The DIY and vintage styles of 2010 will remain charming and popular for years to come, but 2011 promises a whole new range of exciting styles and trends. This is especially evident when one considers the new designer dresses that are hitting the catwalks, as these form the framework of wedding fashion, even in terms [...]

The DIY and vintage styles of 2010 will remain charming and popular for years to come, but 2011 promises a whole new range of exciting styles and trends. This is especially evident when one considers the new designer dresses that are hitting the catwalks, as these form the framework of wedding fashion, even in terms of décor, and so on.

With this in mind, the 2011 trends for wedding dresses are undeniably:

1. Going dotty – small spots, particularly when white on white, are huge this year. They combine a childish charm with a quirky touch and an indisputable sense of elegance – the perfect combination for the blushing bride. This feminine touch effectively combines a fun touch with a very chic look and feel, without being too dramatic.
2. Cloud-like skirts – the big ball gown skirts have re-emerged as a 2011 favourite but, this time, in soft swollen swirls of tulle and similarly nostalgic textiles.
3. Ruffles – pleats and ruffles will be arranged in dramatic spirals during 2011, creating fabulous focal points on bodices and skirts alike. Some are swirled for fun, while others are arranged to form giant flowers
4. Peek-a-boo necklines – also known as keyhole necklines, this approach to design gives an essentially strapless dress a lot of extra drama. These necklines involve a high neck, but an open chest.
5. Little layers – 2011 introduces multitudes of very short layers making up the bulk of the skirt, rather than one or just a few larger layers. This gives a fairytale look to a very modern creation. These are also flattering to most body types, and are feminine and fun too.
6. Blooming huge – instead of the many small flowers that were fashionable for quite some time, dresses now boast one massive bloom, either on the bodice, headwear or skirt. While maintaining the natural beauty of floral, this approach is modern and a little abstract.
7. Sleek and sheer – exposing lots of skin on the back, neck and shoulders is one of the characteristics of wedding gowns. Now, to complete the look, designers are using sheer materials so that even more can be open, without being absolutely bare. For a better idea, have a look at the slinky dresses worn by figure skaters and the sheer coverage they implement over “bare” skin.
8. Two-pieces – rather than committing to one look for the entire affair, brides are going for a separate bodice and skirt so that they can mix and match. This allows a grand, perhaps a little cumbersome, dress for the ceremony, the skirt of which can then be stripped off to reveal a more comfortable, compact number in which to dance and socialise.
9. Modern mermaids – the mermaid skirt has always featured on the wedding dress scene. 2011’s response to this is to lift the flair so that it begins above the knee. This is more flattering and also allows for improved ease of movement. This is more dramatic, as the flair is more pronounced and elegant than ever before.
10. Bejewelled belts – glittery belts encrusted with stones and sparkles can add such pizzazz to even a plain dress. Brides that are hesitant to introduce colour into their frock then have the freedom to do so in this unique accessory. When worn correctly, a belt emphasises the smallest part of the bride’s body and can pull the eye away from problem areas (such as hips or arms, for example).

Other popular trends for 2011 include:

• Bright theme colours (green, violet, orange, yellow, cerise, etc…)
• Tropical themes
• Knee-length or mid-calf-length wedding dresses
• Beautiful embellishments
• Giant corsages
• Fabric flowers stitched onto the dress
• Single-shouldered dresses
• Fitted bodices with pleated skirts
• Lots of patterned lace

Photo Courtesy of Wedding Rings Review