How to Modernize Vintage Wedding Dresses

If you are considering wearing a vintage wedding dress, you should modernize it to get the best look.  To modernize a dress remove elements from the dress like sleeves, bows, and trains that are outdated.  Also, consider lowering high necklines and adding jewelry to provide a more modern style.

• Add beading or embroidery to a vintage dress to update it.  These elements can be added to portions of the dress or all over to give it a modern and updated feel. Choose the dress elements you wish to add carefully though because they will not be able to be removed once they are sewn on.


• Remove sleeves from the wedding dress especially if they are bulky or old fashioned looking.  This can be done easily by a tailor and is a simple solution to modernizing a vintage dress.  Consider adding short sleeves or ones in a sheer fabric if you do not like your dress sleeveless.


• Have the neckline lowered on your dress.  Many vintage dresses have necklines that are high, which can restrict the neck making the dress uncomfortable to wear.  Lower the neckline to an area that you are comfortable with to provide a more modern look.


• Wear jewelry, hairpieces, and footwear with your vintage dress to update the entire look.  These elements can be added easily and will provide a newer feel to your vintage dress.  Experiment with different pieces to see which elements look best with your wedding dress.


• Consider removing any bows, extra fabric, and trains from your wedding dress that you do not care for.  These elements can be removed by a tailor and will provide you with a dress that looks clean and simple.  This can be a good way to update a dress because these extras will make your dress look outdated.