The wedding season is upon us, and post-poned 2020 brides are going all out for their special day.
Just as the Spanish Flu resulted in a period of glitzy and extravagant fashion knowing as The Roaring ’20s, the 2021 post-pandemic reopening has resulted in a reemergence of opulence with references back to 1920s Great Gatsby-style fashion. That means draping pearls, towering heels, jeweled gowns, dropped waists and satin sheaths are topping bridal trend lists. For more inspiration, see Naeem Khan and Adrianna Papell, two designers who have embraced the Gatsby era in their current collections.
Following the popularity of the Netflix show “Bridgerton,” the Regency era is also making a comeback. Popularized in the 1800s, regency fashion is perfect for brides who want a feminine and delicate look. Empire waists, princess-seamed gowns, square necklines, puff sleeves, capes and floral accents are central to the style. Embrace your inner “Bridgerton” when you marry your own Duke of Hastings by adding jeweled headbands and waistbands, sashes and long gloves to complete the look. Justin Alexander Signature is one of the many dress designers who are taking Regency-era inspiration.
In a functional addition to traditional bridalwear, you can change up your look for your reception with detachable sleeves. Designers are showing grand bow sleeves, as well as satin sleeves that mimic gloves, both of which can be removed when you want to abandon the historical look and party like it’s 2021.
If you want to avoid the historical references but still stay on trend, consider another surprisingly functional and comfortable bridal trend: separates. Wedding suits for women are making a strong showing in upcoming collections. But that doesn’t mean the severe suits you’d wear to the office. These are feminine jackets with lace trim, corsets and even cropped tops underneath. Think maximalist styling for this modern look: adding ruffles to the hem or back of jackets or attention-grabbing trouser legs. Attaching a satin bow to a blazer is another option to bring the glamor. Whether it’s on the back, front or waist, oversized bows are all over the bridal de- signs of Oscar de la Renta, Vera Wang and Elie Saab.
Feathers embody the maximalist look in a fun, vintage addition to every bridal style. This ethereal and angelic accent creates an over-the-top glamorous look. Plumage can be added to the skirt and hem of gowns, the bottom of leg-baring mini dresses for a 1920’s flapper look, on the bridal veil or even in the hair.
Speaking of veils, don’t settle for the pre-pandemic classic veil. Floral accents mixed with lace are adorning grand veils at Marchesa and many other designers for the upcoming seasons. Florals are also appearing in embroidery, 3-D rosettes on hems and necklines, silk clutch bags and ornate hair barrettes.
For a sexier look, choose a dress that shows some skin. Whether a demure, classic slit that shows a little leg or a thigh-high slit that oozes sex appeal, you’ll be right on trend. A glimpse of skin can also be found in low square or dramatic V-plunge necklines and by reversing the trend with an attention-grabbing low cut back.
Maximalism has also found its way to accessories. Earrings are long and dangling or oversized, and are available in luxury materials like diamonds and precious metals. Belts are a surprising addition to this year’s wedding trends — think jeweled, shimmery satin or antique-looking buckles that accentuate the waist. An alternative to a formal belt is an eye-catching silk sash trailing down the gown or tied in a bow.
For anyone with a passion for shoes, this is your year. The personality wedding shoe is the hit accessory of the season. Think Cinderella’s slippers with crystals, jeweled buckles and metallic silver or rose gold mate- rials. Metallic mesh uppers imprinted with glitter and embellishments add another glamorous glimpse of skin. The Lori Silverman Solemate Collection embodies the current bridal trends, showcasing dazzling buckles, crystal soles and jeweled ankle straps. Styles range from sandals and pumps to slingbacks and mules. And if you want to change into something more comfortable for the reception, the brand just introduced a new range of sneakers with crystal soles to bring the bling. The perfect wedding shoe makes a beautiful keepsake in a clear container along with your wedding invitation to create a memento that can be handed down generation after generation.
For the die-hard minimalists who are finding this year’s trends to be too much of a departure from their style, don’t despair. A nod to the Gatsby era can be simply captured with a slip dress in a silken fabric to bring the glamor and shine. Give a nod to current styles by pairing it with a sheer overblouse, cape or wrap.
Wondering about colors for your flowers? The hottest colors for the coming years are creamy yellows, deep blues and woodland greens. Look for a bridal bouquet of soft yellow and white roses mixed with snapdragons and forsythia trailed by ivy and tied together with an oversized blue silk ribbon for your “something blue.”
Venues are ranging from intimate backyard weddings to glamorous locations. To pay homage to these two historical eras, backyard venues are being transformed into elegant lawn parties complete with jazz bands, croquet matches and afternoon tea. If using a commercial venue, you are going to need to book early. Vendors are indicating a post-pandemic flurry of bookings all the way through 2023.
Whether you’re partying like it’s 1815, 1920 or 2021, think fun all the way. Everyone is yearning for a reason to celebrate, an invitation enclosing happy news, music to dance to, friends to reunite with and heartfelt gatherings. Show your love and joy in your bridal decisions and you’ll be sure to have a day to remember forever.
For more information about the Solemate Bridal Collection, visit lorisilvermanshoes.com/bridal/index
