One of my favourite movie scenes is the horse race scene in the movie “My Fair Lady” with Audrey Hepburn. The tableau of posh, beautifully styled ladies and gents in formal black, white and grey clothing is absolutely exquisite in my mind. With over-the-top hats decorated with everything from large fabric flowers to wild feathers and gems, to the canes and graphic black and white details in the fabrics and baubles, this whole scene is a feast for the eyes. After a site visit to the beautiful grounds at Spruce Meadows for one of my August brides, I was reminded of this memorable movie scene and how fabulous it would be to design a wedding around the chic, black and white styling.

Check out this video clip of the scene from “My Fair Lady” so you can fully understand:



You must admit, it is a fantastic visual impact that is timeless. The black and white graphic styling is quite modern but there is also a classic aesthetic in the intricate lace work, parasols, pearls and cravats — this look can be interpreted in many ways. Here are some images I gathered for inspiration:

This black and white striped invitation set is perfectly suited to this theme and will let your guests know that this is no ordinary wedding. The pearl brooch is a gorgeous touch that elevates this invite to something very special. (Here’s an idea too: ask your guests to dress in black and white. This will create chic photos for your album!)


{Photo credit: BStudio Wedding Invitations}

Next, choose a stunner of a wedding dress. This is from Vera Wang’s 2010 Collection, which shows the gorgeous black and white combo in a bevy of silhouettes.


{Photo credit: White Thread}

And we can’t forget the details! Consider a graphic bouquet with white anemones and black and white striped wrap.



How’s this for great photo props? Try this DIY black and white striped umbrella project from Jessica at What I Wore:



You can have so much fun with your tablescapes and reception styling with this theme. The pink in these photos are such a fun jolt of colour among a graphic palette, and emulate the pink-red flowers on Audrey Hepburn’s parasol and hat. And all these striped linens are just the best!



{Photo credit: Hostess with the Mostess via Australia Entertains}


{Photo credit: Wildflower Linens}

This photo shows how you can also achieve a more Classic version of the black and white graphic feeling. The black ribbon looks so sharp against the sea of white linens and chiavari chairs.


{Photo credit: Alannah Rose}

For the sweetest part of your wedding, take a look at this cake. It is a masterpiece in how it captures the whole look of this movie scene!


{Photo credit: Cake Central Forum}

And this wouldn’t be a proper Sweet Stylings Event Design post if it did not include a dessert table!


{Photo credit: My Sweet and Saucy via Wedding Obsession}

This fun and beautiful black and white, “My Fair Lady” inspired wedding design is sure to create the “wow” factor you are looking for a unique wedding experience.

If you are a Calgary bride looking looking for ways to pull this vision together, contact us for a complimentary meeting to see what we can do for you!