Top fashion designers -- Monique Lhuillier, Oscar de la Renta, and Nicole Miller included -- recently hit New York to reveal their spring 2008 ready-to-wear collections. We're not only obsessed with what we saw on the runways (soft colors, dramatic ruffles, belts, and sheer everything), we can't wait to see what elements of these collections will hit the bridal runways at the end of October. So take a peek at our favorite new looks from the hottest names in bridal, and check out the wedding gown trends we're spotting now.
Angel Sanchez
The Look: Known for modern and intricate designs, Angel Sanchez dazzled with a 2008 spring collection of geometrically rich gowns in vivid colors (color block bodices, linear yellow sheaths).Bridal Trend Watch: Keyhole necklines and spaghetti straps.
Badgley Mischka
The Look: The roaring '20s served as ideal inspiration for this master design duo. The decade replete with flashy garb surfaced in dropped waist flapper-style dresses, art deco crystals, and geometric draping.Bridal Trend Watch: Flirty sheer fabrics and exquisite beading.
Carolina Herrera
The Look: Inspired by the watercolor creations of Jeremiah Goodman, Carolina Herrera's collection was cheery and sophisticated. The highlight: her elegant and lush evening wear marked with bold details like off-centered bows and asymmetrical lines.Bridal Trend Watch: Delicate detail, pretty prints, and wispy sheer overlays.
Lela Rose
The Look: A mix of sporty chic with girlish couture. Think floral appliques and poppy pinwheel lace overlays for a look suited for any girly girl. Per the norm the up-and-coming bridal designer experimented with natural fibers like corded lace and linen sackcloth for a surprisingly feminine combo.Bridal Trend Watch: Scalloped hems and dual tone sweetheart necklines.
Monique Lhuillier
The Look: A focus on femininity. Inspired by stylish sweet treats (Laduree macaroons), Lhuillier's delicate pastel designs seemed to simply glide down the runway. We were enamored by these luscious looks, including soft asymmetrically draped gowns, light-as-air tulle creations, and shorter styles with dramatic ruffle collars.Bridal Trend Watch: Any of these gowns can work the bridal aisle, but we expect to see lots of chiffon, draping, ruching, and ruffles.
Nicole Miller
The Look: Slim style with soft movement, which is appropriate for the designer known for amazing destination bridal wear. The palette ranged from cool blue to glittering gold (with some signature prints in the mix), but the one element that remained constant was a pull towards a plunging V-neckline.Bridal Trend Watch: Deep V-necks, modified sweethearts, and other sultry styles.
Oscar de la Renta
The Look: Making classic styles current is why famed designer Oscar de la Renta continues to impress. There were fresh silhouettes (we love this sky blue trapeze dress), billowy ball gowns, and couture details.Bridal Trend Watch: It doesn't take much imagination to see this ethereal white creation walking down the aisle, but we also expect to see off-the-shoulder numbers, short bubble hems, and dainty satin belts.
Reem Acra
The Look: Over-the-top glamour. Bold accessories, vibrant hues, and striking silhouettes are forefront in Reem Acra's latest ready-to-wear collection, and we couldn't be happier. Can the gown on the right be more perfect for bridal?Bridal Trend Watch: Belted white gowns, ruffled skirts, and sexy column styles with risque bustiers.