The Top 5 Wedding Dress Trends To Know in 2014

In 2014, bridal style is more daring than ever before. While the classic sweetheart and flowing princess dresses are ever-popular, bridal designers are overhauling our conceptions by adding a modern flair to their collections.Contemporary designs have been all over the runways of late so we’ve put together our top picks for bridal trends you should be considering if you’re tying the knot this year.

Sheer Delights

Sheer and nude panelling that provides modest, yet revealing glimpses of the bride’s skin are making their way down runways in various incarnations. From delicately translucent necklines to more daring sheer panels throughout the bodice, designers are embracing the intrigue of illusion. Most recently seen in the 2015 Pronovias runway show,top model Karolina Kurkova wore a show stopping sheer panelled gown. The striking dress was made only of delicately embroidered lace, cleverly placed to keep everything concealed. Sheer fabrics can be used to create plunging necklines and glamorous back details as well as exquisite shoulder embellishments. An almost invisible sheer neckline accented with embroidery can take a wedding dress to the next level.

Karolina Kurkova steals the Pronovias 2015 Show

Considering whether to wear a veil? Read this:THE BRIDE BIBLE: TO VEIL OR NOT TO VEIL

Shorter Styles

Hemlines are rising in 2014 with brides now able to flaunt their killer pins via some of the top bridal designer’s latest short creations. Above the knee dresses are popping up in a range of different cuts and silhouettes to suit the modern bride. Fun and flirty, this style of gown can still emulate a classic bridal look especially when paired with lace. Ankle length hemlines are also among the shorter variations finding their wayinto bridal collections ensuring that even those who are not completely comfortable in baring their legs can still sport this trend. Brides tying the knot in a garden or beach ceremony in particular will love the short gown trend. The beauty of opting for a shorter dress is that it gives you all the more reason to splurge even more on your wedding shoes!

Gorgeous short-length wedding dress by Marchesa

Move Over White

While the traditional white wedding dress will always prevail, designers are shaking up the spectrum by adding a variety of new shades to their collections.  Gracing many bridal runways in 2013/2014 is of course, the colour pink! From blush to bold, ultra-feminine pink tones have been a favourite among designers including Vera Wang. Earlier this year actress Kaley Cuoco embraced this vibrant trend by donning a custom pink Vera Wang ball gown for her New Year’s Eve nuptials. If pink isn’t for you, designers have also favoured soft blue, grey, coral and berry coloured dresses, with softer tones of gold and silver on gowns and embellishments being  another huge hit. Suited to a modern bride who seeks a hint of tradition, these elegant metallic-accented gowns are perfect for any glamourous Gatsby-inspired affair.

Monique Lhullier Blush Pink Bridal Gown

Enchanting Lace Sleeves

Courtesy of Kate Middleton, intricate lace sleeves continue to be favoured by brides and designers alike in 2014. Combined with universally flattering silhouettes, romantic lace sleeves embody a classic bridal style fit for a range of wedding themes. Since Kate Middleton brought this elegant style back to the mainstream in 2011, designers have been incorporating their own versions of this timeless trend into their collections. Far from old-fashioned, designers have given the lace sleeve a modern twist by either shortening them to 3/4 length, capping at the shoulder, or creating breathtaking off-the-shoulder versions. Notable designers who have featured lace sleeves within their recent collections include Pronovias, Oscar de la Renta and Monique Lhuillier. From boho chic to refined elegance, lace sleeves are the perfect way to be on trend while ensuring you will look effortless and classic in your wedding photos for years to come.

Gorgeous long sleeved lace wedding gown by Berta Bridal

Crop it

For the truly fashion-forward and most daring of brides, designers have brought forth none other than the bridal crop top. Baring your stomach on your big day might be daunting but it certainly makes a statement. While you might think this trend is better left for slender body shapes, with the right pieces this look can flatter many body types. Brides considering this style should aim to reveal the skin just below their rib cage and above their belly button. This means no belly button exposure which might be off-putting for some guests! High-necked crop tops paired with high-waisted flowing skirts are an ideal way to pull off this trend.  The variations of the bridal crop top work particularly well for fashion savvy or boho brides. So whether you love it or hate it, bridal crops are definitely making waves in the bridal world, and may be here to stay.

Thinking hairstyles? Check out: HERE COMES THE BRIDE: HAIR INSPIRATION