Quiet Luxury Through the Eras: The Ultimate Guide to Garden Party Chic

If 2025 had a signature party aesthetic, it would definitely be quiet luxury—aka the effortlessly chic, old-money vibe that’s all about timeless sophistication. Whether you’re planning a dreamy wedding, a garden soirée, or just looking for an excuse to sip champagne in a stunning outdoor setting, this trend is your golden ticket. It’s refined, it’s classic, and it brings a touch of nostalgia with decade-inspired details that make every moment feel like a scene from your favorite old film. At Griffin’s Floral Designs, we’re breaking down how to host the ultimate vintage garden party, from what to wear to the floral details that will have guests swooning. Let’s time-travel through the decades, shall we?

1950s: Tennis Fashion Forward

The ‘50s were peak old-money prep, and tennis fashion was the ultimate mix of sport and sophistication. Picture tailored polos, chic sweater vests, and crisp white pleated skirts —paired with low-profile sneakers or ballet flats for an effortlessly polished look. Set your garden party scene with lush floral installations featuring roses, orchids, and dahlias beneath a breezy outdoor tent. Think Martha’s Vineyard elegance with lush greenery runners, fresh table linens, and sweet lemonade in glass pitchers for that extra touch of refinement and relaxation.

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 gave us mid-century modern and poolside luxury, and honestly, what more could you ask for? Shift dresses, oversized sunnies, and sleek updos bring major Hollywood energy, while kitten heels and loafers keep things classic. Bring the retro-glam vibes to life with minimalist floral arrangements featuring ranunculus, roses, and anthuriums. Add geometric patterns, warm sunset hues, and a chic bar cart stocked with martinis to complete your Palm Springs paradise.

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 old money internationally—think flowing floral dresses, silk scarves, and gold jewelry that feels straight out of an Italian summer. Add a fur stole or a structured handbag for that extra je ne sais quoi. Channel that global sophistication with loosely styled arrangements of orchids, roses, and wild greenery. Layer in rich textures like velvet cushions, vintage lanterns, and patterned table linens for a touch of worldly elegance.

elegantly decorated table at a wedding reception with beautiful sunset

1980s: A Return to the Classics

With Ronald Reagan in the White House, the ‘80s leaned into classic, conservative style, with pearl necklaces, pleated skirts, and perfectly tailored blazers. Think country club chic but with a little more drama. Symmetry is key in floral designs that embody this style. Opt for structured arrangements of roses, lilies, and carnations in elegant, tall vases. Keep the garden setting polished with manicured hedges, timeless table settings, and a champagne tower for a little extra.

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

No one did effortless, quiet luxury better than Princess Diana, and ‘90s garden parties took major inspo from her impeccable style. Picture pastel skirt suits with crisp white blouses, tailored dresses, and dainty pearl accessories—topped off with a chic wide-brim hat or fascinator, of course. Keep it soft and romantic with delicate arrangements of roses, hydrangeas, and peonies in glass or pastel ceramic vases. The vibe is simple, refined, and worthy of a royal afternoon tea.

beautifully decorated table with flowers

At Griffin’s Floral Designs, we’re all about bringing quiet luxury to life—because effortless elegance never goes out of style. From vintage-inspired florals to refined garden party details, this aesthetic proves that classic beauty is always in season.

quiet luxury garden party edition through the eras