Bridal Accessory Alternatives: A Vintage Twist

{Guest blogger Micaela Armstrong}

I’ve always loved art deco style (fashion and design reminiscent of the 1920’s and 30’s). It’s one of my favourite eras, and it’s making a comeback in many ways as people are clamouring to incorporate it into their daily style!

In this post, I’m going to approach how to incorporate art-deco style accessories in lieu of traditional bridal accessories, in the hopes of offering options to the bride in search of a unique twist.

  1.) THE HEADPIECE

{photos via Pinterest}

One of the first questions I asked myself was, "How can I bring flowers into this equation?" Over at Beyond the Brush, they have beautiful examples of floral headpieces that made my head spin with possibilities! So many beautiful arrangements and styles are possible, and a floral headpiece is absolutely in the DIY range (perfect for the frugal, savvy bride!). Make it extravagant or minimal depending on your personal taste.

2.) THE CLUTCH

{Photos via www.vintagestyler.com}

Never underestimate the usefulness of a clutch on your wedding day! Depending on its size, your clutch can hold not only your phone, but a bundle of emergency supplies: a sewing kit, lint roller, tissues, makeup - you name it, you'll probably need it at some point. A clutch is not only useful, it is a beautiful accessory to your look. With regard to my ongoing art-deco inspired theme, I found a few examples of gorgeous embellished clutches that use three of my favourite things: pleats, beads and/or brooches. This accessory doesn't have to be expensive. It just has to look that way. 

3.) THE SHOES

 In looking for art-deco inspired shoes, I didn't have to look any further than John Fluevog (I am a Vancouverite, after all). John Fluevog is an unconventional Canadian designer whose flagship store has been running in Vancouver's Gastown since the 1970's. If you want something different, this is the way to go. The styles I chose to include in this post are the Vanessa and Estella heels. Although these two pairs are vastly different from one another, both of them ultimately borrow art deco style, with a modern/contemporary flourish which I think suits my theme well! 

The above accessories are simply ideas to go off of if you're on the lookout for traditional alternatives. There are so many - ranging from decadent to casual. If you want details your guests are sure to notice, take a pass on traditional accessories and go vintage!

Micaela Armstrong is Executive Assistant at Brooklyn Designs and a full-time student at Kwantlen Polytechnic University.