Just in case fashion week wasn’t enough to satisfy your craving for impossibly gorgeous threads (that’ll put a serious hole in your wallet, no less), Bridal Fashion Week swooped in to save the day, leaving behind an endless supply of swoon-worthy wedding dresses in its wake. Airy organza, romantic lace and dazzling details — the wedspiration was beyond real. And for every tried-and-true style, there was a fashion-forward design daring to redefine traditional here-comes-the-bride attire. We’re talking show-stopping frills, flowy festival-babe-approved frocks and DDG capes that put classic coverups to shame. Whether you’re planning an elegant seaside soiree or a bohemian backyard bash, if standing out is essential on your wedding day, these are the nine wedding dress trends you’ll want to take note of STAT.
1. Sheer Style: It’s all an illusion. Across the board, designers like Angel Sanchez, J. Mendel, Monique Lhuillier (shown above) and Mira Zwillinger played with artful cutouts, unreal embroidery and feminine floral appliqués to disguise daring glimpses of skin and transform classic silhouettes into bonafide show-stoppers. (Photos via Randy Brooke/Thomas Concordia/Slaven Vlasic/Getty)
2. Next-Level Necks: Plunging necklines might have been out in full force, but it was the slew of over-the-top collars, like this show-stopping pair at Delphine Manivet and Oscar de la Renta, that really caught our attention. Florals, frills and structural organza made major statements without revealing serious skin — a must if you’re saying “I do” in a more conservative setting. (Photos via Randy Brooke/Slaven Vlasic/Getty)
3. Eye-Catching Florals: Jenny Packham, Marchesa and Naeem Khan took the idea of dainty floral detailing and amped it up about 10 notches with 3D appliqués and textured embroidery that doesn’t skimp on the glitz. The result: romantic, ultra-pretty gowns you’ll definitely want in your wedding weekend lineup. (Photos via Randy Brooke/Thomas Concordia/JP Yim/Getty)
4. Halters: The resurgence of ’90s style essentials has finally infiltrated the bridal world, with halter necklines staking their claim on dreamy dropped-waist and streamlined satin designs alike at Angel Sanchez and Monique Lhuillier. The ultimate compromise between strapless and classic styles, a halter is guaranteed to earn you a few extra style points with your crew. Bonus: You won’t need to worry about any wardrobe malfunctions as you bust a move out on the dance floor! (Photo via Randy Brooke/Slaven Vlasic/Getty)
5. Pastel Perfect: Pastel blues, playful pinks and vivid lilac hues reigned supreme this season, speaking straight to the style sensibilities of modern, non-traditional brides. From the Pantone-approved gems at Jenny Packham to the OMG-worthy ombre creation at Christian Siriano, these stunners prove that white isn’t the only way to totally nail your wedding style. (Photos via Randy Brooke/JP Yim/Getty)
6. Capes: Capes have been popping up here and there over the last couple seasons, but designers like Reem Acra, Lela Rose and Naeem Khan (not shown) aren’t ready to let the glamorous topper go just yet. Whether you layer it over a daring dress for the ceremony or add one to give your gown a party-ready edge for the reception, an elegant cape is the perfect piece to up the drama on your “I do” attire. (Photos via Thomas Concordia/Albert Urso/Getty)
7. Festival Frocks: The festival vibes don’t have to stop just because you left the main stage. Houghton, Jenny Packham and Delphine Manivet want you to strut your stuff down the aisle in true boho babe style with silhouettes reminiscent of your favorite maxi dress, eyelet embroidery and dainty lace details that give way to sultry sheer panels. For these, DDG duds, Juliet caps, halo veils and intricate flower crowns are a must. (Photos via Randy Brooke/Getty)
8. Tiered Skirts: Because one is never enough — and Temperly London, Ines di Santo and Naeem Khan totally get that. Layers upon layers of airy organza and lightweight tulle add volume and dimension to intricate bodices to create a flirty, fashion-forward look. The best part? It looks even better in motion, meaning you’ll be making jaws drop during the processional (i.e. your own personal red carpet moment) and the after-party. (Photos via Temperley London, Randy Brooke/Getty)
9. Off-the-Shoulder Silhouettes: Thanks to the likes of Marchesa, J. Mendel and Houghton (not shown) your favorite ready-to-wear trend — off-the-shoulder tops — just got a major bridal makeover. The shoulder-baring style shows off just enough skin to achieve a contemporary feel without totally compromising on tradition, so you don’t have to worry about scandalizing grandma when you walk down the aisle. (Photos via Thomas Concordia/Getty)
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