Top Wedding Dress Trends for Fall 2016

Now’s the ideal time to catch the wave of bridal gowns floating down the runways! Five elegant looks are trending this fall. While reading this blog, you may want to have a box of tissues handy. The splendor of these gowns will make you teary-eyed!

FABRICS
Before we begin our fashion show, here’s a fabric intro. The materials used to construct your gown will give you a distinct look. Some cling to your body, and others gently drape. Certain fabrics create a crisp texture, and others shimmer in light.

Of all the textiles available to brides, silk is the most sought-after. Elastic, strong, and luxurious, silk is the basis of several dress materials. During the cool days of autumn, silk will keep you comfortably warm.

As you read the descriptions below, being familiar with the materials used is helpful. The Knot has compiled a Wedding Dress Fabric Glossary. Keep it on your screen for reference. It will aid you in visualizing the finer points of these gorgeous gowns.

Are you ready to see the wedding dress of your dreams? Here’s the red-carpet line-up.

FLUID DESIGNS
You’ll glide down the aisle in one of these airy dresses. Soft folds skim your body, making it a breeze to move. Lightweight fabrics are ideal for an early fall wedding. The relaxed style complements a non-traditional ceremony, along with a plunging “V” neckline. A sheath silhouette flatters every figure. For stunning fluid designs, consider Kelly Faetanini, Houghton, and Hayley Paige. Here’s a wide selection of angelic dresses.

BARE SHOULDERS
Off-the-shoulder designs are classic, dating back to the Victorian era when princesses debuted the demure look. Give a hint of pristine skin and your svelte neck while remaining modest. Your man will love the style – pure romance.

If you’re having a formal gathering, check out sophisticated gowns by Carolina Herrera and Casablanca, with off-the-shoulder sleeves in lace. For a garden party setting, consider Oscar de la Renta, Jenny Packham, and Marchesa. You’ll look both sweet and charming. Here’s a cache of various silhouettes with off-the-shoulder necklines.

FLUTTERY SLEEVES
Flirty sleeves lend a touch of fun to your trousseau. They highlight your graceful arms. Flowing sleeves accentuate your movement as you waft down the aisle to your guy. Made of chiffon, tulle, lace, and gossamer, the fabrics are sumptuous! The feather-soft kiss on your skin is sublime. If this dainty design makes your heart flutter, consider gowns by Sarah Seven, Claire Pettibone, and Matthew Christopher. Here’s a selection that will make your heartthrob swoon.

FLORAL EMBELLISHMENTS
Love is blooming on fall bridal gowns in motifs, prints, and appliqués. From glistening petals to delicate sprays and bold blossoms, flowers draw rapt attention to your dress. They also ratchet up the joy for guests viewing the union with your groom. You’ll gather a bouquet of smiles as you sweep down the aisle.

Flowers are sprouting on veils, necklines, sleeves, skirts, and hemlines. They can be embroidered, appliquéd, and hand-cut. 3D posies add texture. Designers popularizing this trend are Lela Rose, Inbal Dror, Angela Sanchez, and Victoria Kyriakides.

Do you favor an hourglass look? The mermaid style will aptly define your curves. With a skirt that flares below the knees into a fishtail train, you’ll feel like a goddess in this dress! Floral overlays embellish the form-fitting style. Masters of the mermaid silhouette are Vera Wang, Zac Posen, Galina, Oleg Cassini, Jewel, and Melissa Sweet. Here’s a garden showcase of mermaid gowns.

DETACHABLE SKIRTS
If you’re a forward-thinking bride, you’ll appreciate the convenience of a detachable skirt. “Wear a traditional dress during the ceremony, then quickly transition to a dance-worthy version for your reception,” said Allure Bridals. The “convertible” wedding dress is ingenious! Simply remove the skirt, and you won’t have to bustle your gown. You’ll save money on the purchase of a separate evening dress. You’ll also have the benefit of two unique styles.

A convertible dress is often a ball gown fashioned of tulle. Beneath it hides an above-the-knee number in which you can easily dance. The presence of a sister skirt is camouflaged by sheer fabric or strategic slits. Designers offering this efficient option are Monique Lhuillier, Jim Hjelm, and Amsale. Here’s a glimpse of 10 bridal gowns with detachable skirts.

FALL BYWORD
Now that you’ve seen the fall line-up, what single word comes to mind? If you’re thinking “sexy,” bingo! This is the catchphrase used by The New York Times. The sultry look is hot.

Honoring femininity, the fall gowns reflect a Mediterranean style. Essentially, this involves revealing large areas of skin. Three Israeli designers capture the sensuous image – Mira Zwillinger, Alon Livné, and Inbal Dror. Evening-wear also has a European flavor, modeled by Kim Kardashian and Beyoncé. Sheer fabrics, lace, and beading enhance your womanly beauty.

THE MAN
Which designer epitomizes the sexy vibe? That would be fashion icon, Oscar de la Renta. Although deceased as of 2014, his clothing house continues to feature dreamy dresses. Ultra-feminine ensembles will make you feel utterly pretty! Classic details are structured bodices, subtle lace, and sweeping trains.

Peter Copping, successor to the talented mentor, maintains the classic Oscar aesthetic. His fall bridal collection incorporates all the season’s trends. Comprising your Oscar options are 17 dresses, all breathtaking head-turners. Here you can sigh your way through the entire glamorous line.

SEXY TRENDS
The hallmarks of fall trends for 2016 are:

• fluid designs
• bare shoulders
• fluttery sleeves
• floral embellishments
• detachable skirts

Choose just one of these features, and you’ll feel like Bride of the Year!