Gown Trends For 2018

By Ronda M. Parag

Gown trends for 2018? Choosing what to wear for the biggest day of her life has to be one of the hardest decisions for any bride-to-be. It sets the tone for the entire wedding for style and décor. Regardless of how many dresses a bride will try, they say once you find the perfect gown, you just know.

“This season we are seeing mermaid and trumpet style gowns making a comeback,” said Ashley DeMutiis, Regional Manager at The White Magnolia Bridal Collection. “For the last year or so, we have had a ton of requests for a-line and ballgowns in store, but the designers are really impressing brides-to-be with their exquisite laces, horsehair hems, and impeccable structure that makes a fitted gown hard to say no to.”

For those that are more comfortable in pants, the Power Pant Suits and Jumpsuits are all the rage for the modern bride. From the Monique Lhullier structured tuxedo to bow-topped and flared leg pants, designers are showcasing lots of options for those who want to be comfortable. With the ease and comfort of tuxedo dressing, brides no longer may feel that they need an additional dress.

Overall, many of the gowns are more informal and less fussy. With beach, backyard and garden weddings, brides want to be able to move more, without all the additional weight of a heavily beaded gown. Many brides for the rehearsal dinner and weddings are opting for a sassy party dress.

“Don’t be afraid of doing something different,” said Sarah Crotty, Lead Stylist at Malindy Elene. “Embrace the variety of colors that are in trend now. Go bold with some fun jewelry or long sleeves. Right now is the time to have fun and be a little extra on your big day.” Long sleeves are still extremely popular on the runway from simple minimalism to lacy or floral embroidery. Many photographers also appreciate the coverage that sleeves provide and less editing they will have to do at the end of the day. Off-shoulder sleeves are popular on the gowns.

As part of the Casablanca Bridal collection, intricate  beadwork reflects and catches the rays of sunlight in a bright and beautiful dance. The delicacy of the beadwork is          juxtaposed by bold laces. Designer Rita Vinieris launched her wedding collection, Rivini, that is inspired by love of beauty, life and desire to maintain a focus on luxury fabrics,        architectural draping and a meticulous fit.

In terms of accessories, there is no such thing as less is more. Actually, more is more. Lace veils are shown with feathered head pieces. Floral veils are paired with tasseled earrings. Veils with beaded headbands and fresh florals on top of beaded veils are shown with gowns of all styles.

For those that choose to have bare shoulders or go sleeveless, statement capes add drama without the poofy sleeves. Layer a cape over a tea-length dress or be dramatic with a hood.

Whether you are searching for a fairytale princess dress or a luxurious boho style, bridal designers have unique options to make your wedding day blissful and beautiful.   TBW

Gown Gallery
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