"The Golden Age of Hollywood" Bride

As you have noticed, here on the MEG Jewelry blog we have following different decades and what trends inspired bridal fashion. So far we have covered pre 1900, 1910 La Bella Epoque, and the 1920's bride. Inspired so far?

Continuing our journey, we now move into the 1930's when the female silhouette returns to the natural shape instead of the tubular fashions of the 1920's. We see draped designs that sweep the floor. "The Golden Age of Hollywood" movie influences had a incredible impact on fashion. Feminine details such as ruffles, cowl necklines, halters, and backless gowns were the go-to trends. America was knee-deep in The Depression which led to the popularity of the movies. People could escape!

1930's Hollywood Glamour, Marlene Dietrich

Even though we featured Jenny Packham last week, Packham is spot on for 1920's and 1930's fashion. Here are two glamorous designs from her Spring/Summer 2011 Line.

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The epitome of the 1930's, the female back. Showcase it with MEG's Roxanne Necklace. Nothing could say Hollywood glamour more.

The Roxanne Necklace

{Wedding Era Wednesday} Why white gowns?

Weddings are full of traditions today as we all know. Really though, where did all these traditions come from? There is an answer for everything and we wanted to start sharing some exciting facts about weddings that you may not know.

Why white gowns? Before 1840, color was of little importance. Practicality was. Women wore their best dress to their wedding ceremony and usually wore it multiple times after that day. It wasn't shocking to see a bride in red, black or even blue! What happened in 1840 that turned the fashion trend to white wedding gowns? Queen Victoria married Prince Albert.

That's when the white wedding gown became the tradition we know it as today. Queen Victoria wore a gown of white satin trimmed in lace, a matching white lace veil, and a crown of orange blossoms. From Europe to North America, she set a new standard of wedding attire. Later into the 1860's you would find weddings being completely achromatic (meaning all white). Bridesmaids even wore all white, something that isn't very common today.

Queen Victoria on her wedding day

One more fun tidbit. A common occurrence after your wedding in the late 1800's was to have your gown altered. The neckline dropped and sleeves raised, your wedding gown now became your new evening gown. Funny to think that we leave our gowns preserved, hidden away in a closet!

Feeling inspired by Queen Victoria's influence on wedding attire, here are some soft and intricate MEG Jewelry pieces that would fall perfectly into the late 1800's.

Abeye Bracelet

Abeye Earrings

 Shelly Ankelt

for your something blue!

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{Wear This!} Elizabeth Dye 2011 Bridal Collection

Lovely Lovely gowns! These are the designs Elizabeth dye of the English Department (in Portland, OR). Couldn't wait to post about them, they are just divine. 

{images: Elizabeth Dye}