2012 Wedding Dress Trends: What’s Your Style?

What is the stylish bride wearing in 2012?  From cap sleeves to two-tiered skirts, designers and retailers have identified the hot trends for next year’s bride.  In 2011, brides began moving away from very simple gowns to those that incorporated more elaborate or whimsical details.  This continues in 2012.  While classic, simple gowns will always be in style, today’s bride is looking for something a little more.  These styles give it to them.

Cap Sleeves. Strapless gowns have dominated in recent years, but the more modest look of cap sleeves are coming back in style.  They add a delicate, elegant touch to a gown.  Brides who are self-conscious about their arms but do not want to wear a full sleeve may find this to be a great “compromise.”  Some fashion experts also say that this style can help minimize a fuller bust as well.

Floral Details. Floral details, the larger the better, have made a big impact on the runway.  Slim fitting gowns with flaring, mermaid-style skirts feature very large 3D flowers.  If this a little too “runway” for your wedding, though, Rules of Engagement star Sara Rue wore a lovely alternative.  Her “Dahlia” dress from Amsale was a strapless silk taffeta ball gown with ruched sweetheart neckline.  The skirt featured hand pleated floral embroidery for a look that was both subtle and gorgeous.  Whether you choose large 3D details or embroidered ones, flowers adds great femininity and elegance to your gown.

Ruffled Skirts. Another elegant, yet dramatic, feature is ruffled or “crinkled” skirts.  A slim fitting bodice leads to a very full skirt that is multilayered and luxurious.  Monique Lhullier specializes in just this type of gown.  Celebrities like Carrie Underwood and Amerie Rogers have donned Lhullier’s gorgeous creations, and her more affordable “Bliss” line means you can too!

Other top trends include lace, illusion necklines, two-tiered skirts, light silks like organza and taffeta, bolero jackets, ornate belts, blush-colored gowns, lingerie-inspired bodices, and full length lace sleeves.