The mid-year wedding season might be ending, but workshops and bridal designer studios in Colombo are abuzz with activity thanks to a certain event to showcase their skills. There is anticipation and wide speculation on whether the bastions will uphold standards, the more avantgarde will deliver shock and awe, some might even be openly wondering if the stalwarts of style might be still pushing their dated expressions on mothers vicariously living through their poor daughters along for the ride. An emerging economy of sorts some would say. 

Well no matter, as a Stylist, my advice to many was keep it relevant to today and I hope Brides and the Bridal Market both evolve in taste and design. The bridal industry in Sri Lanka rarely veers off tradition. Grooms rarely question what is thrown on them to compliment. But there is emerging the Gen-Z couple with frugal outlooks on materials and events. Here are some of the thoughts steering global trends right now.

Mini-mising the Dress

Everything’s going mini this year, from bouquets to cakes and even dresses. Imagine your girls wearing corsages, and even a little purse to accompany your mini wedding dress. As the Bride of today and possibly tomorrow lives in a fast fashion world, a mini dress that can be brought off a website and re-worn appeals better than the investment of a dress custom-made to be worn only once. An alternative to this trend has to be the mini dress that comes with a detachable skirt or layer so it becomes a mini later in the evening. 

Bold, Yet Refined Use of Colour

This year, weddings are all about bold colours. But don’t worry, it’s not about being flashy. The use of colour is thoughtful and refined, adding a touch of personality to your big day. It could simply be the décor or the varying tones of your bridesmaids in your favourite colour; not your mothers. There are no do’s and don’ts when it's your big day and you’re dishing out the cash. Generally, Sri Lankan brides reach for…… some interesting themes and colour schemes, but the new generations are basing their decisions on Pinterest boards rather than for auspicious reasons. I see this very clearly with their second change for the day in silk print or batik dresses that are becoming very popular. 

Flowers for Jewellery

Ring stacks and non-precious jewellery are becoming quite the norm for bridal adornment, and The Knot – a bridal authority online swears that floral themed jewellery is now set to become a brides strongest preference. Floral everything is making a huge comeback this year overall. Bold earrings with large flower petal-shaped studs and dangle styles are at the pinnacle of this trend. Floral elements being featured in the garments with embroidery and embellishment is slowly emerging as a trend on its own adding a bit of fantasy and whimsy to the ensemble. There was also an instance where the Ambani wedding had a dupatta made of fresh flowers.

Non-traditional Necklines

Against the unsolicited advice of aunties, the Fashion World seems to be experimenting with necklines that are usually chaste offerings that could pass in church or hotel. From Ellie Saab to Vivienne Westwood they have taken many shapes and dips. The conservative solution has been the addition of a lace high neck that even deals with the need for Jewellery unless hidden. From sharp plunges to cat eye curves, necklines are under construction no matter who clutches their imaginary pearls. 

Feathering a Ton

Move over pearl and crystal embellishment, there is a new must have ‘work’ in town, and we are not limiting it to trimming alone. Both in guest wear as well as the Bride, feather trim, attachment and features are slowly emerging as a notable trend inspired by the roaring 20s. As much as I reference this with couture dresses by Nardos & Ines Di Santo, my most favourite expression has been seeing it on a saree yet to grace our society features, but it's coming soon.

With these quick tips, I am very excited to see the Bride (and perhaps, the Groom) of tomorrow exemplifying these trends. But progress will be made when the outfits are made for a Bride willing to understand the significance of picking a designer or design studio based on the match to brief rather than a match to name or fame. One can only hope for a better tomorrow. 

Photo credits: Instagram