I can hardly believe a month has already passed since my inaugural post for Love My Dress. In recent weeks the couture shows have drawn to a close and the fashion set have clocked up their air miles travelling to New York, London, Milan and Paris for the ready-to-wear shows.
These shows are the heartbeat of the industry; a showcase of what’s great about fashion, from the tongue-in-cheek creations of young independents in London to the avant-garde shows of Paris and the super-luxe gloss of Milan and New York. As always, fashion professionals and enthusiasts alike await the shows with a baited breath, in search of the next big thing.
The wedding industry is no different – not only have we received an valuable update on fabrics and silhouettes for this year and next but also the crucial colour trends that might just bring your bridal party or reception venue to life.
Bride
1930s Shapes
The 1930’s has long been a reference point for bridal designers. This season, we saw the look updated with devoré texture at John Galliano (this rich fabric choice would be perfect for an unfussy winter wedding) or in lighter fabrics such as silk satin and chiffon, which glistened down the runway at Jenny Packham and Lanvin. A carefully placed art deco or nouveau brooch at the waist or shoulder can complete the look.
Credits from top left clockwise, Lanvin, John Galliano + Jenny Packham
Camisole Top
Dresses with ultra-feminine camisole tops were a huge trend on the catwalk this season. Our favourites include the relaxed bohemian styles at Emporio Armani and Jenny Packham and with traditional bustier structure at Ermanno Scervino and Ralph Lauren.
Credits from top left clockwise, Emporio Armani, Ermanno Scervino, Ralph Lauren + Jenny Packham
Large Drop Earrings
Make a statement at 2014 or 2015 weddings with glamorous drop earrings. The look will suit most themes from vintage through to contemporary and glam. Popular styles include oversized and jewel encrusted, as seen at Marchesa and Carolina Herrera, or simple and delicate as seen at Ralph Lauren.
Credits from top left clockwise, Caroline Herrera, Marchesa, Ralph Lauren + Marchesa
Fur Wraps
For winter weddings, a chic fur wrap will provide the perfect accompaniment for getting to the church or venue and keeping warm for outdoor photos. We loved the forties style wrap at Lanvin and the smaller styles at Roberto Cavalli and Sophie Theallet, seen nonchalantly slung around shoulders.
Credits from top left clockwise, Roberto Cavalli, Sophie Theallet + Lanvin
Bridesmaids
Sheer Panel
Whilst fashion weeks show some fabulous indications for dress shapes, confirmation of the hottest updates often comes in the details. Gowns with chic sheer panelled tops were seen from city to city, often combined with bandeau tops, (with beautiful embroidery overlaid at Oscar de la Renta) or seen as a delicate layer, spotted at Jenny Packham.
Credits from top left clockwise, Alexis Mabille, Jenny Packham, Oscar de la Renta + Naeem Khan
Teal
International colour authority Pantone may have named teal 2013’s colour of the year, but 2014 sees the opulent hue move in to occasion wear. A little sheen was a crucial accompaniment, with satin at Emilio de la Morena and Blumarine taking centre stage.
Credits from top left clockwise, Emilio de la Morena, Erdem + Blumarine
Lilac
Tones of purple are most certainly key this year and lilac is the front runner for 2014. The beautifully feminine hue is perfect for all styles of wedding. Our favourite lilac looks were knee-length with full yet fine skirts at Ralph Lauren and Rodarte.
Credits from top left clockwise, Naeem Khan, Ralph Lauren, Nina Ricci, Rodarte + Whistles
Burnt Citrus
Citrus is key for spring/summer 2014 but for autumn/winter, tones turn slightly darker. These spicy hues work best on silk, satin and lace with our front runners for inspiration being Marchesa and Emilia Wickstead. We also spotted neckline embellishments making a comeback – golds and coppers complement perfectly for autumn.
Credits from top left clockwise, Marchesa, Zac Posen, Emilia Wickstead + Alberta Ferretti
Mother of the Bride
Asymmetric Top
The asymmetric top has long been a super-sophisticated eveningwear option. On the Mother of the Bride, teamed with a tailored skirt or even sharply cut trouser, refined glamour becomes effortless. We loved the soft drapery seen at Ralph Lauren and in contrast the subtle structure of Marchesa.
Credits from top left clockwise, Monique Lhuillier, Marchesa + Ralph Lauren
1980s Jacket
Short, fitted jackets are making a comeback this season; slim dress jackets can form part of a suit or could be worn over dresses. We loved the curved wrap over jackets seen at Giorgio Armani and the soft peplum cut seen at Badgley Mischka, mirroring our earlier couture trends.
Credits from top left clockwise, Giorgio Armani, Badgley Mischka, Giorgio Armani + Oscar de la Renta
Sarah-Leigh
As well as being our new regular fashion contributor, Sarah-Leigh Bunting is the International Contributing Editor for Olivia Palermo. She also co-runs events and communication agency What Peggy Did Next and is the lady behind Bridal Boot Sales. You can enjoy Sarah-Leigh’s own wedding here.
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Fab round-up. I’d love to see that grey Ralph Lauren on a bride.