Themed weddings are not as common as you might think for a lot of reasons (they can become outdated, it can be difficult to stick with, etc.). The key is to find a theme to gain inspiration from that is open to interpretation and has many different facets to work with. This post is about how a classic movie from the 1950s can offer so much in creating a beautiful and sophisticated wedding. The movie? Sabrina, starring the iconic Audrey Hepburn and Humphrey Bogart.
In case you need a refresher (or if you haven’t seen it yet), Sabrina is a story about one of the greatest makeovers of all time. Audrey Hepburn stars as the title character, the daughter of a chauffeur for wealthy brothers Linus (Humphrey Bogart) and David (William Holden). Plain and assuming, Sabrina struggles to catch the eye of the irresponsible playboy, David. Sabrina leaves to Paris for two years to learn the culinary arts, and returns home a beautiful sophisticated woman. David’s immediate attraction to Sabrina alarms Linus, who knows David is soon to be married to a wealthy businessman’s daughter. To avoid the breaking up of the engagement for the sake of their family business, he attempts to get Sabrina to fall in love with him, so David can marry his fiancé. Linus can’t resist Sabrina’s charms, and he ends up slowly falling in love with her himself. A bit more happens in between (which is why you should see/rewatch the movie), but this glorious film ends with Linus and Sabrina in love, on the way to Paris.
This movie is so perfect as wedding inspiration because there are so many things to use, specifically the sophisticated 50s style and Parisian accents. Learn from the impeccable style icon that is Audrey Hepburn and get inspired!
Bridal Wear
When in doubt, think of Audrey! 50s style has been back trendy for bridal gowns for a while, but you want to avoid looking rockabilly or too costumey for your look. The classic feminine shape (defined waist, fuller skirt) is often a great way to go, but simple details and a refined style are perfect in channeling Audrey. Luckily for you, we at Rachel Elizabeth Designs can make any style that you want, so here are some pictures for inspiration.
Groomear
Your groom will need to wear something black to go with the theme and keep it formal. Keep it a vintage looking affair with a white shirt and a thin tie.
Bridal Beauty
Your groom will need to wear something black to go with the theme and keep it formal. Keep it a vintage looking affair with a white shirt and a thin tie.
Wedding Colors
The key to sophistication is often simplicity. We suggest this color combo of black, pale ivory, light ballet pink, and pale gold to add sophistication and glamour without going over the top. To avoid it being too glitzy, use the gold sparingly (and the black as an accent color— it shouldn’t look like a funeral!).
Wedding Flowers
While in the past French style was indeed opulent and oversized, Parisian brides likely opt for a smaller bouquet and feminine, delicate floral accents. A ‘posy’ style bouquet (emphasizes flowers with little greenery) is a simple and uniform bouquet, and fits easily in the hands. This style is also indicative of 1950s brides— bouquets were often small and simplistic in flower composition. Be careful about going over the top— now is not the time to add brooches or too much glitz to the bouquet. Your flowers will vary due to the time of year you get married in, but below is a suggestion.
Decor
Wherever your wedding may be, it is important to create a glamorous yet understated and simple environment perfect for your Parisian look. Flowers here can be full and more brightly pink, and little lights should twinkle in the vicinity. The colors should go throughout the decor. Think of it as a luxurious Parisian garden party! Don’t forget any added vintage aesthetics — like a champagne tower or drink carts. If you want to go really in depth, one key scene in Sabrina takes place in an indoor residential tennis court (complete with large windows).
Cake
Refined, simple elegance will work greatly here. Nothing too colorful and with small detail. A cake topped with a beautiful white flower will work great with the aesthetic.
