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Bridal Fashion Trend Report>>2022
NOW WEDDINGS STYLE
BRIDAL FASHION trend REPORT >>2022
CURATED BY NOW CREATIVE DIRECTOR RENA SWEENEY
WITH TREND COMMENTARY FROM NEW ORLEANS BRIDAL FASHION EXPERT JESSICA SCHULMAN OF PEARL’S PLACE BRIDAL
::FROM THE CREATIVE DIRECTOR’S DESK::
What a year this has been! We exited 2020 hoping for changes and while we got them, we’re all still living in this quasi-new state in 2021. Bridal fashion trends tend to move slowly and with yet another crazy year almost in the books, our fashion trends aren’t much different than the year itself has been.
Some designers decided not to put out new lines the last couple of years and others who did put out new seasons of gowns decided to double down on the elements they debuted for 2021 as the full effects of those trends weren’t really felt this year.
We are seeing some new trends specifically for 2022, though, and we’re excited to see these leave the runway and begin to show up in real weddings. So our report for 2022 might feel a bit reminiscent of our 2021 predictions, but make no mistake, designers are taking it to a new level.
In addition to the shift in sleeve styles we saw in 2021, we are also seeing a lot of leg as well as black accents appearing in 2022 collections! These exciting shifts are breathing new life into some of the most beloved styles of late.
If you know anything about me and my company, Alchemy Events (yes, I’m not always wearing my magazine Creative Director hat), you’ll know that I’m here for the drama! You probably won’t be surprised that one of my favorite trends is the new, big, dramatic (even ‘grazing the floor’ long) sleeves we’re seeing for 2022! The Galia Lahav signature cutout look is making its way through the industry and we’re also seeing visible corsets returning to bridal fashion.
90’s trends continue to make a strong comeback with everything from halter style to square necklines and that sleek “Calvin Klein chic” look that an entire generation of “Friends” lovers associated Jennifer Aniston with. While pearls were already starting to come back into fashion, we are really seeing a lot of designers lean into this trend with everything from pearl accents to fully blown pearls scattered across the entire gown.
Being able to transition a gown via detachable elements is one that feels particularly suited for us here in the Gulf South also, since you can be more demure for the ceremony and then go to your reception and really let loose. Swap out those long sleeves for spaghetti straps or take off that huge overskirt, show some leg and get ready to party! We’re here for it!
The one trend we’re starting to see but are hoping to see more of, you ask? A gorgeous glittered geometric “mesh” fabric. Some designers are calling it a “waffle pattern”, and you’ll notice it on page 26. This fabric gives flow with structure, something gorgeous and a bit sheer with a hint of shimmer. It’s definitely something we’d love to see other designers embrace in the coming years.
- Rena Sweeney Creative Director, NOW Weddings Magazine + Owner, Alchemy Events
TREND: TRANSITIONAL GOWNS
All over 3D petals make this blush and ivory beauty, accompanied by off-the-shoulder puff sleeves and a sheer corset bodice, a romantic and soft trumpet-style gown with a scoop neckline, and a sweeping detachable chapel train. Complete the look with a matching veil scattered with 3D petal embellishments.
TREND: CORSETS
“Visible corsets are back!” says Jessica Schulman of Pearl’s Place Bridal. “Cinch that waist in with this chic style trend.” From lace-up corset backs to bodices with boning, structured corsetstyle gowns are “in” for 2022.
TREND: CUTOUTS
From daring to subtle, cut outs add a bit (or a lot!) of sexy.
A flattering fitted one sleeve asymmetrical dress, with refined cleavage covered and handmade 3D floral appliqués, signed with a beaded waist belt before flowing into a stunning fitted skirt.
This shimmering lace and beaded tulle trumpet gown features a plunging V neckline, multiple cutouts accented by lacing detail, embroidery, a low back, and a gorgeous cathedral train for a look that is edgy yet elegant—and fitted in all the right ways.
TREND: RUFFLES
From full skirts to sleeves, ruffles are a fun, flirty element designers are embracing.
Soft delicate lace blouse top lend this plissé dress a singular elegance. With loose chiffon sleeves that can be adjusted to form a striking back accent.
TREND: HIGH SLITS
Off-the-shoulder chiffon wedding gown with a sexy high slit skirt.
A one-of-a-kind sheer tulle fitted dress with long sleeves and a unique high illusion neckline, covered with spectacular details such as beading, appliqués, and ruffled tulle creations.
TREND: BALLOON SLEEVES
“Balloon sleeves are coming in hot,” says Schulman. “This new trend is modernizing any bridal gown.”
Belmont is a romantic A-silhouette gown created of weightless fabrics. The shoulders of the bride are completely opened as the corset is strapless, held on the transparent netting. A delicate corsage is decorated with lowered shoulders and transparent sleeves.
TRENDS: SQUARE + HIGH NECKLINES
“Square necklines are new to the scene,” says Schulman.”On the opposite end of the spectrum, high necks are trending. This is a classic, sophisticated look.”
TREND: PEARL DETAILS
We’re here for scattered pearl details!
A modest long sleeves A-line wedding dress with a modern twist
TREND: TEXTURED FABRICS
Be looking for fabulous textured fabrics in 2022 bridal collections. We’re in love with “Swiss dot” tulle and mesh this season!
Sheer point d’esprit tulle sleeves accentuate a low back and breathtaking pointed chapel train on this fitted mermaid silhouette stunner. Think rustic romance a la a modern bohemian moment with 3D lace, crochet lace trim, and plunging V bows.
TREND: A TOUCH OF BLACK
Whether it’s black accents or allover black, designers are including the color black for brides who want something non-traditional.
The layered tulle skirt of this breathtaking gown creates an cinched waist. Featuring a jewel neckline of lace and beadings, halter corset and decorated with a crossed lines of sequins making the dress a gleaming craft piece.
See more 2022 wedding fashion at: NOWWeddingMagazine.com