Capes
From short, barely shoulder-covering shrugs at Jenny Packham to full-on cape trains at Randy Fenoli and Alexandra Grecco, capes were all over the SS18 bridal show runways. The fuller option is best suited to taller brides as too much material with lots of fussy adornment can swamp the shorter figure. But if you’re not blessed with height, you can adapt the look with gossamer-fine materials to keep the style simple but stunning.
Hints of Black
Reem Acra came up with some stunning fully black bridal gowns and then added touches of the midnight hue throughout the rest of her collection. Black hints were also much in evidence at Peter Langner, Justin Alexander and Vera Wang, to name but a few. This is a super-sophisticated look is best carried off with a sleek up-do, more than a hint of attitude and a liberal smattering of diamonds.
Shorties
Shorter styles are usually seen as less formal but, this season, designers have gone out of their way to bring the mini back into the fold. From cutaway, leg-baring options at Oscar de la Renta to a super-sweet ballerina style at Dany Mizrachi. Even the often traditional Marchesa got in on the act. We love this stunning 60s’-style frock from Viktor & Rolf. It goes without saying that for this trend, you really need to love your legs and feel comfortable showing them off.
Big is Beautiful
In a somewhat surprising turn, this spring sees the return of the mega-gown. For several years, cotton-candy layers of frou-frou have been in the wedding wilderness but designers such as Vera Wang, who showed a dress featuring a bustle, and Christian Siriano, with a stiff box-like underskirt, are on a mission to revive the look. Dubai favourite, Esposa, even featured this ravishing full-skirted creation in its latest promotion. If you’ve always dreamed of being a princess for the day, this is the look for you.
Veiled Beauties
If you err on the side of simplicity but still want to make a stunning style statement, then this is the trend for you. Veils, the more elaborate the better, are huge this spring. Elie Saab paired his flower-embroidered number with a sleek column dress, Carolina Herrera went for a long, embellished veil running into the train, and Viktor & Rolf’s look was almost Maddonaesque with curtains framing the face. No advice needed for this trend; it’s one everyone can wear, just make the style your own.
Ravishing Rears
Without a doubt, while you’re saying your vows, your guests will have a prime view of your rear (and possibly that of your bridesmaids — Pippa Middleton)! This season’s gowns take full advantage with stunning back views and intricate trains on offer from designers such as Kristie Romanos and San Patrick Studio at Esposa. If you’re going for this look, make sure you don’t neglect your back in your pre-wedding beauty prep – scrub, moisturise and fake tan.
