1. The Giant Bow Obsession of the ’80s
Big bows were the wedding accessory of the ’80s. Brides adorned their dresses with massive satin or tulle bows, either on the back, shoulders, or even as a centerpiece of their veils. These oversized embellishments gave an almost cartoonish vibe, but back then, they were considered the epitome of elegance. Some brides even carried the bow theme into their decor, attaching them to chairs, centerpieces, and pews. It was as if the bigger the bow, the bigger the love — or so the trend seemed to suggest.
Looking back, it’s hard to imagine the appeal of these enormous bows. Modern brides lean toward minimalist elegance, but ’80s brides were all about making a statement. Critics at the time even joked that brides looked like they were gift-wrapped for their grooms. Though the trend has faded, it occasionally resurfaces in nostalgic wedding shoots. Ultimately, these bows embodied the maximalist mindset of the ’80s. Source.
2. Bridal Hats in the ’60s and ’70s
Long before veils reclaimed their throne, bridal hats were all the rage in the ’60s and ’70s. These weren’t just simple sun hats; they ranged from wide-brimmed and lace-covered to pillbox styles adorned with tulle. The goal was to give the bride a unique, chic look, veering away from the traditional veil. Brides often paired these hats with short, mod-style dresses, embracing the fashion-forward vibes of the era.
While undeniably stylish at the time, these hats look a bit impractical to modern eyes. The idea of wearing a big, floppy hat while trying to say your vows or dance at the reception seems more amusing than glamorous. Still, they’re a fascinating snapshot of how fashion influenced wedding trends. Every now and then, a daring bride will bring the look back, proving that what’s old can sometimes be new again. Source.
3. Cake Toppers as Miniature Lookalikes
In the mid-20th century, cake toppers that resembled the bride and groom became wildly popular. Couples would commission custom figurines that mimicked their wedding attire and even their hairstyles. The goal was to add a personal touch to the wedding cake, but the results weren’t always flattering. Some toppers were so poorly crafted they looked more like caricatures than tributes.
Nowadays, this trend is mostly a thing of the past, replaced by sleek monograms or floral arrangements. The custom toppers often felt more kitschy than elegant, and their handmade nature made consistency an issue. Still, these figurines hold a certain nostalgic charm for those who grew up attending weddings in the ’50s and ’60s. They also serve as fun keepsakes, allowing couples to look back on their wedding day with a smile. Source.
4. Matching Bridal Party Gloves
In the ’40s and ’50s, gloves weren’t just for the bride; they were a must for the entire bridal party. Bridesmaids often wore wrist-length or elbow-length gloves that perfectly matched their dresses. This trend was part of a broader cultural emphasis on elegance and formality, with gloves symbolizing a polished, ladylike aesthetic. The bride herself would often wear white gloves as a finishing touch to her ensemble.
While undeniably elegant, this trend had its challenges. Gloves made it harder for bridesmaids to hold their bouquets or even grab a drink at the reception. Today, gloves are considered a rare addition rather than a requirement. Some vintage-inspired brides do embrace them, but they’re far from the mainstream. For most, they’re a reminder of a time when weddings were far more formal affairs.
5. The Money Dance
The money dance, a tradition in many cultures, reached peak popularity in the ’90s. Guests would pin dollar bills onto the bride’s dress or tuck them into the groom’s pockets as they danced. The idea was to help the newlyweds start their married life with a bit of extra cash. While practical, the sight of a bride covered in money could sometimes feel a bit too transactional.
These dances have largely faded in favor of less conspicuous ways to gift money, like honeymoon funds or online registries. For modern couples, the money dance can feel awkward or outdated, though it still holds significance in certain cultural ceremonies. It’s a reminder of how weddings often blend practicality with celebration. Plus, who doesn’t appreciate a little extra cash on their big day?
6. The Balloon Arch Craze
Nothing screamed “wedding chic” in the ’80s quite like a balloon arch. These colorful creations often served as the focal point for the ceremony or the entrance to the reception. Couples loved how customizable they were, with balloons in every shade imaginable. The arches were often paired with other whimsical decor, like fake ivy or twinkle lights.
Today, balloon arches feel more at home at a child’s birthday party than a wedding. Their temporary nature also meant they could deflate or pop, creating potential chaos during the event. Despite this, they’ve seen a slight resurgence in recent years, albeit with a more modern twist. Organic balloon installations, which feature asymmetry and neutral tones, have made the concept feel fresh again. Source.
7. Colored Wedding Dresses
While white has long been the traditional color for wedding dresses, there were decades when brides opted for bold hues instead. In the ’70s, pastel dresses in shades like baby blue and blush pink became popular. Some brides even went all out with bright reds or deep purples, aiming to make their big day as unique as possible.
This trend was a clear departure from tradition, symbolizing individuality and rebellion against the norm. However, it didn’t stand the test of time, as white dresses regained their dominance in the ’80s and ’90s. Today, colored wedding dresses are still an option, but they’re considered unconventional. They’re a great choice for brides who want to stand out, but they’ll likely never replace the classic white gown.
8. Puffed Sleeves Galore
Thanks to Princess Diana’s iconic wedding dress in 1981, puffed sleeves became a must-have for brides in the ’80s. These voluminous sleeves added drama and grandeur to wedding gowns, making brides feel like royalty. Some dresses took the trend to extremes, with sleeves so large they practically overshadowed the rest of the outfit.
While undeniably dramatic, puffed sleeves haven’t aged well. Modern brides tend to favor sleeker, more understated silhouettes. That said, the trend has seen a subtle comeback in recent years, with designers reimagining puffed sleeves in a more minimalist way. It’s proof that even the most outrageous trends can be reinvented.
9. Over-the-Top Groom’s Cakes
Groom’s cakes became a Southern wedding staple in the late 20th century, and the more outrageous, the better. These cakes were often shaped like sports logos, hobbies, or even animals, showcasing the groom’s personality. While they were meant to be a fun addition to the wedding, some designs veered into bizarre territory, like cakes shaped as armadillos or fishing boats.
Today, groom’s cakes are still popular, but they’ve become more refined. Couples now focus on taste and quality over sheer novelty. Still, those quirky cakes from decades past remind us that weddings are as much about fun as they are about tradition. They also serve as a lighthearted way to include the groom’s interests in the celebration.
10. Candy Buffets
Candy buffets exploded in popularity during the 2000s. Couples would set up elaborate tables filled with jars of colorful candies, complete with scoops and little bags for guests to fill. The idea was to offer a fun, interactive dessert option that doubled as a party favor. Guests loved the sugar rush, but the trend often led to sticky fingers and chaotic lines.
As cute as they were, candy buffets eventually lost their charm. They required a lot of upkeep during the reception, and leftover candy often went to waste. Today, dessert tables have evolved to include a variety of treats, like macarons and cupcakes, offering a more elegant alternative. The candy buffet, while nostalgic, feels like a relic of Pinterest’s early days.
11. Disposable Cameras on Tables
In the ’90s and early 2000s, couples placed disposable cameras on every reception table. Guests were encouraged to snap candid photos throughout the night, capturing moments the couple might have missed. The idea was charming, but the results were often a mixed bag. Blurry shots and unflattering angles were common, and developing the film was an added expense.
With the rise of smartphones, disposable cameras have become obsolete. Today, couples create hashtags for guests to share their photos online, making the process easier and more interactive. Still, there’s something sweet about flipping through a physical photo album filled with candid memories. For some, the disposable camera trend represents a simpler, more analog time.
12. Unity Sand Ceremonies
Unity sand ceremonies gained popularity in the 2000s as an alternative to unity candles. Couples would pour different-colored sands into a single vase, symbolizing their lives coming together. It was a visually striking ritual, but it often felt forced or out of place, especially in non-beach weddings. The finished product also didn’t always look as beautiful as intended.
While some couples still embrace this trend, it’s far less common than it once was. Many have turned to other unity rituals, like planting trees or mixing cocktails, to add a personal touch. The unity sand ceremony, while heartfelt, now feels like a relic of its time. It’s a reminder that wedding trends are often as fleeting as they are meaningful.
13. Wedding Videos with Cheesy Effects
In the ’90s and early 2000s, wedding videos were all about special effects. Think star wipes, slow-motion dances, and over-the-top romantic music. Videographers often used these effects to make the footage feel more cinematic, but the result was often cringeworthy. Couples ended up with videos that felt more like bad rom-coms than timeless keepsakes.
Today, wedding videography has evolved into a true art form. Modern videos focus on storytelling and natural moments, with high-quality editing that stands the test of time. Those old-school videos, while dated, have their own charm. They’re a reminder of how technology and tastes have changed over the years.
14. Themed Weddings Taken to Extremes
Themed weddings can be a fun way to showcase a couple’s personality, but some take the concept to extremes. In the ’90s and 2000s, over-the-top themes like “medieval fantasy” or “Hollywood glam” were surprisingly common. Couples went all out with costumes, decor, and even themed menus, often spending a fortune to create their vision.
While these weddings were memorable, they sometimes overshadowed the couple’s love story. Today, themes are usually more subtle, focusing on color palettes or general vibes rather than full-blown reenactments. Still, those outrageous themed weddings remind us that love can be a little wild and a lot of fun.
15. Releasing Live Doves
Releasing doves was once seen as the ultimate romantic gesture, symbolizing peace and love. Couples would let these birds fly during their ceremony or as they exited the venue. While beautiful in theory, the practice had its downsides. Doves are delicate creatures, and not all survived the ordeal, leading to ethical concerns.
Today, most couples avoid using live animals in their ceremonies, opting for symbolic alternatives like bubbles or confetti. The dove release, while visually stunning, feels outdated and impractical. It’s a trend that’s better left in the past, replaced by more humane and equally beautiful traditions.