FROCK ‘N’ ROLL

BRIDAL BOUTIQUESFrock ‘n’ roll We examine the latest wedding dress trends with the region’s bridal boutique experts

TOP TREND SLEEVES

“Detachable puff sleeves that fit to your arm like a glove are definitely becoming a thing. Take a look at Essense of Australia’s dress D3296.” – Sarah Hackett, https://rookerybridal.co.uk

Lillian West, 66208

“For the boho bride, there’s lace and plenty of ruffles still to come. Sleeves on these styles are simply wow! Look for soft lace with stunning flutter sleeves extending to the train, as demonstrated in the gown pictured above.” – Sarah, https://rookerybridal.co.uk

“As a bride, you can have whatever you dream of. Bespoke options are something that good designers have offered for a while – adding length to trains, different straps, maybe a corset back, but now there’s a whole range of detachable pieces including capes, trains, sleeves, skirts... The choice is yours and you can transform from princess to goddess in moments.” – Cathy Keen, www.14andsixpence.co.uk

“Sleeves can be added off the shoulder for the ultimate romantic look and of course, can be detachable leaving you free for that YMCA moment later in the evening. Balloon or puff sleeves bring a modern edge to the simplest of gowns, bringing back that Regency-era vibe with a twist of Bridgerton.” – Cathy, www.14andsixpence.co.uk Élysée, Cecile Essense of Australia, D3296

MATERIAL GIRL

TOP TREND MINIMALISM

Élysée, Etoile Collection, Nathalie “Go soft and floaty with lots of tulle. Options include sheer skirts perfect for a beach wedding and delicate lace panels, which create a super-flattering tattoo effect on the skin.” – Cathy, www.14andsixpence.co.uk

“Lace isn’t going anywhere and there’s a huge range of choice out there. Different and more delicate laces are making an entrance. Some boast 3D floral motifs, some a subtle shimmer, and Chantilly lace under a tulle skirt offers a beautiful layered effect with depth. Combine this with a gentle colour, such as champagne or latte to make the pattern pop showing the lace to its full effect.” – Cathy, www.14andsixpence.co.uk Paloma Blanca, 5001 “Clean, simple, minimalist styles are now on show in the form of super-chic or fresh and modern looks. Classic materials are making a comeback via these dresses – charmeuse is a dreamy, soft fabric that offers a sophisticated yet minimalist feel.” – Sarah, https://rookerybridal.co.uk Maggie Sottero, Fernanda “This year our bestselling gowns have been simple dresses with minimalistic details in either fitted or A-line silhouettes. Picking a plain gown means you can customise your look easily with bridal accessories to suit your personality, while still having a timeless look.” – Katy, www.krystlebrides.co.uk

Élysée, FRANÇOISE x Édition

Allison Webb, Easton “We’re seeing a huge rise in the simple-chic look. Think gorgeous fitted crepe gowns with a little lace detail or completely plain satin ball gowns.” – Ellie, www.ellierosebridal.co.uk Élysée, Delancey “Some of the most beautiful gowns are also the simplest, and plain doesn’t mean boring – especially with thigh-high splits hidden in yards of organza or mikado satin fabric.” – Cathy, www.14andsixpence.co.uk

ALL IN THE DETAIL TOP TREND GLAMOUR

“If it’s glamour you’re seeking, there’ll be more highly embellished gowns coming to the fore – glitter and pure enchantment being key. The princess in you won’t be disappointed! These dresses are being seen in various shapes from ballgown to stunning fit and flares.” – Sarah, https://rookerybridal.co.uk

Lo’adoro by Rachel Allan, M793 “Low backs are very much in fashion. Some offer modesty with sheer illusion tulle covering all the right places, or you may opt for something completely open and edged with sparkle. Another option is a simple cowl back in delicate crepe leading to a sweeping train.” – Cathy, www.14andsixpence.co.uk

Enzoani, Romana Enzoani, Rosalie “There are some showstopping trains this season, whether it be chapel, cathedral or royal, in a circular-style or scalloped and clover-like.” – Cathy, www.14andsixpence.co.uk

“I’ve seen lots of dresses daring to show your leg! The beauty of this trend is that they can be sewn up, shortened or adjusted if it’s not what you want, so don’t be put off.” – Sarah, https://rookerybridal.co.uk

“We expect to see plenty of exposed corsetry, sexy cut outs and barely there glamourous gowns in 2023, as well as asymmetric necklines on simple and elegant styles.” – Katy, www.krystlebrides.co.uk

“We’re already seeing more bows and are expecting to see them on a growing number of dresses – big, small, placed at an angle and really making a statement.” – Sarah, https://rookerybridal.co.uk

Blue by Enzoani, Olani “If you want to be the ultimate princess from dawn ‘til dusk, there are some truly magical styles this season. Shimmering fabric skirts seem to be the key and adding a big hoop to show off a tiny waist, and a long royal train can really make a statement.” – Cathy Keen, www.14andsixpence.co.uk