Fabulous Fads from the Weddings of the 1960s

Dresses: For the more conservative woman, the A-line silhouette, especially with an empire waist, was incredibly popular. Three-quarter-length sleeves were common, while cap sleeves were baby steps towards an eventual embrace of sleeveless gowns – still seen as too casual for bridal wear in the 1960s. The rise of miniskirts and mod style meant that short shift dresses were the way to go for an on-trend bride. As the decade came to a close, the “flower child” look meant Watteau trains (attached at the shoulder) and bell sleeves.

Veils: Pillbox hats inspired by fashion icon and former First Lady Jackie Kennedy – who commissioned Oleg Cassini as her Secretary of Style at the White House – came with attached birdcage veils for a sophisticated and chic way to complete a wedding ensemble. For a more youthful and playful look, voluminous flyaway veils that skimmed the shoulders reigned supreme. 

Beauty: When fashion icon Twiggy burst on the scene, she didn’t just change the modeling world, but also how brides wanted to see themselves on their wedding days. Her signature thick black eyeliner and dramatic eyelashes became the bridal look to strive for. Brides who didn’t want to imitate Twiggy’s pixie cut often went with a teased bouffant. 

Reception: The wedding industry hadn’t quite taken off as much as it did in later decades, so the party following the vow exchange was still typically held at home. Non-alcoholic sherbet punch was a popular refreshment, but full dinners were also becoming more common, rather than a simple cake and punch reception. The aforementioned confection often had each tier separated by decorative columns. 

See all of the hottest weddings trends from the 1970s, 1980s, 1990s, and the early 2000s.

Opening photo by Vue Photography