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Victorian Gothic Weddings

The Bride
Victorian woman

While the Victorian era encompassed a range of women's fashions, all styles included some type of long and usually full skirt and a close-fitting bodice.

In the middle of the century, skirts were voluminous and worn over many crinolines or a hoop skirt (think Gone With the Wind).

In the later part of the century, skirts narrowed and the fullness moved towards the back into a bustle (as in The Age of Innocence).

Necklines and sleeve styles varied, including everything from demure boat necks to square necklines that showed cleavage, and full 'leg o' mutton' sleeves to dainty little draperies only covering the shoulder. During the whole century, women were snugly corseted.

Many of these Victorian dress elements can be found in typical modern wedding gowns. Likewise, these styles can be incorporated into a gothic bridal gown. Victorian fashions look wonderful in dark colors and rich fabrics like velvet and brocade. Lavish lace trim is very appropriate, as lace was all the rage in the nineteenth century. Soft drapey fabrics like silk and satin look elegant in Victorian shapes too.


The Groom
Victorian man

Whereas women were peacocks in the Victorian era, men wore quite simple outfits in somber colors. Long trousers were paired with frock coats, morning/cutaway coats, and tail coats, depending on the hour of day. Fancy waistcoats were the only flash in a proper gent's outfit. Top hats were worn on formal occasions, while bowlers and boaters were worn informally. Stately accessories like a cane and pocket watch completed the outfit.

Modern men's wedding fashions usually copy the Victorian style, with tail coats and morning/cutaway coats being very popular for typical formal weddings. For a gothic twist, add a ruffled shirt (or jabot and cuffs) and a waistcoat in rich velvet or patterned silk. A top hat can look quite dashing. And the gents are lucky -- they can probably find stylish Victorian-style suits for rent at larger formal wear shops!


Setting

Victorian-era homes, mansions, B&Bs, hotels, or other public buildings are ideal settings for Victorian gothic weddings. Anything built in or replicating 1800 through 1910s could be lovely. Look for rooms with dark wood detailing, rich carpets and drapes, and maybe a dramatic stone or carved fireplace.


Decorations

Flowers are a very Victorian decoration, and for a gothic Victorian wedding, what would be more perfect than blood red roses everywhere? Dried flowers are another Victorian favourite -- don't forget that when red roses are dried, they can look almost black.

Dark fabric swags in velvet, satin, or lace would be a lovely way to spruce up a plain room. Tablecloths in dark colors with silver candle holders are a nice touch.








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