Wedding Trend: The Fascination with Feathers

It might be the light and airy way they move in the slightest breeze, or perhaps the way they glam up any outfit or event – either way, feathers have found their way into mainstream design, fashion and décor.

There are plenty of ways the feather can be used throughout a wedding or event – but keep in mind, these quills work best when used sparingly!

Event Décor: When used as a centerpiece, the addition of feathers can create an atmosphere of Old Hollywood. Themed stationery such as a peacock Table Card are great for cosmopolitan evening soirees. Add plenty of sparkle to the table top and the pairing is perfect for a Winter Wonderland affair.


Ostrich tower centerpiece from Events Wholesale, wreath centerpiece feathers from ostrich.com, feather chandelier by Moss Events, wedding stationery by baron*cards.

Dress: Brides who love the idea of feathers can share their passion through fashion! There are contemporary and traditional options available, like these stunning dresses below from Coast and Jane Yeh. For cooler climate events, celebrate vintage couture with a bolero wrap from EnAvance.


Accessorize: There are a ton of fabulous feather finds for hairpieces nowadays. Do a search on Etsy for a unique, handmade design or visit a specialty (online) store like HeaddressDesigns.com. Even the most traditional or conservative bride can make a glamorous statement with a hairpiece adorned with a wispy feather detail. The look is memorable and beautiful.

Hairpiece by Mikey. Bouquet by Soulful Flowers San Francisco. Clutch by Angel Jackson, cuff by Karen Millen.

The feather can also be added to the bridal or bridesmaid bouquets. The organic nature of the feather can provide a complimentary texture that works incredibly well with many flower varieties.

Ladies can accessorize with feathered clutch as a fabulous finishing detail. An exquisite piece of jewelry can also transform the look of your bridal entourage. But again, it’s important not to overdo it with the feathers! Either do the bouquet, or the clutch or jewelry, but not all of the above. Otherwise, the bridal party could look like they really are birds of a feather flocking together!

Hairpiece by Headdress Designs, shoes by Manolo Blahnik, clutch by Christian Louboutin.

The beauty of the feather is how well it plays with others. It can serve as the primary theme for an event, but really adds flare when used as a secondary accent. White plumes can be paired with pearls and lace for a vintage look. Jewel-toned peacock quills look rich and sophisticated when paired with black or navy silk.

Feathers are a fabulous element that can be incorporated into any event very easily and affordably, too. With so many options out there, the feather trend still has momentum. Just remember: a little goes a long way!

- Lianne Tokey of baron*cards

“Something Old”- Vintage trends for the modern bride.

A big trend for the upcoming wedding season is the “Vintage” look. This does not necessarily mean looking in consignment shops for a wedding dress from the 1930’s, but incorporating the classic trends of that time into today’s modern wedding. Spring 2009 Bridal collections are showing a trend back to the early-to-mid 1900’s, with lots of lovely lace and detailing reminiscent of turn-of- the-century-designers. Two of my favorites this season, the first from Carolina Herrera Spring 2009 Collection, “Bettina,” and the second from Monique Lhullier Spring 2009 collection, incorporate simple silhouettes and stunning yards of lace and beadwork. Both are perfect examples of a timeless vintage look for today’s modern bride.

Another comeback for the 2009 wedding season is the short and sweet birdcage veil from the 1920’s. Wear this look as a simple veil pared off with a little comb, or a more elaborate one, as shown below, from Etsy seller “brendasbridalveils. Embellished with silk flowers, light airy feathers and dazzling Swarovski crystals, this veil helps to draw attention to the brides face while still maintaining a “fun” and airy look. Now, every Vintage wedding needs a stunning invitation to set the “tone” of the wedding for your guests. Think simple and classic letter pressed invitations, embellished with hand woven silks and delicate silk flowers sent to your guests in a custom mailer box such as the one below from Fleur Creations' "Luxe" line. While today’s invitations are no longer sent by hand messenger, this exquisite presentation is a beautiful delight to the eyes and sure acknowledgement of the attention to detail that was customary 100 years ago.

The “Vintage” look is an easy one to achieve. Think in shades of white, ivory, creams, peaches and pinks as well as soft flowing fabrics. Add details such as lace, pearls, and antique brooches to your bouquet, bridesmaid’s dresses and centerpieces to tie everything together. The resulting look is romantic yet classic with a touch of whimsy.

~Maria, Fleur Creations

Photos in order of appearance courtesy of Carolina Herrera 2009 bridal collection, Monique Lhullier Spring 2009 Bridal collection, Brendasbridalveils, Fleur Creations in conjunction with Simply Unique Accessories.