Oscar De La Renta
We at Brides Up North have seen the future, and it looks like detail. While sleek and simple silhouettes are still on the up; a lot of the line-up for 2017 is all about the fuss. It seems designers can’t get enough of frippery – in the form of embellishment, ruffles, statement backs and shoulders, creative high-low hemlines and, my ultimate favourite, bows and blooms.
Charlotte Balbier
Banish dated ideas of Margaret Thatcher’s pussy-bow blouses or cutesy, little girl headbands – bows are incredibly versatile and can create an exciting focal point for a bridal gown. If you’re trying to create a fairy-tale feel for your big day, bow detailing can be dreamy and romantic – exhibit A: the whimsical organza bow on Caroline Herrera’s Andie – but, think outside of the box. Bows can also be fashion-forward, origami-esque, cleancut; the Radnor by Charlie Brear, is a perfect example. There’s also the pseudo-bow; more architectural than a ruffle, more formal than a flounce – think fabric tucked and twisted into the suggestion of a bow. Oscar de la Renta is all over this look, with the ballerina-esque Hayden or the statement Hunter gown.
Caroline Herrera
Positioning is also key – bridal runways saw bows placed at the nape of the back, as a classic waist-cincher, or even at the neck and shoulder; Halfpenny London’s daring Christabelle skirt and Irene top is a bold example.
Sassi Holford
Blooms are also making a striking statement on the bridal catwalks in the form of floral prints, flower embroidery and lace patterns. Sounds a bit girly, you say? Well, it certainly can be. BHLDN’s Tulley or Tahlia tops sport flowers AND sequins, and are a super-sweet option if you’re set on separates. Brides Up North Lead Sponsor Charlotte Balbier, is also all over the floral trend with the deliciously sweet Posy from the Untamed Love collection and the ah-maz-ing Jayde from her latest Bohemian Blush collection. The Posy floral skirt and cropped top scores edgy fashion points, and it boasts pockets – perfect for ticking off three trends in one. Oh, and Jayde has blooms and a bow!
Kate Halfpenny
Sassi Holford’s Blossom is a full-on interpretation of the floral trend with its use of bright colour, whereas Halfpenny London go in a different direction with the 3D flowers on the Ebony gown. Too much? Needle & Thread’s Rosette dress is a feminine classic with its slim sleeves and tulle skirt, but the embroidered petals in pink and ivory threads are a subtle nod to the floral fad. The laser-cut floral lace of Rolling in Roses’ Violet achieves a similar result of subtle floral gorgeousness.
So, will you be flirting with bows and blooms for your big day?
