Happy Wednesday, Friends!
I'm just going to jump right in today. As you may know, director and writer Baz Luhrmann's long-awaited cinematic re-telling of The Great Gatsby opened in theaters on May 10. And if you're anything like me, you have been noticing Gatsby-inspired design EVERYWHERE ever since. So I was inspired to do my own Gatsby post today.
Although the movie has gained mixed reviews, everyone seems to agree that it is a visual masterpiece. And how could it not be when it's set in one of the most visually striking art eras of the 1900's--Art Deco?! Art Deco, one of my favorite styles, thrived during America's Roaring 20's and is easily identifiable by its bold, cascading geometric shapes and patterns that were omnipresent in a variety of fields ranging from fashion, furniture, and graphic design to architecture and automobiles. It was a decadent time and everyone was always ready for a swanky party.
Which brings us to todays theme: a swanky Art Deco wedding. I know it's a
wedding dress Wednesday, but I'm just too excited about the idea of designing a whole Art Deco wedding! I've already got some ideas rolling on
Pinterest.
The Bridal Gown
First and foremost, you need a 1920s dress. Doesn't matter whether it's brand new or a true vintage as long as it hits on most of these key characteristics:
- Sheath silhouette: a long, semi form fitting, draping gown with no added fluff.
- V-neck or Straight Neckline: Art Deco is about clean geometric shapes.
- Sleeveless or Spaghetti Straps: keep the silhouette streamline from shoulder to feet.
- Embellishments: shiny metals, feathers, pearls, clean lines and geometric shapes--andkeep it symmetrical!
- Accessories: long necklaces, headbands, gloves, bracelets, and hats.
- Colors: stay away from stark white (go with ivory or antique white), combine light neutrals with dark, rich earthy tones.
For some inspiration, check out Kate Moss' 1920s-inspired wedding gown designed by John Galliano in 2011:
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| Notice the knot in the veil and how she wore it more like a hat than a veil. Sources: top, bottom |
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| Sources: 1 | 2 | 3 |
1.
Blakely by
Maggie Sottero | 2. Imari by
Jenny Packham | 3. Jennifer Blue of
Something Blue | 4. Designed by Michelle of
Angelique Bridal & Formal | 5. Stardust by
Jenny Packham | 6. Milan by
Yolan Cris
The Accessories
It's all about the glam! Load up on pearl- and diamond-encrusted necklaces, headbands, earrings, brooches and shoes. Let your inner Hollywood star shine from head to toe!
1. Natural pearl and diamond necklace by Cartier | 2. Headband by
Sandra Nicole | 3. Brooch bouquet | 4. Ostrich Feather Clutch by Coach | 5. 3.26ct antique diamond engagement ring from Lang Antique & Estate Jewelry | 6. Ivanka Trump
Natalya pump | 7. Christian Louboutin Very Galaxy Platform Pumps
The Invitation & Paper Goods
This is my favorite part! As a graphic designer and artist, Art Deco fascinates me. I love all the lines, shapes, and patterns. It's so dynamic and imperial that it catches my eye immediately, no matter where I spot it. My favorite example is these Art Deco invites by Ceci New York--it's stunning.
The Cake
The wedding cake should always be a reflection of the wedding theme, and with an Art Deco theme, the possibilities are endless. I suggest grabbing detail designs from your invite or dress to use as decoration. Plus, since edible gold and silver are popular options these days, you don't have to be afraid to bling it up!
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| Sources: 1 | 2 |
1. Becky Colletti of
Consumed by Cake | 2. Lori Hutchinson of
The Caketress
The Guys
Say it with me: three piece suit! Dress your groom and his men in dapper suits made of fine materials. Don't be afraid to mix and match textures, patterns, and colors on the accessories (tie, handkerchief, vest, shoes) but leave the jacket and pants solid.
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| Sources: 1 | 2 + 3 | 4 |
2 + 3.
The Great Gatsby Collection by Brooks Brothers
The Gals
Your maids will have so much fun dressing up in these little feminine and flirty numbers. Go for sleek, flattering shapes, with lots of detail for visual interest. Personally, I like to see a lot of shiny bead work, but feathers, pearls, and satin are equally dazzling. Mix and match to find dresses that match your maids' individual personalities.
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| Sources: 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 |
1. Temperley London Venus waterfall silk gown (Similar to what
Kate Moss's MOH wore) | 2. Dorothy Perkins Scalloped beaded dress | 3. Florrie feather party dress Monsoon | 4. Alberta Ferretti's dark purple tulle sleeveless scoop neck dress
The Venue
If you could have your dream Gatsby-inspired anywhere, where would it be? My top pick would be the
The Plaza Hotel in New York City. Or perhaps a country club, like
Westchester Country Club (Rye, NY), or a vineyard, like
Hammer Sky Vineyard (Paso Robles, CA).
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| Sources: 1 | 2 | 3 |
The Getaway Car
Go vintage or go home! Say... a 1937 Rolls Royce Phantom in white? Yes, please!
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| Source: 1 |
Alright, friends, that's all I have... for now. The quest for the perfect Gatsby-inspired wedding never ends, so if you have any good ideas please share in the comments!
UPDATE Friday, June 7, 2013:
Speaking of the Brooks Brothers' Gatsby Collection, I spotted the suits in their window display in Washington, D.C. this past Wednesday! Looks great, doesn't it?
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| Source: Becky J |
