Bridal fashion is more exciting and avant garde than ever, as designers are pushing new limits of what is possible by using new materials and technologies. There is also more flexibility these days in terms of what constitutes wedding attire, leading designers to consider new silhouettes, daring colours, and unconventional fabrics in order to reinvent the bridal look for this season. Here are some of the most exciting things we are seeing on the runways for 2017.
Décolletage
Designers are encouraging 2017 brides to make bold, skin baring statement for an elegant yet incredibly sexy look. Plunging necklines and décolleté styles were seen in almost every collection on this year’s runway, with scalloped lace and floral appliqué adding to the ultra-feminine look. Deep V-neck styles were seen at almost every presentation, from Marchesa and Oscar de la Renta, to Lela Rose. A
Off The Shoulder
The off-the-shoulder trend so ubiquitously seen on the ready-to-wear runways has finally made its way into the bridal fashion arena. The feminine, shoulder baring gowns have been seen in both minimal and ornate styles. Fresh takes on this romantic look can be discovered in the designs of J. Mendel, Sachin & Babi, Reem Acra, and Christos.
Beautiful Bows
Big bows and little bows, in all sizes and shapes can be found in the designs of Oscar de la Renta and Carolina Herrera. Bows add drama to the back of the gown, which is the view guests spend most of the ceremony looking at. An elegantly designed and strategically placed bow can offer a romantic yet not too girly vibe to a classic silhouette.
3D Floral Elements & Geometrics
Still popular are soft clusters of 3D appliqué floral elements and oversized floral embroidery being explored by leading designers like Monique Lhuillier and Elie Saab. Delicate cascading blooms that appear to be just barely attached to tulle gowns are ethereal and feminine.
Illusion Overlays and Cut Outs
Sleek and figure flattering bodices with ultra-sheer overlays are at the height of fashion. Translucent fabrics with lavish floral or beaded appliqué are glamorous and sexy, while offering subtle coverage. Cut outs, bare backs and sheer everything leave to the imagination, but if the fit is perfect the look is stunning.
Bare Backs
Dresses with elegantly embellished bare looking backs are taking the runway by storm, while embellishing and enhancing the female silhouette. Your back will be a focal point as you walk down the aisle and during your first dance, showing it off and incorporating detail will intensify the visual impact of your gown.
Colour & Pattern
Colour prevails on this year’s runway, and brides are becoming more and more daring with their choices. The most popular colour for gowns is rose, although some brides are going as bold as black with white detailing. Watch out for designers like who are embracing the colour trend, including: Mira Zwillinger, Romona Keveza, Naeem Khan, Hayley Paige, Monique Lhuillier, and Jenny Packham. Geometric prints are one of the most dramatic new trends and are taking runways by storm, combined with layers of softly coloured fabrics in hues like blush, silver and lilac.
Convertible Dresses
Why have just one look, when you can have two? A convertible dress, or detachable skirt, makes it possible for you to have one look for your ceremony, and another look for your reception or pictures. Detachable skirts make for a seamless outfit change and do away with the hassle of bustling your gown. Jim Hjelm, Monique Lhuillier and Amsale are just a few of the designers who have recently showcased this trend in their collections.
Sources
Inbal Dror/Vera Wang/MIRA ZWILLINGER/Jenny Packham/Adam Selman
