Sheer Fabrics

Sheer fabrics are everywhere this wedding season, with stunning lacy gowns designed to playfully show some skin — think the ubiquitous red-carpet naked dress, but imbued with bridal grace. While the all-over sheer look seen in the Whisper gown may not be for everyone, you can also choose to show off just a hint of skin with flirtatious sheer elements like in the Evangeline and the Lilith. And those who adore the sheer trend but prefer more coverage can also have it all, with gowns such as the Mariposa and its removable sheer topper. The effect is very Princess Catherine, just a touch more daring.

3D Florals

Flowers are synonymous with weddings of course, but this year the symbol of love is breaking free from bridal bouquets and landing straight onto the most contemporary wedding gowns. 3D florals are omnipresent in the latest bridal collections, with embroideries and embellishments lending an elevated feel to what might otherwise be more streamlined looks. Lace is always a bridal staple, but the gowns we’re seeing now are taking great joy in rethinking the dreamy fabric, crafting embroidered flowers layered with glitter and beads — see the Hermosa and the Mariposa. Elsewhere, the dreamy Venezia and seductive Lilith feature scene-stealing glittered floral embellishments.

Basque Waists

When Zoë Kravitz walked down the aisle in a dropped-waist gown circa 2019, the look was deeply divisive. More than five years on, we now know for certain that Zoë was simply ahead of her time. Dropped waists are everywhere in fashion this season, and the bridal world is no exception. Our favorite looks highlighting the trend use the dropped waistline to bring in sharp contrasts, whether in fabric or in silhouette. The Leonora pairs a skin-tight sheer lacy bust with a dramatic silk taffeta skirt; the Dynasty’s structured corset bust gives way to a flowing silk skirt; and the Belladonna’s close-fitting corset opens out into a full skirt worthy of a princess — or a movie star.