For years, the shabbiest of the chic was the “it” way to go when describing your wedding festivities. It was a mix of old-age charm and cottage vibes. But the trends have been shifting and now we’re taking those same vintage qualities and blending them with the most glamorous details.
We’re envisioning a bridal party topped with the same sophistication that rocked the old Hollywood red carpets and with the foresight to walk in the modern woman’s shoes with enough confidence to dethrone the Queen herself. If you’re planning a shower for your sister or bestie, take a look at these 5 ideas for a vintage glamour throwback bridal shower. We have the best themed ideas with all the know-how to bring them to fruition.
Five Ways to Nail the Vintage Glamour Theme for the Bridal Shower
Old Hollywood
Pair everything you love about Old Hollywood with all the essentials of a bridal shower. Make sure there’s a red carpet leading to the gift table with a dress code that ensures everyone is in their best little black dress. Some crystals on the tables and a nod to Breakfast at Tiffany’s wouldn’t hurt either.
Must Buys
DIY Have-To’s
- Oscar Statue Paper Cut-Out from Lia Griffith
- Create-Your-Own Red Cart from ABC News
- Tinsel Photobooth Backdrop from Lovely Indeed
Menu Options
- Bacon-Wrapped Shrimp from Jessica Gavin
- Black Tie Martinis from Bite Me More
- Mini Viennese Mousse Cups from Kosher
Our Special Twist
Since an Old Hollywood red carpet has our minds thinking about the movies, what better way to celebrate than with some popcorn. Our contemporary wedding world is all about the right kind of “bars” to top off the celebration, so why not add a unique one of those to the event? Create a popcorn bar filled with fun flavors of freshly-popped corn!
The Great Gatsby
A bit of sparkle and shine is all you need to get started. Celebrate your very own Daisy Buchanan by mixing the glamour of a 1920’s Gatsby party with some of the fashion of today’s time. Sequins and glitter is all good, just move from the flapper feels into more futuristic cuts and silhouettes. This one is all about the champagne, the shine, and the chandeliers. Add all the extravagant details that you can muster!
Must Buys
DIY Have-To’s
- Gold Anthropologie-Inspired Chandelier from Harlow & Thistle
- Ostrich Feather Centerpieces from From House to Home
- White Pearled Pumpkins from Sydne Style
Menu Options
- Beef Wellington Bites from Delish
- Raspberry French 75 from DrinkWire
- Tiny Classic Cheesecakes from Spend With Pennies
Our Special Twist
You can add those 1920’s feather accents in explicit ways in the centerpieces and such or you can do something more subtle. Use the silhouettes or cut-outs on the place settings or in framed pieces of art to make a more contemporary nod to our favorite literary legend. And make sure you add in a bit of green lighting or shades within the festivities to pay homage to that iconic light from the novel.
Pin-Up Gals
A red lip for all the ladies and a bit of mystery and sex appeal around every turn. A lot of pin-up gals throughout the 1940s were inspired by beachside fashion and ocean views. Use that to your advantage! Bottles coca-cola and some stylish sunnies are just one way to ignite the festivities.
Must Buys
DIY Have-To’s
- Sailor Jerry Pin-up Gift Tags from Tattooed Martha
- Repurpose Coca-Cola Crate from Refresh Restyle
- Tin Can Centerpiece from Rustic Wedding Chic
Menu Options
- Mini Pretzel Dogs from The Baker Upstairs
- Bourbon Cherry Coke from Heather Christo
- Cherry Pie Cookies from Pillsbury
Our Special Twist
Make this a poolside party. Have the bride surrounded by her friends and family near some water, cool sips, and a bit of extra relaxation. Take those pin-up gal vibes and give your favorite lady’s bridal shower a layer of carefree attitude that she’ll need at this point in the planning process. You might even want to grab that mini grill to whip up some yummy bites while you’re at it.
NY Fashion Week
For an extra bout of glam and modern appeal, go with a NY Fashion Week theme. Pluck some old looks out of past Vogue issues and use those catwalk set-ups as inspiration to set the scene. If you want something crisp but a bit moody, this is a unique theme to play with.
Must Buys
DIY Have-To’s
- Modern Cake Stand from Earnest Home Co
- White Chair Back Covers from Fairies and Fauna
- Wax Paper Backdrop from Pinterest
Menu Options
- Whipped Basil Ricotta with Spring Crudite from the view from the great island
- Rosemary Gimlet from David Lebovitz
- Dark Chocolate Ganache Truffles from Sweetest Menu
Our Special Twist
Go with a minimal vision. Newspaper and magazine clippings should definitely be given a nod but make the ladies of the day stand out against the backdrop of a crisp and clear setting.
A Parisian Paradise
One of the more classic options on the list, a Parisian Paradise can blend old and new like no other. And there’s really no one that does glam quite like the French. So, gather up all the French flair, from lavender accents to delicious macaroons, to make a memorable bridal shower!
Must Buys
DIY Have-To’s
- Eiffel Tower Charm from Wonderful DIY
- Fresh Lavender Wreath from Garden Therapy
- French Trays with Changeable Signs from Pinterest
Menu Options
- French Onion Pastry Bites from Butter & Baggage
- Mulled Wine from Sweet C’s
- Classic French Macaron from Ahead of Thyme
Our Special Twist
Add some activity to the party. Nights out with the girls to sip wine and get creative with some paints are all the rage right now and that idea falls right in line with this French theme. Grab some canvases and start popping bottles!