In the year of two royal weddings, leading designers are reinventing timeless bridal gowns featuring lavish materials and refined details – just perfect for the princess bride
The bridal trend for regal elegance is one of the hottest tickets this year. Elegant and classical lines, refined details in lace and crystal and a timeless quality are hallmarks of this trend. Of course, it is perfectly timed in a year when there will be not one but two royal weddings. We say this is a look that guarantees you’ll feel like a princess on your wedding day.
Phillipa Lepley – Lace luxury
Margaux is a timeless structured gown with full ballgown skirt and fitted bodice, featuring Phillipa Lepley’s signature corsetry. The lace overlay with on-trend high neck and soft cap sleeves will take you effortlessly from formal service to after party. phillipalepley.com
Justin Alexander – Ribbon tied
This fairytale gown with sweetheart neckline features delicate tulle overlay embellished with crystals. We love the flattering halter-effect neckline and the thick ribbon sash at the waist, adding a point of contrast to a pure white gown. justinalexander.com
Amanda Wakeley: Crystal elegance
Simline and elegant, Helena is cut to define the waist and features a sculptural v-neckline with crystal embellishment at the shoulders. We love the addition of a train, the perfect finishing touch for a modern take on the regal gown. amandawakeley.com
Joyce Young: Soft touch
With a soft cowl neckline that dips lower at the back, this Polyanna gown in pure white silk has a full A-line skirt with train. The wide crystal belt is the perfect finishing touch in a design that has more than a touch of 1950s elegance. joyceyoungcollections.co.uk
Stephanie Allin – Silk finish
Carmen is a strapless gown with fitted longer-line bodice and flattering wide skirt. While the line is simple, the silk fabric and details such as covered buttons make it a refined choice. It’s worn here with a delicate Papillon lace shrug. stephanieallin.net
Alan Hannah – French dressing
Designed by the London bridal house Alan Hannah, Rosanna combines a full and floaty organza skirt with fitted bodice incorporating French lace and a Bardot-style off-the-shoulder cut – adding up to a dreamy take on the classic ballgown. alanhannah.co.uk
Andrea Hawkes – Modern glamour
Part of Andrea Hawkes’ latest capsule collection, Alexandra is a classic ballgown shape with a contemporary edge. The bodice is cut to highlight the shoulders and it features elegant panels and draping to define the waist. The lavish silk satin ensures a standout gown for making a grand entrance. andreahawkes.co.uk
Sheila Harding – Goddess line
Terpsichore is a classic A-line gown with sweetheart strapless bodice and fine lace overlay. Designed by Sheila Harding of BOA boutique and part of her Nine Muses collection, it’s handmade in London using traditional couture techniques. sheilahardinglondon.co.uk
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