Wedding Trends of the 1980s: A Nostalgic Journey Through Iconic Bridal Style

Disclosure:This post may contain affiliate links, meaning if you decide to make a purchase via my links, I may earn a commission at no additional cost to you. See my disclosure for more info.

Step into a time machine and journey back to the era of big hair, bold colors, and unforgettable fashion – welcome to the wedding trends of the 1980s! This decade was a whirlwind of extravagance and self-expression, leaving an indelible mark on bridal style that continues to inspire and captivate us today. As we embark on this nostalgic exploration, prepare to be dazzled by the glamour, charm, and sometimes over-the-top nature of 80s wedding style.

The 1980s were a time of economic prosperity and cultural shifts, and weddings were no exception to the rule of ‘more is more.’ From Princess Diana’s fairytale wedding that captured the world’s imagination to the rise of personalized celebrations, this decade set the stage for a revolution in how we approach the big day. Let’s dive into the iconic 1980s bridal fashion, the music that got everyone on the dance floor, the decor that transformed venues into dreamscapes, and the cultural influences that shaped these unforgettable celebrations.

1980s Bridal Fashion: When Bigger Truly Meant Better

The 1980s were all about making a statement, and bridal fashion took this philosophy to heart. Brides of this era embraced voluminous silhouettes, intricate details, and a sense of grandeur that was unmatched. Let’s explore the key elements that defined 1980s bridal fashion:

The Quintessential 80s Wedding Dress

The iconic 80s wedding dress was a sight to behold. Characterized by its voluminous shape, these gowns were designed to make the bride the center of attention. Key features included:

• Puffed sleeves that defied gravity
• Layers upon layers of tulle and taffeta
• Sweetheart necklines adorned with lace and beading
• Cinched waists that flared into dramatic skirts
• Long trains that seemed to go on forever

These dresses weren’t just garments; they were architectural marvels that showcased the craftsmanship and creativity of 80s designers. The goal was to create a silhouette that was as memorable as the day itself.

Veils and Headpieces: Crowning Glory

No 80s bridal look was complete without an equally dramatic veil or headpiece. These accessories were designed to complement the grandeur of the dress and often included:

• Cathedral-length veils embellished with lace edges
• Ornate tiaras fit for royalty
• Floral crowns with cascading ribbons
• Birdcage veils for the more daring bride

The headpiece was often seen as the crowning glory of the bridal ensemble, quite literally elevating the entire look to new heights.

Bridal Party Attire: Coordinated Extravagance

Bridesmaids weren’t left out of the fashion extravaganza. Their dresses often mirrored the bride’s in terms of volume and detail, featuring:

• Matching puffed sleeves and full skirts
• Bold, often pastel colors like peach, mint, and lavender
• Satin and taffeta fabrics that shimmered in the light
• Coordinated accessories, including dyed-to-match shoes and gloves

The goal was to create a cohesive and visually striking bridal party that complemented the bride without overshadowing her.

Groom’s Attire: Dapper and Bold

Grooms of the 80s weren’t content to fade into the background. Their attire was equally bold, featuring:

• Tuxedos with wide lapels and sometimes in pastel shades
• Ruffled shirts that added texture and flair
• Bow ties or cravats in coordinating colors
• Patent leather shoes that gleamed

The overall look for grooms was polished and confident, perfectly complementing the bride’s show-stopping appearance.

The Soundtrack of Love: 80s Wedding Music

No discussion of 80s weddings would be complete without mentioning the music that got everyone on their feet. The 1980s produced some of the most iconic love songs and dance hits that continue to be wedding staples today.

First Dance Favorites

Couples in the 80s had a wealth of romantic ballads to choose from for their first dance. Popular choices included:

• “Endless Love” by Diana Ross and Lionel Richie
• “Time After Time” by Cyndi Lauper
• “I Just Called to Say I Love You” by Stevie Wonder
• “Heaven” by Bryan Adams

These songs captured the emotional depth and romance that couples wanted to express as they took their first steps as newlyweds.

Reception Dance Floor Hits

Once the formal dances were over, the 80s reception turned into a high-energy celebration with hits that got everyone moving:

• “I Wanna Dance with Somebody” by Whitney Houston
• “Billie Jean” by Michael Jackson
• “Girls Just Want to Have Fun” by Cyndi Lauper
• “Don’t Stop Believin'” by Journey

These songs ensured that the dance floor was never empty, creating memories that lasted long after the last note faded.

The Rise of the Wedding DJ

The 1980s saw the rise of the professional wedding DJ, who could seamlessly blend different musical styles and keep the party going all night long. DJs became an integral part of the wedding entertainment, often equipped with:

• State-of-the-art sound systems
• Lighting effects to create atmosphere
• The ability to take requests and read the crowd

This shift from live bands to DJs allowed for a more diverse musical selection and helped to personalize the wedding soundtrack to the couple’s tastes.

Decor and Venue Styling: Creating the 80s Dreamscape

The 1980s were all about creating a visual impact, and wedding decor was no exception. Venues were transformed into romantic wonderlands that reflected the couple’s personalities and the era’s penchant for excess.

Color Palettes: Bold and Beautiful

The color schemes of 80s weddings were anything but subtle. Popular choices included:

• Pastel combinations like peach and mint
• Vibrant jewel tones such as royal blue and emerald green
• Metallic accents in gold and silver
• Black and white for a classic, dramatic look

These color palettes were used throughout the decor, from table linens to floral arrangements, creating a cohesive and eye-catching aesthetic.

Floral Arrangements: Bigger and Bolder

Flowers played a crucial role in 80s wedding decor, with arrangements that were:

• Oversized and dramatic
• Often featuring cascading bouquets for the bride
• Incorporating exotic blooms like orchids and birds of paradise
• Arranged in tall, ornate centerpieces

The goal was to create a lush, romantic atmosphere that mirrored the grandeur of the overall celebration.

Table Settings: Layered Luxury

Table settings in the 80s were an exercise in layering and luxury. Common elements included:

• Multiple layers of linens in coordinating colors
• Fine china and crystal glassware
• Elaborate place cards and menu designs
• Candelabras or tall floral centerpieces

Each table was set to impress, creating a dining experience that was as visually stunning as it was enjoyable.

Lighting and Special Effects

The 1980s saw the introduction of more elaborate lighting and special effects at weddings, including:

• Disco balls for dance floor ambiance
• Fog machines for a dreamy atmosphere
• Colorful uplighting to transform venue spaces
• Neon signs with the couple’s names or wedding date

These elements added an extra layer of excitement and personalization to the celebration.

Cultural Influences: Shaping the 80s Wedding Experience

The wedding trends of the 1980s were heavily influenced by the cultural shifts and icons of the time. Let’s explore some of the key influences that shaped these celebrations.

The Royal Wedding Effect

Perhaps no single event had a greater impact on 80s weddings than the 1981 marriage of Prince Charles and Lady Diana Spencer. This fairytale wedding influenced:

• The popularity of grand, cathedral-style weddings
• The desire for elaborate, princess-like gowns
• The inclusion of traditional elements like horse-drawn carriages
• The concept of the wedding as a large-scale, public event

Many brides sought to emulate aspects of Diana’s iconic look and ceremony, setting a trend for romantic, fairytale weddings that defined the decade.

Pop Culture and Media Influence

The 1980s were a time of media saturation, with movies, TV shows, and music videos all playing a role in shaping wedding trends:

• Films like “Father of the Bride” (1991) showcased the extravagance of 80s-style weddings
• Music videos by artists like Madonna and Cyndi Lauper influenced bridal fashion and hair styles
• Popular TV shows featured wedding episodes that viewers sought to emulate

These media influences helped to create a shared cultural vision of what a dream wedding should look like.

The Rise of Personalization

While there were certainly trends that many couples followed, the 1980s also saw a rise in the personalization of weddings. This included:

• Themed weddings based on shared interests or hobbies
• Incorporation of cultural or family traditions
• Unique venue choices, moving beyond traditional church settings
• Personalized vows and ceremony elements

This trend towards personalization laid the groundwork for the highly individualized weddings we see today.

The Legacy of 80s Wedding Trends

As we look back on the wedding trends of the 1980s, it’s clear that this decade left an indelible mark on the world of bridal fashion and celebration. While some elements may seem over-the-top by today’s standards, many aspects of 80s weddings continue to influence modern celebrations:

• The emphasis on creating a memorable, visually stunning event
• The importance of music in setting the tone for the celebration
• The trend towards personalization and unique expressions of love
• The concept of the wedding as a large-scale production

Today’s couples often draw inspiration from the boldness and romance of 80s weddings, incorporating elements of this iconic era into their own celebrations in fresh and modern ways.

Conclusion: Celebrating the Spirit of 80s Weddings

The wedding trends of the 1980s were a reflection of a decade characterized by excess, optimism, and a desire to stand out. From the unforgettable fashion to the chart-topping music, from the elaborate decor to the cultural influences that shaped these celebrations, 80s weddings were truly one-of-a-kind.

As we continue to evolve in our approach to weddings, it’s worth looking back at this vibrant era for inspiration. The 1980s remind us that weddings are not just ceremonies, but celebrations of love, personality, and shared joy. Whether you’re planning a retro-inspired wedding or simply appreciating the fashion of decades past, the spirit of 80s weddings continues to captivate and inspire.

So, the next time you find yourself swaying to an 80s love ballad or admiring a vintage wedding photo, take a moment to appreciate the bold, beautiful, and sometimes wonderfully over-the-top world of 1980s weddings. It was an era that truly knew how to celebrate love in style!

For more inspiration on incorporating elements of 80s style into modern weddings, check out The Iroquois Club’s blog on 1980s wedding trends. And if you’re curious about the most glamorous gowns of the era, don’t miss this collection of iconic 1980s wedding dresses.