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A vintage wedding can be a stunning, elegant and glorious event. A wedding itself is a joyous occasion, never mind with a vintage theme. Part of the wedding that can add to a theme is jewellery. So today, we are going to be discussing vintage jewellery for vintage weddings. 

The Vintage Wedding Period 

The vintage period is actually from 1940-1994. So it spans 54 years precisely and includes the 1940s, 1950s, 1960s, 1970s, 1980s, and some of the 1990s. You’ve got a lot of options to choose from if you want to go era-specific. Of course, you can go for the general ‘vintage’ theme, giving you access to all the eras. I’m going to delve into some era-specific vintage jewellery to inspire you. 

1940s Jewellery 

The 1940s era brought with it many different popular styles of jewellery. One of the biggest trends was the pearl choker necklace. This was truly a thing of beauty and is a standout piece that would look great on a bride on her big day. 

In the 1940s many fashion magazines began to be printed in colour, so naturally, the jewellery during this period became more colourful and took on a bolder colour palette. Colourful gemstone jewellery, whether that be earrings, bracelets, necklaces, or brooch is a great option for your vintage wedding. 

1950s Jewellery 

In the 1950s more and more women wanted to be seen as considered and coordinated, so naturally, jewellery sets started trending. Matching earrings and necklaces were hugely popular, as were larger sets such as matching bracelets, earrings, and necklaces sets. 

Pearls were just as popular in this era as they were in the 1950s. Grace Kelly is mostly to thank for that, it was incredibly common to see pictures of Grace Kelly adorned with pearl bracelets, necklaces, or earrings. So how about choosing pearl earrings for you or your bridesmaids? They would certainly further the vintage wedding theme. 

Coral and turquoise gemstones started trending in the 1950s, often matching the blue eyeshadow that many women wore during this period. Often the stones would be smooth, round or oval cabochon cut. These types of gemstones are perfect when shown in contrast to black or white clothing – great for a pop of colour on your wedding day. 

1960s Jewellery 

1960s jewellery styles seemed to be very similar to the previous period. But a change did start to emerge and with it new 1960s jewellery trends. One of which was the interest in metals. A lot of jewellers started to experiment with creating intricate designs within the metal. Hammered, crumpled, and gritty textures became very popular. Bold, colourful gemstones started to fall out of fashion and were replaced with more subtle decorative metal pieces, such as a gold bangle. 

When we think of the 1960’s we often think of geometric patterns, and these definitely emerged in jewellery form. Shapes such as circles, hexagons, spirals, and diamonds started trending. These would add a great vintage element to your wedding day. How about incorporating some geometric ’60s cufflinks into the wedding party, either on the groom or the best man?

Although perhaps not as elegant or classy for your wedding day, the 1960s did also bring plastic and resin jewellery with it. Actually, resin and plastic jewellery have started to become really popular recently. If this is something you’re interested in then by all means include some resin jewellery in your vintage wedding. 

1970s Jewellery 

1970s jewellery carried on the metal trend from the previous decade. This era also incorporated tassel necklaces and earrings, as well as long bead necklaces. Gold was huge in the 1970s. So perhaps this is the way to go for your vintage wedding – lean into the gold theme you won’t regret it. 

Something else that was fashionable in the 1970s was the integration of bone and ivory into jewellery. It might not have been controversial then but it probably is now. However, this is your choice entirely. If you are keen on the ‘look’ but don’t want the bone or ivory then how about just getting a piece of jewellery that looks similar, but doesn’t have the specific elements. 

1980s Jewellery 

Big and bold was the theme for the 1980s, and it definitely spread into the jewellery scene. Think Cyndi Lauper for inspiration. 

The 1980s jewellery scene included oversized hoops as a staple. This might not be the way forward for everyone. However, some gorgeous hoop earrings can be a beautiful addition to your bridal outfit. 

Large statement jewellery was in vogue. Large bold necklaces and bracelets were a must. If you aren’t keen on embodying Cyndi Lauper for your big day, then how about drawing some inspiration from people’s Princess – Princess Diana. She was often pictured wearing chokers and large drop earrings. So how about including those pieces in your vintage wedding theme?