With Valentine's Day flowers withering, I couldn't think of a better time to dive into this year's biggest wedding trends. Don't be deceived by the turn of a new decade. Old world romance and elegance will reign supreme for the 2011 bride. Vintage glamour will undoubtedly dominate the wedding scene. If you are gracing an aisle this year, do not shy away from the Victorian era that will definitely provide sophistication and unmatched class. With all eyes on the April 29th nuptials, which if you don't already know Whose Wedding It Is Anyway, may very well be the template for the 2011 bride.
The Dress: Expect to see lace galore, tulle fabric, long sleeves and trumpet skirts draped on this years brides. You may also consider one shoulder gowns that will bring an asymmetrical feel to your dress. Layered fabrics will take on a whole new meaning as we will see layer upon layer on fuller skirts. Beaded and embroided bodices scream royalty, so be sure to add the two on your custom made dress. Don't stop there! Forge right ahead by wearing a tiara or bird caged veil, gloves and pearls to do the 1920's period justice.
Maggie Sottero
Angeline Jordan
The Groom: It all began with him proposing and you pretending to ponder on your response. So, I guess it's only fair to devote some time to his 'look' too. The groom could compliment his bride's Victorian ensemble with a three piece, double breasted, six button down tail coat. It is safe to say that the long black tie that once was the groom's signature look, has been buried together with dinosaur carcasses. What to wear instead? Oversized velvet bow ties will make an unmistakeable statement. Personally, I think wearing a cravat could also serve well. Think suit instead of tuxedo. Think grey instead of black. Be mindful not to get too costume-like unless, your theme is indeed Victorian.
Kleinfeld Men
Cravat
The Venue: To wed or not to wed? That is NOT the question! You have to get hitched somewhere right? Have you considered The Garden of Eden? That's right, Adam and Eve out in the open sans the serpent. Outdoor ceremonies and receptions will be a hit this year. Not only will they provide for a more natural backdrop but, also, help the bride incorporate a more rustic feel to her decor. For a vintage inspired, outdoor garden wedding, the modern bride could infuse an old English sport, croquet. For the challenged American, enlist the help of YouTube or google to bring you up to speed on how this English garden sport is played. This would be reception entertainment with a twist. Add your own personality to the setting. Who would have 'thunk' it but, food trucks will park away from their traditional settings and perch on the lawns of outdoor weddings.
Croquet
Food Truck
The Colors: With the upcoming Royal nuptials, royal and navy blue will be the colors to splash on this year. Grey will play an integral part on this year's wedding palette.
Nautical Prep. Photo by: Emilie Inc., Portland
Grey can be combined with bold gorgeous colors such as yellow, purple or apple green. Don't be afraid to use gold, silver and metalic colors to add an extra punch to your wedding.
The Invitations: Going green has never been more trendy. For the bride who will send out invites and save-the-dates, her guests can look out for stationery printed on 100% recycled paper! Calligraphy and monograms should not be applied sparingly in your stationery. Perhaps you can even take up a calligraphy class and DIY. Hey, why not learn an art form and save money? You are already addicted to crackbook aka, Facebook and Twitter so, by all means, utilize these sites to keep your friends and guests in the know about your wedding details. This appears to be a trend that, I don't believe will disappear anytime soon.
Image from: calligraphylady.com
The Decor: Not only will brides' dresses spell opulence but, so will the decor. Textured linens draped on varied table shapes and sizes, embroidered and beaded chair covers may just outdo some of the wedding guests. Since 2006, I've been urging brides to use long tables in lieu of round banquet tables and, finally, this year appears to be the year of 'The long Table'. The latter will make it easy to add branch-like centerpieces that can be clothed with an array of flowers or, perhaps even pearls. Gold accents throughout the reception will add old world glam and charm. Take the time to browse online and look for old world images for inspiration.
Image from Grace Ormonde. Photo by: Mike Colon Photographers.
Image from Grace Ormonde. Photography: Ray Santana Photography
Ethnic and Cultural Influences: Katy Perry and Russell Brand may have just started a revolution with their 2010 Indian inspired wedding. This is the year for you to embrace and inject culture into your entire wedding. For example, should you decide on an Indian inspired wedding, serenade your guests with Indian belly dancers. When it comes to the flavorful Indian cuisines, nothing says India better than curried dishes. Although some of your guests may already have permanent tattoos, how about enticing the 'on-the-fence', undecided, with a henna station.
Have a destination wedding right in your very own yard! It's time to get creative, take a deeper look into your personality and see what aspects of the wedding you can do yourself. DIY favors don't have to break the bank. It's as simple as buying burlap sack from your neighborhood art and craft store, cutting out square shapes, adding delicious candy of your choice and tying it together with a pearl like bracelet that, again, you can put together yourself.
Image from makeupartist.ae/hair_henna_skin_body_henna.htm
If 2011 is your year to get married then, it's my hope that you will know what direction to take when planning for your big day.
love & bubbles
