For those who came of age after the 1980s, it might be hard to fully grasp the bold spirit of weddings during that decade.
Everything about the celebration was larger than life—wedding dresses, cakes, and even guest lists reflected the era’s signature love of extravagance.
Dresses were designed to make an unforgettable statement, brides walked down the aisle in gowns that were nothing short of theatrical, with dramatic high lace necklines, voluminous puff sleeves, flowing skirts, and intricate embellishments.
No 1980s wedding would be complete without the era’s signature hairstyles, which often rivaled the gowns in volume and drama.
Brides and bridesmaids alike embraced big hair, teasing their locks to gravity-defying heights with the help of countless cans of hairspray.
Popular styles included voluminous curls, cascading waves, and elaborate updos adorned with lace veils, sparkling tiaras, or floral headpieces.
Cakes followed suit, towering in tiers supported by ornate pillars and occasionally adorned with features like working fountains.
Flowers played a significant role, with wedding décor shifting away from simple arrangements to embrace elaborate floral installations.
Oversized centerpieces, cascading bouquets, and dramatic altar displays were common, with bright colors or soft pastels reflecting the aesthetic trends of the time.
Technology also began to leave its mark on weddings in the 1980s. The release of the camcorder in 1983 changed how people documented their special day, giving rise to the profession of wedding videography.
Couples could now preserve not only photos of their big day but moving images as well, capturing every detail—from the puffed sleeves of the bridal gown to the glittering decorations on the dance floor.
Even the music and entertainment reflected the decade’s exuberance. Popular 1980s hits filled the dance floors, and DJs became increasingly common, often replacing live bands to keep the party going with an endless mix of high-energy tunes.
One of the most iconic weddings of the decade—and a cultural touchstone for 1980s bridal fashion—was the royal wedding of Lady Diana Spencer to Prince Charles in 1981.
Watched by millions worldwide, Diana’s dress became the pinnacle of 1980s bridal style. Designed by David and Elizabeth Emanuel, the gown featured a dramatic 25-foot train, billowing sleeves, and over 10,000 pearls.
The wedding wasn’t just a grand royal affair; it set the tone for bridal trends throughout the decade.
(Photo credit: David Weismann via Flickr with permission / Pinterest).