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Shopping for your wedding gown is definitely one of the most exciting (if not the most exciting) parts of the wedding planning process. Every year sees a slew of new trends and styles, and 2018 is no exception. We asked wedding pros to share what they think will be the hottest bridal looks for the coming year and we weren't dissapointed!
These are the top 18 wedding dress trends that are going to make a big splash in 2018.
[Photos: Shutterstock]
Touches Of Black
Wedding gowns with black detailing are going to be the trend for 2018. Dawn Stafford of Gathering Souls, says, "If you’re daring enough, a black wedding gown will seal the deal in our sophistication."
Pearl Embellishments
Think pearl embellishments are a dated choice? This upcoming bridal season seems determined to bring them back, according to Jessica Chen of WeddingDresses.com. "Not only are pearl accessories back in a big way, with strings of pearls draped around necks, but pearl beading has also been used to add texture to otherwise bland dresses, creating a more nuanced look for the all-white wedding frock."
Deep V-Necks
Designer Mimi Tran says that traditional wedding gown designs are getting a bold and daring twist in 2018, all thanks to the deep v-neck trend.
Bow Accents
Although bows on dresses have been around for the past few years, it’s not hard to see why this elegant trend is so popular. "Not only will statement bows that adorn the shoulders, waists, or sleeves draw attention to the parts of the body you would like to show off most, they will also help bring out your ladylike side on your special day," says Chen.
Layers
It’s all about the layers for 2018, says Lindsey Bennett, Lead Designer at Azazie.com. "Skirts that feature tiered organza and tulle skirts with horsehair trim are the design of choice for the year. Adding horsehair gives the skirt shape and fun subtle detail."
Jumpsuits
Many brides will be breaking away from traditional wedding gowns by wearing ivory and white jumpsuits and pantsuits in all fabrics and styles, says designer Dalia MacPhee.
Form-Fitting Dresses
A major trend for 2018 are form-fitting--yet comfortable--pure white wedding dresses made with beautiful fabrics such as silk or satin. When embellished with lace, these dresses can be a fun way to be sexy and classy on your wedding day, according to Alice Bil of studioEPIC photography.
Capes
"Brides are tossing the veil to the side and empowering their walk down the aisle with gorgeous capes that seem to perfectly frame their look. Whether superhero or royalty, she's bound to look like a fierce crusader," says Sarah Duckworth, Chancey Charm Charlotte Wedding Planner.
Feathers
A profusion of feathers adorns much of the 2018 wedding dress collections, resulting in a romantic look in which fantasy meets reality, says Stafford.
Sleeves
Sleeves are making a dramatic return--especially with the royal wedding coming up, says Bennett. "We’ve seen everything from classic cap sleeves, to the more trendy bell and poet sleeves that create romantic movement. Many brides opt for illusion sleeves to add a lighter finish to their wedding looks."
Lace
Lace is romantic and sexy, yet concealing enough to wear at church. This popular fabric usually has some stretch to it, so that the bride can move easily and be comfortable throughout the day--and into the night, says Bil.
Mid-Length Dresses
2018 brides are switching things up when it comes to the length of their dresses. Expect to see some mid-length dresses (above or at ankle) and above the knee looks, says MacPhee.
Mixed Materials
"I also have noticed a mixture of materials used on one dress. For example, silk and lace or a combination of sheer mesh fabric and satin," says Bil.
Pink Dresses
Wedding dresses don't have to be white. Soft millennial pink was featured on every bridal runway this year, and it will be back for 2018. You can also expect to see some brides walking down the aisle in icy blue, says Stafford.
Mix and Match Separates
Tops and bottoms that you can mix and match, and create different looks with, will be very popular for daring brides in 2018, says Jessica English of Apple Brides.
Floral Prints
Brides will be incorporating beautiful floral prints, both delicate and bold, into their wedding dress design, says designer Yumi Katsura. “When we wear plants and flowers on our clothes, they lay on our skin touch our bodies. This is my way to connect with the natural world and be reminded of is power and grace."
Tasteful Corsets
As an ode to vintage wedding dresses from ages long gone, more brides will be wearing tasteful corsets in 2018. In fact, lacy exposed bustiers are all the rage for the upcoming bridal season, says Chen. "Elegant, but with a hint of sex appeal, corsets create a distinctive silhouette that is perfect for creating a romantic look on your special day."
Dramatic Veils
"We've seen a huge return to brides wearing veils," says Brittany Finkle of Happily Ever Borrowed. "About five years ago, the trend had been to go without a veil as the tradition had seemed a bit antiquated. However, year to date, our top five most popular rental styles are veils--2 of which are heavily laced and embroidered cathedral length veils."
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