Special Event Rentals Blog

1940s is a decade not to be overlooked. With stories of real romance and devotion, men of impeccable style, and women with a gorgeous simplicity to their hair, makeup and fashion, it is no wonder this decade is often recreated.

And believe it or not, if you are looking to re-create this decade for your own special day, Edmonton really is the perfect place to do it! With the Alberta Aviation Museum, High Level Bridge Street Car, and the River Ravine, there are endless locations for theme inspired engagement shoots, formal photos, even your ceremony and reception.

For the details, think anything aviation or classic Normal Rockwell and you’ll have it down! For starters, why not have your save-the-dates designed to look like vintage baggage tags? Or check out these cute mini airplanes as wedding favors, and a treat table with all the retro classic favourites including Coca Cola in glass bottles.

Now, as for the important part, the dress, the 1940s were all about simplicity and elegantly accenting your curves; the more of an hour glass figure you could create, the better! Look for dresses with simple detailing in the cut and embellishments, and constructed out of fabrics with a soft drape and hugs curves. Finish off your bridal look with some matching satin sling backs or peep toe pumps.

The finishing touch? The roll hairstyle. Consistent with simple and feminine this hairstyle was about quick and easy but had a gorgeous Hollywood glamour finish, and the best part, it’s so easy to do-it-yourself.

What you’ll need:

• Comb and Brush
• Heated Rollers, alternatively you can use a curling iron
• Bobbi Pins
• Birdcage, or floral accent as a finishing touch (optional)

1) Wash, dry and comb your hair thoroughly so it’s clean and free of tangles

2) Divide your hair into 2- to 3-inch sections, rolling each section up in heated rollers, hold for approximately 15 min. alternatively you can use a wide barrel curling iron to create your curls.

3) Gently brush curls to loosen them up; creating the soft look that was common in 1940s hairstyling.

4) Divide your hair in two sections, one half up and one half down.

5) Make a side part with the top section of your hair to create two new sections.

6) To hold these sections separate while you work on them, use a bobbi pin to hold the section together.

7)  Taking the larger section of the two top sections, work your way from the ends of the hair rolling inwards away from your forehead. Pin. (This can be done on a side or straight angle)

8) Do the same with the second top section. Pin.

9) From here you can either leave the bottom section down in loose curls, or you can roll this bottom section upwards away from your neck and pin in place.

10) Finish and hairspray, add your birdcage or finishing touch and you have gorgeous 1940s hair

Credits: Wedding Bee, Alberta Moto Photo, Sara Gray Photography & The Knot