fashion

The brides of 2014 are bound to have some seriously gorgeous aisle style. With softer, more romantic fabrics, unique design elements and sexy backless gowns, we expect to hear more reports of grooms fainting at the altar! We spoke with stylist and owner of bridal boutique White, Toronto Andrea Anastasiou to discuss the most stunning bridal trends for the coming year.

1. Low Backs: Anastasiou says that 75% of the girls who come into her salon ask for a gown with a sexy, low back. If you’ve been looking for inspiration on Pinterest, you’ve likely stumbled upon (and pinned) the breathtaking backless gowns by Israeli designers Galia Lahav and Inbal Dror. “When we have our trunk shows for these collections, girls are in tears because they can’t believe they’re seeing these dresses in person,” Anastasiou says of the gowns, which have reached superstar status in the wedding fashion world. Backless gowns are a dramatic and refreshing alternative to the strapless A-line dress.

2. Chantilly Lace: Lace is a classic bridal gown fabric that will probably never go away, and it’s more ethereal than ever for 2014. “There’s been a big push toward Chantilly lace,” Anastasiou says. “We’re noticing a finer, more delicate lace.” Some people may have been a bit shy of Chantilly lace in previous years because it isn’t very substantial, but Anastasiou says the bride of today wants to be comfortable. “She doesn’t mind her dress being weightless. Girls want to be comfortable as well as romantic and on point with fashion.” You’ll cover all three of these criteria with a Chantilly lace gown.

3. Layered Fabrics: As Anastasiou points out, designers are faced with the challenge of reinventing the white dress season after season. It seems that designers are getting more and more creative with their gowns and one of Anastasiou’s favorite trends is the layering treatment seen in many recent collections. “A beaded overlay or a piece of fabric that has embroidery and is then overlaid with lace adds dimension to a dress and gives it a couture feel,” she says. Monique Lhuillier’s “Cherish” dress (above) is a beautiful example of this effect.

4. Unique Shoulder Treatments: “We’re seeing a much bigger departure from strapless than we have in other seasons,” Anastasiou says. Gowns with interesting shoulder treatments, such as cap sleeves, straps or other embellished detailing, help frame a bride’s face and they also have a more unique feel than a strapless or sweetheart neckline.

5. Statement Hair Pieces: While many brides still love traditional veils, there are many alternatives or veil variations for girls who want something a little different. Take for example, the statement hair accessories by designers such as Jenny Packham, Elizabeth Bower and Jennifer Behr, who designed Blair Waldorf’s amazing headpieces on Gossip Girls. These contemporary pieces “are much more evening-wear and fashion-oriented than bridal-oriented,” says Anastasiou. “You’ll have something that’s amazing for your wedding day, but you can whip it out at New Year’s with a gorgeous black cocktail dress or a long gown.” She adds that this type of styling is perfect for girls who still want to feel special on their big day, but don’t necessarily want to look like a traditional bride.