Let's go on a vintage honeymoon to Niagara Falls

The last and final destination in our four-part series this year (the first three saw us traversing the globe to Italy, Hawaii, and Ireland, respectively) is - and has been for many decades now - a place whose name is as good as synonymous with the word honeymoon: Niagara Falls.




It's only fitting, I can't help but think, that this delightful series of travel posts caps off with a location in my own home country, whereas the first was devoted to Tony's (Italy) and the third, coincidentally, was the location (Ireland) where we spent the first couple of years of our life together as husband and wife.

When you think of Niagara Falls, what comes to mind first? For many it will be the majestic and incredibly powerful falls themselves, a series of three waterfalls (Horseshoe Falls, the American Falls, and Bridal Veil Falls) located on the Niagara River that gush across the international border that divides Ontario, Canada and New York, USA. Up here in Canada, the iconic waterfalls that we get to enjoy best of all is Horseshoe Falls, with the other two being on the US side of things.

This trio of breathtaking waterfalls are situational 75 miles (121 km) south-southeast of Toronto and 17 miles (27 km) north-northwest of Buffalo, New York, and thunder down between the twin cities of Niagara Falls, Ontario and Niagara Falls, New York.




The falls are located 17 miles (27 km) north-northwest of Buffalo, New York and 75 miles (121 km) south-southeast of Toronto, between the twin cities of Niagara Falls, Ontario, and Niagara Falls, New York. Both sides of the border offer up sublime views and experiences of the Falls, but for the sake of simplicity and in the spirit of my own country, this post will focus primarily on Niagara Falls, Ontario here in Canada, which houses Horseshoe Falls, the largest of the three falls. With a height of approximately 173 feet (53 metres) and a width of some 2,600 feet (790 meters), this makes it the largest waterfall in North America.

As Ontario is one of the oldest Canadian provinces to have been inhabited by European settlers, Niagara Falls has been inhabited by both Europeans and Americans since before the American Revolution, which saw a good deal of United Empire Loyalists hop over the border and establish new lives in Canada, which was under British Rule (and today retains strong ties to the United Kingdom, with Canada currently being a federal parliamentary democracy and constitutional monarchy with the Queen as our official, non-political, head of State)

It's no surprise though, regardless of the political turmoil that helped foster the town's early growth that a settlement would spring up around such a stunning location and that it wouldn't take long for the first suspension bridge (which was located where the Whirlpool Rapids Bridge stands nowadays), opened in 1848, to span its mighty width. A mere five years after its creation, the Great Western Railway wound its way to Niagara Falls via Hamilton, Ontario and was linked to the Suspension Bridge, which made travel and transport to and the from this southerly Ontario destination considerably easier and, it could be argued, was the beginning of its life as one of the most popular and iconic tourist destinations in not only North America, but the whole, wide world itself.

Though, it should be noted, that the area had already been visited by travelers from various parts of the world prior to that, including Napoleon Bonparte's brother, Jérôme, who saw the falls with his bride in the early 1800s, making them one of the first known couples to specifically visit Niagara Falls as part of their honeymoon travels.



{Victorian artist Albert Bierstadt's beautiful oil painting called Falls of Niagara from Below, is one of many views of the falls that artists have immortalized on canvas over the past two centuries.}


Various theories account for the origin of the name of Niagara Falls, with some believing it is an Iroquoian word, others Mohawk, but what is commonly accepted amongst all is that is indeed derived from one of the local First Nations/Native American tribes who inhabited this beautiful area of Ontario long before the first Europeans or American settlers foot here. And when, my fellow history buffs might be wondering, did that happen? Though there too various theories and possible dates abound, it's well known that the famous French explorer Samuel de Champlain visited the area as early as 1604 and that members of his party are known to have reported back to him about the stunning waterfalls, which he in turn wrote about in his personal journals. Therefore he and his men may have had the honour of being the first non-indigenous people to behold the mighty falls.

Interestingly, two neighbouring areas were, in the 1800s, known as the Town of Niagara Falls and the Village of Niagara Falls (originally known by settlers as Drummondville), with an amalgamation transpiring to create the City of Niagara Falls in 1904 (the population of which was further bolsters in 1963 when the adjacent town of Stamford joined the city). For well over a century now, the area has been one of the largest sources of hydroelectric power to be found anywhere on the continent, which resulted in numerous manufacturing industries flocking to Niagara Falls, as well as tourists from near and far alike, who came to gaze upon the stunning waterfalls on both sides of the Canadian-US border.

Following the First World War, as cars made traveling to and from the falls even more accessible (and affordable), the tourism industry in the area took off further and it wasn't long at all before this corner of Ontario was well established as one of the absolute most popular destinations for honeymooners, who flocked from across the province, country, continent and sometimes even further afield to behold the amazing waterfalls on the border of Canada and America shortly after tying the knot.



{A Victorian photograph of a woman named Maria Spelterina who at the age of 23 in 1867 traversed the Niagara Gorge by tightrope (four times), complete with buckets on her feet for extra showmanship one time and while blindfolded another, successfully. She remains to this day, the only lady to have made it across the falls on a tightrope (numerous men have done so as well).}


The falls have long enticed tourists of all sorts - not just honeymooners - to their grandeur and beauty, as well as prompted some - to put it gently - brave souls who have taken it upon themselves to jump into, go over in a barrel (or other enclosure), walk a tightrope across, swim the length of, or otherwise do daring and potentially deadly things pertaining to the falls. The first known person to jump into the falls was a man named Sam Patch, who billed himself as the Yankee Leapster. He intentionally plunged into the falls in 1829, thankfully survived, and kicked off a long procession (especially during the 1800s and early 1900s) of daredevils who attempted to follow his lead (not all of whom survived their risky endeavors, which, is should be noted, are illegal to attempt and can be met with fines and penalties on both sides of the border). These days nearly all who wish to see Niagara Falls up close and personal right at water level do so via the famous Maid of the Mist boat.

In 1953 the falls got a further boast in popularity, resulting in increased tourism, when Hollywood leading lady Marilyn Monroe stared alongside Joseph Cotten in a movie set in and called, quite simple, Niagara. The falls have appeared in numerous other movies, TV shows, documentaries, books, and artist's works, as well as on countless postcards and family photographs over the decades. Plus its fair to say that they are truly amongst Canada's most beloved and well known tourist attractions and natural wonders alike.

Interestingly, Niagara falls is one of just two out of the four vintage honeymoon destinations in this series that I've had the great pleasure of seeing firsthand. Though I've only been to Niagara once, and it was in the absolute dead of winter in 2007, during a major snowstorm with temperatures that dropped down around -30C (-22F), while Tony was presenting at a conference there, that trip remains vivid and much loved in my mind. I'd welcome the chance to return again anytime - ideally during the warmer months, so that I could see and do more outdoor events (including taking a ride on the Maid of the Mist) and capturing scads of photographs.

Unlike the other three locations (Italy, Hawaii, and Ireland) in our vintage honeymoon series, Niagara Falls is neither a country nor a state, but instead a city and while certain attractions there have been in place for decades now, others are decidedly newer. Having long catered to the tourists who flock to the falls, Niagara is chock-a-block with exciting things to do, see, eat, and experience, ten of which are highlighted below.

They are by no means the only things to do while there, and it's well worth planning to spend at least a weekend, if not a few days longer, in the area to marvel at the natural wonders, immense local history, exciting modern attractions, various events throughout the year, and other great going ons while in that famous neck of the Canadian woods.

Have your photo taken in front of the falls to capture the memory of your trip forever

Everyone loves it (as the famous jingle goes) - Marineland

Get up close and personal with the falls on a Maid of the Mist boat ride

Let your inner child run free at the Great Canadian Midway

Step back in time at one of Niagara's many history museums

Take a stroll amongst the blooms at the Niagara Botanical Gardens

Send postcards to friends and relatives around the world from this most famous of tourist attractions

 

Take in the view from atop the Skylon Tower's observation deck

Pick up some great, obscure knowledge at the famous Ripley's Believe It or Not Museum

Enjoy a scenic ride on the Whirlpool Aero (Cable) Car

{To learn more about a specific image above or anywhere in this post, please click on it to be taken to its respective source.}

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While I saw Niagara Falls in the middle of a very snowy winter, far more people opt to visit it during the spring, summer and fall, and as those are also popular times of the year for honeymoons to take place in general, the following vintage clothing ideas to pack with you on your travels are geared towards the toastier months of the year.

Should you find yourself, as I did, there in the depth of winter however, make sure you pack along a very heavy coat or jacket, plenty of warm clothing (worn in layers), scarves, hats or toques, gloves, proper winter footwear and perhaps even a pair of long johns for extra heat, because, believe me, you're going to need it if you're in Canada during the winter, especially near the icy cold falls!



{An event as fabulous as your honeymoon calls for a hat that is every bit as sensational and this gorgeous 1940s navy blue straw hat with red millinery poppies fits that bill to a tee. $75.00 from Lucky Dry Goods.}




{Don't let the wind and humidity of southern Ontario do a number on your lips (which you'll want to ensure stay kissable-y soft on your honeymoon for sure!). Instead use this lovely handmade Sweet Maple Lip Balm to keep them soft, subtle and scented with one of Canada's most famous products: maple syrup. $3.00 for a 0.15 ounce tube from Ginger and Waldo.}




{Tuck this vivid, beautiful 1950s Niagara Falls souvenir handkerchief into your favourite vintage handbag or tie it around the handle for an instant pop of outfit colour, and ensure you're never without a hankie on your travels. $22.00 from Variety Vintage Clothing.}




{Though the Niagara Falls are a decent distance away from the sea, all that water more than warrants a nautical inspired outfit and this great 1950s navy blue, red and white sailor dress celebrates that spirit splendidly! Fits up to 36" bust/26" waist. $116.00 from The Vintage Studio.}




{Whenever I travel, I love to - if possible - bring along accessories that relate directly to my destination, so if the falls were on the horizon, I'd be mighty tempted by this lovely vintage Niagara souvenir bracelet featuring that most iconic of Canadian images, the maple leaf. $13.00 from Dawn of the Seventies.}




{Sport one of Canada's national colours, red, on your hands and look all the more glam when you slip on these beautiful vintage red gloves that feature a subtle, alluring moiré silk-like pattern to them. Fits approximately a glove size 7 or 7.5 hand. $14.00 from Chronically Vintage on Etsy.}




{Pick up this absolutely lovely (unused) vintage Niagara Falls souvenir photo album to tuck treasures like postcards and brochures that you pick up on travels into once you get home (or simply as a great vintage reminder of your special honeymoon trip). $9.99 from Eclectic Buffalo Girl.}




{Tuck your daily essentials into this vivid, timelessly pretty woven red vintage cello handbag to keep your hands free while you're out and about exploring the many attractions of Niagara Falls. On sale at the time of writing for $28.80 from JL Vintage.}




{Picture perfect pretty 1940s navy blue pumps are every bit as versatile as black or brown shoes, yet celebrate the spirit of the abundant water of the falls more than either of those hues. These vintage footwear gems fit a modern size 9 foot and are $76.66 From Eve With Love.}

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Canada is nothing short of an amazing country with a vastly rich history and an incredible array of things to do and see, though as I've delved into here over the years in various posts (including most recently in The real truth behind 15 Canadian stereotypes), many outside of its expansive borders, even our lovely neighbours to the south in America, aren't overly familiar with this great land and its engaging history, nor its present day attractions.

Regardless of it you know next to nothing about Canada, are a foremost expert on all things Canuck, or fall somewhere in between, there's always oodles more to learn and appreciate about this breathtaking country. The following selection of books, some are specific to Niagara Falls and/or Ontario, others pertain to Canada in general, and all make for some truly excellent and informative reading, no matter if you're headed to see the falls anytime soon or not.

Pick up a few from Amazon, your local bookstore, the library, or even while traveling through Canada itself, pour yourself a glass of ice wine, SunRype Apple juice, or a frosty much of beer (all Canadian specialties), and settle in for some engaging reading about this mighty and magnificent country.


-A Camper's Guide to Ontario's Best Parks by Donna Carpenter

-Greatcoats and Glamour Boots: Canadian Women at War, 1939-1945 by Carolyn Gossage and Roberta Bondar

-A Great Game: The Forgotten Leafs & the Rise of Professional Hockey by Stephen J. Harper

-A Little history of Canada, Second Edition by H.V. Nelles

-A Traveller's History of Canada by Robert Bothwell

-Along a River: The First French-Canadian Women by Jan Noel

-Around the Shores of Lake Superior: A Guide to Historic Sites by Margaret Beattie Bogue

-Canada's Favourite Recipes by Elizabeth Baird and Rose Murray

-Dictionary of Canadianisms: How to Speak Canadian, Eh by Geordie Telfer

-DK Eyewitness Travel Guide: Canada by DK Publishing

-Explorer's Guide Western New York: From Niagara Falls and Southern Ontario to the Western Edge of the Finger Lakes by Christine A. Smyczynski

-Exploring Niagara: The Complete Guide to Niagara Falls and Vicinity by Hans Tammemagi and Allyson Tammemagi

-Fresh Canadian Bistro: Top Canadian chefs share their favourite recipes by Craig Flinn

-Canuck Chicks and Maple Leaf Mamas: Women of the Great White North - A Celebration of Canadian Women by Ann Douglas

-Fresh Water: Women Writing on the Great Lakes by Alison Swan

-Fodor's Toronto: with Niagara Falls & the Niagara Wine Region by Fodor's

-Greetings from Niagara Falls: Wish You Had Been Here by Jessie A. Turbayne

-How to Be a Canadian by Will Ferguson and Ian Ferguson

-Imagining Niagara: The Meaning and Making of Niagara Falls by Patrick McGreevy

-Inventing Niagara: Beauty, Power, and Lies by Ginger Strand

-Lake Effect: Voices of Toronto's History by Elizabeth A Hawksworth

-Lake Superior Flavors: A Field Guide to Food and Drink along the Circle Tour by James Norton

-Lake Superior: The Ultimate Guide to the Region by Lake Superior Port Cities

-Maritime Tales of Lake Ontario by Susan Peterson Gateley

-Much to Be Done: Private Life in Ontario From Victorian Diaries by Frances Hoffman and Ryan Taylor

-National Geographic Guide to the National Parks of Canada by National Geographic

-Niagara: A History of the Falls by Pierre Berton

-Niagara: Daredevils, Danger and Extraordinary Stories by Maria Da Silva and Andrew Hind

-Niagara Falls by Joel A. Dombrowski

-Niagara Falls: An Intimate Portrait by John Grant et al

-Niagara Falls: 1850-2000 by Paul Gromosiak and Christopher Stoianoff

-Niagara Falls: With the Niagara Parks, Clifton Hill, and Other Area Attractions by Dirk Vanderwilt

-100 Canadian Heroines: Famous and Forgotten Faces by Merna Forster

-Only in Canada You Say: A Treasury of Canadian Language by Katherine Barber

-Ontario's Ghost Town Heritage by Ron Brown

-Ontario: Image, Identity, and Power by Peter Baskerville

-Ontario Provincial Parks Trail Guide by Allen MacPherson

-Ontario Waterfalls by Harold Stiver

-Proud Past, Bright Future: One Hundred Years of Canadian Women's Hockey by Brian McFarlane

-Queen of the Falls by Chris Van Allsburg

-Remembering Niagara: Tales from Beyond the Falls by Robert Kostoff

-So, You Want to Be Canadian: All About the Most Fascinating People in the World and the Magical Place They Call Home by Kerry Colburn and Rob Sorensen

-The Anne of Green Gables Cookbook by Kate McDonald

-The Canadian Housewife: An Affectionate History by Rosemary Neering

-The New Niagara: Tourism, Technology, and the Landscape of Niagara Falls, 1776-1917 by William R. Irwin

-The Penguin History of Canada by Robert Bothwell

-Top 10 Toronto by Lorraine Johnson

-Top 100 Unusual Things to See in Ontario by Ron Brown

-Toronto: An Illustrated History of Its First 12,000 Years by Ron Williamson

-Toronto Between the Wars: Life in the City 1919-1939 by Charis Cotter (I have this book, it's wonderful!)

-Toronto Star Cookbook: More than 150 Diverse and Delicious Recipes Celebrating Ontario by Jennifer Bain

-Toronto Street Names: An Illustrated Guide to Their Origins by Leonard Wise and Allan Gould

-Trans-Canada Rail Guide, 5th edition by Melissa Graham

-Unbuilt Toronto: A History of the City That Might Have Been by Mark Osbaldeston

-Weird Canadian Words: How to Speak Canadian by Edrick Thay

-Wild Shore: Exploring Lake Superior By Kayak by Greg Breining

-Wow Canada!: Exploring This Land from Coast to Coast to Coast by Vivien Bowers and Dan Hobbs

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There are few places in the breadth and scope of the world that call to mind thoughts of happy honeymooners beginning their lives as husband and wife together quite like Niagara Falls. In fact, the city is so well known for loving its "lovers" that every couple who honeymoons there and wishes to receive one, has been able to pick up an official Niagara Falls honeymoon certificate signed by the Mayor from the Niagara Falls Visitor Bureau since 1949 (which also includes a free pass to many local attractions).

Imposing in scale, yet intimate in appeal, the falls have beckoned newlyweds and sightseers, as well as those who opted to inhabit the area, to their water soaked shores for centuries now and will, I highly suspect, always continue to do so. They are truly a humbling and incredible sight to behold in person. Their torrent of water pouring endlessly into the gorge below, lit up at night by beautiful (often colourful) lights, easy to cross on the Maid of the Mist, and more than incredible enough to inspire each and every person who sees them in a myriad of different ways.

♥ ♥ ♥

It has been nothing short of a sincere honour to bring you this series of vintage honeymoon travel destination posts over the past four months. I've learned more about each of these destinations myself and  hope you have as well, in addition to potentially being inspired to hop on a plane, train or in your car, as the case may be, to see (or revisit) one of these diverse, fantastic areas of the world yourself.

Regardless of where you honeymoon, certain elements remain the same across time and location: a new couple coming together to celebrate their union while traveling away from home, with dreams and plans aplenty swirling through their heads as take in the local sights, scenes and activities. Just as with a wedding itself, one doesn't have to spend a small (or large) fortune on their honeymoon. It can be something as simple as a weekend getaway to another area in your own state or province, or as a grand as an around the world tour. Ultimately, only you and your partner know what's best for you, your budget, tastes, mood and circumstances in general.

Some of us, myself included as I touched on in the first post of this series, never went on a honeymoon. The great thing though there those of us who haven't yet, can potentially do so at any point in time. Yes, traditionally a honeymoon follows a wedding, but there's no law that says it has to. Since starting this series, and in general, I've heard firsthand accounts of couples who took their honeymoon five, ten, twenty, even forty years or more after they tied the knot. I fully belief that Tony and I will embark on ours one day down the road and who knows, it might even be to one of the four destinations highlighted in this vintage travel filled series. Only time will tell, but I certainly wouldn't say no to any of them - especially Italy!

Riving the classic tradition of a wedding day going away dress

When it comes to weddings, as with so many things in life, certain traditions, customs and practises fall out of vogue over the course of time. Some disappear entirely and are all but forgotten, others live on as quaint relics of the past in our memories, and a handful, though not terribly common any more, still exist on the fringes on the bell curve of popularity.

One sartorial wedding related tradition that falls into the latter camp is that of the classic going away suit, dress, outfit or ensemble. Once a star player in many a soon-to-be-wife's bridal trousseau, this outfit or garment was typically a white, cream, ivory or other light coloured suit or dress (usually with coordinating accessories, such as a hat, gloves, shoes and handbag) that the bride changed into at some point after the ceremony on her wedding day.

For some, it may have been before or during some point in the reception (I've heard of brides who have changed right before the last dance), for others it followed the reception ceremony as the bride and groom made their way out of the venue and to the car, tins cans tied to bumper, a just married sign plastered on the back, and off to their gorgeously romantic honeymoon.



{A newly married, smartly attired 1940s couple in their going away outfits. Could the bride look any more elegantly perfect? Image source.}


Speaking of honeymoons, it was actually the writing of the first two posts in this spring's ongoing four part series about vintage honeymoon destinations (so far we've traveled to sublimely romantic Italy and passionately warm and beautiful Hawaii; later this month we'll be jetting back to Europe for another exciting post-nuptial vintage getaway) that got me really thinking about this lovely yesteryear tradition and how very nice it would be if more brides revived it (one recent, incredibly well known modern bride seen spotting a going away dress was Kate Middleton, who wore a floating, just-above-knee dusty blue frock).

Typically be far less grand and flashy than the bride's wedding dress itself, the going away outfit was intended to be something that would travel well as the couple embarked on their honeymoon, or at the very least, off to their new life together and Mr. and Mrs., wherever that may have been. It was an attractive yet highly practical garment or ensemble that the bride would then have to wear throughout her life.

Of course not every yesteryear bride donned a going away ensemble, and they certainly weren't as commonplace during the years of WW2 when strict clothing and fabric restrictions were in full swing (in fact, many brides simply wore their best dress or suit, perhaps with a fresh dye job to help perk it up, for their wedding during the lean war years, because buying or finding a wedding dress to borrow simply wasn't feasible for them) as they had been in the decades prior and later in the 1950s and early 60s, but certainly far more yesterday ladies did so then their modern counterparts.

It's worth noting, that the going away outfit wasn't limited simply to the bride always either. In some cases (then as now), grooms also slipped into less formal attire, such as a two or three piece suit (instead of their wedding tuxedo, military uniform, morning suit, or other fancier style of suit) as their big day wound down and they got ready to head off by carriage, car, train, boat, or airplane for their exciting post-wedding vacation.



{Bracing themselves against a barrage of confetti, the lovely couple in the 1950s illustration make their way through their throng of wedding guests and out to their car, en route to their honeymoon destination, while both wearing going away outfits. Image source.}


As vintage fashion loving folks, if there's anyone who seems poised to be able to bring this stylish and endearingly lovely tradition back into play, if only on a slightly larger scale than it currently exists, it's us! With that thought in mind, for all the soon-to-be-wed ladies out there, I've rounded up a selection of 15 vintage and vintage appropriate suits, dresses, and accessories which would see your off from your wedding in unendingly elegant style.

{Ideal for if you're leaving your ceremony or after party once the sun has set, this cozy 1950s two-piece knit suit featuring a shawl collared jacket has wedding day sophistication written all over it. Fits up to a 36" bust in the jacket/25" waist in the skirt, $122.00 from etsy seller Living On Velvet.}




{There are few outfits around, especially wedding related ones, that this agelessly beautiful Tarina Tarantino Ivory Rose Carved Lucite Necklace wouldn't go beautifully with. (On sale at the time of writing for) $23.00 from Unique Vintage.}




{Quintessentially 1950s, this becoming Harry S. Epstein sand hued cotton-linen blend dress features a scoop neckline, fitted waist, short sleeves, wiggle skirt, matching belt and lovely coordinating cropped jacket. It is, to my mind, the picture perfect mid-century going away ensemble. its up to 33-34" bust/26" waist, $144.00 from etsy seller Dear Golden.}




{A wonderful blend of beauty and refined elegance, these grey pearl, cubic zirconia and silver tone metal earrings are an endearing way to symbolize the fact that you've just tied the knot. $21.80 from etsy seller CreBijoux.}




{Ideally suited to a fall, winter or early spring wedding, this 1950s cream hued wide brim fur and sequence hat would look smashing with a skirt suit or tailored dress. $64.00 from etsy seller Denisebrain.}




{Cross something old, something new (to you), and something blue all of your list in one fell swoop with these immensely lovely 1950s Van Raalte sheer white gloves featuring delicate blue stitching on the wrists. $15.00 from etsy seller CleaninHouse.}




{This splendidly pretty, sweetly alluring three-quarter length sleeve Monte Carlo swing dress in sateen ivory from Heartbreaker brings your feminine figure to the forefront, while remaining wholly sophisticated and wedding day appropriate the whole time. Available in modern ladies sizes small to 2XL, $156.00 from Unique Vintage.}




{Cute, sweet and as pretty as a spring day, these round toe ivory lace pumps featuring darling handmade looking appliqué flowers with tiny clear crystal centers and would be perfect for a 1950s or 60s inspired going away outfit in particular. Available in modern ladies sizes 4 to 11, $62.99 from Amazon.}




{Coloured the same shade as the feathers of the birds so often associated with weddings, this lovely, form fitting dove grey dress featuring a sweetheart neckline would really work well if you're headed someplace warm for your honeymoon. Available in modern ladies sizes XS to 2XL from, $162.00 from Stop Staring Clothing.}




{Boasting tons of heirloom jewelry meets shabby chic appeal, this lovely multi-strand pearl, gold tone and fabric appliqué necklace would look glorious over a sheath dress or peaking out from beneath a suit jacket. (Currently on sale at the time of writing for) $14.00 from Unique Vintage.}




{Ravishingly beautiful and classy as the day is long, this stunning tea hued Chantilly lace Dusted Violette Dress channels a marvelous 1950s-60s feel and would the kind of piece you'd unequivocally reach for time and time again after your honeymoon was long over. Available in modern ladies sizes 2 to 20, $299.95 from Victorian Trading Co.}




{Weave a gentle touch of ladylike hue into your going away outfit with this enchanting 1950s pink velour hat bedecked with matching ostrich feathers. $48.00 from etsy seller My Vintage Hat Shop.}




{Tuck your post-wedding ceremony essentials (hankie, wallet, gloves, lipstick, compact, etc) into this fabulously lovely 1950s ivory beaded handbag featured an eye-catching floral design that suits a bride's going away attire so very well. $42.00 from etsy seller Vintage Chinchilla.}




{Exuding class and timeless elegance copiously, the curve hugging, cap sleeved Helena Dress from Stop Staring Clothing, which retails for $158.00 and is available in modern ladies sizes XS to 3X, is made of tan stretch cotton with a subtle, gorgeous floral print on it and would be a fabulous choice for your send off attire post-wedding ceremony.}




{Immensely pretty Minitoo Round Toe High Heel Ribbon Mary Jane Pumps that instantly call to mind similar shoe styles from the 1920s, 30s and 40s and would be a breeze to dance in with their 3.55" heels, if opt to change into your going away outfit before your reception is over. Available in modern ladies sizes 5 to 13, $55.99 from Amazon.}

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When selecting your going away dress, suit or outfit, a key point to keep in mind are that you want it to be clearly different from your wedding dress. They can certainly hail from the same era and have general similarities, but ideally they should stand apart from one another, typically with the wedding dress being the far more formal/fancy of the two.

If you are planning to head off on your honeymoon immediately after your ceremony or the following day, select a going away look that works best for the climate and weather of the destination you'll be arriving in (or at the very least, which will work well for the travel involved between the two points). Lace, linen, matte silk, rayon, taffeta, lighter weight tweeds, crepe wool, and cotton all make for especially well suited fabrics for this kind of outfit.



{Trunks at the ready, a young bride is aided by her bridesmaids - and a real maid to boot as well - in putting the finishing touches on her going away outfit, which features a beige skirt suit and fur stole, before she and her new husband embark on their romantic honeymoon. Every element of her ensemble would work perfectly in her everyday wardrobe, which is something to bear in mind for when compiling your own going away wedding day look. Image source.}



Keep your going away dress or ensemble understated, sophisticated, feminine and beautiful. Think light neutrals and other pale hues, a below-the-knee to mid-calf skirt length, relatively conservative styling, matching accessories, simple jewelry (such as cameos, pearls, diamonds, silver, white gold, platinum, yellow or rose gold pieces with in classic styles), and attractive, but easy to walk in, shoes (a comfortable 2"-3.5" pump/court shoe or kitten heel would be ideal for a long flight or cruise, as would a chic pair of softly hued ballet flats).

One idea I came up with years ago, though it's not traditional, that I think would be absolutely lovely, would be to select a going away dress or outfit in your wedding colours (assuming they're ones you'd typically wear). In doing so, you could keep the spirit of your wedding day going even stronger all the way to your honeymoon destination, new home, or wherever you and your sweetheart are headed after the ceremony.

Whereas most wedding dresses are commonly only worn once by (especially by modern brides), in all likelihood, your going away dress or suit is something that will then be folded into rotation in your usual everyday wardrobe. As such, feel free to spend a little more on it then you might if you were only going to sport it one time. The pieces in this classic ensemble will likely serve you very well for a long time to come in your exciting new life as a married, wonderfully stylish woman.

Let's go on a vintage honeymoon to Hawaii

Aloha, future honeymooners, travel fans and vintage lovers the world over, are you ready for the second exciting installment in this spring's four part vintage honeymoon series? (Which kicked off last month with a fabulous virtual trip to the endlessly gorgeous, history rich country that is Italy.)

Today, we're headed to another wonderfully warm location, however this one is nestled cozily in Pacific Ocean, instead of on the shores of the Mediterranean Sea. That's right, grab your breeziest dresses, favourite vintage sandals, and plenty of sunscreen, because we're jetting over to none other than the breathtakingly majestic Hawaiian Islands.



{Happy honeymooners and holiday makers alike have been flocking to Hawaii en mass for decades now, beckoned by the sizzling sun, warm waters, cheerful culture, delicious cuisine, and fascinating history of this gorgeous corner of the globe, as portrayed in travel ads such as this lovely vintage one from the 1950s. Image source.}


The fiftieth state to join the American Union in 1959, the history of this intriguing chain of islands stretches back some fifteen hundred years before, when Polynesians explorers, from the Marquesas Islands, traveling in double-hulled canoes, first ventured over to Hawaii. A few hundred years later, these initial settlers would be joined by others Pacific inhabitants hailing from Tahiti, who brought with them the kahuna nui, or high priest, line of governing, which implemented a king to rule each island.

In the centuries that would follow, these island dwellers would go on to create an elaborate, beautiful, and highly self-sustainable culture, which relied on the sea and what they could harvest themselves for their dietary and day-to-day needs. Though there may very well have been prior visits from foreigners (including the Chinese and Europeans) prior to this date, the first documented record of a European reaching Hawaii belongs to none other than famed explorer Captain James Cook in 1778, who was (as so many who hit the high seas in those days were) on the hunt for the illusive Northwest Passage (needless to say, he was quite a ways off with the coordinates there!).

From that point onward, a succession of people from different countries (including the French, Russians, British and Americans) headed out to visit, conquer and/or try to convert Hawaii and its native peoples. Tragically, as has so often been the case the world over when foreign invaders land and begin to invade a country, in the ensuing decades and centuries many of the traditional Hawaiian ways of life, beliefs, practises, and systems of governing would be wiped out or greatly altered.

As the Victorian era drew near its end, after many years of turmoil and politic upheaval between the local people and US colonists, the Republic of Hawai'i was officially formed, and in 1898, America opted to annex Hawaii as a territory. It would be another sixty-one years before the people of Hawaii voted to approve statehood and officially join the United States.

Leisure travel to Hawaii began in the nineteenth century and included such venerable guests to the Islands as Mark Twain, Robert Louis Stevenson, and Herman Melville, quickly gaining popularity with travelers the world over as the century wore on and technological advances, as well as greater development on some of the islands themselves, made visiting this sunny corner of the Pacific something that many people began to both aspire to and achieve.



{An early 20th century lithographic postcard from Hawaii, of the sort tourists would have both sent back to loved ones abroad and brought home for their own souvenir scrapbooks. Image source.}


Though I've never set foot on any of Hawaiian islands (of which the largest, aptly nicknamed “The Big Island”, is technically called Hawaii, though that name is commonly applied to all of the Hawaiian islands that make up the state), I wholeheartedly hope to one day. I grew up on the Pacific coast side of the world, but - warm as the Okanagan can certainly get in the summer - have never experienced the searing heat, sublime tropical breezes, or palm tree flanked beaches of any island nations that call this vast ocean home. Much as with Italy, my love for Hawaii is that of an armchair traveler with grand dreams of setting foot on those stunning azure wave kissed beaches on day.

This is a desire that many soon-to-be-wed couples have shared for decades now and, save for a short period during World War II (which Hawaii, housing Pearl Harbor, played a pivotal role in), tourism to the area has boomed from the early twentieth century onward. It skyrocketed to new heights in the 1950s, with numbers climbing higher still after Hawaii became an official state in 1959.

A love for Hawaii, it's culture and cuisine can be seen in many elements of pop culture from the era, including numerous Hollywood movies, Trader Vic's restaurants (which drew their inspiration from Polynesia), and fabulous Hawaiian/Polynesian themed fashions, including those now highly sought after gems from Alfred Shaheen (which are wishlist entries for many a vintage fashion lover the world over these days).



{A model sporting one of textile designer Alfred Shaheen's marvelous tropical floral print 1950s dresses, complete with a matching hat band in the same fun fabric. Shaheen's designs instantly evoke the golden age of travel to Hawaii and have proved wildly popular with tiki and vintage fashion fans ever since their mid-century début, often featuring prices in the multiple hundreds of dollars nowadays. Image source.}


Tourism still continues to be one of the biggest sources of revenue for Hawaii in the 21st century, with visitors from every corner of the globe taking to the skies to reach the islands and escape from the daily grind - and frequently the winter chill - in one of the the state's many wonderful hotels, resorts, camp grounds or bed and breakfasts.

The warm temperatures, sense of a relaxed pace of life that comes with island living, and bevy of sights to see and activities to take part in make Hawaii a popular destination with youngsters and the young at heart alike, and remains one of the world's most visited honeymoon destinations. If you're planning a trip to Hawaii, there will no doubt be numerous things you hope to see and do while soaking up some of those stunning golden rays. To help kick start or further expand your Hawaiian vacation itinerary, the following is a selection of ten different activities that you'll definitely want to consider adding to your list.

Swim with the dolphins at Sea Life Park in Waimanalo (or at numerous other locations around the Hawaiian islands)

Visit Hawaii's largest history museum, Bishop Museum, in Honolulu

Whale watch on the Maui coast (where other marine life such as sea turtles and dolphins can also be spotted)

Enjoy the festive fun and delicious food at a Hawaiian luau

Have your breath taken away by the awe-inspiring scenery at Waimea Canyon on Kauai's West Side

Visit the USS Arizona Memorial at Pearl Harbor

Catch a gnarly wave at Oahu

See the world's most active volcano, Kilauea, at Volcanoes National Park

Attend the annual Merrie Monarch (hula dance) Festival in Hilo, Hawaii or catch a hula performance elsewhere thorough the year

Just sit back, kick off your shoes and enjoy some much needed R&R on any of Hawaii's incredible beaches

{To learn more about a specific image, please click on it to be taken to its respective source.}

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Rightly famous for its stellar climate, Hawaii has an average temperature in the high 70s, but can, and frequently, does, climb far higher up the thermostat than that, especially during the warm(est) season, which typically runs from late April to October. This chunk of the year is commonly known as the dry season, with November to early April dubbed the wet or humid season, as it's generally when precipitation and mugginess hit this part of the world.

No matter what time of the year you visit Hawaii or whereabouts you're headed once there, you'll find that the selection of clothing, accessories and beauty products that you want to pack remains more or less the same (with the addition of specific clothing and gear that may need for certain sporting and outdoor activities, such as surfing and scuba diving).

The following selection of items is one that will see the lovely new vintage wearing bride through many an event in comfort and style alike while on her fabulous Hawaiian honeymoon (you will, of course, most likely want to try and get in a bit of local vintage and thrift store shopping while there, to further bolster your collection of yesteryear tropical togs).



{When magically warm Hawaiian breezes ruffle your locks, help keep your hair looking picture perfect under a gorgeous green Breton hat like this vintage charmer. $64.00 from etsy seller The Vintage Hat Shop.}




{Let your hotel bartender know what kind of scrumptious fruit filled drink you'd like to lounge near the pool with care of these delightful gold toned vintage Avon pineapple earrings. $15.50 from etsy seller Sur L'Histoire.}




{Really, is there any more fitting sunscreen on the face of the planet to bring with you on a honeymoon to Hawaii? I rather think not! :) Hawaiian Tropic Sheer Touch Sunscreen Lotion SPF 50, two 8-ounce bottles for $18.98 from Amazon.}




{Whether you loop it around your neck, tie it to your beach bag, use it to protect your 'do while zipping around the island in convertible, or adorn your shoulders with it as a shawl at night, a timelessly lovely chiffon scarf (which measures 20" x 65") like this dark green beauty will always serve you well on a tropical vacay. $11.00 from etsy seller Robe Plus.}




{Yes, it's true a genuine vintage Shaheen will usually set you back one massively big pretty penny, but when you stop and think about the fact that such a frock will standout as a highlight of your honeymoon wardrobe for the rest of time - and when folded in the greater sum of your wedding related expenses - making such an investment seems both sound and highly sartorially rewarding at the same time. 1950s tropical foliage print Alfred Shaheen dress that fits up to a 38" bust, 31" waist, $285.00 from etsy seller Lostnfound Vintage.}





{What tropical holiday be complete without seeing at least a few gorgeously vibrant birds during your travels? Start your bird watching checklist off with one sighting before the plane even touches down with these whimsically fun Two Can ring, for $18.00, from Irregular Choice.}




{Take an extra dose of vintage charm to the Hawaiian beach with you care of this fabulously fun mid-century fish print cotton towel (measuring 28" by 54"). $64.00 from etsy seller Fuzz and Fu.}




{A super durable bag is always a huge plus when on holiday and few will hold up as well on that front as this cheerful mid-century woven plastic tote. $55.00 from etsy seller Rue Vertdegris.}





{Every moment of your honeymoon should be golden - right down to your shoes, which in this lovely case, quite literally are! Nine West Women's Trickster Wedge Sandals in modern ladies sizes 6 to 12. $$26.70 - $29.62 from Amazon.}

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Looking to brush up and/or further your knowledge on Hawaii before you snap the lid closed on your suitcase? The following selection of alphabetically arranged titles that cover numerous faucets of Hawaiian travel, history and cuisine will help you fit in and sound like a seasoned Hawaiian travel veteran from the moment you arrive.


-A Century Of Aloha: The Creation of Modern Honolulu by MacKinnon Simpson

A Pocket Guide to Hawai'i's Birds by H. Douglas Pratt

-An Easy Guide to the Hawaiian Language by Jade Mapuana Riley

-Ancient History of the Hawaiian People to the Times of Kamehameha by Abraham Fornander

-Best of the Best from Hawaii: Selected Recipes from Hawaii's Favorite Cookbook by Gwen McKee and Barbara Moseley

-Designing Paradise: The Allure of the Hawaiian Resort by Don Hibbard

-DK Eyewitness Travel Guide: Hawaii by Bonnie Friedman

-Driving and Discovering Hawaii: Oahu, Honolulu, and Waikiki by Richard Sullivan

-Flowers and Plants of Hawaii by Paul Wood

-Fodor's Hawaii 2014 by Fodor

-Frommer's Easy Guide to Hawaii 2014 by Jeanette Foster

-Hawaii at Play by Desoto Brown

-Hawaii by Cruise Ship: The Complete Guide to Cruising the Hawaiian Islands, Includes Tahiti by Anne Vipond

-Hawaii Cooks with Spam: Local Recipes Featuring Our Favorite Canned Meat by Muriel Miura

-Hawaii Recalls: Selling Romance to America - Nostalgic Images of the Hawaiian Islands, 1910-1950 by Desoto Brown

-Hawaii Remembered: Postcards From Paradise by Tina Skinner et al

-Hawaii The Big Island Revealed: The Ultimate Guidebook by Andrew Doughty

-Hawaii the Big Island Trailblazer: Where to Hike, Snorkel, Surf, Bike, Drive by Jerry Sprout and Janine Sprout

-Hawaii Tropical Rum Drinks & Cuisine by Arnold Bitner and Phoebe Beach

-Hawaii! Wish You Were Here by Ray Miller and Jo Miller

-Hawaiian Mythology by Martha Warren Beckwith

-Hawaiiana: The Best of Hawaiian Design by Mark Blackburn

-Hawaii's Best Local Desserts by by Jean Watanabe Hee

-Honolulu Then and Now by Sheila Sarhangi

-Illustrated Hawaiian Dictionary by Kahikahealani Wight

-Island World: A History of Hawai'i and the United States by Gary Okihiro

-Jean Hee's Best of the Best Hawaii Recipes by Jean Watanabe Hee

-Kau Kau: Cuisine & Culture in the Hawaiian Islands by Arnold Hiura

-Leis, Luaus, and Alohas: The Lure of Hawai'i in the Fifties by Fred E. Basten and Charles Phoenix

-Lonely Planet Hawaii by Sara Benson et al

-Lost Kingdom: Hawaii's Last Queen, the Sugar Kings and America's First Imperial Adventure by Julia Flynn Siler

-Mark Twain in Hawaii: Roughing It in the Sandwich Islands by Mark Twain

-No Worries Hawaii: A Vacation Planning Guide for Kauai, Oahu, Maui, and the Big Island by Jerry Sprout and Janine Sprout

-Oahu Revealed: The Ultimate Guide to Honolulu, Waikiki & Beyond by Andrew Doughty

-Pink Palace: The Royal Hawaiian Hotel by Stan Cohen

-Roy's Feasts from Hawaii by Roy Yamaguchi and John Harrisson

-Sam Choy's Island Flavors by Sam Choy et al

-Shoal of Time: A History of the Hawaiian Islands by Davan Daws

-Surfing Hawaii: A Complete Guide to the Hawaiian Islands' Best Breaks by Rod Sumpter

-Tastes & Flavors of Hawaii by Mutual Editors

-The Aloha Shirt: Spirit Of The Islands by Dale Hope

-The Food of Paradise: Exploring Hawaii's Culinary Heritage by Rachel Laudan

-The Hali'imaile General Store Cookbook: Home Cooking from Maui by Beverly Gannon and Bonnie Friedman

-The Rough Guide to Hawaii by Greg Ward

-The Secrets and Mysteries of Hawaii: A Call to the Soul by Pila of Hawaii

-The Ultimate Guide to Hawaiian Reef Fishes: Sea Turtles, Dolphins, Whales, and Seals by John P. Hoover

-Tiki Art Now!: A Volcanic Eruption of Art by Robert Williams

-Tiki Drinks by Adam Rocke

-Tiki Road Trip: A Guide to Tiki Culture in North America by James Teitelbaum

-Tiki of Hawaii by Sophia Schweitzer

-To Honolulu In Five Days: Cruising Aboard Matson's S.S. Lurline by Lynn Blocker Krantz et al

-Trader Vic's Pacific Island Cookbook by Trader Vic

-Trader Vic's Tiki Party!: Cocktails and Food to Share with Friends by Stephen Siegelman

-Under the Hula Moon : Living in Hawai'i by Jocelyn Fujii

-Unwritten Literature of Hawaii: The Sacred Songs of the Hula by Nathaniel Bright Emerson

-Waikiki: Magic Beside the Sea by Allan Seiden

-Waikiki Tiki: Art, History and Photographs by Phillip S. Roberts

-Waikiki Yesteryear by Glen Grant

-What Hawaii Likes to Eat by Muriel Miura and Betty Shimabukuro

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One can't help but think of Hawaii without associating it with feelings of romance. There's something about the sizzling air, the powerful waves, the endlessly bounty of fresh produce and seafood, the gaily patterned Polynesian fabrics, and the escape that an island offers from life, and all its demands, on the mainland (wherever that mainland may be for you) that positively invites lovers to its golden sand adorned shores.



{Love, like the bathtub-water-warm breezes that call the islands home, has long been in the air in Hawaii, a point which this vintage American Airlines travel ad was keen to promote back in the 1950s/1960s. Image source.}



It's is a dreamy, carefree, relaxing destination that has been luring honeymooners for well over a hundred years, and which, I don't doubt for a moment, will continue to for the rest of time. Who, after all, in the course of their daily life, hasn't uttered something along the lines of, "Gosh, I wish I was sipping a tropic fruit drink on a beach in Hawaii right now!" at least once?

Hawaii is well ingrained in popular culture and in the hearts of millions of travel fans, but if it isn't your first choice for your own honeymoon, don't despair for a moment. Next up, in the third post in our vintage honeymoon series, we'll rack up some more frequent flyer miles by hopping back to the other side of the world for another exciting European destination.

Until then, why not slip into your favourite Hawaiian print dress and mix up a batch of scrumptious coconut and pineapple filled drinks to enjoy this beautiful late April day with? That's definitely what I'll be doing as I start brainstorming the details of May's captivating vintage honeymoon destination post.