Six of the best bridal trends for 2016/17

Hey Ladies (don’t mean to be exclusive gents, but this one’s probably not for you).

If you’re anything like us, choosing a wedding dress seems overwhelming. For starters, there’s so many amazing styles out there that it’s difficult to narrow them down to just one (or two – we’re all for changing into a party dress later on in the evening).

And then there’s the price tag that’s attached. Bridal gowns are so meticulously crafted that they naturally cost more than the average frock, so you want to make sure that you’re very happy with your investment.

Our advice? Try, try try. Try styles that you’d never even considered. See, the thing is bridal-wear is so expertly-made that the gowns sit where they’re actually meant to on a woman’s body. So it’s worth experimenting with different shapes, cuts and sleeves to see what is most flattering on you (you could be surprised – we were).

Time-poor and not sure where to start even looking? You’re in luck. Allow us to introduce Love Find Co. – a bridal service put together by some clever ladies who are taking the stress out of dress-shopping with their ‘Style Concierge‘ service.

You simply complete a questionnaire and the Love Find Co. team will go through their curated (and amazing) database of wedding dresses to present you with a customised Style File of options that have been personally matched for you. It’s basically like having your own wedding fashion stylist.

We asked the ladies to dish out some of the best bridal trends for the upcoming seasons and they were good enough to share six – read on to get inspired.

BELL SLEEVES

No no, we’re not talking 60’s style psychedelic bell sleeves but something a bit more modern. 2016’s bell sleeve dresses feature lace, are delicate but also make a statement. Paired with a simple gown silhouette, bell sleeves are a beautiful take on the bohemian trend of 2015.

(L) The Bell by Suzanne Harward | (R) Zeppelin by Rue de Seine

The Bardot Gown by Odylyne the Ceremony

The Alyse Gown by Odylyne the Ceremony

(L) Ophelia by Anais Anette | (R) Camilla by J. Mendel

HIGH NECKS and LONG SLEEVES

A nod to a bygone era, a high neckline and long-sleeved gown is evokes oodles of sophistication. Bridal gowns with high necklines are usually quite figure-hugging so the design does not look dated, rather modern and fashionable. The long sleeves have the effect of elongating your silhouette (yays).

(L) Inca Gown by Grace Loves Lace | (R) Chloe by Rue de Seine

(L) Vivien by Anais Anette | (R) Nathalie by J. Mendel

CENTRE FRONT SPLITS

As high necklines and long sleeves increase in popularity, designers have needed to incorporate alluring elements into their designs, and centre front splits are all the rage. A little bit of leg can be the ultimate accessory.

(L) Kate and (R) Verdelle by Grace Loves Lace

(L) Jasmine by One Day Bridal | (R) The Bronte by Suzanne Harward

BOWS

Bows aren’t a new thing on the bridal scene, most commonly seen on ribboned belts and sashes tied at the waist of a wedding gown, but now they are being incorporated into the design of the gown. Delicate thin ribbons tied in bows in the hair are also featuring as a popular bridal hair look at the moment as well.

(L) Gown by Lanvin | (R) Cyrus by Delphine Manivet

(L) Riba by Rosa Clara | Cassandra by Nicole Miller

CAPES

Capes have been statement pieces usually reserved for editorials last year, but this year capes are really making waves in the bridal space. Capes are great for brides needing to be covered up for religious ceremonies, or to add to a bridal gown at a reception for a bit of fun.

Capes that are attached to the shoulders of gowns and extend into the train are also eye catching and a great option if you don’t want to wear a veil, as they give the illusion of one.

(L) Verdelle and (R) Stevie Cape by Grace Loves Lace

(L) Embroidered Bridal Cape by Bridal La Bfoheme | (R) Gown by Marchesa

KAFTANS

A kaftan style dress is perfect for a beach or chilled-out wedding. Many of these styles, while simple in silhouette, are beautifully detailed with embroidery, lace and fringing

(L) Gown by Odylyne the Ceremony | (R) Cleo Gown by Rue de Seine

(L) Blossom Gown by Rue de Seine | Gown by Houghton

After more wedding planning inspiration? Right this way.