WildFlower

WildFlower

Posted by Christine Guenther on February 4, 2025 Event Decor Event Themes Floral Design

Eras of Elegance: Bringing the Quiet Luxury Aesthetic to Your Garden Party Soiree

The it-girl aesthetic of 2025 weddings and events is undoubtedly quiet luxury—aka, that effortlessly chic, old-money vibe that screams timeless sophistication. It’s all about vintage elegance without the flashy frills, pulling inspo from past decades to create a look that’s refined, and classic with a splash of dreamy. Whether you’re planning a garden wedding, a milestone bash, or even a minorstone (because small wins do deserve a champagne tower), this trend is here to elevate every celebration. At WildFlower, we’re going back in time, journeying through the decades to show you how to style a quiet luxury garden soirée with all the right details from the past—because great taste never goes out of style.

1950s: Tennis Fashion Forward

The ‘50s mastered quiet luxury before it was a thing, and tennis fashion was the ultimate mix of refined and relaxed. Picture chic sweater vests, pleated white skirts, and classic polos—styled with low-profile sneakers for that cool, understated prep aesthetic. For the perfect garden party setup, think overflowing florals with roses, orchids, and dahlias, all tucked beneath a dreamy outdoor tent. Layer in fresh greenery runners, elegant table linens, and vintage glassware filled with lemonade for a scene that feels straight out of an East Coast summer estate.

Decorated elegant wooden wedding table for banquet outdoor in garden, in the style of rustic with eucalyptus and flowers, porcelain plates, glasses, white chairs. Horizontal

1960s: Palm Springs Chic

The ‘60s were all about sleek, sophisticated luxury—the kind that looked just as good lounging poolside as it did at a swanky cocktail party. Picture chic shift dresses, oversized sunglasses, and polished updos, finished with a pair of kitten heels or classic loafers for that effortlessly cool touch. Keep the floral designs crisp and modern with ranunculus, roses, and anthuriums in posh arrangements. Add pops of warm hues, bold geometric patterns, and a bar cart ready for a round of martinis. The vibe is Palm Springs socialite meets jet-set weekend escape.

Festive table decor. In pastel pink colors with golden cutlery. With different natural colors roses, peonies, anthurium. Luxury wedding, party, birthday. View from above

1970s: Old Money Goes International

The ‘70s took wealth globally, and the fashion followed—imagine breezy floral dresses, silk scarves draped just so, and chunky gold jewelry that gives old-money-meets-Italian-riviera energy. Elevate the look further with a fur stole or a structured handbag for that effortlessly refined touch. Set the scene for your garden party with loose, natural floral arrangements of orchids, roses, and wild greenery, and layer in plush velvet cushions, antique lanterns, and colorful table linens. The result is an outdoor soiree that feels like a jet-setter’s dream—somewhere between Tuscany, Saint-Tropez, and a Slim Aarons photoshoot.

elegantly decorated table at a wedding reception with beautiful sunset

1980s: A Return to the Classics

The ‘80s defined quiet luxury before it had a name, favoring classic, conservative style with an extra touch of prestige — we can thank the Ronald Reagan presidency for the large dose of tradition that swept the nation during this time. Picture pearl necklaces, pleated skirts, and sharp blazers in deep, sophisticated hues of navy, cream, and burgundy—giving serious country club energy. To bring this refined aesthetic to life, symmetry is everything. Go for structured floral arrangements of roses, lilies, and carnations in tall, stately vases. Elevate the scene with manicured hedges, timeless table settings, and—because no true old-money event skips the extravagance—a sparkling champagne tower.

Wedding. Banquet. Chairs and honeymooners table decorated with candles, served with cutlery and crockery and covered with a tablecloth. The table stands on a green lawn in the backyard banquet area.

1990s: Princess Diana-Inspired

Nobody mastered quiet luxury quite like Princess Diana, and ‘90s garden parties took a page straight out of her iconic book. Think pastel skirt suits, crisp white blouses, and tailored dresses, all paired with dainty pearl accessories and—naturally—a chic wide-brim hat or fascinator. To match the royal-level elegance, keep florals soft and romantic with delicate arrangements of roses, hydrangeas, and peonies in glass or pastel ceramic vases. The overall vibe is understated, timeless, and 100% worthy of an afternoon tea at Kensington Palace.

beautifully decorated table with flowers

At WildFlower, we believe quiet luxury is more than just a look—it’s a feeling. Whether it’s lush florals, refined décor, or the perfect vintage touch, this timeless aesthetic will always have a place at the most beautiful celebrations.

quiet luxury garden party edition through the eras