Designers in the 2018 New York Fashion Week collections included Theia, Ines Di Santo, Reem Acra among others. The styles were not traditional, with many in shades other than white. There were body-hugging textured gowns adorned with fringe and fur and for an unusual look, bridal jumpsuits. Here is my run through of what was there.
Jumpsuits
It’s no longer all about glittery ball gowns and mermaid silhouettes. Ines Di Santo and Theia showcased glamorous jumpsuits. Possibly they will be more popular for pre-wedding events rather than as an alternative to a wedding gown.
Lace
One of the biggest trends was delicate lace, particularly from Melbourne-based designer Anna Campbell. Sachin & Babi and Caroline Herrera have used 3D floral appliqué in their new season bridal collections.
Feathers and fringe
A surprise for 2018 is the use of feathers and fringe for textured embellishments. Both Hayley Paige and Berta added layers of feathers to their gowns. Pronovias closed their show with a dazzling gown with fringe from head to toe.
Inspiration from outerwear
Capelets, bolero jackets and blazers will replace last seasons capes. Intricately designed, these are paired with gowns of all shapes and sizes. A structured blazer with a revealing tulle skirt was an offering from Inbal Dror, whilst Allison Webb paired a heavily beaded bolero with a simple silhouette.
Blush is the new white
Lazaro, Galia Lahav and Inbal Dror all offered coloured gowns, in soft pink and rose in traditional silhouettes like the ball gown. Other coloured gowns on offer include lilac and pastel blue hues. Gowns that are line, are lined with a semi-opaque lining with more emphasis placed on soft lilac and natural tones.
Open back
If you’ve got a sculpted back, an open back dress is a trend going into 2018, with many collections offering sexy, fitted bridal silhouettes.
Centre-front splits
Many designers, from Moira Hughes to Suzanne Harward offer a centre-front split in the skirt for an alluring element whilst still being demure. Showing a bit of leg is the ultimate accessory.
Plunging necklines
Elsewhere on the New York catwalks were many options for brides happy to push the boundaries of a wedding dress. Plunging necklines, lots of embellishment and streamlined silhouettes are expected to be big sellers in 2018 for the modern bride. A strong trend now is for removable skirts, so there is a big, dramatic skirt for your ceremony, before you whip it off for something smaller for the reception.
Sheer perfection
Barely-there gowns remain popular into 2018. A detailed lace design with a full sheer skirt and train by Berta and a metallic ball gown with a voluminous sheer-panelled skirt were both showcased on the catwalk. The exposed boning and transparency successfully keep the emphasis on delicacy.
