Ask the expert: this week – help with a Fifties style wedding

Do you have a vintage-related query? Then meet the expert ready to help you. QueensOfVintage.com editor and vintage expert Lena Weber will be tackling your vintage problems in a brand new column every week. This week reader Kate wrote in looking for the perfect shoes and cover up for her Fifties style wedding.
Kate asks:“I’m getting married in July and have bought a Fifties prom dress. It’s controversially not white but a lovely lemon colour. I have two dilemma’s if that’s ok to ask?! First is what type of shoes would you recommend and secondly what should I wear if it gets cold? I hate pashminas! And not really sure what would be appreciate if keeping to that era. It’s has a strapless sweetheart neckline and the dress is knee length. Any help would be greatly appreciated!

Lena says“First of all, the shoes. I personally think that white would look both summery and match your lemon dress (great choice of colour!). I don’t know your shoe size so the examples I have selected below might not fit you, however a bit of searching around on eBay and Etsy might unearth some heels in your size.

There are plenty of original Fifties white kitten heels around ( a good heel size since you don’t want anything too high as you’ll be dancing the night away). Have a look at these ones, I love them for the bow detail.

These Twenties ones are very similar but have a much thicker heel.

I don’t know how you feel about platforms, they might not be festive enough for you. I really love them though as they are so comfortable to wear. These Forties peep-toesin lucite are a great example and would look amazing with your dress.

If you are for a more modern vintage-inspired look how about these Vivienne Westwood for Melissa heels.  They are rather kitsch but also quite fun.

Next, a cover-up. Perhaps a lace capelette or a cropped lace shrug might be a solution? You could also try a feather cape, this site has some great ones, and very Fifties Marilyn.

Another solution could be a bolero, again in keeping with the era. Vivien of Holloway do reproduction ones in a huge range of patterns and colours.

I hope this helps and all the best for your wedding!

Do you have a vintage related query? Email expert@queensofvintage.com

Tags: 50s, advice, Ask the expert, Fifties, vintage expert, wedding

Category: 1950s, Ask the expert, Vintage news