New Wedding Trends from Bridal Market

10/17/2012

I just returned from Bridal Market in New York, and it was a whirlwind of blue, beads, bows and ball gowns! Lucky for you, I snapped a ton of pictures -- these are gowns and accessories you're going to fall for. Hard. See all of them right here.

Now, let's talk trends!

First, the overarching aesthetic. No matter where you turned, you saw incredible color, beadwork, bow details and full-skirted dresses. 

The ball gown is back in a big way. These are true princess gowns. I'm talking tulle and netting, with circle-cut skirts. These dresses don't have much in the way of a train -- but they're the real thing in terms of fairy princess gowns. And, they have a sophisticated edge.

We also saw models wearing blue from head to toe. Blue was in their hair; on their ears, necks and arms; and accenting their dresses and shoes. For brides who want a subtle pop of something blue, I say take a cue from Kate Middleton. Her only blue was that magnificent engagement ring! For those who want to wear a little more blue, you've got to go with that silvery, moonlight blue. The shade is all about romance. And nothing sets off a blue bridal gown more than a strand of white pearls. (The picture here is Eve of Milady, and you can read more about it below.)

At bridal market, there was plenty of evidence that the bow is having a fashion renaissance of sorts. I saw bows from bust to butt! Imagine the feminine, little tuxedo bow that Jackie Kennedy made popular, as well as very soft, unstructured bows tied at the neck or fastened at the side waist.

Beads were another huge trend, but brides should be mindful that beadwork is an expensive embellishment. When you see bling, think ca-ching! Beads themselves are costly, and the application is costly, too. If you're looking for classic beaded bodices, those are out there (Rivini had some lovely examples this season), but the trend is moving away from trains and bodices toward beaded accents applied strategically in geometric patterns or at the waist and shoulder. We'll still see plenty of beaded sashes and belts, but you'll start to find those types of details applied directly to the gowns.

That said, let's chat about a few designers you'll see highlighted in my photos. 

Judd Waddell really stepped out of his box with this collection. What a way to open our eyes on a sleepy Sunday morning! He offered plenty of diversity, though many of his gowns had a certain '30s flair. His gowns featured bows and beautiful high-low hemlines with gorgeous movement. A high-low hemline is going to highlight your shoes, so if you choose this trend, I recommend a T-strap for authenticity. Also -- a stiletto will never let a girl down!

Eve of Milady seems to be making an interesting transition. This designer has always been known for opulence. I called these the opera gowns because they have everything on them but the kitchen sink. Rosettes, pleating, tucking, beading, you name it. But the new collection was much softer and quieter. We saw beautiful lace, and fit and flare gowns. And the finale dress pictured here was a show-stopper. This dress will be at Bridals by Lori! It's for a bride who wants shock factor and people whispering as she walks down the aisle.

Amsale is returning to her roots with understated, architectural gowns. This collection is for the bride who likes structure and wants to show off her figure. Think: minimalistic. If you're the kind of bride who plans to carry a simple bunch of calla lilies, this is the designer for you!

Christos delighted with beautiful, romantic gowns. This is exactly what the brand is known for, and they did not disappoint. Details like lace and buttons make gowns that radiate timeless elegance.

Rivini went vintage. We saw beading in striped patterns that wrapped the body, and bias-cut slip dresses like the one Carolyn Bessette wore when she married John F. Kennedy Jr.

Photo courtesy Monte Durham

Comments

[Fanny A Litovich]

My dear Monte, I've been watching the show since it started and I was still living back in Puerto Rico, where I was raised. I just adore your elegance, your comments and the beautiful styles you have. I divorced after 38 years and I think at 61, just perhaps I will have a second chance to be happy wityh my true love but it's too early to say.

My purpose writing is to tell you my unending admiration for your work and specially for Lori. You have no idea how much I* admired her and I would love you to tell her. I am nobody famous or a celebrity. I am unemployed and on Food stamps here in Tampa where I moved following 2 of my 3 children, in order to see if i could have a better life and fend for myself. After being a wealthy woman this is what life had for me and at my age. But my heart and prayers are with Lori 200%. She is what I used to be, a hard worker, exquisite and very human person and I'll stand by her in the distance throughout her battle with breast CA. My beloved is right now battling renal cancer in Houston and Ione of my best friends for years is a breast CA survivor; so tell Lori she is already added to the list of people I love in my synagoge ( I happen to be Jewish) and we eill pray every day and myself privately for her quick recovery, survival because I need to see the two of you togeteher again fighting with the "Southern Belles". It's one of the few pleasures I still have and help me cling to my dream to sometime soon marrying the love of my life, since we were 14 years old. After 43 years, bad marriages and lots of tears, we found each other ijn 2010 on FB. It's a long story and whenever you want to hear it, just let me know. I even have pictures.

Tell Lori to hang in there, she is so strong, she will make it. And to you my friend, Shabbat Shalom and I do hope one deay hear from you personally. My love and admiration for the two of you. Los quiero!

[beth]

thanks for sharing. love, love, love the blue wedding dresses! wish i had your expertise on hand to help me plan and style my wedding- always love reading and hearing your advice!