The latest trend in bridal fashion is foregoing a fairy-tale princess vibe in favor of a much more risqué look. Wedding gowns from New York’s 2016 Bridal Fashion Week featured plunging necklines, illusion mesh, thigh-high slits and peekaboo details that replaced the concept of the demure, virginal bride with an overtly sexy and sophisticated one. But who would dare bare so much skin in front of all their family and friends?
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Bridal fashions often take their cues from red carpet designs, and 2015 was certainly the year of the “naked” dress, beginning with Beyonce, Kim Kardashian, and Jennifer Lopez, who all rocked heavily beaded but otherwise sheer frocks at the Met Gala. These couture gowns were fitted to perfection (and the celebrity bodies were sculpted to match), yet this look still caused a stir. Apparently, bridal dress designers believe the nearly naked look will be a hit with normal, non-famous women as well.
Bridal expert Lindsay Mann of Mark Ingram Atelier in New York told TODAY.com this summer that body-conscious, illusion dresses are among the most requested silhouettes by her clients. "Brides today are slightly older and we're finding that they have the confidence and attitude to wear a form-fitting dress. These brides worked hard for their figures and they want to show them off,” she said.
One of Mann’s favorite designers, Inbal Dror, took her signature sultry silhouettes to a whole new level with her latest collection. Many of the designer’s Fall 2016 looks featured both a plunging neckline and hip-high slit, while other body skimming silhouettes were less “illusion” and more completely see-through.
Other designers like Alon Livne, Berta, and Ines Di Santo played with the idea of transparency and introduced fashion-forward, conversation-worthy designs including bodysuits, sheer backs, split panels and mini skirts that would surely make mom blush. Vera Wang even jumped aboard the sensual train, with stunning lace, embroidery, and beads covering strategic areas on one dress, and large cutouts on the bodice of another.
We want to know what you think. Should the bride save the mystery of what’s underneath for her spouse? Or is it her day to shine in whichever gown she feels best?