In 2010 we’ve seen ruffles, intricate beading, asymmetrical seams and emphasis on hair accessories. We’ve had vintage-inspired brides reworking their mothers’ dresses into their gowns, eco-friendly brides opting for natural and flowing fabrics, and Mad Men fans going for ‘60s-inspired designs. BridalBook gives a preview of what this year’s brides will wear as they walk down the aisle.
What’s trending globally
While we have yet to see what Kate will wear as she weds her Prince, 2011 bridal gown collections across the globe are made of dreamy, airy fabrics that evoke romance--yet these dresses have structured folds and cuts that enhance the bride’s natural curves. Vintage-themed gowns will still be popular next year, and have delicate lace or lightweight appliqués made of tulle and silk. Gowns having asymmetrical lines in muted hues of gray, honeysuckle or nude will denote understated drama and sophistication, and we’ll see more urban brides opting for shorter hemlines.
To find out what’s to expect in the local wedding scene, we sat down with local designers Bong de Ocampo-Mendoza of Exclusively His and Hers Couture, Enan Almando of Enan Almando Couture, and Mimi Ferrera-Lazaro of Sasha Bridals.
In the local wedding scene
With the economic optimism felt locally, Mimi Ferrera-Lazaro of Sasha Bridals sees that weddings next year will be more intimate, "relaxed and sassy, and having a change outfit or a short party dress will be a trend to watch." Serpentine or trumpet silhouettes will be prominent, and gowns will have more "texture, either through soft tulle or lace, appliqués or feather." Also, as vintage-themed weddings are still very popular, Mimi shares that "a hint of blush on bridal gowns is also expected."
For Bong de Ocampo-Mendoza of Exclusively His and Hers Couture, she sees less beadwork. While 2010 "was all about the ruffles and the bottom," she sees that in 2011 we’ll be "going back to simpler embellishment, but more architectural shapes." She’ll also use more chains or links in her designs.
As for Enan Almando of Enan Almando Couture, he expects to use "a lot of lightweight materials, [such as] sheer, flimsy fabrics." "Embellishments will be minimal but kita,” Enan shares, with his accessories accenting the bride’s neck area.
Not all trends abroad have to be done locally, though. Mimi warns that while “sheer silhouettes--like maxi dresses that are sheer from [the] knee down” are big next year, it’s not for everyone. "Unless brides are tall and [have] the character to pull off this fashion trend," she recommends that brides go for another style instead. Enan also hopes that brides start shying away from the overly stylized gowns. "Huwag na lang frou-frou, [mas gusto ko ang] clean and elegant," Enan says.
Bong also sees that we don’t have to stick to what we see abroad. She observes, "Filipina brides are more into intricate details as opposed to the western style of designing…They can adopt the basic structure, but shape-wise they should experiment more here."
When asked what to expect in their collections this coming year, Bong shares, “I’ll be doing more pleating, deconstructed shapes--like skirts will be odd-shaped this year." Mimi says that their collection at Sasha Bridals "will be all about texture, from ruched bodice and floral appliqué, to a play of lace and huge Swarovski [crystals]." Enan will have gowns with unusual cuts of fabrics, which he hopes would be "extraordinary."
Know thyself and let that show in thy gown.
In deciding how brides would look on their big day, Bong, Enan and Mimi still emphasized that what the bride wears should be a reflection of her personality. "Always consider what you’re most comfortable with. Choose for your shape and body type…Don’t close your mind to embellishments because in the end that’s what adds character to the gown," suggests Bong.
Enan recommends, "Know what you really want. Choose the gown [that] you can see yourself wearing."
