With wedding-appropriate looks hitting the runways of major ready-to-wear brands throughout fashion month, traditional bridal ateliers have leaned further into their craft, producing stunning couture-level pieces that showcase their expertise with a trend-forward edge.
What traditionally has been a week dedicated to market appointments for buyers and bridal press has turned into a larger celebration of the industry, complete with appearances from celebrities and the influencer set.
Corsets
The words cinched, and sculpted were constantly repeated throughout presentations, as it was rare to find a collection this season that didn’t incorporate at least one corseted piece. Other collections had more subtle takes on corsetry as many gowns include hidden boning, which offers brides the ability to adjust their figures without revealing the corset beneath.
Basque Waists
Last season’s drop waist trend has not gone anywhere. However, the shape of this popular silhouette has shifted slightly to embrace an even more flattering basque waist. Defined with either a U- or V-shaped dip at the waistline, this style helps create that sculpted look thanks to the curve of the fabric. Designers like Rime Arodaky incorporated the silhouette in fabrics like duchess satin for a softer, yet still sculpted look.
Embellishments
Many of this season’s gowns incorporate plenty of crystals, pearls, and elements to bring sparkle to wedding day ensembles. Canary Island-based designer Marco & Maria made a splash with their intricately detailed embroidered jewel accents, while Hermione De Paula’s collection featured stunning beaded and crystal-covered looks that could take you both down the aisle and to the after-party.
Unique Textures
The not-so-traditional bride will be excited to find dresses this season with bold textures that break out from the norm. Lein created pieces in suede and lace, as well as a standout dress in feathers with a distinct texture that called to designer Meredith Stoecklein’s Sun Valley roots. For a more traditional, yet still showstopping take on texture, check out the new House of Gilles collection by Gilles and Chloé Mendel.
Tulle Skirts
While tulle has been a frequent addition to the construction of bridal pieces in decades past, the classic tulle skirt hasn’t made a major return to the wedding world until this season. Vivienne Westwood just launched its new bridal made-to-order collection featuring a voluminous tulle petticoat to pair with a chic, drop-waist ivory corset. For brides who only want the drama of tulle for part of the night, Mark Ingram Collection released a strapless gown with a full tulle skirt that can be removed to reveal a Mikado sheath underneath.
Party Looks
As the outfit change has become an essential part of the wedding experience, bridal brands have followed suit and dreamed up expertly crafted pieces that are perfect for the after-party. A shorter hemline doesn’t have to mean skimping on couture quality, as designers like Elie Saab have crafted beautiful minis with incredible fabrics and hand-appliquéd details evocative of their full-size gowns. Late-night looks can also be quite sexy.