2011 is beginning to seem like the year for fashionista brides – from the Royal wedding of Kate Middleton, to the weddings of: model Kate Moss, American actress Reese Witherspoon, British songstress Lily Allen and on August 20th, American reality-TV star Kim Kardashian, in her stunning Vera Wang creation.
Here’s what’s trending in bridal collections this year:
Texture – gowns will be adorned with fabric flowers and petals, dramatic ruffles, accordion pleating and tiers. The Royal Wedding has also seemed to cause a resurgence of lace and wedding gowns featuring sleeves but in a more modern way; for example, with the use of non-traditional lace patterns, lace as an overlay over coloured fabric or with the strategic placement of lace appliqués to create “illusion” necklines or sleeves. Apart from lace, we are seeing more use of sequins, pleated tulle and metallic embroidery. The layering of fabrics is also popular this year, with many dresses featuring shimmer fabric or satin, under tulle or lace.
Colour – Reese Witherspoon got married this year in a blush-pink Monique L’huillier gown and Kate Moss’ vintage-styled John Galliano gown had accents of gold on the skirt. This year, rosy-hued dresses will be popular as well as pale gold, nude, café or latte-coloured gowns. Dresses will also continue to feature black accents, particularly in the form of sashes, rosettes, cummerbunds and touches of black lace.
Style - Strapless gowns are still “in” but have become more swoon-worthy with sheer or illusion necklines or back views, some which are particularly vintage in style; quite reminiscent of the 1920’s.
The ball gown is also back, featuring voluminous tulle skirts or skirts that seem floaty. layered and ethereal. Corseted bodices are also all the rage for brides who want a more figure-hugging look. Minis and tea-length gowns have also been seen this year. They are perfect for outdoor weddings or for brides who prefer a second dress for partying in, at the reception! Asymmetric, halter and cold-shoulder necklines, which were widely seen in 2010’s bridal collections, continue to be trendy this year; along with popular silhouettes such as the trumpet skirt and the mermaid gowns. Many designers are also featuring tiered and ruffled skirts, this year.
Accents – bodices or sashes encrusted with pearls, sequins, semi-precious stones and crystals that lend an extravagant, estate jewellery feel, are quite “on trend” at the moment. As in 2010, floral underlays and nature-inspired motifs have continued in popularity this year.
