Top trends in wedding dresses for 2018
Story by Meredith S. Jensen • Photos by Zoua Reighter at Perfect Weddings, Lancaster, Ohio
When it comes to the visual impact of an engagement, it’s all about the ring, But for the wedding, the bridal dress and flowers are the stars of the show. Here are some of the on-trend styles from our area experts heading down the aisle in 2018.
Best Dress(ed)
Tips from Cyndi Newman, She Said Yes!; Chillicothe Ohio:
BOHO CHIC: Keep things easy breezy with an effortless hippie look. The wispy, free-flowing “’70s flowerchild vibe” is popular once again.
STAY SIMPLE: Leave the fussy details behind and opt for clean lines and silhouettes, elegant sequined lace, satin and silk mikado.
COLD SHOLDER: Skip the strapless and celebrate those collarbones another way. Off-shoulder and bateau styles have spilled out of street fashion and into the wedding gown scene.
TUXEDOS: Tuxes these days are looking more like suits. The formal look is out! Step away from black and opt for navy blue, or mix and match different shades of grey.
FINAL WORD OF ADVICE: Be prepared to keep an open mind and trust your dress professional. A vast majority of brides come in with a look that they think they want, but they end up getting something totally different.
Flower Power
Tips from Polly Creech of Hyacinth Bean Florist; Athens, Ohio:
GARDEN ROSES: While more expensive, are worth it compared to a “standard” rose. They are more fragrant and make a great replacement for the ever-popular peonies if that flower is out of season.
GREENERY: Use greens like eucalyptus as a major arrangement component and not just as conventional filler.
SHAPELY BOUQUETS: Skip the traditional, rounded bouquet, too. More and more brides are choosing something with movement and shape. Look for shapes that are wispy and more creative.
OVERALL: The 2018 bridal flower market looks to be luscious, fragrant, opulent, romantic, loose and flowing. And remember – if you want a certain flower, plan your wedding when it’s in season.