By Sophie Cappell
Old Hollywood Glamour represents the pinnacle of feminine elegance and style. Its heyday spanned from the 1920s to the late 1950s, with iconic pin-up girls like Audrey Hepburn, Marilyn Monroe, and Grace Kelly. Old Hollywood style remains the gold standard of sophistication and beauty.
While the terms ‘glamour’ and ‘Hollywood’ may suggest outlandish or avant-garde fashion, Old Hollywood glamour, as a style, emphasises and enhances natural beauty, from the hair to the gown. This timeless appeal has ensured its enduring influence in fashion, which is why it is continually referenced in popular culture. As Yves Saint Laurent famously said, “Fashions fade, style is eternal,” and Old Hollywood embodies timeless style at its finest.
The epitome of elegance with a touch of glitz, the Old Hollywood look is perfect for your big day as the leading lady, ensuring you won’t cringe when looking back at your wedding photos twenty years down the line.
The Dress
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A defining feature of Old Hollywood fashion is the emphasis on feminine silhouettes. A corseted waist flowing into a full-length skirt is ultra-flattering and timeless. Sweetheart and V-shaped necklines are also classic elements of the style, again highlighting and flattering the female form.
Embellishments are key to elevating the look to its glamorous potential. Whether it’s a pair of delicate opera gloves, a glamorous fur shawl (ideal for winter nuptials), or a smattering of diamantés, the Old Hollywood look is playful while remaining elegant.
Beauty
When it comes to Old Hollywood beauty, hair and makeup are essential to achieving the sleek, polished look. For hair, think soft, perfectly sculpted waves or a skillfully coiffed updo. These styles beautifully frame the face and are also sure to keep your hair secure throughout the day.
For makeup, the complexion should be dewy and highlighted—the perfect base for defined eyes, well-groomed eyebrows, and full lashes that create a doe-eyed effect. While a red lip is quintessential to Old Hollywood glam, it may be impractical for altar kisses and all-day photography. Precisely lined lips in deep nude or dusky pink are a great alternative if red feels too high-maintenance.