Trend Report: A first glimpse at the 2018 trends
Bridal wear designers from across the globe will be at London’s Battersea Evolution this May to showcase their 2018 collections at the world-renowned trade show White Gallery London.
This is where the bridal trends for 2018 are set; buyers and press will attend the show for a glimpse of what’s to come, from the most renowned names in the business and the emerging talents on the brink of breaking into the big time. The three-day event will include more than 70 exclusively high-end designers and a full program of catwalk shows alongside a host of parties and show features.
LONG SLEEVES
Since Kate Middleton took to the aisle in long-sleeve dresses, the trend has never truly gone out of Vogue. For 2018 however, sleeves have a new meaning with intricate detailing, feminine shapes, bell cuffs and three-quarter cuts. Gemy Maalouf, Savannah Miller, Raishma and Saiid Kobeisy incorporate a fresh take on sleeves into their collections, offering brides seemingly endless options.
COLD SHOULDER
Exposing one’s shoulders is the moment’s look, with designers like Chloé, Opening Ceremony, J.W. Anderson and Balmain sporting the trend. Bridal designers have adapted this look for the modern-day bride. Karen Willis Holmes, Alan Hannah, Charlotte Balbier and Lusan Mandongus are all set to showcase gowns with a lowered, wearable, and effortless neckline.
TEXTURE
The all-over texture is a must-have for 2018, from floral 3-D applique to layered lace and hand-finished embroidery with crystals, pearls, and beading. Bridal artisans labour over these designs for hours to complete the looks, which contain multiple dimensions with inlaid fabrics. Raishma, Adam Zohar, Savin and Brain Chen are just a few of White Gallery London’s designers offering textured gowns.
The texture trend doesn’t stop at the dress; the edgy bride will turn to Florence the bridal shoe brand that includes everything from traditional white satin courts to sporty flats finished in floral applique.
NECK DETAILING
Plunging necklines continue to appear as brides dare to bare their décolletage, but for 2018 the neck gets extra attention. Expect everything from capes (to cover those off-the-shoulder numbers for the ceremony), lace additions and feathers.
TULLE
The Tulle trend grows up for 2018, taking this timeless fabric to new levels through structure and volume. The look is adapted for the 21st Century bride with figure-hugging features that show off the body’s contours while retaining a touch of prince’s glamour. Savin, Lusan Mandongus, Anne Barge and Jesus Peiro all include tulle in their debut collections, reinventing the fairy tale dress.
To attend White Gallery London in May, visit the press page to apply for your pass.