(Fashion)

The Ultimate 2018 Bridal Trend Guide

Trends are ever-changing in the wedding world, so if you’re engaged or set to be a bridesmaid, it’s smart to remain privy to the latest and greatest. All in all, expect a more directional approach to 2018 wedding gowns, jewelry and bridesmaid dresses, including the introduction of our EIC’s first Wedding Edit from Rachel Zoe Collection. Ahead, see what’s in store, then shop our selectinos to ensure your walk down the aisle is a memorable one.

Justin Coit

2018 Bridal Trends

Images courtesy of: Marchesa, Isabelle Armstrong and Alexandra Grecco

Wedding Dresses

Three silhouettes stand out for 2018—plunging V-necks, lingerie-like corset-style bodices and romantic off-the-shoulder shapes. Ethereal overlays, intricate appliqués and textural embellishments are total showstoppers.

Shop Plunging V-Neck

How enchanting is this V-neck ballgown?

Galatea Embroidered Tulle Ballgown, Willowby $1,595

Shop Corset Bodice

Sheer fabric and visible boning give this gown an oh-la-la quality.

Strapless Lace, Crepe & Organza Trumpet Gown, Lazaro $4,785

Shop Off-The-Shoulder

The diaphanous detailing on the overlay and off-shoulders take this minimal gown into luxe territory.

Straight Off The Shoulder Gown, Georges Hobeika Bridal $5,385

Images courtesy of Hayley Paige (photo by Todd Marshad), Grace Loves Lace and Amsale

Lavender Bridesmaid Dresses

Lavender is the shade of spring and summer—a lovely choice for your lineup of maids whether all in the same hue or in a spectrum of purple.

Shop Lavender Bridesmaid Dresses

This one-shoulder style fits sizes 00–30. How's that for inclusive?

Georgia Dress, Weddington Way $129

Shop Lavender Bridesmaid Dresses

A thigh-high slit is tempered by floor-length feminine ruffles.

Chiffon High-Neck Bridesmaid Dress With Tie Back, White by Vera Wang $200

Shop Lavender Bridesmaid Dresses

An elegant way to rock the asymmetrical trend.

Dolores Dress, Watters $266

Images courtesy of: Danielle Frankel (photo by Tory Rust), Viktor&Rolf Mariage and Rachel Zoe Collection (photo by Justin Coit)

Modern Bridal Looks

Brides are eschewing tradition in favor of modern styles like suits, jumpsuits and two-piece sets. Bridal and high-fashion designers alike are getting in on the action, crafting unique looks for an unconventional bride as an option for the rehearsal dinner or as a second look at the reception or at a post-wedding brunch.

Shop Modern Bridal Looks

What's chicer than a pristine white suit? A version done in sequins.

Amber Fluid Sequin Blazer, Rachel Zoe $595Linda Wide-Leg Fluid Sequin Pants, Rachel Zoe $395

Shop Modern Bridal Looks

Wear these pieces together for a bridal occasion, then split them up for myriad outfit options post-nuptials.

Elmswell Peplum Top, Roland Mouret $720Morpeth Crepe Skirt, Roland Mouret $795

Shop Modern Bridal Looks

A structured bodice defines your waist while roomy wide legs ensure comfort.

Strapless Ribbed Crepe Jumpsuit, Brandon Maxwell $3,295

Images courtesy of: Galia Lahav, Sachin & Babi and Lela Rose

Floral Jewelry

Not just reserved for the bridal bouquet, flowers were a major source of inspiration for jewelry designers. From studs to drops, this trend is romantic as ever.

Shop Floral Jewelry

This floral style comes with delicate beading that can serve as your something blue.

May Flowers Front-Back Earrings, Anthropologie $48

Shop Floral Jewelry

These leather petals are pretty as can be.

Vibrant Life Leather Statement Studs, Kate Spade New York $68

Shop Floral Jewelry

For a structural take, these rose-gold drops are eye-catching.

Rose Gold Large Impatiens Flower Drop Earrings, Oscar de la Renta $425

Images courtesy of: Berta (photo by Mike Colón), Elie Saab and Zuhair Murad

Bridal Capes

For the bride craving drama, forgo a theatrical veil and give a bridal cape a go. Whether ornate, lightly appliquéd or as a wispy layer of tulle, this look is the definition of a modern Cinderella moment.

Shop Bridal Capes

This floor-length cape comes with breathtaking 3D floral appliqué.

Long Tulle Cape With 3D Flowers, David's Bridal $160

Shop Bridal Capes

Hand-beaded and semi-sheer, this cape lends a vintage-inspired effect.

Paragon Cape, Moyna $650

Shop Bridal Capes

Featherweight silk-chiffon is demure but comes with light-catching crystal for a coy dose of shine.

Bellflower Crystal-Embellished Silk-Chiffon Cape, Temperley London $985