Wedding dresses are constantly evolving. Although there is a classic bridal dress look, details, shapes and embellishments are always moving on.
So what can we look forward to in 2014? What styles will next year’s brides be rocking down the aisles? “Lace is still a big trend, whether it’s a delicate chantilly or a vintage-inspired guipure,” says award-winning dress designer Madeline Gardner from Mori Lee. “We’ve created some key features to go with our gowns including removable coverlets that show keyhole detailing, dainty button-down backs and beautiful beaded cap sleeves. There are some stunning silhouettes on offer for the coming season, that range from statement princess style skirts all the way through to elegant fishtails.”
Shorter skirt lengths is also a key trend when it comes to wedding dresses next year. “2014 will see a massive nod to the knee length, full skirted gown,” says Kirsty from Kitty & Dulcie. “Fashion forward brides will be eager to show off their fabulous foot candy in a gown which also has the movability required to dance the night away.”
When it comes to detailing on wedding dresses next year, less is more for 2014. “Tiny silk covered buttons and the most delicate touches of lace and sequin beading will be the must-have adornment,” adds Kirsty.
Skin-showing strapless gowns that have been popular over the last few years will make way for cutesy collars and an array of arm-flattering sleeves in 2014 – great news if you want a more covered-up, traditional look.
Amazing from every angle
Leading British bridal gown designer Charlotte Balbier also agrees with the move away from strapless. “There will be more dresses with straps and sleeves,” she says. “We’re moving away from the strapless bridal gown look. Expect to see a lot more back detail as well – brides walking down the aisle and standing in front of guests need to show off the back of their gowns as well as the front. We’ve created a 360 dress for this very reason that looks amazing from every angle!
The elegant 20s-inspired dresses that we’ve seen of late will still have a strong presence going into 2014. “Great Gatsby gowns inspired by the fashions of the 1920s and 1930s are going to be big news, as are full silk tulle ball gown styles,” adds Charlotte.
“There’ll also be Peter Pan collars, button backs and fabric choices will be lace, chiffon, tulle and silks. Look out for embellishment and extra details like lace applique, pear and crystals.”
Colour will also be a big story for bridal gowns next year. “As for colours, brides are choosing ivory hues and vintage golds,” explains the designer.
Dare to be different
“Backless gowns will be a great option for the more daring bride,” says award-winning designer Amanda Wyatt. “Girls are choosing timeless, elegant designs as well as going for a more vintage-inspired look and are selecting fabrics like chiffon, tulle, organza and Mikado.”
“Embellishments will come in the form of brooches, beadwork and lace appliqué. As for colours, ivory remains a strong choice but golds, apricot and peach shades are also getting a look in,” she adds.
The UK Academy of Wedding & Event Planners also think colour is going to come to the forefront of bridal next year. “The Hollywood icon is a style that is infiltrating weddings in a big way. We’re talking Greta Garbo and Rita Hayworth style with gowns that simply fall over their curvy and womanly bodies. Sexy, louche gowns in silk crepes, heavy bias charmeuses, stretchy matte jerseys and goddess-like chiffons will be everywhere.”
“Brides are starting to steer away from traditional white and look at other dress colours such as blush and pastel,” they say. “Beads are everywhere and that includes dresses. We will see detailed elegant beading, lace and embroidery as a key feature.”
“Dramatic, plunging backs were shining through in 2013 and that will continue in 2014. Think naked, open, draped and cutout backs. In contrast to the plunging backs we also will continue to see gowns with long, to-the-wrist length sleeves. The fabric used is sheer so although covered the material isn’t heavy or overpowering.”
The Kate effect
“Due to Kate Middleton’s stunning bridal gown, lace will remain hugely popular and interestingly veils, long and short, will play a key role during 2014,” say British designers Qiana Bridal.
“Wedding gowns can either be beautifully soft and feminine with full skirts or have a slimmer streamlined silhouette. Short, flirty, wedding dresses are going to become increasingly popular. Strapless will still be around but sleeves will be a key feature together with lots of back detail on the bodices.”
So lots to be thinking about there. To sum up, we’d say that brides in 2014 are going for a more covered up look, with more dress detail and more design at the back of the gown. What do you think? How do you think brides will be looking in 2014? Why not take a look at our Forum and maybe start your own discussion on future wedding dress styles?
