2018/19 Bridal Fashion Trends and Influences

The global catwalks are awash with inspiration right about now, from the ready-to-wear shows back in the spring, to the recent autumn/winter 18/19 menswear shows, bridal fashion week and now haute couture collections from fashion houses across the world.

Our resident writer on all things style, Sarah-Leigh Bunting has analysed the shows to bring you key trends for the bride and her bridal party, plus a little tailoring look to inspire grooms and their groomsmen.

Vera Wang Bridal, 2019

Mid-length dresses

Great for weddings in warmer months (I think many-a-bride would have been grateful for this additional ‘ventilation’ for June and July weddings in the UK this year!), gowns that finish anywhere from just below the knee to ankle-grazing length are set to be a big trend for the remainder of 2018 and in to 2019.

A scalloped hem looks set to inspire future styles, as seen at Alexis Mabille and Fendi, as does a subtle pleat seen around skirts at Vetements and again, Fendi.

Mustard yellow for bridesmaids and guests alike

Of course we have one Mrs Clooney partly to thank for the sea of yellow seen at weddings this summer, but next up the sunny hue takes a more grown-up autumnal turn, of the mustard variety. You can see how the block colour styles seen at Bottega Veneta and Alexis Mabille will influence bridesmaids frocks, but we also love the deep mustard flecks seen in chiffon at Vera Wang or used on florals at Valentino – a trend that could inspire brides, the mother of the bride and guests alike.

Trousers and jumpsuits

Trouser suits, jumpsuits and tailored cigarette pants worn with a killer top continues to emerge as a key bridal look. We love this bandeau style from Viktor and Rolf, plus the cute crop top with matching cape-like jacket at Ralph and Russo.

We’re yet to see too many UK brides adopt the look, but did you see this real wedding with Daisy’s wide-leg jumpsuit, or Anais’ v-neck jumpsuit changed in to for her evening reception – both by Charlie Brear?

Heavy embellishment

Dazzling embellishments and pretty floral applique are no strangers to bridalwear, however this season we see metallic symmetrical patterns add a little drama, like these from Zuhair Murad, or the all-over coating at Chanel. Elsewhere Alexis Mabille, Fendi and Elie Saab showcased heavy, tone-on-tone cascading jewels on gowns.

Accessorising with capes

Capes have been a go-to accessory for winter weddings over the past few seasons, however for 2018/19 styles vary, providing a super-chic look that can be incorporated at any time of year. We love the light-weight lace seen at Anne Barge and equally Armani Prive’s art deco inspired, beaded option in a soft champagne tone.

To add a like more impact to your look come the big day, try a full-length style, complete with train, like this from Cupid Blue Bridal, worn by real bride Sophie over her Rue de Seine dress (photo by Angela Ward-Brown).

Champagne tones

White and ivory gowns being the go-to options for brides is firmly a thing of the past and champagne tones ranging from a hint of dusty rosé (seen at Valentino and Elie Saab) to deeper gold (see the Naeem Khan design below) is the first of our two colour trends to watch for 2018-19.

Shimmering silver

From icy metallics to pewter, silver is another hue set to make waves next season. As this look can make quite an impact, we’re inspired by the simplicity of these options by Cushnie et Ochs and Emilia Wickstead – perfect for a city wedding.

Pastel hues for the groom

Perhaps one for the more sartorially inclined groom, but you can see how this might translate in to mainstream fashion. Think powdery seersucker blue suits, a very pale primrose yellow or even a subtle salmon pink. Team with a crisp white shirt, matching or tonal tie and pocket square, finishing off with mid-tone brown shoes or pale loafers and a dapper tie pin.