Nine big trends from Bridal Fashion Week
While some bridal gown silhouettes never go out of style, every Fashion Week offers new takes on tradition. The 2019 Fall/Winter season was no exception; from glittery finishes to modern necklines, there are plenty of fresh looks for soon-to-be brides to draw inspiration from. Here are nine of the latest trends to consider when shopping for your wedding dress.
Illusion necklines
Mock necklines with sheer panels are the perfect compromise between modest and modern. For instance, Viktor & Rolf's new bridal line, Mariage, features an organza ruffle gown (shown above) with a sweetheart neckline overlaid with a sheer button-down jacket.
Royal inspiration
Another major neckline trend: bateaus. This almost-off-the-shoulder look has been recently popularized by Meghan Markle's dress when she married Prince Harry. Now, practically every designer from Amsale to Lela Rose has a dress with the sleek neckline in their bridal collection.
Halter tops
The new Duchess of Sussex can also be credited with the rise of the halter-top gown. In addition to her Givenchy dress, Meghan Markle sported a second look on her wedding day - a chic Stella McCartney dress with a halter-style neckline.
Similar looks, ranging from super simple to highly detailed, were all over the Fashion Week runways.
Suiting up
While dresses are still the most popular option, an increasing number of designers are creating more masculine bridal looks. DB Studio for David's Bridal has a jumpsuit in its collection that is ideal for minimalist brides. If you want to make a more powerful statement, consider strutting down the aisle in a bridal suit by Savannah Miller with a tuxedo-style jacket and cropped pants.
Big bustles
Bustles (extra fabric that adds fullness to the back of a skirt) first came into popularity in the late 1800s. Now, they're back but with a twist.
Designers like Lela Rose have updated the classic look by mixing fabrics such as lace and satin.
For brides who want to show a bit of skin, separates with a crop top and skirt are a super trendy, yet classy way to bare it. Cushnie's latest collection includes a gown that pairs a boatneck top with a body hugging skirt, while Willowby by Watters has a gown featuring romantic flower appliques on a corset-style top and matching sheer organza skirt.
Cascading skirts
Designers like Theia and Hayley Paige took ballgowns to the next level this season by adding asymmetric layers of fabric. The effect looks like ripples and brings dimension and interest to an otherwise classic silhouette.
Extravagant sleeves
When it comes to sleeves this season, bigger seems to be better. Some billow, like the detachable lace sleeves on a gown by Sebastien Luke; others are intricately embellished, like the Volant sleeve tea-length dress from Viktor & Rolf, but all are perfect for a bride who wants to make a statement.
Higher hemlines
A long train may be great for walking down the aisle, but it isn't practical for kicking up your heels on the dance floor. That's where the mini after-party dress comes in. Many designers, including ldan Cohen and Vera Wang, presented these shorter gowns alongside floor-length numbers this season for brides that want the best of both worlds.
