My Favorite Vibe: The Wedding Dresses of the 1970s
The Bohemian Rhapsody of 1970s Bridal Fashion
As someone who loves all things vintage, my favorite part of 1970s bridal looks has to be their incredibly ethereal fabrics. I'm talking about the light-as-air feel of chiffon and organza—materials that were perfect for creating long, voluminous, and romantic sleeves, giving every dress a dreamy, bohemian feel.
This was a major style shift from the more stiff and "cookie-cutter" looks of the 1960s. The '70s were all about loosening up, a move away from structured silhouettes and towards something far more relaxed. Dresses became less constructed, and the empire silhouette, which was popular in the late '60s, relaxed even further into soft, high waists that flowed beautifully into romantic, bohemian skirts.
This era was a true celebration of personal style, and the bridal fashion reflected that free-spirited attitude.
The Sleek & Sophisticated Look
While the bohemian aesthetic was certainly dominant, some brides opted for a more sophisticated, streamlined look. The 1970s saw the rise of minimalist elegance, a style that was clean and modern. These dresses often featured:
A-line or Column Silhouettes: A long, straight line from shoulders to floor, emphasizing a clean and modern aesthetic. These dresses were often made from slinky fabrics like satin or crepe, which draped beautifully on the body.
High Necklines: The decade saw a departure from low-cut styles, with many gowns featuring demure, high necklines, sometimes with keyhole cutouts or mock necks, adding a refined, almost regal touch.
Iconic '70s Brides
To truly appreciate the era's style, we can look to some of the most famous brides who walked down the aisle in the '70s. Their choices helped define the decade's bridal fashion:
Alana Hamilton Stewart: For her 1975 wedding to Rod Stewart, Alana wore a stunning bohemian dress that was the epitome of the era's style. Her dress featured a gathered off-the-shoulder neckline with a delicate crochet lace trim. It was a perfect example of how '70s brides embraced a romantic, free-spirited look.
Hillary Clinton: When Hillary Rodham married Bill Clinton in 1975, she opted for a simple and stylish dress that was perfect for her down-to-earth personality. She found her dress off-the-rack at Dillards, a popular department store. The dress had long sleeves and a slightly scooped neckline, proving you didn't need a designer gown to make a beautiful statement.
Farrah Fawcett: For her 1973 wedding to Lee Majors, the future "Charlie's Angel" wore a beautifully simple, high-necked gown with a fitted bodice and a full, flowing skirt. It perfectly captured the romantic, understated elegance of the era.
Princess Anne: In 1973, Princess Anne married Captain Mark Phillips in a regal, high-collared gown with medieval-inspired sleeves and a dramatic train, showcasing a more classic and formal side of '70s bridal fashion.
The 1970s offered a beautiful rebellion against tradition, giving brides the freedom to express their personalities through their wedding attire. Whether they chose a whimsical, bohemian gown or a sleek, tailored silhouette, '70s brides proved that bridal fashion was no longer just about a dress—it was about making a statement.