It’s Official… old is ceremoniously new again! Check out 12 retro wedding trends that are making a comeback to create a unique and memorable celebration. These wedding retro trends add a welcome dose of nostalgia with a modern flair for your big day.
1. Vintage Wedding Dresses
Lace sleeves, high necklines, or tea-length dresses reminiscent of the 1950s and 60s are making a stylish return. Shopping for a throwback gown at a favorite thrift shop or even in the family attic allows brides to mix retro with their added modern style and sustainability. It’s always so special to see their parent’s or grandparent’s dress come to life by being repurposed. Big balloon sleeves from the ’80’s, large bows from the 90’s, and wedding skirtsuits from the 60’s will be seen more and more. Brides are opting for timeless silhouettes and heirloom-inspired designs.
2. Polaroid Photo Stations and Disposable Cameras
Disposable camera had their heyday in the 80’s and 90’s but died out as digital camera and cell phones emerged. Couples want to see their wedding captured through their guests’ eyes. Some even place a disposable camera on every guest table. Also, polaroid cameras allow guests to snap instant photos, creating tangible keepsakes for the couple and a nostalgic charm for the event.
3. Sculptural or Timeless Floral Choices
Moving away from neat and symmetrical florals, more and more couples are opting for fewer and bolder blooms to anchor an arrangement. Retro flowers are more like sculptures and modern art than centerpieces and bouquets. Retro florals typically include two to three different flowers/greenery rather than 10 to 12 different items. Classic blooms like roses, baby’s breath, daisies, and carnations arranged in cascading bouquets or pastel tones channel retro vibes.
4. Art deco aesthetics
It’s been a century since the Jazz Age and couples still find themselves drawn to the glamour and elegance of the 1920’s. Think Gatsby-style, geometric shapes, big bands with horns, and black tuxes. Be on the lookout for vintage getaway vehicles and classic calligraphy on wedding stationery.
5. Classic Car Getaways
Arriving or departing in a vintage convertible or an iconic car like a 1960s Rolls-Royce adds drama and elegance.
6. Candid Photography
Forget the posed, formal wedding portraits that have been so popular for decades. Imperfect and messy photographs is back! Couples no longer want stylized, edited “light” and posed images. They want to see the real thing even if its a little blurry and a little chaotic, showing the fun and energy rather than the shots that feel more like an editorial in the wedding section of your local magazine. Remember the days before digital photography? A candid style feels more relaxed and natural.
7. DIY Photo Booths
Set up with antique furniture, vintage frames, and retro props, photo booths give guests a fun way to interact with the theme.
8. Eclectic Tableware
Mix-and-match china, gold flatware, and colored glass goblets create a nostalgic tablescape.
9. Disco Balls
Disco balls are the new photo booth! They set the tone for an awesome dance party. Now there are custom disco shapes, disco mirrors, disco tables, and disco hats.
10. Neon Signs and Marquee Lights
Bright, bold neon signs and vintage marquee-style lighting are trendy ways to add a retro, celebratory feel. These have been going strong for a few years!
11. Tiffany Inspired Elements
Tiffany & Co. aesthetic is the ultimate wedding retro trend. Think Audrey Hepburn style along with the iconic blue color that we recognize as the Tiffany box. This will also go hand in hand with structured florals and stunning jewels. Anyone considering this trend will be all about the statement. I would expect to see a white tiered cake with sugar flowers at this wedding.
12. Black, White, and Gold
Black and white NEVER go out of style. The classic formal shades have created a surge in popularity over the last couple of years. Classic and timeless colors can be retro and modern at the same time. You have likely been invited to a wedding where the couple requests you to wear all black or another style request. Think black linens with white florals trimmed with gold accents on the tables and signs.
Ready to book your favorite 2025 or 2026 wedding date? Call 615.948.2817 (Allison will answer assuming within business hours) and we will help you find your ideal date! Prefer email? Just fill out this short questionnaire and we will find the perfect date for your special day.
Check out these locally owned wedding venues, like ourselves, at The Lake at Christenberry Farms, Adler Ranch, La Joya Dulce, Yellow Brick on 39, and Pleasant Pastures Events.