If you're picturing nuptials full of glitz, glam, and lots of Champagne, there’s a good chance visions of The Great Gatsby are dancing around in your wedding planning head. “1920’s fashion was known for its sparkle and decadence,” says Jaynee Berkman, president and CCO of Adrianna Papell. “Women were excited to dazzle and dress up!” What's more, the Roaring Twenties were all about liberation and celebration, making it the perfect era to channel for your once-in-a-lifetime event, especially with a 1920s-inspired wedding dress.
For those asking, "What exactly is a 1920s wedding dress?", Tina Wong, founder of Grace + Ivory, shares that it's the embodiment of “Great Gatsby, Art Deco vibes. The fabrics are typically silk or satins (or a mix of both) with lace accents and golden or silver embellishments.” They also feature geometrically-inspired patterns, gold and silver beading in zig-zag and sunburst motifs, clean lines, sweeping curves, and non-floral laces.
The fashion during this time period was so revolutionary, in fact, that designers today continue to pull inspiration from the ‘20s, particularly within the bridalwear scene. So whether you’re looking to lean entirely into the Jazz Era’s fashion or just want some Art Deco nods for a vintage-meets-modern look, here are the best 1920s wedding dresses that’ll put Daisy Buchanan to shame.
Meet the Expert
- Jaynee Berkman is the president and chief creative officer of Adrianna Papell.
- Tina Wong is the CEO and founder of Grace + Ivory.
For the Elegant Bride: Grace + Ivory Elise Dress
Sleek, hand-sewn details and Art Deco inspiration seamlessly blend together in Grace + Ivory’s Elise gown. What's more, you can even try the Japanese crepe dress on at home to ensure it’s the perfect fit.
Size Range: Made to order | Material: Japanese crepe
SHOP NOW: Grace + Ivory, $1,995
For the Simple Bride: Valentine Avoh Grace Gown
The rich, luxurious georgette fabric of Valentine Avoh’s Grace gown is the definition of simplistic elegance. With a drop waist and pleated skirt, you’ll easily give off sophisticated ‘20s vibes.
Size Range: Made to order | Material: Georgette
SHOP NOW: Valentine Avoh
For the Reception: Naeem Khan Amadora Dress
Looking to change things up for your reception? This Naeem Khan feathered cocktail dress will really get you in the mood to party.
Size Range: Made to order | Material: Feathers, chiffon
SHOP NOW: Naeem Khan
For the Minimalist Bride: Talbot Runhof Ruched Lurex Gown
Hello, Old Hollywood glamour! Cut from shimmering ivory Lurex, this Talbot Runhof’s stunner has a plunging neckline, a figure-flattering ruched waist, and a floor-sweeping train. Add your favorite accessories to make the look your own.
Size Range: 2-16 | Material: Lurex
SHOP NOW: Net-a-Porter, $1,886.50
Best Back Detail: Azazie Cersei BG Gown
Coming in sizes 0-30, Azazie’s Cersei gown is a vintage vision in the softest of chiffon. The V-neck bodice and chapel train skirt add some whimsy, while the hand-beaded button back and scalloped raglan sleeves showcase those famous ‘20s pearls.
Size Range: 0-30, custom sizing | Material: Chiffon, beading
SHOP NOW: Azazie, $419
For the Ethereal Bride: Grace + Ivory Kali Gown
“[1920s inspired] silhouettes are typically more relaxed and not as cutting as some corseted dresses,” explains Wong. “A V-neck paired with geometrically-inspired lace patterns and beading” are big Gatsby nods, and are found together in this dreamy Grace + Ivory gown.
Size Range: Made to order | Material: Lace
SHOP NOW: Grace + Ivory, $2,295
Party Favorite: Naeem Khan Gatsby
Want a frock you can really shake your tail feather in? It doesn’t get much more ‘20s than Naeem Khan’s Gatsby dress. Layers upon layers of beaded and sequined fringing will catch all the compliments on the dance floor.
Size Range: 2-12 | Material: Chiffon, beads, sequins
SHOP NOW: Net-a-Porter, $4,995
For the Gold Obsessed Bride: Revelry Gwen Sequin Dress
The 1920s was known for utilizing metallic fabric and sequins, so why limit yourself to white on your wedding day? Revelry’s Gwen gown looks straight from the era with delicate flutter sleeves and a V-neckline.
Size Range: 0-32 | Material: Sequin polyester
SHOP NOW: Revelry, $189
Favorite Feathers: Valentine Avoh Ginger Gown
Oftentimes, 1920s-style wedding dresses would be tea-length, Wong explains, so this Valentine Avoh midi bustier gown hits just right. Embroidered tulle, sequins, beads, and hand-sewn feathers make it as decadent as the decade.
Size Range: Made to order | Material: Tulle, sequins, beads
SHOP NOW: Valentine Avoh
Favorite Flapper Fringe: Scorcesa Tina Dress
Enjoy vintage elegance in this modern design that will capture all the movement of your first dance.
Size Range: Made to order | Material: Crepe
SHOP NOW: Scorcesa
For Vintage Lovers: Bohemian Bride Serayha Dress
Modern-yet-timeless, Bohemian Bride’s Serayha dress is covered with neck-to-toe embellishments, including stone clasps, teardrop crystals, and mother-of-pearl beads. The slim-fitting shape and beaded back seamlessly blend old and new fashion together.
Size Range: 0-18 | Material: Tulle, crystal beading
SHOP NOW: Bohemian Bride, $2,578
Best Budget: Lulus Make Them Marvel White Beaded Mermaid Maxi Dress
Figure-flattering and budget-friendly, this Lulus gown is a ‘20s-inspired steal. Sequins, silver beads, and intricate embroidery adorn this stretch, mermaid hem dress.
Size Range: XS-XL | Material: Sheer mesh, stretch knit, sequins, beads
SHOP NOW: Lulus, $199
Most Modern: Sachin & Babi Nina Gown
The delicate ruffles of this Sachin & Babi gown are a nod to the tiered ‘20s style. The all-over lace, V-neckline, side cutouts, and open back create a look that’s at once feminine, flirty, and modern.
Size Range: 0-14 | Material: Lace
SHOP NOW: Sachin & Babi, $1,295
Classic Flapper Favorite: Nadine Merabi Lottie White Dress
The ‘70s meet the ‘20s in Nadine Merabi's Lottie dress. With a low neckline and playful tiers of sequin, beads, and feathers, you’ll be in the mood to celebrate from the moment you slip it on.
Size Range: 2-14 | Material: Beads, sequin, feathers
SHOP NOW: Nadine Merabi, $690
For Pearl Lovers: BHLDN Theodora Beaded Lace V-Neck Wedding Gown
“Art Deco beading, pearl touches, and mermaid shapes all reference the Roaring Twenties,” explains Berkman, which is why we can’t get over this BHLDN Theodora gown. Faux pearl beads adorn the entirety of this dress to create a truly opulent illusion.
Size Range: 0-16 | Material: Beads, lace, faux pearls
SHOP NOW: Anthropologie, $1,995
Art Deco Steal: Lulus Just the Beginning Beaded Sequin Mermaid Maxi Dress
This sequin maxi from Lulus is a bridal favorite and for good reason. The intricately beaded pattern creates an elegant design, while the plunging neckline and mermaid silhouette elongate the torso.
Size Range: XS-XL | Material: Beads, sequin, sheer mesh
SHOP NOW: Lulus, $239
Best Long Sleeve Option: ASOS EDITION Alice Beaded Wedding Dress
We love the long sleeves seen on this ASOS ‘20s-inspired Alice wedding dress. The semi-sheer design boasts the same intricate Art Deco details seen throughout the Roaring Twenties—and combined with the open back, this gown was made to be worn down the aisle.
Size Range: 0-14 | Material: Beads, sequin, sheer mesh
SHOP NOW: ASOS, $495
For the Sexy Bride: All Saints Mila Lace Panelled Frill Trim Maxi Dress
Geometric lace was customary in the ‘20s, and this sexy frock from All Saints shows just how sultry patterned lace can be. The sheer neckline, back, and bodice showcase the perfect amount of skin to feel flirty but not overexposed.
Size Range: 0-12 | Material: Lace
SHOP NOW: All Saints, $299
Elopement Favorite: Catherine Deane Ryder Embellished Rulle Dress
This embellished wedding dress gives a subtle nod to the ‘20s with its geometric patterned fringe skirt. Whether you’re saying “I do” on top of a mountain or at the courthouse, this look is a lovely choice for all types of elopements.
Size Range: UK 6-16 | Material: Tulle
SHOP NOW: The Outnet, $299
Best Jumpsuit: Karen Millen Petite Beaded Fringed Halter Embellished Jumpsuit
It wouldn’t be a ‘20s roundup without a dramatic jumpsuit, which is why we adore this fringe Karen Millen number. It's perfect for modern brides looking to make a statement at any portion of their big day.
Size Range: XXS-L | Material: Beading
SHOP NOW: Karen Millen, $480
What to Look for When Shopping for a 1920s Wedding Dress
When searching for this type of dress, Wong suggests focusing on the different aspects you love about 1920s style. “Do you like a specific detail (i.e. clean lines and silver beading) that you have to have for your dress? Or maybe it’s an Art Deco-inspired lace and a specific neckline. I think it’s key to focus on the details that really catch your eye,” Wong says. Pick a few must-have elements and don’t be afraid to try on the unexpected!