1. 3-D Florals
Dimensionality is something bridal designers have experimented with for several seasons, and this year it took on new life in the form of a skirt full of daisies by bridal newcomer (but fashion cult-favorite) Rosie Assoulin, and next-level necklines by Sachin & Babiand Elie Saab.
2. Bow Details
Bows had a mega-moment in recent years, but this seasons feminine details have a more reigned-in, tailored look that feels a little 1990’s Gwyneth Paltrow in the best possible way. And while sculptural train ties are still popular, simple waist sashes were updated with gauzey materials or a little bit of bling.
3. Off-the-Shoulder
The neckline of-the-moment has a modern Disney Princess feel (anyone else getting Belle vibes?) that was executed in both structural sweetheart shapes, as well as transparent fabrics with floral embellishment. What could be more of a fairy tale than that?
4. Off-the-Shoulder—with Sleeves
Okay, now this might not sound like a separate trend, but once you see just how much drama this look brings—and just how prolific the micro-trend was—you’ll see why we gave it its own moment in the spotlight. The two most popular iterations were voluminous puff sleeves that make shoulders and collarbones appear dainty in comparison, and a more modern silhouette that starts with a little volume at the top, then tapers into a slim sleeve at the wrist. This is one of those 2023 wedding dress trends you don’t want to miss.
5. Transparency
Quite possibly one of the most ubiquitous trends this season, sheer layering was the way to go—sometimes with piles of frothy tulle that had an ethereal effect, or in the case of designer Odylyne The Ceremony, as cloud-like see-through sleeves. Others, like Reem Acra and Dana Harel, put a seductive spin on traditionally staid lace with alluring, all-over peek-a-boo styles that still manage to come across as sweet.
6. Color
Designers have been playing with multicolor botanical prints on white background for several seasons, but what feels fresh is the shift towards color as the background, specifically pastel blue and pale pink being the two most popular choices. Ines di Santo and Amsale also played with infusing color into their embellishments, from the cascading tiers of a blue tulle train to carefully constructed blush blossoms. Quite possibly the most distinctive of the 2023 wedding dress trends.
7. Capes
A fashion-forward spin on the traditional veil, many of this season’s capes were executed in semi-transparant materials to show off the dress details beneath—or in the same fabric as the dress, for a more sculptural effect. We also love Elie Saab‘s spin on the trend with in the form of cape-like sleeve embellishments that have equal wow factor.
8. Minis
While the major bridal design houses have been offering minidresses as after-party options for some time, with microweddings on the rise and more and more brides taking a fashion risk, these leg-baring beauties are worthy of the main event. With versions available in pretty much every trend we’ve discussed here, we love these minis styled with a long avant-guarde cape or featherweight coat for even more high-low impact.
9. Ballgowns
Didn’t we mention Disney princesses are back? In total juxtaposition to the minidress trend, these full-skirted gowns leave A-line silhouettes in the dust. Popularly paired with a strapless bodice, the waist-cinching skirt featured everything from cascading floral embellishments to ruffled tiers.
