When discussing wedding trends for the coming year, it seems almost too obvious to mention where we are as a country in a recession. Brides are just more thrifty these days than in years past. I think will this continue to be a trend even after the economy picks up. But weddings are far from drab and cheap weddings! Money is certainly not the only influence on style, fashion, or tradition. In fact, couples are getting more creative and feel more freedom to make unique choices.
Birdcage Veils (still!)
These vintage-look veils sometimes combine a jeweled clip or feathered headpiece with netting and only covers the face. Wearing one allows you to have some dramatic glamor and feel like a bride without the long (more expensive) veil. These are also great veils for outdoor and beach ceremonies – no need to worry about wind! It is a fun look and very fresh in a “my grandmother wore this how cool is it that I can do it too?!” kind of way.
Individual Bridesmaid Dresses
Over the last decade we have seen brides move away from matching ‘maid outfits (hooray for that!). Brides have been selecting a dress designer and color, then letting their bridesmaids choose the style that works best for their bodies. 2012 will see an even bigger change in different dresses altogether! Choose only a color, then let your bridesmaids find a dress of any designer that they like. Not only does this take some pressure off of you, but it also ensures that women are choosing a dress they like (and they will honestly wear again!). If you follow this trend, be sure to tell your bridesmaids how formal the dress should be and a general length – you don’t want one bridesmaid wearing a casual sundress while another has on a beaded cocktail dress!
Long Engagements
Some couples will continue to have shorter engagements (6 months or less) but I see more and more brides opt for long engagements. There are advantages to both – a quick engagement means that you don’t overwhelm yourself with too many seasons of bridal magazines and ideas, and often means that you spend less money on unnecessary things. A long engagement can help relieve the stress, spreading out the tasks and the expenses. You’ll have time to save money, create DIY projects and really search for the perfect vendor.
