A recent run of royal weddings has many brides dreaming of their own fairy tale wedding. Royal influences are popping up throughout weddings, particularly when it comes to the dress. The dresses worn by royal brides, Kate and Meghan, had a dramatic effect on wedding dress trends and gave every bride inspiration for their own gown. Want to feel like a princess on your wedding day? Here are a few ways to infuse a bit of regal royalty into your gown design.
From modest necklines to trailing trains, the royals have been wedding trendsetters for many years. The royal influence is seen throughout bridal fashions as designers found many ways to add details fit for a princess.
Modesty
Maintaining the modesty of the monarchy is of utmost priority, so high necklines, sleeves and covered shoulders have been royal wedding traditions for centuries. Today’s bridal trends feature many of these regal design details, with modest necklines ruling the runway this season. Modern mock turtlenecks and long sleeves of lace (reminiscent of Kate’s gown) are both trending.
Capes and Trains
The late princess Diana may have set the royal standard for wedding trains. Her Emanuel dress featured a 25-foot train, the longest in royal history. When it comes to trains, we think the longer the better! Capes are another royal staple. While modern capes are sleek, elegant and stylish, they’re also a great way to keep your shoulders warm during a winter wedding or covered at a church service.
Tiaras
Nothing says princess like a tiara. This jeweled embellishment is a stately addition to your wedding ensemble and should complement your dress design and silhouette. Be sure to take your tiara to your hair and makeup trial appointments to ensure it is seamlessly woven into your wedding day look.
Gorgeous Gowns
The tailored, unadorned look of a simple silhouette is an understated nod to the royals. Meghan wore this look well in 2018 and it inspired many designers to maintain a minimalist silhouette this season. On the other hand, the ball gown dress is making a dramatic comeback. Princess brides rejoice as the fitted waist and full skirt of the ball gown dress found its way back on the trend watch.
Looking for something a little less royal? Here are some other wedding dress trends to inspire your gown search:
- Floral embellishment: Heavy, 3D florals of all shapes, sizes and colors.
- Bows: From large to small, these statement makers are embellishing waistlines and necklines.
- Pop of color: Traditionally reserved for the bridesmaids, colors have found their way into mainstream wedding gowns. While metallics are still popular, lavender was all over the runway this year.
- Plunging necklines: We’re talking about a plunge so deep it won’t make it past the palace guards!
