With Y2K-everything dominating the fashion cycle and Art Deco making a comeback in the interior design space, what’s old is new again—and that goes for wedding trends, too. Former wedding trends from the 1980s, 1990s, 2000s, and even long before are making a big comeback this year. And honestly, isn’t a little decades-old kitsch better than vows written by ChatGPT?
We turned to New York City-based event designer Lindsay Landman for the low-down on the wedding trends back on the rise. You may even recognize some of these throwbacks.
Retro Table Lamps
Marina Claire Photography
Tabletop lamps are lighting the way for couples everywhere in 2025. Lamps offer an alternative to harsh overhead lighting, without the fire hazard that candles pose, Try popping them on tabletops, a bar installation, or throughout your after-party, Landman suggests.
Draping
Pose like it’s prom 1999 in front of these elegant throwback fabrics. Expect “extensive, dramatic draping installations on ceilings and backdrops,” Landman predicts. Often much less expensive than large floral or lighting installations, “draping used to be a necessity more than a trend because it was at one time one of the only ways to mask large areas,” she explains. “Now it has emerged as an actual artistic pursuit.”
Rounded Everything
Kati Mallory Photo & Design
Forget being square. Or rectangle. 2025 is all about “lots of rounded edges and soft lines,” acoording to Landman—quite similar to how curvy furniture from the 1970s is trending once again. From round banquettes and curvy tables to rounded stages for bands and DJs, there are plenty of modern and playful ways to incorporate this trend.
Film Photography
Peyton Curry
There’s nothing like a film photo. “There’s a stronger emphasis on film photography,” Landman says. “Or digital photography that is designed to mimic film.” Many photographers are packing an extra camera for film shots or couples are providing guests with disposable cameras or Polaroids to take some retro shots.
Art Deco Inspired Details
Perry Vaile Photography
Remember what we said about Art Deco reemerging as an home décor trend? Well, the design style is dominating the wedding world again, too. The early 2010s saw a surge in The Great Gatsby inspired nuptials (you can likely blame the 2013 film adaptation), and now couples are once again embracing Art Deco wedding details. Consider martini bars, glided detailing and stationary, and vintage getaway cars.
Retro Cakes
RuthBlack / Getty Images
Cake designs reminiscent of former eras are so back. Think plenty of piping, Swiss dots, bright colors, and more delicious details. These over-the-top frosted cakes may look similar to your grandparents’ wedding cake, and offer plenty of ways to get creative with your wedding dessert.
