When it comes to attending a Victorian-themed wedding, it’s all about transporting yourself back to a bygone era filled with elegance and timeless fashion. Stepping into the world of Victorian aesthetics can be a delightful experience, but it requires careful attention to detail in your attire and styling. If you’ve received an invitation to such an event, you’re in for a unique and memorable celebration.

To help you channel your inner Victorian damsel, here are five styling tips to ensure that you’ll be a standout guest at the wedding.

1. Embrace the Victorian Silhouette

One of the defining characteristics of Victorian fashion is its distinctive silhouette. To truly capture the essence of the era, consider investing in a dress or gown that replicates this shape.

Victorian dresses were known for their cinched waists, full skirts, and high necklines. Look for dresses with fitted bodices, nipped-in waistlines, and flowing skirts that fall to the floor. A corseted look, whether through an actual corset or a dress with boning and structured tailoring, will create that iconic hourglass shape. You can find these dresses on Amazon for as little as $30. The more expensive ones will cost you around $90.

Opt for fabrics like lace, satin, silk, or velvet, which were favored during the Victorian era. These materials not only exude luxury but also capture the rich textures of the time. The color palette should include muted tones such as deep burgundy, forest green, navy blue, and ivory.

Floral patterns and intricate embroidery were also popular. Thus, don’t shy away from dresses adorned with delicate floral motifs or lace overlays.

2. Accessorize Thoughtfully

Accessories play a pivotal role in achieving an authentic Victorian look. From head to toe, your choice of accessories can elevate your ensemble.

Start with a hairstyle reminiscent of the era, like a low bun adorned with decorative hair pins or combs. If your hair is long, consider loosely curling it for a romantic touch.

Gloves, another staple of Victorian fashion, should not be overlooked. Opt for long gloves that reach your elbows and are made from lace or satin.

To complete your look, select jewelry that mirrors the Victorian style. Pieces like cameo brooches, lockets, chokers, and drop earrings with pearls or gemstones can make a statement.

If you want to put on some gemstone jewelry, there’s an option to do that as well. For instance, if you like sapphires, you can opt for a star sapphire gemstone ring or pendant. According to Leibish, star sapphires are like ordinary sapphires but with distinct star-like inclusions on them.

Don’t hesitate to check a star sapphire colors guide if you’re new to this type of jewelry. While such rare gemstones add a bit of mystery to your Victorian look, they can be hard to navigate when buying. Thus, these guides for gemstones like ruby, sapphire, and emerald will help you understand how to choose the perfect gemstone for the wedding.

3. Footwear Fit for Royalty

Victorian-era footwear was characterized by elegance and modesty. While high-heeled shoes were not as prominent as they are today, you can still find shoes that capture the essence of the era.

Look for ankle boots or low-heeled pumps with button-up details, lace-up closures, or intricate embroidery. Pair these with lace-trimmed ankle socks or stockings to complete the look.

According to Walmart, good quality Victorian high heels will cost you under $80. However, you can find cheaper ones for $30 to $50 too.

Given that your dress is likely going to be long and covering your feet, people won’t be getting a look at your shoes easily. Thus, if you want to avoid spending money on Victorian shoes, you have the option to do so.

4. Outerwear and Accessories for All-Weather

Attending a Victorian-themed wedding means you may need to navigate the unpredictable nature of the weather, just as they did in the 19th century. To stay warm and stylish, consider investing in a Victorian-inspired cape, shawl, or cloak. These pieces can be both functional and fashionable, keeping you cozy while adding an extra layer of authenticity to your ensemble.

For colder seasons, opt for a fur or faux fur wrap to drape over your shoulders. Alternatively, a lace or velvet capelet can be a charming choice for milder weather. These accessories can be elegantly fastened with brooches or ribbons, allowing you to easily adapt to changing temperatures.

5. Mind the Details

It’s the little details that truly make a Victorian-themed outfit shine. Pay attention to the smallest aspects of your attire to ensure an authentic look. For instance, consider using a parasol, which was a common accessory during the era, to shield yourself from the sun. Opt for one that compliments your outfit’s color scheme and design.

Handbags, too, should be carefully chosen. Victorian-style handbags often featured ornate clasps and were small enough to be held daintily in one hand. Seek out vintage-inspired or reproduction bags that capture this aesthetic.

Lastly, don’t forget your scent. Perfumes played a significant role in Victorian culture. According to Amelia’s Bloomers, Victorian perfumes have floral or musky notes. You can find similar-smelling scents online or even at any local perfume store. Just make sure that whatever you buy isn’t too overpowering.

Conclusion

Attending a Victorian-themed wedding is an opportunity to step into a world of elegance and sophistication. Sticking to these tips will help you do that with some style and finesse.

Remember, it’s not just about the clothing but also about embodying the spirit of a time when grace and refinement were paramount. Enjoy the experience of traveling back in time and celebrating the love of the bride and groom in true Victorian style.