Tag: off-the-shoulder

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Bridal pant suits, tiered skirts and other unique wedding dress styles we love

One of the best things about wedding fashion is that it is constantly evolving. Although the traditional layered wedding gown is still popular, bridal dress designers also impress us with unusual and unexpected trends for brides who want something different for their wedding day. The latest trends in wedding dresses are so unusually interesting that I wouldn’t be surprised if many of them would continue to be favorites season after season. Take the 3-D floral trend for instance. It made its appearance several years ago, and still continues to be a big hit. This charming design feature has been played with in different ways, extended to other motifs of nature and even tried out in colors and bigger proportions. And one thing is clear, the trend is here to stay.

There are many more design features that have been bookmarked by many brides and wedding fashion enthusiasts, long before they set their wedding dates. Let us explore this list of the unique and interesting wedding dress styles that are anything but traditional, but impressive enough to stay.

Bridal Pant Suits

With same-sex weddings growing common these days, bridal pant suits which rose to fame in 2014, continue to be favored by many couples. It is not only for lesbian brides, though. Many brides choose them for their practicality and style factor. In fact, the chances are high for any bride who isn’t used to wearing dresses to choose a pantsuit over a poufy wedding dress. And the modern designs are stylish and dressy enough for the bride to look special on her big day. One of the most popular choices is divided skirts, where the pantsuit looks super-chic and very bridal. Well-tailored suits with elegant embellishments are equally attractive. We have also noticed the unusual pairing of the pantsuit with the very feminine veil as the accessory of choice for a “tradition meets modern” bridal statement.

Two-in-one wedding dresses

We have lost track of the number of times we have been asked for dresses that allow a bride to easily transform from a traditional bride at the wedding ceremony to a stylish diva for the wedding reception. Two-in-one wedding dresses are our go-to solution in such situations. Dubbed the two-fer, these dresses feature an overlay skirt over a figure-fitting silhouette like the mermaid. The overlay skirt is often elaborate and richly layered, so it has the appearance of a rich ball gown. This is usually perfect for a traditional wedding ceremony and a princess look for the bride. Post the wedding ceremony, all the bride has to do is take off the overlay skirt, and she has a new look for the reception. Much easier than changing into a whole new gown, don’t you think? Also, it is more economical than spending double on two gowns.

Tiered wedding skirts

Tiered wedding skirts are the happy balance between ball gowns and modern wedding dress styles. They have the drama of the ball gown, but are more sophisticated and look contemporary. Tiers are mostly on A-line and fit and flare silhouettes like the mermaid or trumpet. They are beautiful in every fabric but common in lace, satin and tulle. Tiered skirts are often paired with sweetheart and strapless necklines, adding to the dramatic effect. They may also be embellished with scalloped details at the edges or ruffles. Designers have also tried unusual embellishments like feathers and fringes in tiered wedding skirts. However, these choices are better suited for bold brides than conventional brides.

Muted shades of pink

Ever since blush became a widely sought-after bridesmaid dress color, muted shades of pink have stolen many a bride’s heart. Blush, in particular, is a favorite as it has a delicate, feminine charm. The color is soft, so many brides can safely choose it in their bridal dresses and not deviate too far from traditional white. Another charming factor about this color is that it looks good on most complexions. It is also the perfect base colour for lace details like floral icons and others to pop up against. Blush renders itself beautifully to both modern and vintage wedding dress designs. Whether it is in a ruffled wedding dress skirt or a modern minimalist silhouette, this dainty color, as well as other subtle shades of pink, are big hits in the bridal world. We do not see them disappearing from the scene anytime soon.

Plunging necklines

Definitely a choice for the bold and daring bride, plunging necklines are no longer the fashion statements of celebrities on the red carpet. Plunging V-necklines, daringly low scoops and deep keyhole designs are all hot trends on the bridal fashion scene. The widespread interest in the reinvention of these styles and the number of collections featuring this detail tell us that more and more women are choosing to sport this bold style feature in their wedding dresses. To avert any potential disaster, all that is necessary is to add a sheer modesty piece to the neckline. Nevertheless, after the daringly low-back details that were once a hit on the bridal scene, plunging necklines are a hot and happening thing. Plunging necklines are often featured with straps or sleeveless dresses, adding a finishing touch to the glamorous detail.

Asymmetrical hemlines

Interesting elements like high-low wedding dress hemlines instantly add a touch of drama to the bridal look. This is a feature that has not just gained favor in the general fashion scene, but has influenced wedding fashion as well. High-low hemlines may be used in short or long gowns. It can also be added as a feature that appears over the regular wedding skirt. Asymmetrical hemlines usually involve more fabric to create the flowy effect, and are commonly paired with A-line dress styles, sheaths or fit and flare silhouettes for maximum impact. This is a great choice for casual-theme weddings where the bride wants a dress that isn’t too formal but looks bridal enough.

Off-the-shoulder neckline

A sexy dress feature that allows the bride to show off her well-toned shoulders and collar bones, the off-the-shoulder neckline looks beautiful on wedding gowns. The exposed shoulders and neckline balance out poufy wedding dress skirts. Off-the-shoulder necklines are very feminine, and may be paired with any dress silhouette. It has a princess look when paired with ball gown skirts and A-line dresses, whereas it looks stylish and modern when paired with sheaths and fit and flare silhouettes. The neckline may either feature short sleeves or be combined with long full sleeves for a vintage look. This neckline feature has been added to both lace gowns as well as satin and silk wedding dresses. It may also be paired with a draped bodice or an embellished one in different designs.

Illusion details on sleeves

Illusion necklines were and continue to be a bridal favorite. Although the sleeve length has varied from full-sleeves to strapless styles and those in between, there are always brides who want to look modest and sport wedding dresses with sleeves that cover their arms. Then, brides also want sleeves because their arms are too thick or too skinny to show-off. Illusion sleeve details are a happy middle ground between fully covered and very modest styles and the strapless style that reveals arms all the way from the shoulders to the fingers. Illusion sleeves are usually executed in lace, and have a delicate feminine appeal. This feature is great for formal wedding styles and looks good on both slender and curvy brides. The details may range from intricate lace structures to widely dispersed and scattered details. It can also have embellishments or be simple.

Modern minimalist

Less is more for the modern minimalist bride. Non-fussy, uncluttered wedding gowns do not have to be simple and boring. Instead, they can be stunning and splendid, despite their simplicity. Minimalist wedding dresses allow brides to draw focus to other aspects of their wedding trousseau, like their jewelry and accessories. Sleek and simple modern silhouettes usually focus on enhancing the bride’s natural beauty by drawing attention to her best assets in an obvious way. The most popular silhouettes are fit and flare and column, which either snugly fit the body curves or create the illusion of more curves than the lady possesses. Minimalist dresses may also feature selected embellishments that are vivid and stylish. This is a great pick for the bride who wants her personality to shine through the attire she sports on this important day in her life.

Defined waistlines

More brides today are determined to get in shape and look their best on their wedding days. And when they have great bodies to show off, it is only imperative that they draw attention to the smallest and most attractive of their assets, like a slim waistline. Wedding dresses with emphasized waistlines are just as popular as accessories like bows, sashes and waistbands that define the waistline clearly. This feature is common on not only poufy wedding dresses, but the demarcation of the waistline is even incorporated into fit and flare dresses where there usually is no clear waistline. One of the most exciting factors about defining the waistline specifically is that it gives the dress a youthful appearance. So, although dropped waistlines and empire styles are still sough after by many brides, dresses which highlight slender waists and even draw attention to it are favored by brides who are in good shape in time for their wedding.

Fantastic back details

This is one trend that we cannot get enough of. Every year, wedding designers outdo themselves by presenting us with wedding dresses featuring fantastic back details. The mysterious charm of an ornate back detail is unbeatable, and it is a must-have for every bride on her special day. From fabulous illusion detailing to tasteful lace cut-outs, embellished details, low-cut backs and keyhole designs, details in the back easily impress. It is also an interesting way of showing of your sexy side without worrying about a wardrobe disaster. To highlight back details, the bride must ideally choose a hairstyle that doesn’t cover up the essential details. It may also be hidden when you wear a veil. So, if you choose a dress with a fantastic back, make sure to take off the veil after the ceremony and give it the attention it deserves. Fantastic back details are also stand-out features in bridal and couple portraits. So make sure your photographer pays attention to this detail, if your dress features it.

Over the recent years, many trends have appeared and disappeared. While going with the trend is fun, remember that your wedding dress will be the focal point in your wedding album in future years. It may perhaps even be passed down through generations, and you always want to look classic and timeless in them. We believe that the trends we listed here today are those that will help you look stylish. In short, these are the trends that are bound to be repeated time and again and never go out of fashion.

So, please tell us which of these dress features you like the most. Have you chosen any of them in your wedding dress?

For more wedding dresses and a fantastic selection to make your pick from, check out this link to our wedding dress collections at Best for Bride. From traditional and vintage to modern and contemporary dresses, we have all the dresses you can dream of. Book your appointment with us today, and visit any of our locations in Canada to make your wedding dress dreams come true. And if you are a bride from outside Canada, try our online shopping option for a reliable experience.

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Flatter Your Figure: Discover the Top Wedding Dress Necklines for Every Body Shape!

We have often talked about the importance of choosing a wedding dress that flatters your body shape. While you should make this a priority for an amazing bridal look, there are more dress aspects that you should pay attention to.

After the silhouette, the next most important factor that can make or break your wedding day look is the neckline. Since the neckline sits so close to the face, you should get it right. The right neckline will enhance your facial features and balance out the proportions of your neck and shoulders.

The dress neckline is a major style factor that determines the overall impact of a dress. Thus, you can easily tie your look to the wedding theme by choosing the right wedding dress neckline that complements it.

Join me as I take a look at the all-time favorites in bridal gown necklines for different body types, in the dresses from our collection at Best for Bride. As we explore this dress feature in detail in various dress styles, don’t forget to make a note of your favorites for when you go wedding dress shopping!

Trending and glamorous off-the-shoulder neckline

Immortalized in classic fairy tales like Beauty and the Beast, this timeless favorite has been an ongoing hit in the wedding world. It has a playful vibe, even while it is feminine and classic. This neckline bares the shoulders, as it extends across the bust and fits along the arms. The best thing about the off-the-shoulder neckline is that it looks good with sleeves of any length. Additionally, it looks amazing on most types of fabric including lace. Take a look at this article on the Brides website for more insight into this wedding dress feature. 

The off-the-shoulder neckline suits most body types, except the inverted triangle. The pear-shaped body has a heavy and broad upper torso, that is best camouflaged for a balanced look. Unfortunately, the off-the-shoulder neckline draws attention to this very area. Hence it is best avoided by brides with this body type. Similarly it doesn’t flatter women with thick and short necks, as it draws attention to this part of their body.

The dress seen here is from the Sans Pareil collection. The pairing of its off-the-shoulder neckline with cap sleeves and a thick ball gown skirt creates a silhouette that has signature fairytale charm.

Glamorous and stylish single shoulder strap

The one-shoulder neckline is an asymmetrical dress element that instantly enhances the glamour quotient of the dress. It features just one shoulder strap, while the other side has a strapless neckline detail. It reminds us of Grecian goddesses and it is a statement element in a bridal look. Dresses with single-shoulder draping or straps are widely favored for destination weddings, as the impact of this element is just right for a beach wedding.

 

One-shoulder wedding gowns can have a draped single-shoulder detail, or it may present as a simple shoulder strap that extends the strapless style. The asymmetrical nature of this style element doesn’t suit the inverted body type as it draws focus to the chest and decolletage. Since it highlights the neck, it is also best avoided by brides with thick necks and no distinct collar bones.

The dress in the image above is from the Sophia Tolli collection. Paired with a mermaid silhouette, this dress brings together many elements that look great in a beach ambiance. It is also glamorous, with its lush scattering of embellishments. This renders it ideal for an opulent theme as well.

Classic scoop for all body types

Simple but universally flattering, the scoop or round neckline suits almost every body type. The depth of this neckline can range from high to low, and its effect varies accordingly. The scoop is a naturally rounded shape, and according to the dimensions, it takes can enhance the body features of the bride. While a low-cut scoop draws attention to shapely collar bones and the neck, a high scoop conceals this area. When cut low, the scoop will reveal a hint of cleavage and accentuate the sex appeal of the dress.


Featured in this picture is a Sans Pareil wedding gown with wide scoop neckline, that frames a sweetheart bodice. The rounded nature of the neckline creates a balanced look and draws attention to the collar bones, neck and chin. This type of neckline when combined with sleeves is naturally slimming. It diverts attention upwards from the waist and hips, hence making it a good choice for apple and pear-shaped brides. Scoop necklines with half-length sleeves can make a thin bride look very slim, and are best avoided by rectangle-shaped body types.

Never-fail V-neckline

The V-neckline may have risen and fallen in terms of depth over the years. However it is still going strong in the wedding fashion scene. There is a subtle sexy element attached to this neckline, whether it is kept high or low. This is probably why it is a favorite choice for many brides.

 

In recent years, the V-neckline has plunged low to reveal more than what can is a modest dose of cleavage. Many bold brides who want to show off their bold and confident style in their wedding dress choice have embraced this trend. Whether paired with long sleeves, straps or barely-there sleeves, the V-neckline is a romantic and feminine style element with few contenders.

Here is a Mori lee wedding dress with cap sleeves that continue into a splendid V-neckline. The textured bodice with heavily embellished lace extends into a V-neckline that is both charming and sexy.

Bateau neckline that works for all

Shaped like a boat, the bateau neckline is a universal favorite that flatters all body types. This style extends from one shoulder to the other, barely revealing the collar bones. Although the neckline is modest, it is elegant and sophisticated. The only issue with this dress feature is that it draws attention to the neck. So, it is best avoided if you have a thick neck area and your collar bones aren’t visible. Also the raised nature of this neckline enhances the bust area. Hence, you may wish to avoid this neckline if you have a large bust and do not wish to draw attention to this part of your body. On the contrary, this neckline is well-suited for brides with small or average busts as it emphasizes these proportions.

This Sans Pareil dress features a bateau neckline over a sweetheart bodice with T-shirt sleeves. The neckline adds a demure, feminine touch to the classic wedding gown and draws attention to the facial features. This neckline is also a good option to consider if you want to avoid a necklace but draw focus to a pair of stunning earrings in your outfit.

All-time favorite—the sweetheart

The sweetheart neckline is feminine and romantic. It closely follows the contours of the bust and resembles the upper half of a heart shape. There is a dip in the center, and the depth of it determines the amount of cleavage that it reveals. Sweetheart necklines are a bridal favorite, and are popular in many bridal collections. This neckline detail may come with straps or hold up on its own. The final look is very different in either case. This style looks best on women with average bust sizes, as it is revealing on women with heavy tops. It doesn’t always sit well on women with small busts. Since this type of neckline reveals the neck and decolletage, it draws attention to the upper torso. However, the extent of embellishments will also determine the overall impact of this neckline.

Here is a Sans Pareil wedding dress which features a classic sweetheart neckline. You can see how the embellishments on it add to the texture and beautifully complement the fitted waistband. The upper half of the dress is just as appealing as the elaborate peplum lace details and the heavily layered skirt that it continues into.

Retro-inspired halter neckline

Although the halter doesn’t work well for all body types, it is a style element with no parallel. This dress style exudes confidence and is youthful and exciting. The factor that it offers modest coverage in the front, only to reveal an open back makes it unusually charming. In the absence of sleeves and shoulder straps, the top is held up by straps that fasten at the back of the neck.


This dress feature works wonders for hourglass and straight body types. However it is best avoided by pear-shaped women. This is because the neckline doesn’t look good on narrow shoulders. It further accentuates the effect of the hips and makes the rounded nature of this area very obvious. It is difficult to pair this neckline with a bra. Hence, you should consider this factor when choosing this dress style.

The beautiful Mori Lee dress in the image here has pretty illusion details on a halter neckline. The embellishments are very bridal and add a feminine touch to the dress style.

The elusive illusion neckline

There is an unbeatable charm for a sheer neckline embellished with scintillating embroidery and lace effects. Illusion necklines are very popular in the bridal world, for they have a soft charm and the embellishments add sparkle to the bridal look. Illusion necklines are often seen over a sweetheart or strapless bodice, and draw attention to the neck and decolletage area. Although they offer coverage, they are distinctly sexy and feminine. This type of neckline is universally flattering and is suitable for women of all shapes and sizes. It can also come with or without sleeves, and the effect is dramatically different in each case.

This neckline can take on any shape, including the bateau and scoop. The best thing about this style is that the simple presence of a layer or sheer renders a strapless dress suitable for a traditional wedding setting. Hence, church wedding brides often prefer this neckline over a strapless gown. Take a look at this article on the Bridal Extravaganza Show to understand why this style is huge in wedding fashion. 

Notice how the ethereal illusion neckline layer adds sophistication and charm to this beautiful Sans Pareil dress seen here! What could look like another sweetheart ball gown receives a dose of modesty as well as sparkle with the simple addition of an illusion layer that extends into soft cap sleeves.

While the previous dress had simple illusion details, here is one that stands out. This dress from the Mori Lee collection features an illusion layer over a sweetheart bodice. The sheer fabric is richly embellished with a fine scattering of jewels. You can also see how the strategic placement of the details in the neckline eliminates the need for a necklace.

While there are more necklines like the portrait, Queen Anne, strapless and square styles, the ones we discussed here have been quite popular on the wedding fashion scene over the last couple of years. As the modern bride’s interests change over time, so does her choices in various dress features. Nonetheless, some trends stand the test of time, and the necklines we discussed fit the bill.

It is your turn now, so tell us which of these necklines is your favorite in the comments section below.

To learn more about the dresses featured in this post and check out more available options, visit our bridal dress gallery on the Best for Bride website. With a variety of designer collections that cater to the preferences of every type of bride, this is the perfect destination for you to shortlist your bridal dress choices. So, whether you prefer a sweetheart gown, an off-the-shoulder beauty or a destination wedding dress with asymmetrical neckline details, find your dream dress here in the Best for Bride wedding collection.

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Our favorite trends in evening dresses this year

If you are going shopping to pick an evening dress or two for your social engagements this holiday season, let us prepare you for your shopping experience with what looked to be the most happening and interesting trends this year. We have also lined up some dress suggestions that you can look at, and these are all from our bridesmaid and evening dress collections at Best for Bride. Don’t forget to let us know what you like from these, and whether you do indeed choose any of them.

Colors

Spring and summer 2016 introduced us to the neutral color palette of pink and brown. Subtle versions of pink including dusty pink and peach, that aren’t too loud are perfect colors for evening wear if you don’t want to look too bright or bold. Plus, these neutral colors can be the perfect backdrop for some fun and dressy accessories. So, if you have that perfect bold clutch to show off or a stunning necklace, you know what would look good with it.

Now, if you want to make a stunning appearance, you could always consider bubblegum pink which was hot on the scenes last summer. This can certainly color up the scenery, but it may not really be right if you want a serious and refined look. Here is a bubblegum pink dress from the Alfred Sung evening dress collection. The added details like the up and down hemline add more spunk to the bright and vivid color that it features.

The other cool color (literally cool!) palette this year was deep blue color, and the colors seemed to pop with the iridescent highlights. What a stunning fashion statement! Bright pops of effervescent embellishments against deep dark water colors are undoubtedly a winner, don’t you agree? So, make sure your wardrobe has a perfect blue or green, that will allow you to step in and steal everybody’s attention.

Now, let us tell you exactly what we meant by deep sea colors with iridescent highlights with you this showstopper from the Jadore evening dress collection. What do you think of the scintillating effect of the top?

Our next picks are sunset hues like sunny vermillion and zesty orange which were featured on the catwalks and are always great reminders of spring and the wonderful tropics. Wondering whether it is a good idea for winter? We say go for it, as it will be different. Pair it with some colorful accessories, and you can nail that festive look that is perfect for any celebration. Also remember that deep oranges like clementine and browns are still pretty much in style and you can always turn to these as a safe bet. Since these colors look great on almost any skin tone, you couldn’t possibly go wrong. How refreshing is this sunset orange dress featured in the Social Bridesmaids collection. You can find this and many more attractive sunset hues in this collection at Best for Bride. 

Prints

Oversize prints and florals in either retro-inspired style or small and delicate Garden of Eden designs were all the rage last spring and summer. Equally attractive were color block prints, but remember that this year, color blocking has taken a new dimension with monochrome bold stripes and rainbow colors. Here is a captivating black and white striped gown from the Alfred Sung evening dress collection that is unique and distinct with the style and placement of the stripes on the sateen fabric.

Isn’t it just a fact that bold color combinations can make a huge impact, and why limit yourself to one when you can wreak havoc with many colors at the same time. So, go with color blocking in this years style, and you will be glad you did it.

Graphic prints and oversize motifs in bold statement colors are still hot. So, if you want something that is loud and daring, don’t hesitate to pick out a dress with a loud motif that screams for attention.

Graphic floral prints have been fashioned out of wide lace to make this Jadore evening dress a sensational beauty. You can find this in our evening dress collection, and remember that it is also available in red with the same design, if that is the color you favor.

A tip for your casual wear choices as well. Denim with needlepoint embroidery seems to be back, with both menswear and womenswear collections featuring it a lot. So, take a cue and update your jeans collection with at least one that features it, for a trendy look.

Patterns and Styles

Many interesting and unusual changes have popped up in the style section. Fluidity in structure was the focus this year, with many designers celebrating the natural womanly shape with loose flowing garments. Maxi dresses with loose fits and peasant dresses were an interesting trend. These are perfect for both indoor and outdoor functions. We loved how the dresses were made suitable for both formal and informal occasions through the appropriate use of fabric. While silk was the choice for formal functions, cotton and gauze made similar designs comfortable and good for outdoor and casual events.

Now, here is a fluid full-length dress from the Jadore evening collection in a sheath silhouette that courses along the natural curves of the wearer. We love the delicate and feminine effect from the soft flow of the fabric and how it is further enhanced by the spectacular addition of lace in the right places.

So, if you have a beach wedding to attend this year, it may be a good idea to revisit last year’s maxi trend and choose a dress that will look dressy even while being casual and comfortable.

The other popular dress styles were A-line skirts and asymmetrical hemline dresses that ended between mid-length and calf. Perfect for cocktail parties, these designs are cool and chic, and look good whether they are in prints or plain.

This Mori Lee evening dress features an unusual up and down hemline that makes it both casual and chic, flirty and fun. Perfect for that fun evening out with your girls, don’t you think?

We have also noticed that the neatly pleated style is back on the scene. The refined and clean look that is part of this design seems to appeal greatly to women who want a polished look. Perfect to go with a neat updo or when you want to attend a formal function at work, this is perhaps the dress style that will help you nail the look. Don’t you think this pleated dress from the Jasmine dress collection is worth your attention?

The off-the-shoulder style is still a big hit, and you would definitely look sultry and romantic in a dress that features this style. When the off-the-shoulder style is combined with a long gown it has a sophisticated charm, while it looks stylish and glamorous in a shorter version. Either way, we think that this is a definite style that will continue to be favored for a long time. So don’t hesitate to grab a dress in one of the colors we mentioned previously and look both trendy and beautiful for the occasion you will be attending.

Splendid and sexy, this Mori Lee beauty is a masterpiece for more than just the off-the-shoulder feature on it. The asymmetrically ruched bodice and the scintillating waistband are the other interesting elements that make this dress a total hit.

The other style that is really trending is the Goddess style dress. Don’t you love the one-shoulder dress that has always looked romantic and mysterious? With a dress that focuses on enhancing your natural beauty, while still adding an ethereal charm with delicate and unique features such as a draped bodice or one-shoulder strap, this is a definite winner. Choose a longer version if you want to look formal, or go with a shorter skirt or one with ruffles all along if you would prefer to be playful and effortless in what you wear. Take a look at this dress from the Jasmine evening dress collection.

Accessories

The same colors that we discussed above are the top choices in dress accessories. Brown and muted pinks are subtle colors that look great with almost any dress. They allow you to tone down your overall impact, when your dress is really vibrant. Apart from this, the deep sea hues are also seen dressing up large clutches and also adding extra glamour to earrings, necklaces and shoes with the iridescent effects that we talked about earlier. These effects are exquisite and match an outdoor beach setting, as well as look great at winter holiday parties. Now, if you know your friend has a nautical theme party, you know what you need in the accessories department to get your look just right for the theme.

Metallic Moody Blues Demi Parure Set
Image Credits: Melissa Ingram, via Flickr, CC BY 2.0

Warm yourself up when you step outside in oversize fluid coats, which were all the rage on the runways last year. Not only are they cozy, they go well with most dresses making it a versatile outer wear choice. Wrap cardigans and sporty culottes were also a fashion statement, however they are appropriate only when the occasion you will be attending has a casual vibe. The other style icons are trucker jackets updated with fringing and embellishments.

Details we loved

When choosing a dress, you needn’t go with the latest trends all the way, just a few statement features are all that is required to help you stand out of the crowd. These are what the details of a dress can achieve with ease. Let us now look at the various details that we loved from the dresses we have been seeing last year.

Ruffles are one of the most attractive features that adds extra personality to any dress. We have seen ruffles come and go, but its been in the main scene most of last year. So, it may be a good idea to stick to ruffles as a fashion element in your dresses. The fun thing about ruffles is how they can be used to change the overall impact of a dress. By adding it in the right locations and adequately, we have seen ruffles dramatically alter the look of a dress from formal and sophisticated to casual and elegant. Ruffles may appear either in the neckline, sleeves, bodice or skirt of the dress. Then again, it can be added in moderation or luxuriously. You can choose this based on whether you want to look fun or serious. Either way it is undoubtedly a very feminine and romantic element, so it is one that you should definitely try.

Have a look at this ruffled dress from the Jadore collection, and you will soon realize how dramatic ruffles can be.

Black and white continue to be eternal favorites, but white this time seems to have taken an entirely distinct effect from what was ever seen before. Antique white, or parchment white is the new color on the scene, and you may like to consider it in moderate doses as part of your attire or in your accessories for a clean and crisp look that also exudes a vintage vibe.

The other notable fashion styles were the presence of eyelet holes on shoulders alongside the cold shoulder or off-the-shoulder style. This use of designs that show off skin in the shoulder area is both chic and youthful. If you want a fun flirty look with lots of spunk, you should definitely consider getting yourself a brightly colored evening dress with exposed shoulders and perhaps sleeves that skim the shoulders or with a number of straps that brace your arms for the perfect look this season.

We think that a dress like the Jadore gown shown here would do the job very well.

Hope you’ve found yourself enough inspiration to go shopping for your evening dresses soon enough. Check out our evening dress collection on Best for Bride for hundreds of more attractive designs and find dresses that will be just perfect for every occasion you have in mind.

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A Quick recap: 10 favorite trends from Fall/Winter 2016

Wedding fashion is continuously evolving. What is in today may be entirely out of the scene tomorrow. It is a pity that some trends that rocked the stage on their first appearance tend to die out without a trace soon after. Well, fashion depends on the taste of the onlooker. So, what we may love today may not find favor with the next set of brides who will get married in the coming year.

Nevertheless, it is fun to recap and look back at those trends that had us smitten when they were initially introduced. This is what we will do today. Fall 2016 may have passed by too soon, and winter may already be here. So, all our winter and fall brides would most likely have picked their wedding dresses by now. Even so, we thought it would be nice to take a look at our favorite trends in wedding fashion for fall and winter 2016 and see the best that the year had in store. Why don’t you join us!

Off-the-shoulder neckline

One trend that has been considered high-fashion, and still seems to be going strong is the off-the-shoulder neckline. Sleeves that barely skim the shoulder, leaving the neck and decolletage exposed, have a magical appeal. The unbeatable charm of this design is what makes the off-the-shoulder neckline a dress style that has captured the hearts of brides everywhere. It is seductive and sassy, and is suitable for almost every wedding style. This design is recommended by fashion experts as a universally flattering neckline that almost any type of bride can attempt and get right. Whether the neckline is clubbed with a ball gown or a sheath style dress, it is always has a distinct quality of its own.

Featured here is a Jasmine couture wedding gown with an off-the-shoulder neckline design. The embellished bordering of the neckline is stunning, along the ruffled pleats of the fabric. Don’t you love how it gently grows into a ruched bodice that snugly courses along the model’s figure all the way to the hips? The flare skirt adds the picture-perfect finish to this design, and it is a dress that I think would fit any modern bride’s vision.

Light-as-air wedding dresses

Airy wedding dresses were a welcome change to the rigidly structured ball gown and fit and flare silhouettes that have been trending for a while now. Many brides embraced this loose and breathable look, through dresses that looked breezy and refreshingly new. Layers of fabric that looked as soft as snow were seen everywhere on the runways, and in plenty of weddings. We are sure that this is a trend that we would love to see more in the wedding scenes in the coming seasons as well. Fabrics like chiffon and organza are most suitable for delivering this dreamy effect.

Delicate and dreamy, we love how this Mori Lee wedding gown has a soft and billowy feel. The sheer outer layer stands out against the thicker fabric of the inner layers, making it unusually breezy. A design similar to this couldn’t possibly weigh down a bride, and it is a great choice for the outdoors if you have to maneuver your way through the natural terrain. Finally, we also love the waistline belt detail that accentuates a slender waist and helps you show off a well-toned structure in the best way possible.

Whimsical short butterfly sleeves

If you should have sleeves for your dress, it should be these soft fluttery sleeves. It is so feminine and dainty, you can only look your best wearing them. A welcome change from the cap sleeve style that was all the rage the past year, these fluttery sleeve dresses are a vintage bride’s dream come true. A dress with this single feature will immediately push up the vintage factor and add a charm that is so vintage! Fluttery sleeves can be fashioned out of lace or breathable airy fabric like tulle or organza. It looks best when it is sheer and the skin peeps through. A gown with a simple silhouette will immediately gain a personality with this single style element.

How unusually splendid is this wedding gown from our Alfred Angelo wedding collection? Notice how the fluttery whimsical sleeves add a dash of style to the beautiful sweetheart neckline. It is also sheer genius to have combined it with the asymmetrical high-low layered hemline to add more light weight layers that are float. The layered skirt contrasts elegantly with the fitted bodice in a silky finish, to create a fantastic overall look. A bride in this dress would be perfect for a vintage-inspired or classic wedding. The modesty of the dress also makes it a great choice for a traditional ceremony.

3-D flowers

One of the trends that we saw in 2015 and simply took to immediately, was the 3-D style embellishments of wedding gowns. Lace as the central element contrasted effectively with the layers beneath it to create a 3-D effect that made the floral motifs on these gowns simply stunning. Additional embellishments like rhinestones and metallic beading further enhanced the ethereal beauty of these designs. The 3-D effect has since then been a favorite with brides, and this year was no different.

Mori Lee has crafted this magical element into many of its wedding gowns, but we particularly love this wedding dress with Venice lace appliques creating an obvious 3-dimensional effect against the soft net layer underneath. The sheer lace three-fourth sleeves and fitted bodice strewn with floral motifs look spell-binding. Isn’t this dress simply a masterpiece that is perfect for a vintage-style wedding? Just like the previous gown we saw, the modest neckline and sleeves of this gown make it a good choice for traditional weddings too. Despite this, it is still a glamorous dress which will allow a bride to show-off her beautiful curves with the fit and flare silhouette it sports.

Vintage Boho

The Boho trend has been hot and happening on the casual wedding scene for quite some time now. This 2016, we saw a notable shift towards boutique vintage style in Boho wedding dresses, and this was distinctly more feminine and appealing to a wider audience. The casual, relaxed vibe of Boho chic dresses weren’t lost, even while it focused more on fluidity than form this year. We like the idea of adding more elegance to the Boho style, as this increases the glamour quotient associated with this style of dressing.

Another dazzler from the Alfred Angelo collection, this gown brings together the essence of Bohemian style and combines it with classic features to create a masterpiece. The slender straps and the effortless look of the criss-cross bodice make it casually appealing, while the delicately flowing skirt and the pretty waistband detail add an element of sophistication to this elegant wedding dress. It is a head-turner that is simply perfect for a beach wedding or any wedding held in the outdoors. It is also a great choice for a fun-filled and exciting reception, where the bride would love to shake a leg and not be restricted by a heavy wedding gown. Don’t discount the fact that the light weight and airy fabric make it practical and easy to carry. We’re smitten by its simplicity and functionality. How about you?

Up and down hemline layers

After asymmetrical hemlines, the current trendsetter is up and down hemlines, preferably in more than one layer. They have a distinct personality and are not even remotely boring. The simple addition of the distinct layers to an otherwise unsophisticated silhouette can instantly improve the style and add more glamour to any bride. The fun part about distinct layers in wedding skirts is that it is dramatic and exudes an air of excitement and joy.

Take this dreamy Mori Lee gown for example. The sprightly skirt with evident layers looks distinct from any other design you may have ever seen before. While being lightweight and breezy, it is still powerful and attractive. The ruchings on the criss-cross bodice culminate in a scintillating waistband that marks the beginning of a layered skirt, and the up and down hemlines flutter in the wind to make it a dazzling beauty. If you have ever worried about what dress to choose for your outdoor wedding, so that it is not just practical but strikingly bridal, a dress like this is what you should seek.

Overlay skirts

The truth is that more and more brides today, choose to stay away from ball gown skirts. This is perhaps because they do not favor the structured and rigid form that is associated with ball gowns. Nonetheless, they still want that little layer of pouf to add some drama of their wedding day look. So, it’s basically a case of finding that balance, and this is what overlay skirts in wedding dresses have managed to achieve. It allows brides to look beautiful with just the right amount of layering to highlight their natural curves.

In this Mori Lee gown, you can see a dainty sheer lace layer that beautifully adds an extra dimension to the original fit and flare design. This overlay skirt is the most prominent feature of the remarkable gown, and the pretty floral lace appliques have an almost 3-dimensional quality. What we particularly love about the dress is how the skirt looks very distinct from the bodice, even in the absence of an obvious waistline. This could have been achieved easily with a waistband with some added sparkle, but the designers chose to keep it simple and yet managed to create the effect beautifully with the sheer overlay skirt. The soft overlay may just be an additional layer of fabric, but it still fashions an hourglass effect and can emphasize a slender waistline.

Antique white or parchment white

Unless you are a novice in wedding fashion, you will already know that wedding dresses come in different types of whites! There is a white for every bride, and most wedding dresses are available in more than just one type. This makes it easy for brides to find the white that accentuates their skin tone in the best way and looks great on them. The year 2016 saw a new color rise to fame—antique white. This was not confined to wedding fashion, but antique white dresses were the rage all over the catwalk, even in other fashion circles. The difference in this color is that it looks distressed, but some features look best on this shade of white. Perfect for vintage weddings, wedding gowns created in antique white finish have a distinct quality to their overall look that sets them apart from the regular stark white. Whether this color is used for the entire gown, or it is weaved into the design in certain places only, it definitely adds a noticeable quality to the look.

This stylish Mori Lee gown has antique white coloring in the skirt. This contrasts beautifully with the creamy white bodice, making both halves equally prominent. Everything about this gown is captivating. The smooth strapless neckline and embellished bodice are highlighted by the breezy bouncy skirt. Although there aren’t too many details, the dress is one that impresses. Ball gowns which do not look too crowded are a rarity these days, and this one is perfect for the bride who is very particular about not going overboard with details.

This brings us to the end of our recap on the best wedding dress trends we saw this year. We hope that at least some of them are to stay. Some of the designs, like the 3-D lace effects and overlay skirts are a hot favorite, that we wouldn’t be surprised if they move over into the realm of classics in no time. If you were married this year, or are planning your wedding in the coming year, tell us if your wedding dress featured any of these design features.

And, to continue looking at more lavish wedding dress choices that will have you looking forward to your wedding day, don’t forget to visit our online bridal gallery at Best for Bride. We are sure you will love the experience.