Trends for 2020 - Attention Brides

In 2020, we start a new decade with an eye to the old, tried and true, some revisions to favorites and an introduction to new ways of thinking about what a bride should be and how SHE wants to project herself. Keep in mind that some of these decisions and options are universal and others entirely regional, generational and idiosyncratic. It’s a complex world, but the tie that binds us: wedding gown shopping is FUN.​

So let’s begin with gowns…

While some brides are always going to want to wear white - high gloss, virginal and traditional white - softer colors are now forever in the mainstream. Buff is elbowing blush out as a more neutral option and designers are giving it life with interesting cuts, lots of textured fabrics or by adding accessories. Do not despair if you consider this daunting. For some, it’s merely a name change. And, you’ll still see gowns with names like champagne, bubbly, gold, mocha, ginger and now alabaster - a more bluish and moody version of off-white. ​

Let's Talk Color. . .

If color is really your thing, you'll have options that are muted but still elegant. Dusty blue and Victorian Lilac have joined the option table and now meet Pistachio. Yes, green, but it's deliciously understated and all of these colors are earthy. No loud jewel tones and if you love the color, you may be able to find its muted sibling out there. If it’s in nature, it can be present on your wedding day.

Silhouettes & Shapes. . .

If volume is your thing, the ballgown is still possible, but has given way to fabric that is used generously and cut strategically to be big and dramatic without making the bride look like a debutante during the Civil War. Think frothy, floaty and dreamy dresses, gowns with tiered skirts that use more willowy lace and fabrics that literally float around the bride when she moves. The effect is an absolute fantasy brought to life. ​

In 2020, you'll see more full coverage in gowns. [Moms of brides: hold your enthusiasm, because it is still possible to be covered head to toe in unlined, super-sheer fabric.] Gowns will have high necklines, long skirts, long sleeves and with lace elements throughout. The long sleeves are fitted and sleek, so don't worry that we've made a complete return to the 1980s where a wedding dress wasn’t a wedding dress unless someone used “poofy” to describe it. Full coverage provides a sense of drama, but leaves something to the imagination, even with the use of lace, a sheer bodice and transparent long sleeves. And finally on the full coverage tip: the coat dress has made its way into bridal and can have the impact of a synched waist and full skirt/train. Formal and structured are two adjectives who already know each other.

For the minimalist bride, you're covered as well, but not in fabric, beading or lace. The minimalist silhouette is evergreen and spare, often like a column. Straight, no volume, no embellishments, no sparkle, these gowns are eloquent. They are the poem that is a haiku: trim but making a distinct and lovely point.

Did someone say lace? ​

It's not going anywhere, but it may not look like your grandma's lace or even the lace we've seen in the last several decades. The options are the doily reconfigured, the bolder pattern rethought; some feel outdoorsy and floral and others more geometric. If you don't think you want lace, consider these before giving your absolute no.

Tiers and scallops are also going to be en vogue. We've seen tiered skirts, but the tiered skirt in tulle with a tiered lace bodice is spectacular for the bride who doesn't want minimalism and understands that texture can be elegant. And scalloped lace at the collarbone, on sleeves, at the hemline or even as part of a gowns’ tiers is headed our way in this new decade.

Bridesmaids will follow suit with muted, soft and earthy colors, watercolor prints, side slits, long or floaty caplet sleeves and a sense of freedom.

Finally, but not underrated or overlooked, are the accessories. We particular love that not only are the dress cuts edgier and more modern, so are the accents. Gloves are back and in varying lengths and fabrics: wrist, elbow length or to the bicep, gloves feel retro and, with the right gown, undeniably cool. You may also see capes, providing a subtle layer of coverage and certainly a lot of movement. With or without a hood or used in place of a veil, these are an old look with a new feel when worn with a bridal gown. Belts, tiaras, hairpieces and veils will still be a part of the mix, but that is for another day. ​

Do you want to see even more? Stop by our boutique! We would love to show you what we have and what we expect to have this coming year.