Happy New Year! How pumped are we about 2018?! Too excited!!! This year, not only do we get to do it all over again — “it” being sharing the most glorious wedding gowns from designers around the world — we are also looking forward to one royal wedding in May! As per tradition, we kick off the new year by taking a look at our trusty Wedding Inspirasi crystal ball to bring to you the hottest and coolest bridal trends that will define the year. If you are recently engaged or planning to wed this year, this one’s just for you! Meet the biggest wedding dress trends for 2018. In this post, we talk silhouettes and sleeves!
The Fairy Tale Princess Ball Gown
Ball gowns get unabashedly bigger in 2018. Even designers who are known for their ultra-sleek, super sexy aesthetic, are joining the ballgown bandwagon. This trend comes in many flavors: beaded top with fabulously layered tulle skirt (like Sophia Tolli’s Zephra, below), decadently embellished throughout (think Victoria Swarovski’s bespoke Michael Cinco), elegant and romantic in full lace (like Pippa Middleton’s Giles Deacon design, or Rosa Clará Couture’s Pastora, below), and modern modest minimalist à la Miranda Kerr’s and Song Hye Kyo’s Dior creations.
Many of this year’s prettiest ball gowns and mermaids feature handkerchief tiers and horsehair trim.
The Flowy A-line
Romantic? Yes. Comfortable? Yes. Pretty as a picture? Yes, oh yes! Whether in soft tulle, chiffon, organza or silk, this modern A-line silhouette hugs the body gently and lets you dance and twirl effortlessly. Another plus? This elegant silhouette is universally flattering for all body types.
Not an A-line or ball gown fan? Mermaids, trumpets and sheaths -- both lace and non-lace styles -- are incredibly popular, with high halternecks stealing the limelight from last season's super-deep-V's and off-the-shoulder styles.
On Cloud Nine
Glamorous sheaths and mermaids with frothy ball gown over skirts that flow into a dramatic chapel or cathedral train... have we peaked with this look yet? Fall 2018 runways say "no", but we'd like you to also say "hello" to a softer, more ethereal look -- lace or beaded gowns topped by sheer tulle overskirts. Paired with a glittery sequined base the effect is truly magical!
Relax, It's Just a Wedding
Boho chic, festival vibes, intimate backyard. The laid back style never really left the bridal world. This year may see less rustic barn weddings, but more desert chic, coastal town casual and charming garden settings. 2018's whimsical looks feature multi-layered laces, gowns with flared or bell sleeves; embellished kaftans with flutter sleeves, soft columns and trumpets with sheer puff or bishop sleeves. One of our new favorite styles? Boho luxe, which blends luxurious, intricate details with a free spirited feel.
Heart on Sleeves
Brides who love wedding dresses with sleeves will be happy to know that sleeves -- both long and short -- are here to stay. Illusion sleeves with tattooed effect lace are not the only way to make a statement this year. The most distinct trend to note for 2018 is the emergence of the ultra-dramatic, dress-defining sleeve: bouffant and puff sleeves, tulip and split sleeves, cold shoulders and detached sleeves, hanging and floor-sweeping sleeves.
So which of these trends is your favorite?
Looking for more gorgeous inspiration? Read Part 2 of our trend report.