Have you noticed that the past few seasons’ bridal shows have not only been in line with high-end fashion, but have also added an indie twist to wedding dress styles? As one of my clients put it, “I’m only gonna do this thing once, I want a dress that is the epitome of my personal style”. Brides are demanding a break from the norm and the results are fashion forward collections.
Pleats
There are so many different kinds of pleats out there right now that covering them all would be like writing a book. Currently, some of the more traditional wedding dresses are pleated to the max! Think Amsale’s heavenly pleated skirts and lately we’ve even seen some pleated bodices. But there’s more to pleats than the traditional bodice and skirt treatments. Designers are having fun whirling and twirling them into ruffles, florals, tiers and trapunto.
Buttons Down The Back
Covered buttons are hardly big news on the bridal scene; after all tiny buttons lining the backs of gowns have been a staple of wedding dresses for more than a century. But, lately we’re seeing buttons play a less traditional role and take a more artistic place with the addition of sheer netting, lace, taffeta and satin. Whether used as an actual closure feature or simply something decorative, buttons can add individuality to a dress.
Gatsby Inspired Silhouettes
Only a few more weeks before the highly anticipated cinematic costume extravaganza, the new Great Gatsby, is released! I’m expecting the influence of this movie combined with the upcoming season of Downton Abbey (now firmly ensconced in the mid-1920s) will revive an interest in vintage style wedding dresses. We’ve already seen accessories begin to mimick the era’s veils, headpieces, and long ropes of pearls. Like the women of the Jazz Age, brides who sport these simple silhouettes with intricate details opt to be comfortable instead of boned and buckled in.
Prints
Get ready for gorgeous embossed and damask fabrics, as well as floral and geometric patterns floating down the runway. Prints are perfect for the bride who wants to stand out, loves color and variation, and wants to add a serious dose of unique to her wedding day.
Lace – Classic Meets Modern
Traditional lace will get a new spin in the next few seasons. We’re already seeing the classic and time honored Alencon and Chantilly lace used in cutting edge ways. Add to that all the newbies like crocheted, pastel and water-colored laces. This season keep a look out for collections filled with high drama three-dimensional laces that are, in a word, stunning.
