A brand new year brings with it new wedding dress trends and we are all for it! Brides are once again embracing the limitless possibilities that come with planning a destination following the pandemic years. With many taking the leap across the pond or flying south to say “I do” in paradise, they’re also venturing outside the box when it comes to picking their wedding dresses.
From flattering florals to muted hues and nostalgic elements of the past, we’ve rounded up a few new wedding dress trends that recently rocked the runway to inspire brides ahead of their destination wedding. Whether they’re exchanging vows in the Caribbean, Sin City or the Mediterranean, these fashion-forward designs are nothing short of spectacular.
BEACH BLISS
From Cancun, Mexico, to Montego Bay, Jamaica, the options for a beach wedding are truly endless. Oftentimes, brides opt for simpler styles that are easier to transport and more lightweight and comfortable to wear in tropical climates. Keeping this in mind, many designers are incorporating unique elements into the bodices of dresses such as pleats near the neckline or even an oversized bow that adds a playful dimension to an otherwise simple dress.
While the high-leg slit isn’t a new wedding dress trend, designers have recently been experimenting with geometric elements such as plunged necklines and skirts with varying lengths. Plus, high-leg slits come in handy for keeping brides cool when posing for photos in the heat.
VEGAS, BABY!
Albeit a bit cliché, Las Vegas, Nevada, offers a fun, easy and ultra-glamourous option for destination weddings. Various new wedding dress trends spotted at last year’s Bridal Fashion Week challenged conventional necklines with curves and peaks. And, let’s face it, there’s no better place than Vegas to challenge conventional ideas!
For brides who are looking to make a statement while keeping their dress choice somewhat traditional, these types of necklines may be just what they’re looking for. Other great alternatives to the conventional sweetheart neckline include plunge and deep V-necklines, both of which fall into the trending geometric category.
CATHEDRAL WEDDING
If you’re having a cathedral wedding, say in Europe or Latin America, you’ll need a dress that matches the grandeur and tradition of the venue. Several designs that recently rocked the runway at Bridal Fashion Week featured long sleeves, which isn’t necessarily a new wedding dress trend, but the newest lace and floral variations add a modern touch to a traditional ballgown or A-line dress.
Nostalgia is also playing a key role in the latest wedding dress trends, with more designs featuring elements of the past, like statement shoulders reminiscent of the ‘80s. These oversized sleeves not only serve to cover up a more modest bride for her cathedral wedding, but also add an eye-catching structural element to her wedding look.
MEDITERRANEAN MAGIC
While there are many tourist destinations that are go-to options for weddings, the Mediterranean offers an array of underrated towns and cities that are just waiting for couples to discover. To match the beauty of this region, consider florals, which have recently made the ultimate comeback in the wedding world.
From florals in pastel shades to more subtle and delicate flower designs, floral patterns and overlays make for an ultra-romantic option when saying “I do.” Also recently seen on the runway are fairy tale-like dresses in muted tones and pastels that steer away from the conventional white and cream shades.
COTTAGE WEDDING
When you think of cottage country, you probably don’t envision the majestic, castlelike buildings of England or Ireland. If you’re planning a destination wedding in a European countryside estate, matching your dress with your opulent surroundings is an absolute must. Several designers have incorporated bold styles into their wedding dress trends for 2024, including beautifully adorned bodices with encrusted jewels that are both lavish and sophisticated.
For those who are looking to stay local, cottages across Ontario can be equally stunning and serene. Several designers have incorporated whimsical tulle skirts (some with an exaggerated ballgown feel and asymmetrical lines) that make for beautiful action shots when posing for photos outdoors.
Ready for more destination wedding inspiration? Check out the full Today’s Bride Spring/Summer 2024 Destination Wedding Magazine issue here.
All photos Blu Ivory Bridal.
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