The Most Stylish Celebrity Weddings from the 70s and 80s That’ll Make You Miss an Era

By: Ronnie Tal | Published: May 08, 2024

A glittering time capsule of love- this is what we see when we rewind to the glamorous era of the 70s and 80s, where celebrity weddings were a blend of elegance, extravagance, and a dash of old Hollywood charm. 

From the fairy-tale romance of Princess Diana to the star-studded nuptials of Tom Hanks, these iconic unions left an indelible mark on the pages of history. Join us on a journey filled with tulle, tuxedos, and timeless love stories that capture the hearts of a generation.

Lady Diana Spencer & Prince Charles (1981)

And from American royalty to actual royalty, you can’t really talk about 80s weddings without mentioning the one that conquered them all. A globally televised affair, their royal union captured hearts worldwide. 

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Lady Diana Spencer & Prince Charles of their wedding day ; Source: Getty Images / Fox Photos

Princess Diana’s mesmerizing wedding dress left fans in awe, turning the event into a fairytale-like extravaganza. The echoes of that majestic ceremony still linger, marking it as one of the most celebrated marriages of the century.

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Demi Moore & Bruce Willis (1987)

Starting out strong with the iconic Demi Moore and Bruce Willis, who reigned as the quintessential Hollywood power couple. In 1987, under the twinkling stars and the watchful eye of none other than Little Richard, the couple said “I do” in a ceremony that rivaled a Hollywood blockbuster.

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Source: Demi Moore / @demimoore / Instagram

Three daughters and 13 years later, their love story took a different turn. Yet, looking at their wedding photo, bathed in ’80s charm, you can’t help but smile at the ruffles, the classic tuxedo, and the timeless joy.

Ozzy & Sharon Osbourne (1982)

Ozzy and Sharon Osbourne’s journey began under the management of her father, Don Arden, who was Ozzy’s agent. Tying the knot in 1982, they had three children—Aimee, Jack, and Kelly. 

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Source: Sharon Osbourne / @sharonosbourne / Instagram

Despite a few bumps, they’ve stayed the course. Gazing at their wedding photo, one might expect edginess from the “Prince of Darkness,” but Ozzy and Sharon opted for a surprisingly tame, yet adoringly captured, snapshot of their enduring love.

Mick Jagger & Bianca Perez-Mora Macias (1971)

In the groovy vibes of the ’70s, Mick Jagger and Bianca Perez-Mora Macias were the talk of the era. Bianca, taking on the Jagger moniker, rocked a white bridal jacket, and let’s not forget that fabulous floppy hat (perhaps what inspired dear Kris seven years later). 

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Bianca & Mick Jagger ; Source: Reg Lancaster / Getty Images

Mick, always the trendsetter, paired a three-piece suit with tennis shoes. The 1970s flair in their wedding look perfectly encapsulates an era when fashion was bold, collars were large, and love stories were rock ‘n’ roll.

Meryl Streep & John Cazale (1978)

The queen of Hollywood elegance, Meryl Streep fell in love with John Cazale before there was ever a Don Gummer in the picture. Although, Don Gummer and Meryl tied the knot in 1978. It is said that Actor John Cazale was Meryl’s first love, despite being cut short after two years due to Cazale’s declining health. 

Meryl Streep, and John Cazale ; Source: The Deer Hunter (1978) / Universal / IMDB

Even though Cazale and Streep never formally married they did get married on screen in the film, ‘The Deer Hunter’ (1978). It is speculated that Meryl only took on the role after Cazale was cast to be closer to him during his final months. John never saw the project completed as he passed away shortly after. Later that year Gummer and Streep began dating and tied the knot shortly after. They are proud parents to Mamie, Grace, Louisa, and Henry Gummer. 

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Arnold Schwarzenegger & Maria Shriver (1986)

This is what American royalty looks like! Arnold Schwarzenegger and Maria Shriver waltzed into matrimony in 1986. Arnold the movie star and Maria the niece of President John F. Kennedy, brought with them quite a legacy. 

Actor Arnold Schwarzenegger & Maria Shriver (1986) ; Source: Peter Carrette Archive / Getty Images

Their wedding photo is a charming relic of ’80s bridal fashion, featuring Maria’s elegant lace collar —a timeless snapshot from a quarter-century of marriage. 

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Kristen Houghton & Robert Kardashian (1978)

Witness the beginning of a dynasty. Before the Kardashian chaos, Kris Jenner, then Kristen Mary Houghton, embarked on her journey with notorious lawyer Robert Kardashian in 1978. 

Kris Jenner (Houghton -at the time) and Robert Kardashian ; Source: @kimkardashian / Instagram

Jenner, a trendsetter even back then, ditched the traditional veil for a wide-brimmed hat—the epitome of chic back in the late ’70s. Thirteen years and four soon-to-be-megastar kids later, the two eventually parted ways in 1991. 

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Ringo Starr & Barbara Bach (1981)

1981 was a good year for iconic weddings it seems, as evident by this lovely entry. Ringo Starr, the famed Beatles drummer we all love, tied the knot with Barbara Bach. Ringo, already a dad of three from a previous marriage, found love at first sight. 

Former Beatle Ringo Starr and Actress Barbara Bach (1981) Bach's daughter Francesca Gregorini (left), and Starr's daughter Lee Starkey (foreground, right) ; Source: Bryn Colton / Getty Images

Their destined union remains unbroken, with seven grandchildren and homes in Los Angeles, England, and Monte Carlo. The beat goes on for this timeless couple, a melody of love from the ’80s that’s still playing today.

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Elton John & Renate Blauel (1984)

Given the fact that Elton John is one of the 20th century’s biggest LGBTQ+ icons, it might surprise some to see him on this list. But this music giant indeed married German recording engineer Renate Blauel in 1984. 

Elton John and Renate Blauel at St. Mark's Church (1984) ; Source: Patrick Riviere / Getty Images

The four-year union, adorned with Elton’s iconic ’80s regalia – oversized sunglasses, a purple and white striped shirt, and a straw hat – became a snapshot of the era. After he came out, Elton married again in 2014, this time to his boyfriend David Furnish.

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Cher & Gregg Allman (1975)

In the kaleidoscope of Cher’s love life, her second marriage in 1975 to musician Gregg Allman, a mere 10 days post her split from Sonny Bono, was especially colorful. 

Source: Reddit / Pinterest / Cher (1975)

Their hippy love story persisted until 1979 when they called it quits. A son, Elijah, became a shared melody in their journey. Their wedding photo encapsulates the ’70s free spirit, from Cher’s understated gown to Gregg’s flowing hippy locks—a flower power masterpiece.

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Elizabeth Taylor & Richard Burton (2nd time, 1975)

In 1964, Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton exchanged vows, marking the beginning of a tumultuous journey that saw two marriages and a cascade of emotions. 

Elizabeth Taylor and Richard by Burton ; Source: Hulton Archive / Getty Images

Despite divorcing in 1974, their magnetic connection drew them back together in 1975. Elizabeth, reflecting on her love life, confessed that after Richard, the rest were mere companions.

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Terry & Rebbeca Crews (1989)

Whether you know him from ‘White Chicks’, ‘America’s Got Talent’, or ‘Brooklyn 99’- it’s impossible not to love the adorable Terry Crews. Even more so after he celebrated 32 years of love with his wife Rebecca King, sharing charming wedding photos. 

Source: Terry Crews / @terrycrews / Instagram

The couple, Michigan University sweethearts, tied the knot in ’89, proving love is timeless. Rebecca’s late ’80s bridal look stole the show with an amazing headband and oversized rhinestone earrings. 

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Tom Hanks & Rita Wilson (1988)

In the heartwarming reel of love, Rita Wilson and Tom Hanks embarked on their journey after meeting on the set of the 1988 film Volunteers, sealing the deal in the same year.

Source: Rita Wilson / @ritawilson / Instagram

Thirty-four years later, their Hollywood love story stands as a testament to enduring love. Rita’s ’80s bridal look, from the mini skirt to the curls and fabulously poofy fabric ruffles, is a charming relic. Tom Hanks, forever timeless, effortlessly rocks the classic black tuxedo. 

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Emma Thompson & Kenneth Branagh (1989)

Ah, the whirlwind romance of Emma Thompson and Kenneth Branagh. Meeting on a film set in 1987, they became Hollywood’s darlings, marrying in 1989. 

Kenneth Branagh and Emma Thompson in London, England ; Source: Georges De Keerle / Getty Images

However, the fairy tale took a turn, and in 1995, they parted ways due to Kenneth’s affair with Helena Bonham Carter. The ’80s wedding photo is a bold masterpiece—Emma defied tradition with a non-traditional dress, short skirt, bold fabric, and a frilly hat, sealing their chapter in the glamorous book of Hollywood love. 

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Diana Ross & Arne Naess, Jr. (1986)

Cue the nostalgic tunes for the dazzling Diana Ross, who had a second act in marriage with Arne Næss Jr. in 1986. Amidst tiaras and lace overlays, they danced into wedded bliss, capturing a moment of ’80s charm with baby’s breath tucked into Diana’s hair. 

American singer Diana Ross during her church wedding to Norwegian businessman Arne Næss, Jr. (1937 - 2004) in Romainmotier, Switzerland, 1st February 1986. The couple were already legally married. (Photo by Georges De Keerle/Getty Images)

While their marriage ended sadly after Arne’s mountain-climbing accident in 2004, this photograph beams with their happy excitement. The ’80s elegance lingers, and Diana’s superstar legacy endures.

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Bill & Hillary Clinton (1975)

Hillary and Bill Clinton, the dynamic duo, tied the knot in Arkansas in 1975, and Despite challenges, this power couple stood strong. Recently, Hillary shared a nostalgic throwback from their ’75 wedding on Instagram, wishing Bill a happy 70th. 

Source: Hillary Clinton / @hillaryclinton / Instagram

The photo radiates retro charm, capturing a 28-year-old Hillary in a Jessica McClintock gown, and Bill in a spiffy blue suit—a blast from the past that proves they were made for each other.

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Kevin Bacon & Kyra Sedgwick (1988)

Cue the ’80s love ballads for Kevin Bacon and Kyra Sedgwick, a Hollywood duo that’s danced through time. Sparks flew in 1988 on the set of “Lemon Sky,” and in the same year, they waltzed down the aisle, becoming an enduring power couple. 

Source: Kevin Bacon and Kyra Sedgwick (1988) / Twitter (X)

With two kids, Sosie and Travis, their love story is a testament to lasting Hollywood magic.

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Sean Penn & Madonna (1985)

In the neon glow of the ’80s, Madonna and Sean Penn dazzled as a superstar couple, tying the knot on Madonna’s 27th birthday in 1985. 

Source: Pinterest / Madonna / Penn (1985)

Their on-again, off-again dance took them from vows to separation in 1989. From Hollywood power couple to the Shanghai Surprise, their love story, while short-lived, remains a nostalgic chapter in the book of celebrity romance.

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Tommy Lee & Heather Locklear (1986)

Before there was Pamela and Tommy there was Heather, they met at an REO Speedwagon concert and there was an instant connection. It is speculated that Actress Heather Locklear was truly the love of Mötley Crüe drummer Tommy Lee’s life. He unfortunately cheated on her at the immature age of 25 and according to his current wife that may be one of his biggest regrets. 

Source: Tommy Lee & Heather Locklear / Personal Archive

As the saying goes, “You live and you learn.” Perhaps this is why the pair are still good friends to this day and maintain a strong relationship, so much so that Lee’s current wife, Brittany Furlan has become great friends with the actress, how could you not be? It is Heather Locklear after all.   

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Bonus: John Lennon & Yoko Ono (1969)

True, this beyond-iconic couple married just at the finish line of the 60s, but their union definitely affected the two decades to come. John and Yoko united during the Beatles’ zenith. 

Former Beatles Musician John Lennon & Japanese-born artist Yoko Ono ; Source: Bettmann / Getty Images

Ignoring disapproval, they wed in 1969. From a quirky registry office ceremony to a memorable “Bed-In for Peace” honeymoon in Amsterdam, their love story echoes the whimsical tune of the times. 

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Sylvester Stallone & Brigitte Nielsen (1985)

Sylvester Stallone and Brigitte Nielsen took Hollywood by storm when they wed in 1985, gracing the tabloid covers. Despite their amazing chemistry, the love story wrapped up just two years later in 1987, with no children in tow. 

Source: @jenniferflavinstallone / Instagram

Nielsen marked Stallone’s second chapter of matrimony out of three, and he has since found enduring love with Jennifer Flavin, raising three daughters, Sophia, Sistine, and Scarlet, along with two children from a previous marriage.

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Tatum O'Neal & John McEnroe (1986)

Tatum O’Neal, the youngest person to win an Oscar and daughter of Ryan O’Neal, traded the red carpet for love, marrying tennis player Jon McEnroe after dating since ’84. Their family flourished with three kids, Kevin, Sean, and Emily. 

John McEnroe and Tatum O'Neal Source: Bettmann / Getty Images

Alas, this match wasn’t forever, leading to a 1994 divorce, a decade after they first met. Post-divorce, Tatum faced challenges, battling substance use and the loss of custody of her children.

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Jeff Bridges & Susan Geston (1977)

Jeff Bridges found his leading lady, Susan Geston, on the set of “Rancho Deluxe” in 1977. Despite the unconventional start (Susan worked as a maid on set, not an actress), their love story blossomed into a decades-long journey. 

Jeff Bridges and Susan Geston ; Source: courtesy of Jeff Bridges for OWN

Today, with three grown children—Isabelle, Jessica, and Hayley—the Bridges duo stands as a testament to lasting Hollywood magic. Their happily ever after is a heartwarming scene in the nostalgia-filled album of love.

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Carrie Fisher & Paul Simon (1983)

Hollywood princess Carrie Fisher, fresh from her Star Wars triumphs, twirled into matrimony with musician Paul Simon in 1983. Despite their stellar individual successes, their union lasted only a year. 

Source: Wishful Drinking by Carrie Fisher / Personal Archive / Goodreads

Their wedding captures Fisher in a seemingly plain silk gown with ruched sleeves, and Simon opting for a timeless black suit with a white necktie—a nostalgic tableau of a rocky but star-studded chapter in their lives.

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Faye Dunaway & Peter Wolf (1974)

Faye Dunaway and Peter Wolf’s love story began in San Francisco, introduced by a journalist friend. She, a renowned actress, and he, the lead singer of The J. Geils Band, danced through two blissful years of courtship before tying the knot in 1974. 

Peter Wolf and Faye Dunaway ; Source: Tony Korody / Sygma / Sygma via Getty Images

Alas, the whirlwind of their rising careers led to a 1978 divorce. Despite their crazy schedules, their love story was a snapshot of two worlds colliding in the mesmerizing maze of Hollywood and rock ‘n’ roll.

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Aretha Franklin & Glynn Turman (1978)

In the soulful rhythm of love, Aretha Franklin and actor Glynn Turman tied the knot from 1978 to 1984, exchanging vows at Aretha’s father’s church—a choice that surely pleased her parents, unlike her first marriage. 

Aretha Franklin & Glynn Turman alongside her son Kecalf Franklin (1978 in Detroit, Michigan) ; Source: Michael Ochs Archives / Getty Images

Stepping into the role of stepmom to Glynn’s three children, those kids hit the jackpot with the legendary Aretha Franklin. Alas, the union sang its last note in 1984, concluding a chapter of love and music.

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Julio Iglesias & Isabel Preysler (1971)

In the harmonious notes of love, Spanish sensation Julio Iglesias serenaded into marriage with TV host Isabel Preysler in 1971. This duo, parents to the renowned Enrique Iglesias, danced through life together until 1979. 

Source: Julio Iglesias & Isabel Preysler (1971) ; Source: iHola Magazine Cover

Isabel, hailing from a wealthy Filipino family, was Julio’s muse as they welcomed three children. While their love song eventually faded, the echoes of Julio’s music and Enrique’s fame linger on, a nostalgic melody of an era gone by.

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Stevie Wonder and Syreeta Wright (1970)

Stevie Wonder—music maestro with fingers that dance on keys, is a force transcending genres. In the symphony of his life, the first movement saw him serenading love with Syreeta Wright, his labelmate and first wife, whom he met in 1968. 

Stevie Wonder and Syreeta Wright ; Source: Bettmann / Getty Images

Their creative harmony blossomed into a romance, culminating in a joyous union on September 14, 1970. Yet, like a fleeting melody, their love concluded by 1972.

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Joan Collins & Peter Holm (1985)

Move aside, the queen of the 80s has arrived! Dynasty diva Joan Collins, renowned for her role as Alexis Colby, took a stroll down the aisle for the fourth time in 1985, marrying pop singer Peter Holm.

Joan Collins Marries Peter Holm In Las Vegas, Nevada (1985) Source: Eddie Sanderson / Getty Images

The snapshot of their nuptials echoes an era of glitz and glamour. Alas, the melody of their love played only for three years, as they separated in 1987, leaving behind a tabloid trail of a public divorce—a chapter in the glamorous tapestry of Collins’ five-time marriage journey.

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Elvis Presley and Priscilla (1967)

Although just before the 70s if you’re going to make an exception on this countdown it should be for none other than the King of Rock N’ Roll, Elvis Presley.  This love story is not without its ups and downs and turmoils but if anything it’s one of the most iconic despite ending in divorce. 

Elvis Presley to Priscilla on May 01,1967 Source: Michael Ochs Archives / Getty Images

They married in the city of sin, Las Vegas at a mere 21 (Priscilla) and 32 (Elvis) years old. It was not something anyone would have expected from such a successful star but Elvis wanted an intimate wedding if nothing else.

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Samuel L. Jackson & LaTanya Richardson (1980)

Beyond the silver screen, Samuel L. Jackson’s greatest success unfolds in a different script—marriage. For more than four decades, he’s shared the stage of life with actress LaTanya Richardson. 

Source: Samuel L. Jackson / @samuelljackson / Instagram

Their love story, sparked at Morehouse College in 1970, transitioned into a decade-long courtship, culminating in a private ceremony on August 19, 1980. With a daughter named Zoe, their enduring bond is truly heartwarming.

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