So this weekend I went to the Designer Wedding Show in Battersea Park, London, to scout out the hottest trends and leading suppliers for all you lovely brides-to-be, – I know, how lucky am I?!

I scoured photographers stands looking for the finest and most inspiring weddings to feature on RMW, perused stationary suppliers, browsed accessories and lusted over 99 dress’s in the Bridal catwalk show. It was a tough job, but somebody had to do it; And let me tell you, I wasn’t slow to volunteer!

So throughout this week we will be feeding back to you all the most beautiful, unique and downright delicious bridal eye candy spotted during my travels, starting with the Fashion round-up.

Now being the Designer wedding show the fashion was inspiring but not always the most obvious choice for the Bride channelling a classic timeless look. That said, there was style inspiration aplenty amongst the more directional pieces and some clear trends emerged:

Florals

Phillipa Lepley, Annette Carey, The Couture Gallery and Rita Westenius showcased examples of the huge florals trend sweeping Bridal fashion right now. Dress’s featured statement structural flowers and more romantic designs covered in hundreds of fabric florets, all of which offered a modern take on a classic bridal trend.

Death of the strapless dress?

The strapless dress, although remaining popular with real brides, is fast being superseded by the statement neckline and designs were shown with high necks, slashed necks, cap and longer sleeves, straps and halters. None were more striking than the one shoulder dress as shown by Lisa Redman, Alberta Ferretti, Stephanie Allin and Suzanne Neville with dresses ranging from high glamour to grecian gorgeousness.

Vintage

Vintage trends continue to rock the catwalk with designers giving more than a nod to recent history with high necklines or boat necks, drop waisted beauties from the roaring twenties and forties inspired high glamour. There were even a few (shock horror) Eighties influences noted! Although Lace continued to feature as a cover up in some designs it appeared to have been overtaken by structural pleating in rich satins. Heirloom Couture showed gowns from their collection which spans the 1920’s to the 1980’s and features some new but vintage inspired pieces.

Boho bride

Overlapping the vintage trend, all things boho continue to be a constant favourite with all the designers featuring ethereal slimline gowns in flowing silks, chiffons and tulle with fabric lace or crystal embellishments.

What I didn’t like….

Delphine Manivet brought her collection to the DWS from Paris and I struggled to imagine the Bride who might choose to wear her designs, which bordered on frumpy, and having since viewed the website, not at all representative of her usual charming creations. She did however showcase a fabulously fun sequined short feather-skirted dress with a white leather jacket. Bridal biker-chic eat your heart out!

What I totally heart – Temperley

Temperley London kicked off the catwalk show and for me weren’t outdone. The gowns were ethereal yet sleek, pared down perfection with just the right amount of detail in the form of jewel encrusted embellishment and feather light layering.

Yours Truly

Contra xoxo

• Previous Entry: A Flawless Canvas
• Next Entry: Red Carpet Worthy Up-Do’s