the dress | A Brief History of Lace Dresses

Ever wonder why lace dresses have become so popular lately? Who started this trend? And why does everybody look so good in it? Certainly one of these questions had to have crossed your mind at least once. Well, your questions will be answered as soon as you take a quick glimpse of the history of lace dresses.

1840s:

                                            

The lace wedding gown did not become popular until 1840, when Queen Victoria popularized it at her wedding to Prince Albert. After that brides followed the trend in honor of their Queen, and ever since the lace dress and veil became a tradition.

1900s-1910:

Throughout the early 1900s wedding dresses casually remained the same except more brides began to wear soft white and ivory to symbolize purity and innocence. This dress here also seems to have lace outlining, particularly on the train.

1920s:

As we all know, 1920s fashion became the Flapper period. Necklines were dramatically shortened and arms and legs finally made an appearance. All the female brides and guests wore flapper style dropped waist dresses with fringes at the knees to provide more attitude to their style.

1940s:

In the early-mid 1940s complete sheer lace with a fitted bodice and V-point waist was all the rave. Necklines plummeted a little longer, but remained complemented by sleeves and long trains.

1980s - 1990s:

The 1980s and 1990s were very similar in style. Most of the wedding dress designs emphasized the shoulders and upper arms. Dresses made of man made materials and lace were still favorable as was the use of inexpensive offshore labor which meant that a bride could get a beautiful wedding dress at an exceptional value. These designs can  closely be related to those of the mid or late Victorian time period. This style of dress definitely deserves a 'What were we thinking?' type of award. Do you see that veil?

 Today:

The 21st century bride can dress in almost any style - from ornate designer dresses to a something informal. Not only have necklines plummeted to no end, but bare backs have as well. Most lace dresses seen today make the bride look more modern and sleek, with a touch of sexiness. We've come a long way since Queen Victoria, and hopefully we will think twice before looking back.