Infuse Your Wedding with Old Hollywood Glamour
Photo courtesy of BHLDN
We know what Old Hollywood glamour is. Think Greta Garbo, Marilyn Monroe, Grace Kelly.
The question is, how do you get it? For some answers, we spoke to Shannon Faretra, shop manager at BHLDN’s Chestnut Hill location, to find out.
“Infusing Hollywood glamour into your bridal style is all about choosing timeless, body-skimming silhouettes that accentuate your best assets, and luxurious looking fabrics,” she says.
Start by choosing a glamour gown. Faretra grabs fit and flares for her brides who want the iconic look of those black-and-white beauties. This cut accentuates your waist and is more fitted in the hips, a style favored by Old Hollywood icons and today’s starlets alike. For added drama, don’t forget to add a train. When you need a little more forgiving style, try a sheath wedding gown, which can have a softer drape from the hips down.
For the neckline, silver-screen sirens like Marilyn Monroe and Grace Kelly knew the power that a sweetheart, scoop, or V-neck can hold for a sincerely flattering and elegant fit.
Faretra also suggests choosing luxe fabrics like silk charmeuse, silk crepe, and silk satin for a sleek, sophisticated bridal style. If you prefer more embellishment, she recommends a wedding dress with beading and luster. “It exudes extra star quality,” she says.
No Hollywood-inspired look would be complete without dazzling jewelry. Faretra adds vintage-inspired bridal jewelry with crystals, gemstones, pearls, and Art Deco influences for timeless glamour. But don’t go all Liberace. Focus on one larger statement piece and match it to more subtle pieces of jewelry.
“A bridal cover-up is another way to add Old Hollywood style to your wedding attire,” Faretra says. “Try layering a lace or beaded capelet over a simpler gown.” We love the raw-edged tulle encrusted with myriad crystals and beads of BHLDN’s Phoenix Cape. “In cooler temperatures, a faux-fur wrap also adds glamour.”
Finally, Faretra suggests pairing a more dramatic gown with loose, effortless waves.
“If you prefer to wear your hair up, you can’t beat a classic chignon or French twist,” she explains. “Add a touch of sparkle from a crystal clip, comb, or headpiece. For veils, choose either a long, simple tulle veil, or a blusher—both will enhance your bridal look without detracting from the gown.”
Want to go all out? Look for a beaded turban. Greta would be so proud.
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