worthy dresses from the likes of Céline, Chloé and Prada, as well as older styles without labels.

Vestiaire Collective

Vintage buffs will also be very familiar with Vestiaire Collective. Although not dedicated to wedding dresses, you can pick up a beautiful vintage style from a big name.

Where to Buy a Vintage Wedding Dress Offline

Retold Vintage

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Minimalist brides, this one’s for you. Uber-cool London-based vintage site Retold also has a bridal section, stocking carefully selection of dresses and separates. Sign up to find out more.

Brighton Vintage Wedding Dresses

Although currently closed due to Covid, this small bridal boutique in Brighton offers by-appointment browsing and fittings.

Bridal Reloved

With boutiques all over the country, this is a good choice for brides looking for a luxury wedding dress at a fraction of the price. It offers a range of pre-owned and ex-sample wedding dresses from names like Jenny Packham, Stewart Parvin and Temperley.

Abigail’s Vintage Bridal

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From the 1890s to the 1970s, this vintage bridal boutique in Oakham, Rutland, has over 200 dresses in stock. Consultations are 1.5 hours long and a full alteration service is also available.

Ashwell & Co

Located in Bristol, Ashwell & Co (formerly known as Heartfelt Vintage) sells a wide range of vintage dresses from 1900 to the 1980s, as well as offering alterations if necessary.

Jane Bouvis

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The beautiful antique lace and textiles in Jane Bouvis’s boutique in Notting Hill are pretty dreamy. Choose from vintage lace wedding dresses, or a selection of silk slips or tulle gowns. Plus, she’s got a range of ornate antique accessories, from pearl crowns to intricate veils.