How to Wear the Hottest Wedding Dress Trends
We picked four fresh trends with lasting power and show you how to rock the look on your wedding day.
Four trends have dominated the runways the past two seasons, so it’s safe to say that they have staying power. Peplums, color, portrait backs and high slits are bringing a dose of fresh couture air to the aisles, giving brides more options than ever to infuse her personality into her gown. Because each style is unique in its own way, we’ve curated a grouping of accessories to go along with our favorite dress picks, plus tips on how to wear them, to help you create the look of your dreams.
PEPLUM
The term “peplum” originates from the Greek word for tunic and it’s a short overskirt attached to the dress. It first appeared in women’s fashion during the 1940s, and then again in the ‘80s, but its modern day debut has peplum making its first major appearance in wedding dresses. The flaring fabric is often cut at sharp angles, creating a high fashion silhouette and upping the couture ante on the bride while channeling its vintage roots.
Contrary to popular belief, these accented gowns work well with any body type, and, depending on the style of the peplum, can accentuate the curves or be very forgiving to a figure. “I think many body types can wear it,” agrees Terry Hall, fashion director at the famous Kleinfeld bridal salon in New York City. “I also think it tends to lean toward more sophisticated. Great for a bride who’s more mature.”
Because of this sophisticated style, vintage-inspired jewelry pairs well. A crystal-covered comb and a dazzling silver-hued necklace paired with a Victorian-esque handbag complete the Old World look.
Get the Look:
Angel Sanchez 2013 Collection
Marchesa Fall 2012 Collection
Elizabeth Fillmore ‘Nuria’
Bridal Hair Comb from Tailored, $49
Victorian Beaded Frame Top Handle bag from David’s Bridal, $39.50
HIGH SLITS
From subtle to sexy, high slits are an attention-grabbing way to make your aisle entrance. The trend has long been a favorite for the red carpet, and modern day brides are channeling Hollywood’s darlings and infusing it into their wedding day look. “I’m seeing this international wish to look and feel red carpet ready,” explains Hall. “Brides are translating the red carpet glamour and making it bridal.”
If your dress features a side slit, balance the glamour out with a group of bangles or statement cuff (tip: wear on the opposite side of the slit), and carry a sleek clutch. But for these leg-baring dresses, there’s one accessory that takes priority. “It’s about showing the shoe, showing the leg and really stating the personality” says Hall.
Get the Look:
Badgley Mischka Lacie D’Orsay Pumps from Bloomingdale’s, $215
Ines di Santo ‘Cameo’ Spring 2012
Monique Lhuillier ‘Bouquet’ Fall 2012
Angel Sanchez ‘Look 15’ Spring 2012
Nadri Filigree Cuff Bracelet from Nordstrom, $207.90
Kendra Scott Lucca Bangle Bracelet from endless.com, $90
HB Leto Clutch from Nina, $45
Giuseppe Zanotti Satin Sandals from netaporter.com, $750
COLOR
Each and every Bridal Week uncovers a new color of the rainbow that the designers are exploring, and with each season, the hues get bolder, from sweet pastels such as mint and blush to more intense shades such as crimson and charcoal. While blush, Champagne and nude still reign supreme in the non-white category, Hall recalls many brides becoming more attracted to nontraditional shades. “I’m seeing colors such as elderberry and aubergine,” he says. “I think that it’s so fantastic that brides want to be different. With destination weddings growing tremendously in popularity, brides want to be more expressive with color and fabrics.”
If you’re taking the color plunge, the key is to dress in a tone that enhances your skin tone and hair color. A quick peek in your closet will show you what shades you’re drawn to. With such a statement-making gown, you’ll want to go easy on the makeup and accessories. Opt for simple pendant necklace and drop earrings to add just a bit of sparkle and a neutral-colored clutch.
Get the Look:
Romona Keveza ‘Style RK263’ Fall 2012
Reem Acra Look 15 Spring 2012
Isaac Mizrahi for Kleinfeld Fall 2012, $2,200
Oscar de la Renta Look 35 Spring 2013
Vera Wang ‘Janice’ Fall 2012
Marc by Marc Jacobs ‘Katie’ Clutch from Bloomingdale’s, $358
Pearl Drop Earrings from bluenile.com, $125
Elsie Perreti ‘Diamonds by the Yard’ Pendant from Tiffany & Co., $315
BACKS
Backs are seemingly the new busts when it comes to fashion, and that idea has transcended into bridal. From subtle illusions to keyholes, peekaboo lace to plunging sexy backs, brides are turning heads in an untraditional way. “Give the guests something to look at—updos are great with detailed backs!” exclaims Hall.
Updos also allow you to show off Swarovski-covered sparklers, so don’t be shy when it comes to your earrings and ensure your back stays in the spotlight by opting for a birdcage or an enchanting hairpiece instead of a full veil.
Get the Look:
Pnina Tornai 2012 Collection
Claire Pettibone ‘Toile Francais’ Spring 2012
Hayley Paige ‘Gracie’ for JLM Couture Spring 2012
Mark Zunino for Kleinfeld Spring 2013
Taylor Bandeau Birdcage Veil from Lo Boheme, $68
Givenchy Earrings from Macy’s, $55
Silk Organza Blossom Pair from Twigs & Honey, $70
