Sunday 16 September 2012

Blue Lace, New Grace

From the moment Kate Middleton stepped out of the black Rolls Royce Phantom and entered Westminster Abbey on 29th April 2011 to marry Prince William we knew that designers, with their pencil's poised at the ready, would soon be eagerly sketching lace into their future bridal collections.

In 2012 we have not been disappointed as Kate's wedding gown by Sarah Burton has influenced and inspired the wedding world this year. The gown, which finely balanced the juxtaposition of traditional and modern influences was almost symbolic of the way in which the tradition of the Royal Family is delicately counter-balanced against its need to modernise. The subtle statement made by this evocative dress has ensured that this trend will likely continue for years to come.


It isn't just the lace applique, featured on the bodice and skirt, that has inspired designers and brides-to-be alike but it is the opportunity that it has given us to make a departure from strapless wedding gowns to a more refined, classical gown reminiscent of bygone era's where arms and shoulders were covered with long, sheer or lace sleeves.

Lace has always been synonymous with weddings, epitomising beauty and elegance, and has made many memorable appearances on bridal gowns throughout history, notably, adorning the iconic Elizabeth Taylor's glamorous onscreen dress in Father of the Bride. 


It went on to become the most heavily copied dress of the post war era during the early 1950's. Then came one of the most exquisitely elegant lace masterpieces of all time - Grace Kelly's wedding gown to Prince Rainier III in 1956. So influential was the detail of this design that Kate Middleton's dress heavily mimics it making her, some would say, the New Grace.


Of course too, how could we forget the signature gowns of the 1980's where lace became the choice of many a Royal wedding with the gowns heavily favouring a Victorian influence. 

At certain times though it has been regarded as outdated and even reminiscent of doilies or our grandmother's net curtains, but thanks to the resurgence of vintage now being back in vogue we have lovingly welcomed it back with open arms. This time around Lace has been modernised by adding it to simple, sleek and fitted gowns a la Kate Middleton.

Wedding themes which reflect the classiness of lace have evolved too. This has seen the often brash, but never dull, princess style wedding stepping aside to make way for a more intimate, traditional affair accompanied by a subtle palette of dusky, softened and almost subdued colour shades which compliment lace perfectly.


One of these colours is pale blue which promotes purity, elegance and romance. 


When combined with lace this truly brings vintage to life, especially when accompanied by the warmth and girliness of peach tones. 


This was beautifully done recently when Dee Koppang married everyone's Saturday night X-Factor favourite, Dermot O'Leary, at an imitate affair. 


Mrs O'Leary opted to bring a delicately demure vintage feel to her wedding by wearing a fitted ivory satin gown designed by Aimee McWilliams, complete with lace appliques to the fishtail train and on-trend long lace sleeves. She completed the look with a delicate bouquet of baby blue hydrangeas, peach roses and royal blue blooms. 


The look was also echoed by her bridesmaids who wore pretty 60's style knee length dresses in baby blue lace, complete with matching vintage blue lace gloves and delicate peach shoes.


This is an effortlessly chic look for brides-to-be that want to capture a slightly different take on a traditional vintage theme.




At Vintage Rose Wedding Designs we know that balancing the traditional with the modern is a desire of most brides-to-be who are seeking individuality. We also know how difficult it can be to balance the two. With our expert input we can help you to achieve your dream and create a wedding theme that is a reflection of you are your personality and will be nothing short of a timeless classic in its own right.

If you want to discuss how we can bring your ideas to life please contact one of the team at info@vintageroseweddingdesigns.co.uk

Love VR, x

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