Twice a year, designers, bridal salons, and influencers from around the world gather for the most anticipated wedding event of the season to preview the latest collections from the best ateliers in the world. Each April and October, New York Fashion Week becomes the epicenter of all things bridal fashion and sets the tone in trends for the coming year, including the 2023 wedding fashion trends.
Engaged couples and wedding enthusiasts eagerly await as couture designers like Galia Lahav, Monique Lhullier, and Ines Di Santo show off their newest creations. These fashion houses bring their A-game and flaunt the most exquisite dresses through fabulous high-energy runway shows and private showings. Designers have thrown all the rules out of the window by blurring the line between bridal and street style more than ever. Brides want to feel like an elevated version of themselves as they transform into a vision on their wedding day.
Last year, we saw an influx of over-the-top fashion with statement sleeves, corset bodices, and cutouts. These trends are amplified this year with even more glitz and glam. Pinterest and TikTok have allowed brides globally to have couture bridal fashion at their fingertips, and nothing is off-limits. Designers are shifting away from their signature looks and showcasing an array of radiant options for every bride. Discerning couples are more prepared than ever to surprise guests with these personalized and astonishing fashion choices. For 2023, expect a range of trends from sophisticated mock necklines to feminine floral embellishments and a rainbow of fabric colors that go far beyond the conventional white gown.
Bridal fashion has frequently taken cues from the royals, and this first trend is no different. Mock necks are making a comeback as several designers work their individual magic on this regal neckline. The neckline is like a turtleneck but is often looser fitting and sits slightly lower than a high-neck dress. For a modest look, this silhouette can be paired with layers of tulle and applique or take on a contemporary feel with illusion lace for a collar-like effect.
This style is fashion-forward and beautiful for a formal soirée with an A-line skirt and hand-sewn beading, above. A mock neck is so charming in an Audrey Hepburn-inspired midi gown perfect for a courthouse wedding. If you are looking to dazzle, consider a sequin floor-length fitted gown with detachable gloves sure to catch the eye for a bold look. Mock necks are here to stay and are timelessly romantic.
Another hot design this year is straight out of our garden wedding dreams. Floral-adorned frocks have been rising in popularity and this whimsical look is having a movement. The internet exploded after Sophia Bush’s wedding photos were released in the summer of 2022. We couldn’t take our eyes off of her custom botanical Monique Lhuillier gown and neither could the bridal community. Suddenly, everyone was craving more blooms in fashion.
Flowers are enchanting in many forms and extend beyond classic embellishments. Think alluring prints and dimensional multicolored layers of floral. This trend makes its way down the aisle with airy chiffon textures and printed spring wildflowers. A luscious ball gown becomes a vision with a corset bodice and a rainbow of dyed 3D flowers. While there are plenty of ways to incorporate this trend, you can also opt for understated floral hints by accessorizing with tulle opera gloves, above.
As the latest collections were introduced by bridal designers from around the world, we couldn’t help but notice pops of blush, pastel blue, onyx, and even shimmering gold. This is perfect for the creative bride that wants to embrace the unconventional and go beyond a classic white gown. Colored bridal gowns have always been incorporated into collections, but go above and beyond this year seamlessly blending evening wear with bridal.
One of the most exciting things about this trend is that these colors come in all forms. For a spring celebration, consider a billowing blue ball gown with oversized white flowers printed throughout the skirt. For a full dramatic effect, a sultry black bodysuit and overskirt will have everyone’s jaws on the floor. Go for a flirty pretty-in-pink A-line with layers of mauve and blush for a sense of playfulness at an outdoor ceremony.
As for the grooms, we are seeing formalwear take a refreshing and unforeseen turn from basic suits into equally glamorous looks as the bride with a taste of rock and roll. This year, expect to see brilliant pieces that allow their personality to shine through. 2023 will be all about laid-back elegance with feminine elements incorporated into patterns and textures.
Grooms are seeking a custom look that goes along with the overall tone of their wedding day. Look for suit jackets with handcrafted nature-inspired motifs paired with black tuxedo pants. Take it a step further with a polished velvet and charmeuse suit coat with hand adorned glass buttons or an all-blue cotton linen silk blend suit with vintage wood buttons. This year, grooms are stepping it up and redefining the modern wedding look.
