Wedding Gowns

From Paris to New York the bridal couture industry is dynamic and dazzling. Let's take a look at the hottest designers, hemlines, necklines, and celebrity styles.

The dress is one of the most important elements of your wedding day. After all, you are the center of attention. But what do today's trends reveal about modern bridal couture? One thing is certain. There is a distinct shift in focus away from the more elaborate styles of the past. Gowns are more often selected to compliment the uniqueness and individuality of the woman wearing it rather than to steal the show. One needs only to look at designers, celebrities and fashion runways to see this trend in action.

Vera Wang is one of the most popular wedding designers for celebrities. She began creating simple yet elegant gowns when she couldn't find one for her own wedding. Her celebrity clientele includes Mariah Carey, Elizabeth Shue, and Vice President Al Gore's daughter. Another designer, Betsey Johnson was planning on making her own gown until she found a vintage corset dress that reflected the simplicity of her personal style. With a few changes, she updated the dress for her English Country wedding.

The runways of Paris and New York are also showcasing this trend toward a simple, more elegant style. Narrower, sophisticated silhouettes are gaining in popularity as are necklines that are more square. Off-shoulder dresses continue to reflect a more romantic style while sleeveless gowns make a bride appear more glamorous. Gowns with sheer sleeves also help convey a modern look. The fabrics and trim for these contemporary styles also reflect more artful design and intricate details.

Satin and silk are as popular as ever, but an increasing number of sheer fabrics such as chiffon and organza are being used to give dresses a light breezy look. Cut velvet has also started appearing on runways for the winter bride. This unique fabric can add interesting surface patterns to a gown's surface. Embroidery has started to replace the traditional lace appliques on dresses, creating a lighter look. Strategically placed beads and pearls are also a newer way to accent dresses with out lace. This new simplicity has given wedding gowns a refined new look.

So now that we've covered today's trends, what should you do if you really want lots of lace and a dress worthy of a fairy-tale princess? Well, the ultimate test of a gown is how it looks on you when you try it on. Not everyone is cut out for the sleek silhouette of a Vera Wang creation. Look for the elements that work together to enhance your unique personality and showcase your beauty - then go for it