Bridal Fashion Week SS16 ended this Monday, which means over the weekend we were busy staring at gowns, planning our future wedding (or a friend’s) and trying to decide if we’re cool enough to pull off an-all while pantsuit (probably not). Whether you’re married, engaged, attending a wedding, helping to plan one or have no romantic prospects whatsoever, it’s hard not to get caught up in the beauty and magic of bridal gowns. And this season’s trends and styles were amazing. We know it doesn’t change too much year to year (there will always be white, puffy gowns, floral and lace) but it’s the little accents and additions that really make a dream wedding dress. And this year there was some stunning stand-out trends that make us want to say “I do.”
Traditional Gowns
Some say it’s the Kate Middleton Effect, but ever since she wore that traditional wedding dress designed by Sarah Burton, there has been a serious uptick in classic gowns. Long sleeves, lace overlay and that perfect pouf that only a princess could pull off, have been all over the runways for the past few days. Of course most traditional gowns aren’t quite as serious as the Duchess’ and have fun embellishments, sheer panels or more risqué necklines to keep them modern. We doubt the Queen would let Kate wear anything that scandalous. Honor’s Mabel gown and Reem Acra’s cream metallic long-sleeve dress are two of our favorites.
Nontraditional Pieces
For every 10 traditional looks there was one that was completely out of left field. A funky, awesome pantsuit, unexpected colors, a short mini-dress, or something that could only loosely be called “bridal” due to its virginal hue. This is 2015, and many modern brides are stepping away from the classics in favor of dresses or outfits that represent who they are and the things that they love. Ombre gowns, pantsuits, even miniskirts and crop tops have been popular all over the web and now they’re hitting the runways. The Jenny Packman tea-length dress and Carolina Herrera’s cropped pantsuit are total standouts.
Feathers
Oh my goodness, do we love these feather embellishments. This is probably one of our favorite trends this spring, as designers are using the wispy accents on everything from traditional ball gowns to modern crop top sets like this Vera Wang design. Either intended to be the focus of the gown or just a subtle accent intended to add dimension to a piece, these are the perfect amount of feminine and flirty. Plus we love that they can work for any bride—they can be dressed down for a little fun or up for added luxury. Personally we love this black two-piece and Lela Rose’s over-the-shoulder corset gown.
3D Floral Embellishments
While it’s hard to distinctly call out a floral trend in bridal, this season saw a huge influx of 3D appliques, most that collected heavily at the bust line and fluttered out as they fell over the gown. Whether abstract interpretations of flowers, floating petals or more traditional springtime silhouettes, inspiration of the season could be found throughout almost every collection. We were particularly fond of Jenny Packman’s floral applique A-line gown and Vera Wang’s short-sleeved sheer gown.
Prints and Color
With the popularity of non-traditional pieces, comes the popularity of non-traditional colors. Prints, bright shades and funky hues are becoming increasingly common year after year. Last year saw a plethora of pastels, but this season floral and watercolor prints are popping up all over the runways. Some of our favorites include Carolina Herrera’s jasmine dress and Theia’s watercolor collection.
Architectural Silhouettes
While all ball gowns are expected to have serious volume, what came down the runway this season was not just additional fabric, but calculated structure. Added layers created dimensional looks and princess overlays were popular in just about every collection. What made these looks so versatile was that excess fabric done under the gown allowed for a more traditional, but modern look, while layers added over the gown kept everything streamlined, modern and just sexy enough. We love Reem Acra’s Strapless layer cascade organza dress and Angel Sanchez’ puffed sleeve gown.
Sexy
Speaking of being sexy, plunging necklines and backless dresses were everywhere this season. Designers are drawing inspiration from the lingerie drawer so some gowns look like demure, slightly more appropriate versions of their favorite boudoir ensembles. Bustiers, bra tops and sheer dresses that barely keep anything covered are definitely meant for the more fearless bride. We loved Vera Wang’s deep-v dress and Pamella Roland’s Liquid Sequin and Crystal gown.