Gatsby Romance with Kate Beaumont Bridal Gowns

It seems like a lifetime ago now, but Love My Dress was born on the concept of vintage bridal, before ‘vintage’ became a thing in weddings, exploded and then waned in popularity like all good trends too.

What always amused me about the trend for vintage a few years back was that true vintage fashion, the kind I was always drawn to, is timeless and will always be elegant and beautiful, whether it’s in trend or not.  Many of the designers working in the wedding industry now take their inspiration from key styles and fashion silhouettes of times gone by – the 1920’s and 30’s being one of the most popular eras when it comes to fashion inspiration – or the ‘Gatsby era’.

These glamorous Gatsby inspired images were sent in by photographer and our new Little Book For Brides member, Magda K, who worked with Laura of  Once Upon A Wedding Events and designer Kate Beaumont, another member we are proud to list through our wedding directory, to bring together this elegant era inspired vision. Stylist Laura shares more details.

“At Once Upon A Wedding Events, every inspirational shoot revolves around a core theme. The inspiration for our Gatsby Romance shoot came from our love for edgy, vintage glamour. We have forever been mesmerised withKate Beaumont’s timeless designs – substituting showy tulle ball gowns for sumptuous silks and delicate lace, her bespoke creations exude sophistication and perennial class.”

Images by Magda K

“In early stages of planning the shoot, we envisioned a soft, oyster-toned silk gown with lace edging and a flattering cut. We chose Honeysuckle – a simultaneously delicate and dramatic dress with a deep v back in antique lace trim. With a diamond waist panel to taper a gorgeous, feminine silhouette and silk-satin finish, Honeysuckle was the perfect choice for Gatsby glamour. Imbued with opulence and character, the design really set the tone for the shoot.”

“In a styled collaboration with Modular Moods, Chesterfield sofas were to feature heavily as part of the set design. The rich leather tones of their furnishings worked wonderfully against the silk of the gown and heritage tweed of the groomswear by Grays Menswear, adding an extra touch of opulence and grandeur that echoed the Gatsby period well. Complete with vintage dressers, sharp tailoring, an art deco backdrop and a very last-minute cigar, the 1920s vibe was well and truly set.”

“The makeup, naturally, was central to the shoot. Caroline Kent created the perfect elegant Gatsby femme look, accentuating Grace’s large, dark eyes with smoky shades and adding touches of rosy pink to her cheeks and lips. We later altered this look with a dark lip (we’d debated whether to go light or dramatic at the beginning of the shoot) and bold, tumbling curls by Joanna of Belle & Bride.

Both styles worked beautifully, from the chic, romantic updo and soft makeup to dark and dramatic Gatsby glamour, with a wilder look and more dramatic textures and hues.  The embellished vintage headpiece lent itself well to both looks, adorning Grace’s gorgeous blonde waves and often stealing the focus of the shoot.”

“Florals are never far from our minds when creating styled shoot concepts. It was important to us that the floral arrangements echoed the vintage glamour of the 1920s era. Sheffield-based luxury florist Frances & Rose focused on dusky pink roses, continuing the soft, romantic vibe with downy white feathers for texture, direction and dimension.

These dusky pink roses were later incorporated into the styling as we scattered loose petals across the table lay-up, adding an air of softness and whimsical romance to the overall effect. The foundation of the bouquet, in contrast, was primarily wild, unrestrained and full of personality. A fusion of dusky glamour and wild, free romance was created.”

“The table lay-up was based upon the foundation of a low, solid wood table from Modular Moods and continued to combine dusky glamour and romance with charm and personality. The stunning art deco cake by Sophia’s Cake Boutique certainly took centre stage: mirroring design elements of the backdrop, the cake elegantly fused a night-black base with intricate gold detailing and crisp white florals.”

“Delicate, gold-foiled stationery by the talented Rose Press featured in the table set-up, borrowing key stylistic features from the art deco period. Topped off with loose florals from Frances and Rose, the table lay-up continued the theme of wild romance and elegance.”

“Fun fact: the striking rings that feature in many of the shots were masterfully crafted by George J Johnson, our male model for the shoot.”