This season, trends in bridal dresses are as whimsical and eclectic as the variable spring weather. Influences abound; everything from feathers and flowers to beading and sheer overlays were spotted on the runways during the recent bridal collections, yet there was one trend in particular that really piqued our attention.
Lace bridal dresses are making a strong comeback this season, and we couldn’t be more thrilled. While historically, lace dresses may bring to mind the heavy, buttoned-down wedding attire you may have seen in old family photos, this new crop of lace dresses promises to be a breath of fresh air.
We’ve sifted through some of the new-season offerings on the runways, and come up with 10 lace wedding gowns that we absolutely love, and would suit a number of different types of occasions.
Evening glamour
Dress by Galia Lahav. Image: Galia Lahav via InstagramAt an evening metropolitan wedding, you can really afford to bring your glamour A-game; something that this lace Galia Lahav dress has in spades. A bit of lace, a bit of shine, and a figure-hugging cut might seem like too much in the hands of a lesser designer, but Galia Lahav has managed to balance these elements beautifully, and the effect simply glows!
Cap-sleeve couture
Dress by Anna Campbell. Image: Anna CampbellCap-sleeves are a sweet feature on any wedding dress, and look even more spectacular when made out of scalloped lace. This gorgeous Anna Campbell dress features scalloped-edge detail and soft mermaid silhouette, making an ideal dress for any type of wedding.
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Classic affair
Dress by Pronovias. Image: Pronovias via FacebookThere’s really no arguing with the clean, simple, uninterrupted lines of a fitted bodice and full skirt. This lace Pronovias dress is the perfect marriage of luxe materials, traditional lines, and elegant minimalism. Pronovias has brought these elements together to quietly ensure that the star of the attraction is the woman wearing the dress, although the dress itself is certainly no slouch either.
Texture
Dress by Elie Saab. Image: Elie Saab via FacebookThis Elie Saab gown is a gorgeous mix of textures and bold lace, and references silhouettes of the ’60s. Elie Saab has managed to perfectly capture the essence of bohemian glamour, and the result is a dress that looks both demure and modern. It’s a perfect match for a bride who wants to wear something distinctly feminine without having to resort to full-on ruffles and tulle.
Train reaction
Dress by Berta Bridal. Image: Berta Bridal via FacebookThe train is a design element that consistently divides the crowd; brides either love them or hate them. However, if you’re the type who falls firmly into the love camp, the spectacular “go big or stay home” train on this sexy and elegant Berta Bridal gown will likely make you want to never take it off!
Short dress
Dress by Claire Pettibone. Image: Claire PettiboneIf you’re planning a destination wedding on an island in the Carribbean (or even if you’re not), a short dress can be the answer to both your packing woes and the climate differential. This Claire Pettibone wedding dress provides the perfect blend of climate-friendly hemlines and luxurious fabrics, and will impart your special ceremony with an upbeat, ethereal, and modern flair.
Stunning silhouette
Dress by Demetrios Bridal. Image: DemetriosThe silhouette of this Demetrios Bridal gown is so classic and elegant, and creates the illusion of extra length. The lace back and sheer layers of tulle draped softly over lace appliques add dimension to what might otherwise be a simple design, and provide a depth and richness that screams sophistication.
Covered-shoulders
Dress by Monique Lhullier. Image: Monique LhullierWhile many wedding traditions from days gone by have fallen by the wayside, there are still many brides who wish to cover their shoulders. We can think of no better way to do this than with this regal Monique Lhullier vintage-inspired lace wedding gown. The elegant lace framing the decolletage and the warm ivory peeking beneath delicately hand cut lace appliques makes us giddy with an overload of gorgeousness!
Traditional romantic
Dress by Zuhair Murad. Image: Zuhair MuradSince we’re on the subject of romance, it would be remiss not to mention this lace and tulle Zuhair Murad number. The layers of tulle layered over a lace column give the gown the look of a rare, incandescent butterfly spreading its gossamer wings. The traditional veil, and the classic use of lace takes this traditional bridal look to a whole new level. While this level of fantasy might not be for everyone, it’s nice to know that romance is far from dead.
Sophisticated
Dress by Ines Di Santo. Image: Ines Di Santo via FacebookThis crisp white, figure-hugging Ines Di Santo wedding dress perfectly embodies contemporary elegance. With a subtle reference to lace on the sheer sleeves and delicate appliques peeping around the neck and shoulders, this classic dress takes a ‘less is more’ approach when it comes to fine lace.