Top Dress Trends for 2021/22

Shopping for your wedding dress is one of the most exciting trips and you want to leave the store on a high knowing that you’ve found the style of your dreams.

By Emma Murray Stylist 

In saying that, there can be a few questions that run through your mind as the process begins. Sleeves or not? Will I opt for something different? Do I want it fitted? Floaty? Will lace suit me? According to the wedding website, Hitched “The surge in couples buying local to support the economy will extend to dress designers and boutiques, while we’ll see the trend for micro weddings and sequel weddings play rise to a whole load of sleek, simple looks. After months locked inside, brides’ adventurous sides will be desperate to get out and we’ll see sparkly party dresses, colourful gowns, and showstopping bows all take centre stage”

This year brought with it a bevy of new trends which will definitely carry through to 2022. We have new takes on classic silhouettes, vintage, mermaid, lace, modern or traditional and unconventional … the list goes on. It’s safe to say there is an array of stunning styles for you to choose from but perhaps too much choice one might say?

Gather ideas via wedding magazines, articles online, Pinterest, social media and don’t be afraid to step outside your comfort zone when trying on styles. It will help narrow down what you do and don’t like. More often than not, brides will end up choosing a dress that was the complete opposite to what they had in mind so enjoy the process. Of course, it will be important that those closest to you who are at the appointment will also love the dress but remember – as long as you feel like it’s the one, that’s all that matters.

I have done some research for you and this is what the top bridalwear experts and designers have to say about each style.

Tea Length

Without a doubt, my favourite style. Feminine, quirky, flattering and there’s no reason as to why you couldn’t wear it again. I have noticed a lot of brides opt for this style over the past few years and it photographs so beautifully. If you are a bride that wants to be a little different from the norm, the tea length is for you.

A-Line

One of the most flattering styles that are simplistic, elegant, and will suit almost every body shape. Some brides may not want anything too OTT but something that is classic and timeless – this style will be just for you. There are so many beautiful options to choose from and even knowing that an A-line style is what you’re aiming for will help to narrow down the options on the day of your appointment.

Sleeves

“Look for more detail on sleeves than ever before,” according to bridal fashion expert Peta Hunt, “whether that’s retro bell sleeves or big puffy sleeves.” Personally, I think a sleeve can look so elegant and it is a great way to disguise your arms should you feel conscious of them. A sleeve can be a beautiful addition to a style that is a little more understated and it will never date.

Lace

“The trend is toward more classic understated dresses. The beauty is in the fabric, volume, or shape rather than lots of details. What we will see going forward is more modern and less vintage-looking lace,” according to designer Elbeth Gillis. Peta Hunt, bridalwear expert, also states that “Lace is an eternally romantic bridal fabric and has nothing to do with dusty old ladies! Modern lace is stylish and reaches out to boho brides, beach brides, and traditional brides.”

Romantic

Whimsical, detail-oriented, ball gown esque, classy and timeless. This will be a wedding dress you never want to take off. Need I say any more?

Enjoy every single part of planning your wedding and the excitement leading up to such a momentous day. I hope this article provided you with some inspiration in terms of choosing a dress because you deserve to find the style of your dreams. Happy shopping!

Emma x

You can check out more articles from our guest columnist Emma by visiting here website www.emmamurraystylist.ie